Hi, we are hoping to move to the Hastings area this summer in time for DS to join the 1st year of primary(ks1). Slightly nervous that there will be a place for him. Has anyone any experience with the schooling system and what to do? I presume the school or local authority want to see tenants agreement or signed contract before they allocate a place. We prefer to have an idea of which school is likely to take us mid-term so we know where we need to be near. If that makes sense? We are in Hastings at the moment doing some mad reconnaissance missions and trying to figure out which areas are ok, which are not, but I could really do with some solid local advice. I'm not big on ofsted reports and prefer word of mouth. However I don't feel massively confident sending my kids to a 'failing' school. It would also be good to hear which areas are safe and nice places for kids to grow up in. We like Alexandra Park, Old Town, St Helens, and haven't made it to St Leonards or West St Leonards. Any help would be much appreciated!! My head is spinning.