Moving for a School Place – Things to Consider
For many parents, proximity to an outstanding school tops their property wish list. Here’s what you need to know before relocating for a school place.
The desire to live in the catchment area of a good school is nothing new.
Ten years ago, one in four families moved or changed their address to get a child into the school of their choice.*
However, the issue came under renewed attention last year when the government announced plans to apply 20% VAT to private school fees.
The hike came into force in January and sparked heated debate about how many students would leave the private sector, thereby intensifying already stiff competition for places at top state schools.
Without wading into the politics of the issue, there are two things we’re sure of.
Firstly, homes close to schools rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted have and will continue to be in demand and attract a price premium.
Secondly, if your next property move is at least partly driven by the desire to be in the catchment of a good school, you need to do your research, as it’s not as straightforward as you might think.
Here are some things to consider.
Get your timing right
It’s amazing how quickly those first few years of parenthood whizz by. One minute, you’re bringing home a new baby, and then, before you know it, it’s time to fill out a school application form.
The first step is to know the application deadline for schools in your desired area.
For secondary schools, applications tend to close in October, while with primary schools, it’s usually January (for a school place starting in September).
(Note: with selective schools, you often have to apply to sit the entrance exam several months before school applications close, so make sure you have all the important dates in your diary.)
Bear in mind that you must be living in your new home when you apply. You’ll most likely have to provide proof of Council Tax payment and enrolment on the electoral register.
Given that conveyancing typically takes eight to 12 weeks (providing there are no major hold-ups with the transaction), you need to be looking ahead.
For this reason, we always advise families to get the ball rolling sooner rather than later.
Give yourself time to do your research and find the right area and then the right home to meet your needs.
Buying and selling property is stressful as it is, without the added concern that you won’t complete before the application deadline.
Do your homework
Every school has its own admissions policy, so you need to do your research.
It’s important to understand that living near an outstanding school might improve your chances of securing a place, but it’s not necessarily a guarantee.
Schools may prioritise siblings, children with special needs or pupils who have attended a specified feeder school.
Places may also be available to pupils (regardless of where they live) who excel at music, sport or performing.
If it’s a religious school, being an active member of a congregation may also be a requirement.
And, if it’s a selective school, the key determinant might be your child’s performance in an entrance exam.
It’s also worth noting that many schools measure distance as the crow flies. They don’t take into account the route the child will take to school.
With all this in mind, many parents opt for an area with more than one good school, so they have a backup if they don’t get their first choice.
Choosing the right school for your child
With so much to consider regarding admissions criteria, you mustn’t lose sight of what would be the best option for your child.
Moving near a top selective school may be a fantastic decision - if your child is gifted academically. If they’re not, a school that places a strong emphasis on sport or the arts might be more appropriate.
In addition to looking at performance tables and Ofsted reports, consider the subjects, specialisms and extra-curricular activities on offer and the standard of pastoral care.
If possible, talk to parents with children at the school and get their honest feedback.
And a tip for parents who are staying put
Another issue that occasionally crops up in relation to admissions is the impact of new developments on school places.
New housing developments often attract young families, increasing the demand for places – and pushing out applications from slightly further afield.
This can mean that some streets, which easily fell into a school catchment a few years back, are now just outside the boundary.
If there’s been lots of building work near you, it’s worth keeping your eye on the situation.
If you’re looking to buy or sell in West London, get in touch with us today.
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*Opinium research for Santander bank.
**The information in this article is a guide only.