Living in Barnehurst

[minniem8]

Hi everyone,
Anyone living in Barnehurst that can share opinion & advice on this area.
I did some research and can see that its relatively safe area and has some good primary schools around but not as many good secondary schools nearby.
I am a new parent of one year old girl and would appreciate any information on schools, parks and any child friendly outdoor activities and sports.
Few other points I am interested in:

• Is the area in fact as safe (and family friendly) as my research showed?
• Closest stations are Barnehurst and Slade Green. What would the commute to central London be?
• Any views on GP practices & Hospitals with A&E departments.
• Would the lack of secondary schools be an issue in future? Would we be eligible to apply for secondary schools in nearby areas?
• Overall vibe of Barnehurst?

Any opinion, advice & views on the above would be much appreciated. Thank you!

There are very good secondary schools in that area BUT it is an 11+ area so not so good if your child doesn't get into the selectives.

Thank you so much for your reply!

I am so sorry about the dumb question, but what do you mean by 11+ area?
I am not very familiar with the UK education system.

Barnehurst itself is quite nice, but Slade Green less so, so it depends what end you're looking at. Closer to Bexleyheath better, but more money - IMO.

Lots of buses so getting to school isn't an issue for secondary ages, there are decent grammar and non grammar around that general area. Bexleyheath has loads of schools - I grew up there.

A&E wise, I think Darent Valley and Queen Elizabeth are closest - though not very close tbh.

You would be close to Erith Leisure Centre which is good for swimming etc and lots of parks and green spaces around.

Lived there for a few years but have moved away. It’s pleasant enough, but essentially a pretty dull suburb. What has prompted you to consider that part of the country as there are probably other, better areas if you have no familial ties?

@minniem8 the 11+ is an exam taken at the end of primary school. If the children pass they can attend academically selective schools. If they don't they attend all ability schools. The grammar schools are generally academically strong. The others generally do less well.

Most of the country did away with this system years ago but a few areas retain it and that is an area that does. Hope that helps!