foreign child starting primary school - Advice needed

[maeRita]

Hello to all.
I'm the mother of a 5 year old boy who is moving to London next year. The problem is the English school system is new to me. I'm trying to find my way around it but any inputs would mean the world to me right now. Which school are more fitted to accommodate foreign students, which are to avoid. He has a very basic knowledge of English but is an intelligent child and I'm sure that in the right environment he'll pick up pretty fast. I'm even looking for a school for him first and then for a house nearby. That's how concerned i am about getting him off to a good start. A new country, language and school all at once won't be easy. Can any of you please help me in my quest? Any advice would be precious at this point.

Thank you
Rita

You need an address where you are living to be able to apply for a school plus at 5 it would depend if there are any places available wait list etc, all assuming you are going state? If private then it's all different. London is huge, which part are you thinking? Decide which council borough then contact the LEA for school places availability, each borough will have a list of schools in a brochure that you can research for ofsted reports or you can search by ofsted results but imo choosing a school is a bit more than just ofsted results. Anyway wHat is your housing budget? London is full of schools where children do not speak English at entry and yes I believe they pick it up quickly. Housing near good schools tend to be more expensive. Hth for now! Sure others will have more advise.....