Which school would you choose?

[iamloading]

I literally cannot decide between two opposite primary schools for my little boy. Which would you pick and why please?
Context he's an October birthday so one of the oldest in the year, only child. No SEN that we are aware of. He would likely get into both as we are in catchment for one and the other is undersubscribed. Help please!!!

School One: Ofsted Good. Literally next door - can walk there in less than 2 minutes on a totally pedestrianised route. Seems a lovely school. 30 per class, one class per year. Lovely big grounds. Though worried he might get lost a bit?

School Two: Ofsted Outstanding. 12 min drive. Very small, 3-8 children per year. Teaches in mixed year groups. And it's just beautiful- this tiny village school in the heart of rolling English hillside. Imagine picture postcard quaint 300 year old English school and this is it. Amazing reputation. But is it too small?

Yes school 1 best - friends will be in easy walking distance, excellent for community events. The 'outstanding' school may not be especially better in factors that really matter to you, and the extra hassle of the commute is unlikely to justify it.

So there's 30 something kids in the whole school? I mean it sounds amazing in terms of student to teacher ratio etc but I would wonder what happens if he doesn't get on with the ones in his class or there's a falling out, or if the school gets smaller or closes.

a one form entry school with 30 pupils per year isn't big. Our head knows all her kids and the siblings that will come up I na few years.

If you have an only child I think it's also important to try have a wide group of friends. High school and 200-400 kids in a year comes round fast

My children went to a school 2 and we absolutely loved it. But it was also our local school. I'm not sure I would have bypassed other good schools to go there if there had been any. There's a lot to be said for being at a school in your local community, and having friends nearby.

Just popping on to say I'm still reading all the responses and thank you so much for taking the time to share your thoughts

Walking distance willl be a benefit a million times over vs a beautiful school.

Independence for DC in the later year groups, convenient for you, no commute adding to environmental issues, having to park etc.

If there's a choice why would you choose school 2?!

My DM talks about her time at the village school. The next nearest girl in age was her younger sister (18 months younger). She was actually the only one in her year, but usually there were 3-5. Two classes. She found it pretty lonely (and boarding school at 11 was massive relief).
Thats was the Hebrides, so a lot more remote.

School 1

We had a similar choice (except the very small beautiful village school, 2 classes per year is the walkable one for us). We chose to travel further to a slightly bigger but still small school (150 kids in the school so 20 ish per year). DD just started reception and I am so so glad we chose the bigger school.
Mainly for social reasons. There are 19 other kids her age. At the tiny school there might have been 1 or 2. If you don’t get on with them it’s a long time til you’ve got more choice of school friends!!

Actually you are lucky to have a great choice and whichever you prefer will be great. I am Another for school 1. Mine went to a bigger primary, there's always lots going on, social opportunities and kids more flexible because groups change more, easier to transition to secondary. And you will be driving for friendships and parties as well as school for years and years. Brilliant independence walking to school in year 6.

I'm not sure why you would even consider school 2