Moving area but not moving schools?

[TreeBathing]

I’m currently looking for a property to buy but there’s not an awful lot coming up in my area that would suit us within budget so I’ve widened my search area.

Youngest DC has 3 years left at an outstanding primary school 15 minutes from where we live now and eldest is about to start at a good high school not much further than that. Most of the schools in the area I’m looking at require improvement so I would be reluctant to change their schools.

The transport links are not great so I will have to drive them to/from school adding a further 20-25 minutes onto the journey. The area is closer to where I work though.

Has anyone done similar and moved further from DC’s school but kept them there? How did you find it with all the driving? Any regrets or was it worth it for you?

DSis and her partner drive their two. She finds it pretty annoying but perseveres as the schools are the best options educationally. They're also lucky to be able to get help from grandparents if needed.

Thanks for replying JoJo.

Anyone else have advice please? I’m feeling daunted by what feels like a monumental decision as I don’t have many people to discuss this with as a lone parent. I’ve also found a house that I love in this area so will need to decide soon if I want to put in an offer.