We are looking to move out of London, but are tied to commuting to London 3 days per week so need to stay within easy commuting distance (although one of us can likely get a WFH job in next few years if it becomes too much). We have 2 young boys.
After a few weekends away, we have narrowed choices down to Oxted, Sevenoaks, Cobham and maybe Esher. Also liked Haslemere but sense it’s too long a commute.
So please can you help me narrow it down further before we go to visit schools etc? Does anyone have current local knowledge of these?
A few pointers:
- House budget up to £2m. Now in a London terrace, we are keen for a bigger house and importantly a big garden
- Likely private schools, but would consider state. Academic but not a hothouse and provides sport for all not just the best kids. Am keen to see past flashy marketing material and pick a school which tries to get the best out of every child but also allows them to enjoy their childhood.
- within reach of nice countryside, but happy to drive a bit for this
- community - we find SW London very transient, so keen to put down roots somewhere and give the boys somewhere to home. We are two working parents, so ideally not an area with mostly SAHMs (nothing against this and might consider it myself further down the line, but just want a mix for now).
Our thoughts so far:
Oxted - liked it, but only one prep school so a bit stuck if we don’t get both boys in there
Cobham - nice area, good schools, not sure if we are wealthy/flashy enough!
Sevenoaks - liked it, especially nearby Otford, but feel less knowledgeable about Kent schools than Surrey
Esher - probably too close to London and preps seem v competitive for Y3 entry (eldest would be looking for a space in Y3 in 2025)
Thank you!