Moving to Chelmsford??

[mamalumi]

Currently live in North London with DH and two young children. Currently in a flat but now looking to buy a bigger house as we now need more space since my son was born in November.

We have been to Chelmsford a few times and in general it seems like a nice diverse place and we liked the vibe. Daughter is in year 2 currently and we would be looking to get her to write the grammar school exams in a few years for CSSE as for Chelmsford County High School.

Can anyone give their insights in terms of the city itself, schools etc. I would need to commute to Liverpool Street for work.

We have also considered Rayleigh/Hullbridge but worried these places may not be so diverse (we are a black family) and not sure if we would face any issues in terms of racism etc.

Any insights and inputs are appreciated

I grew up in Chelmsford, and I go back often. It wasn't very diverse growing up (30+ years ago) but things have changed a LOT and it is much more diverse now. It is a good, well connected city with lots to do. It is quick to get into London.

In terms of schools, things may have changed since my day but the grammar schools were very hard to get into. No one in my year got in (and we weren't dunces!) But on the other hand the comprehensives are pretty good. Other people probably have more up to date info...

You'd be fine in Rayleigh. Good schools, great area, proper High St.

Thanks for this, it really does seem nice there and commute to Liverpool Street seems good as well and agreed on the comprehensives as well so your response gives me peace of mind

Will look into the comprehensives thank you! Can't say we have been there as much as Chelmsford but will definitely take a few trips down to check it out

Fitzwimark is a great school and the primaries are good too