Sevenoaks primaries and prep schools

[Umbrelladilemma]

Hi,
We are tentatively considering a move from London to Sevenoaks but I am getting worried about the primary school situation as we have a DS who is already in yr 2. We also have DD who will be starting Reception in Sep '16 and I think it's unlikely we'll have moved by Jan in time to apply.

If we go down the Independent route, how easy would it be to get spaces mid way through yr 2/pre-prep? DH seems to think that if we're prepared to pay for a school place we'll be fine but I'm worried this isn't the case.

Or, what are the good state primaries we should be looking at? I'm well aware it will be tricky to get in-tear spaces at a decent one though, particularly for 2 children! Our current school is excellent so I'd feel quite conflicted about the move if we had to settle for a not-so-good one.

Thanks in advance!!

Email the preps - they are very responsive.

Thanks Boho, I will do. Just wondered if anyone has had a similar experience?

Also, which preps would you recommend? I know if Sevenoaks Prep (mixed?), New Beacon (boys) and Walthamstow Hall (girls). Given that our DC are coming from a state background, I'd prefer schools that weren't too overly academic in their approach... if such a thing is possible!

And still keen for advice on state options as I'm not sure we can afford 2 at private unless we settle for a ting house!
Thanks everyone

Sevenoaks Prep is less academic than Wally Hall.

There is one very good state primary in Sevenoaks but I can't remember its name... Someone will come along I'm sure

I think most of the state primaries in Sevenoaks are pretty good! Lady Boswells is sought after and is c of e - so has a proportion of places on offer to churchgoers (pretty strict criteria I think?). I've heard good things about Sevenoaks Primary and Riverhead.
The mixed indies are Russell House, St Michaels, Sevenoaks Prep and Combe Bank I think.

Ps - lots of competition for places so I think if you don't buy close to the state option you would like and not there by Jan you could struggle with a reception place. Russell house is small and oversubscribed, st Michaels is bigger but they all start with a nursery class so the 4+ entry is limited, in our experience. Give them all a call - there are probably open days on at the moment...

Apologies for resurrecting a very old thread, but we'll be in a very similar situation in a couple of years - considering a move to Sevenoaks with children due to start in reception and Yr 2, and will probably miss the state school application deadline. How did things pan out for you OP? Did you make the move and how hard did you find it to find a good school?