Market Harborough clubs/schools

[MummyHelenOfTroy]

Hello everyone, this is my first Mumsnet thread!

We are moving to Market Harborough in May 2018. I have a DD who is 5 in reception, and a DS who is 2 (will turn 3 in October). DH would like to be able to walk to work if needs be (snow etc). We have a budget of £400k for a preferable 4 bed house.

Lots of questions:
Which areas are good to live in?
Which schools are recommended (and probably have space currently in year R)?
And preschools for DS?
Which dance schools are good for ballet and tap (also potentially musical theatre or drama)
Recommended swimming lessons for both children?
Which preschool clubs are good for DS, including an "church hall" type mother and child playgroups?

Thank you in advance. I visited MH for about an hour or two on Wednesday and it looks lovely so very excited!

I moved here from London 8 years ago. I love it.

All the schools are good. 400K will get you a decent 4 bed. Areas depend on whether you want new or old houses. The Ashley way estate and Alvington way estate are a nice age of newish houses. About 15 years or so - before houses started being built really squished together. Alvington way is up a hill. I was pregnant when we moved and couldn't be arsed pushing pram up the hill so scored it off our search list! The Ashley way estate is closer to the train station too. For older houses, Little Bowden has nice ones. Burnmill Road and Great Bowden would be where I would live if I can choose anywhere but afraid 400k wouldn't go far there.

Some people like swimming lessons at the leisure centre but it's so hot that sitting watching was like sitting on the surface of the sun. Mine go to Montsaye at Rothwell. They are really good and provide progress updates online. (Although think the leisure centre have started that too)

For groups, I'd recommend searching for the "KinFo Market Harborough" Facebook group. It's really good for what's on stuff.

Hope the move goes well x

Please recommend good primary and Scondary schools in MH

Thank you.