5 Areas to Move to With Outstanding Schools
Searching for your new family home? Here are the best neighbourhoods to move to with outstanding schools.
If you’re buying your first family home or planning to move with children, good schools in the area are likely to be high on your list of criteria. However, finding a property that suits your needs and is in the right location can be a challenge without local knowledge. Whether you’re looking for top ranking independent schools or Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ state schools, here are five areas that offer brilliant education options, plus incredible family homes on the market there now that sit right within the desired school catchment areas.
Highgate
Highgate in North London is on the doorstep of the idyllic Hampstead Heath and is a neighbourhood known for its traditional pubs, beautiful 18th century buildings and shopping in quaint Highgate Village. As with most attractive suburban areas, family homes and school places are in high demand, as there are numerous popular local schools, including the prestigious independent Channing School and Highgate School.
Archway Road, London
This Victorian house has been renovated and extended by renowned architects to create a beautiful and unique interior. It has three bedrooms, but the second reception room could be turned into a fourth, as well as a stunning open-plan living area. The property is within the catchment area of two ‘Outstanding’ state primary schools — St James Church of England and St Joseph’s Catholic. Several independent prep and pre-prep schools are also nearby, including Avenue Pre-Preparatory School and Nursery, Highgate School (ages 3-18) and Channing School (girls ages 4-18).
Surbiton
The leafy suburb of Surbiton, in the borough of Kingston Upon Thames, is a popular location for families. An attractive and friendly neighbourhood with plenty of parks and proximity to the river, Surbiton is also within easy reach of central London (just 34 minutes to Waterloo via train). There is plenty of choice when it comes to both independent and state schooling in Surbiton, with the majority voted ‘Good’ and some ‘Outstanding’ gems too.
King Charles Road, Surbiton, KT5
This five-bedroom family home with a large garden lies in the catchment area of St Andrew’s and St Mark’s CofE Junior School, rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. It is also close to the independent Surbiton High Boys’ Prep School and Surbiton High Girls’ Prep School. The ‘Outstanding’ Tolworth Girls’ School & Sixth Form and Tolworth Infant & Nursery School are also nearby, along with a range of other schools rated ‘Good’. A highlight of this wonderful property is the spacious open-plan kitchen and living room with bi-folding doors that open out onto the garden; perfect for a busy family in need of space to work and play.
Abington
Abington is a short walk from the Northampton town centre, with its own high street, Wellingborough Road, boasting an array of independent shops and restaurants. The beautiful Abington Park is the oldest park in Northamptonshire and the former manor house is now a museum. Abington is a sought-after location with families due to the excellent schooling on offer that caters to pupils of all ages.
Trinity Road, Abington Vale, Northampton
This four-bedroom semi-detached town house is located in the popular area of Abington Chase. While it is practically on the doorstep of Bridgewater Primary School, it is also in the catchment area of Weston Favell CofE Primary School, which is rated Ofsted ‘Outstanding’. In terms of secondary schools, there’s the ‘Outstanding’ Northampton School for Boys and The CE Academy as well as mixed independent secondary schools St Andrew’s College and Bosworth Independent College — parents truly are spoiled for choice. The property itself is spacious, with three bathrooms, a garage, solar panels, a modern fitted kitchen and a south-westerly facing garden.
Winchester
Winchester city centre has a historic cathedral, high street shops, Discovery Centre, coffee shops, restaurants, theatre, cinema and museums, making it a great location for active families. Popular with commuters, the journey from Winchester’s main line station to London Waterloo is just over an hour. One of the town’s most famous schools is the independent boys’ boarding school Winchester College, but there are plenty of options for families considering moving here.
Hampton Lane, Winchester
Hampton Lane is one of the most sought after addresses in Winchester, with excellent walks from its doorstep. The property is close to very good local schools, including Weeke primary and the Ofsted ‘Outstanding’ Kings’ School. Peter Symonds Sixth Form College is also nearby and is recognised for its outstanding results for pre-university education. This five-bedroom home dates back to the 1940s and is wonderfully spacious with a large conservatory and grounds, plus a carriage driveway and double garage.
Beaconsfield
Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire has plenty to offer thanks to the historic Georgian charm of the Old Town combined with the convenience of the New Town’s modern shops and restaurants. Regular trains to London Marylebone make this a great spot to commute from, while families can also enjoy the beauty of the Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Ledborough Gate, Beaconsfield
This elegant five-bedroom home is located in a popular, gated development close to Beaconsfield New Town facilities, including sought-after schooling. It is within the catchment area of the ‘Outstanding’ state primary St Mary and All Saints CofE as well as the independent Davenies School and High March School. In terms of secondary, Beaconsfield High School is an ‘Outstanding’ grammar school, and The Beaconsfield School is also nearby.
