Researching primary schools in Ewell

[Notquitefeelingit]

We're in the process of moving from Paddington, where both kids (nursery and year one) attend a lovely school and have lots of friends. BUT we had no space and we needed to move. It's taken ages and the plan was to move across the summer but that didn't happen. Currently staying with family in Merton and hoping to complete and move in January to West Ewell.

Most of the schools look lovely, and outstanding and oversubscribed but how on earth can you get a feel for what they're like during covid times? I'm staring blankly at websites and maps and wondering if applying for outstanding schools mean we'll be offered a place far away (I've been advised to use Merton address and then update as soon as we move). Is it better to apply to one with places that's not as good and see how that works out if it's pretty nearby the new house? I know I've left this late but the moving process has been long and stressful and just when we're finally doing it all open mornings cancelled again!

Thank you if you made it this far. Any advice appreciated.

Do you need a place in Sept for your nursery child and a Jan placement for your year 1 child? For an in year application, if a school has a place, they will offer it wherever you live, unless someone is already on the waiting list and higher priority. You can also go on waiting lists for schools that are full. You will likely move higher up the waiting list when you move closer or if your younger one started at the school in Sept.

If you need a Reception place for Sept, ask them when they will accept a change of address and at what stage e.g. if you have exchanged by end of Jan, can you update the address? Then you can apply normally for the schools you like, although you might want to see where your eldest gets a place.

Just to add, my daughter is in year 1 at an outstanding school not that far away. At least 3 children have left (90 per year) since she started, so places do come up, but it's luck really.

Thank you so much for replying!! Yes, I have now applied for an in year place for my son (I'm hoping he's near the top of the waiting list) and am applying for a reception place for my daughter at her current school. Once we've moved I can update her application to a school in Surrey!!

It just feels strange not being able to get a feel for them. Hopefully they will start doing school tours again.