where on earth do you start?

[titferbrains]

Started reading education stuff on mn and already I want to stick pins in my eyes. I live in an area of london with lots of good schools and lots of families, and loads of posh mums who put their kids name down for places at birth. the whole thing just seems ridiculous to me but dH is stressing and wants us to "get organised" and he doesn't have time to do it.

So do I call the schools for info first, arrange a visit, get stuff from direct.gov, WHAT?? I just can't get my head around picking a school when dd is only 1 but everyone is telling me I need to start planning now.

Please help.

Grrrrh to your DH.

You CANNOT put your child's name down for state school at birth. Call your LEA or have a look at their website and they will give you the date when you can apply for a nursery place (if you want one)or reception. They do put posters up etc in libraries, but that's of no use if you are back at work when your DC approaches three.

As the application date approaches most schools have open days/evenings so that you can go and visit. You can also access all the latest Ofsteds online. However, get feedback from friends and follow your instincts not just Ofsted. My Dcs have attended four different primary schools and the one I would give full marks to is merely 'very good' according to Ofsted while the one I have issues with is officially 'outstanding' in every way.

Also, try not to worry too much. A friend of mine moved to our town for the fab schools but couldn't get her DCs into the 'outstanding' school immediately. They ended staying at the 'very good' forced choice and they have thrived there and love it. Your DD will be fine.

PS: If public school is what you are after I am clueless!

Ooh have just realised that Mumsnet have a link for this very topic!

Primary

Also how to choose:
www.mumsnet.com/education/primary/choosing-a-school

Bear in mind that schools can change a good deal in 4 years.

I don't see too much point in starting so early-as violetqueen says, it can change so much in 4 yrs that it is entirely different. I would visit and have a look around to get an idea and then do it again later on. They are not 'stealing a march' on you by getting in early-it doesn't go on timing.

You only have to get in early for private schools. Main thing for state schools is what size has the catchment area shrunk too since you bought your house - are you prepared to move to be closer to a school. I'm near 4 very good state schools but given the high birth rate and the impact of bulge classes and sibling priority probably in the catchment area of none.

thanks all for posting, just showed this to DH and he seems a bit mollified - I explained that we have 4 good state schools nearby and did he really want to go and find an expensive private school to teach our daughter the alphabet etc... I think we were confused re: nurseries (which I hope to look into in next few weeks) and primary schools. WE had friends who did the whole going to church thing and then their daughter didn't get in, then she was unhappy at state school blah blah - but I can't see the point of stressing about "back up choices" quite yet. I can heave a small sigh of relief for now but will start doing my homework anyway and will read those mn pages.