Should we move to Harpenden??

[TuffEric]

Hi all, we’re thinking of making the move out of London and have been looking in Harpenden. Just found a house we may offer on this weekend, and had an offer made on ours, and I’m now panicking in case this isn’t the right move! We have two girls in Reception and Year 1 and move is partly about space and partly for schools as we can’t afford private secondary and states around here not great. Would love some feedback on living in Harpenden and/or Herts and also any comments on schools...thanks!

Schools are pretty good here. All four of my children went to harpenden schools.
Its a nice town.

My kids have had a nice childhood here .

I grew up in Harpenden and had a great childhood there. Small enough that by the age of 12 I was able to go out on Saturdays round the shops with my friends and have independence, but big enough with great transport links that it never felt isolated or like a small town as a teen. The quick direct train into London was great when I was a bit older too. Also loved having so much beautiful outdoor areas on my doorstep as well.

In terms of schools, things may have changed (about 15 years since I moved away!) but I went to roundwood and it wasn’t the healthiest environment- huge drug culture and a lot of eating disorders in my year group, the pastoral care was really lacking.

I had friends at St. George’s and they seemed to have a much better experience so would definitely advise looking into that or sir John lawes