Hello! I'm hoping you lovely community can give me some insight/advice. I have the daunting task of finding schooling for DC in Edinburgh for 2022 entry. DD into S6, DS1 & DS2 into S3 and S2. We are currently living in Canada, returning to the UK after 15 yrs. I know there are some great state schools in the city, but we will not have a permanent address in Edinburgh before the application deadline, so cannot apply for 'in catchment' places. We are looking at south and central Edinburgh. The schools I have contacted have advised us there are long waiting lists, and it's unlikely that 'out of catchment' will make it. It feels like a catch 22, as there's also no guarantee that even if we have an address in catchment, DC will get in [we were thinking of renting initially].
Its all a bit disheartening so I am now also looking at private schools as that takes the immediate pressure off housing, though there may still be waiting lists. [I'm not at all clear about what happens if/while DC are on a waiting list - home schooling?]
I am desperately hoping all 3 can attend the same school and have narrowed private schools down to GW, GH, and EA. DC are bright but not particularly sporty/musical. I'm aware this is a big move for them so pastoral care is important. Its hard to get a feel for schools from a distance - there is no possibility we will be able to visit before we apply.
So, its all a bit overwhelming. Any experiences and advice would be appreciated. I'm finding it especially difficult being in another country. I feel if I can get schooling sorted, the rest will be Ok. Thanks.