Relocating from Scotland to Yorkshire

[Sc0ttishMumof2]

Hi all! This is my first ever post on mumsnet - hope some of you out there can help me!

Our family is considering a move from Scotland to Yorkshire. Husband and I have two children (4yo and 10 months) and work as solicitors in Scotland. We have been thinking about a change in lifestyle for a while now and love the feel of Yorkshire.

We think we may be able to get jobs in Leeds or Harrogate. Our biggest priority is finding a great area for the kids. We like Harrogate but would also be interested in village living if the commute to Leeds was manageable. Ideally looking for somewhere with a good community feel so we can put down roots. Preferably among some fellow young(ish!) professionals.

Welcoming all knowledge about good (free) schools and districts and whether there are any restrictions we should be aware of. For example, I know Harrogate Grammar is tough to get into. From the face of it, it seems there are lots of primary and secondary schools in Harrogate and the surrounding villages which are rated good or outstanding. Are these schools usually in very high demand? Do you think we would struggle to get our 4 yo enrolled next year?

Thanks in advance!

I see you haven’t had any responses yet.

I have family in Leeds and Harrogate. Generally schools are considered better in Harrogate. The Leeds family sent their children to secondary school in Harrogate because they were unhappy with the options in Leeds.

Harrogate Grammar is only tricky to get into because it is popular. You have to live close to the school - distance is the main criteria for admission. The 2 church secondary schools in Harrogate require a religious commitment to place you into a higher admission criteria.

If looking at villages around Harrogate check that they count as a rural area for secondary admission. Harrogate Grammar takes a percentage from a defined rural area. Some villages count as the town area and would put you too far to gain admission on distance.

With regards to primary you would have to check which schools would have places for September 2023 , obviously depending on if you move after applications close.