I always feel sheepish admitting I went to private school. I fear people will judge me as posh, rich and privileged. But, any family who has invested in private education will tell you the reality is much more nuanced.

Putting two kids through private school cost my dad his house — and almost bankrupted my mum.

My parents worked full-time and earned well. But after getting divorced, resources had further to stretch. Two houses… and twice all that came with it.

They considered taking my sister and me out of the private system. But opted for stability and structure to buffer disruption at home. So, they struggled on yet it came at a cost.

My story is proof that a private education and privilege are too often oversimplified.

Growing up, my family’s persistent financial stress was a major source of trauma. I remember my helpless anxiety as final demand bills piled on the kitchen table – my mum sobbing because she didn’t know how she was going to pay them.

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