Moving to Hove - advice on schools and residential areas?

[northernlass2]

Hi everyone
We are planning to move to Hove later this year, due to my husband's work but I don't know the area at all, so I'm hoping you can give me some advice and help with regards finding somewhere to live.
We have 2 boys (primary school age) so will need to sort out schools and I'm hoping you can give me some advice about where to look for properties and also which schools would you recommend? I'm particularly interested in schools with a good reputation for special needs provision.
Regarding somewhere to live, we would like to have 3 bedrooms but I'm not sure whether to try and get a house with garden (that's what we currently have) or to go for one of the apartments closer to the seafront, as I am sure the idea of riding bikes and scooters along the promenade will be very appealing to the kids.... but I don't know whether it's mobbed with tourists in summer, so would that be a good idea or not??
It's a really big move for us, and I want to make sure that we get it right so that we get the kids settled, not only into school but also in a location that has plenty of families rather than people without kids.
Thanks very much for any advice, which is much appreciated.

[Moli5]

You can have the best of both worlds. A house with a garden for yourselves and children that is close to the beach when you chose to go. Goldstone Crescent is a lovely family area with great schools and green spaces plus public transport. I have lived in BN3 6WR for 5 years since moving from Leicester. It was a great decision. The investment was wise and the lifestyle offers so much to all ages.

[Moli5]

How about a family home with a garage to store your bikes, rollerblades etc. There are parks and green spaces to enjoy cycling, dog walking or whatever sports the family enjoy. Tennis courts in Hove Park, football, yoga. My family's interests changed as they grew older, and wasn't limited to a cycle on the promenade, however I'm delighted to say they established good friendships (at great schools) with each stage, and still love living in this area as adults. BN3 6WR