Close(ish) to Canary Wharf & Primary School

[user1490191001]

We're currently looking at moving to London in the summer to be closer to my husband's work (his daily commute is brutal).

Our daughter will start Year 1 in September and she's currently at a lovely and nurturing public school with very small class sizes. Unfortunately we may not be able to stretch to paying London rent AND school fees so we're looking at state schools. We understand that it may be tricky to move her mid-year so we might look at moving to a good catchment area whilst keeping her in an independent school for a year or so. We have looked at Blackheath high school as an option as we like their ethos but not sure about the area or the state schools in the neighbourhood.

We would love some recommendations of a good area. Ideally we would like to be within a 30-45 minutes commute to Canary Wharf. We prefer areas with independent shops, less suburban, great cafes, art and parks but the main thing is of course the school. We're looking to rent at first (2/3 beds and max budget £2250/month). Are we chasing a unicorn or do you have any suggestions that might fit the bill?

[Newname12]

Try se4, or anywhere along the east london line south. New cross, forest hill etc.

Lots of good primaries, prendergast girls and haberdasher askes. Very lentilist.

[user1490191001]

Thanks for your reply!
Forest Hill seems to be an option with Sydenham High nearby. Any suggestions for good primary state schools and/or particular area in Forest Hill to live?

Thanks for your help!

[newname12]

I don't know forest hill as well as se4, but know lots of kids and various primaries (am a swimming teacher) and they all seem very happy, and the schools all have a good reputation. Sydenham Girls (state) is good if you want alternatives to private education.

You also have st Dunstans and Colfe's private schools within easy reach, and the Dulwich schools such as Alleyn's, JAG, etc.

I'd start near the station and work from there as to what is affordable. Being near the station will be a huge bonus for the commute- three stops to Canada water on the EL line, then a short hop on the jubilee to Canary wharf. Will take about half an hour.

The area round the Horniman Museum and park is lovely.

[user1490191001]

You're a star, thank you!

We're more likely to look into state schools for now but this is a great start.