Having doubts on first choice of school

[Outandabout43]

DD is starting school Septembeay uik.r.

We are awaiting for a new build and chose the school closest. The school is a small primary and highly thought of in the area. Has connections with the local private school, outstanding ofsted, it's the type of school people move purposely to be in the catchment area. It's also in walking distance. Great

However, when I went to look round I just didn't get a good feel for the place. I did put it as DDs first choice however because of the rep, the fact its walking distance and because I didn't think I could judge on first impressions. DD has been accepted.

As the school doesn't have a preschool she has recently started at another preschool in the next village (was recommended by an acquaintance) I loved it from the show around staff friendly, kids happy, and DD has been happy going there and settled in well. All the kids at the preschool will be going to the school and all the years mix at playtime.

New build had been delayed, could be by months. So atm we are 10 minute drive from both options.

I'm now having doubts as to if I've made the right choice by putting her in the new school in September and not keeping her in the school she's already at?

before even considering you need to find out whether there’s even space as you might not have a decision to make

Don't panic.

Being very close to your primary school is really valuable.

You can't tell much from a visit and your "off" vibe was probably just a random fluke. Much better to stick with the school that you've already chosen rather that second-guessing and ending up with an annoying commute and your kid never being abke to pop around to a schoolfriend's house in y4-y6.

in surprised the LEA accepted your address if it’s not actually built

Personally I would just keep her in the school you've been offered as longer term, logistically, it will be a lot easier for you. If people move there to get into that school, that is a really good sign. I've experienced 4 different primary schools, if they have a good head teacher and an effective community feel, I would say that's a huge plus.

Unless you can tell us more about this 'feeling' I am afraid we can't help you. Could it be you feeling nervous about DC1 going to school? I can definitely resonate with that.

It really doesn't matter about the preschool bit and everyone going to the other school. They all make friends in reception - really, they do.