Three kids under 6 and planning to move - too soon to plan for secondaries? And is East Finchley right for us?

[voyagertrekker]

Hi everyone, my first ever post so pls bear with me!

My brain is scrambling a bit from falling down the rabbit hole of moving, thinking about area and school, so I’m hoping for a bit of perspective (and maybe a sanity check!) from the hive mind.

We’ve got three kids, all under six, our eldest is just about to enter Year 1, and we’re starting to think seriously about moving. Part of this is being driven out by the lack of good secondary options where we are now, and a local primary that hasn’t really felt like the right fit.

We’re planning to rent first (imminent) before buying (1-2 years), just to make sure the area feels right. The one that’s met the most of our criteria so far is East Finchley. We’re a mixed-race same-sex couple, so inclusivity, diversity, and feeling safe and welcome are really important to us - and we’d love that to be reflected in the school as well. We’re also academic and very present at home, so we’re not necessarily chasing high Ofsted grades, just somewhere that feels warm, balanced and reflective of our family values.

Our eldest is currently at a diverse school, but his class is predominantly conservative Muslim (others are more mixed) and we’ve noticed a lack of social interaction (no playdates, no party invites), and lots of mum-stares at pick-up - not a huge issue for us personally, but I do worry it might make things harder for him as he gets older.

So here’s the main question:
Given that we’ll only be able to buy once (stamp duty), and we do want to find a long-term home for both primary and secondary schooling- is it too early to be thinking about secondary schools now, when our eldest is only going into Year 1? Or is this actually the right time to move so we can start fresh in the area we want to settle in, build local friendships, and have all three kids in schools we’re happy with? As i mentioned, i already want to move primary (for other reasons as well asides the above mentioned).

Bonus question:
I love Muswell Hill but it’s outside our budget - East Finchley is more realistic (albeit A LOT quieter than we’re used to). The primary options seem decent, and Archer Academy is appealing for secondary because of its smaller size (which I think would suit our eldest who is quite shy). But beyond Fortismere (which feels a bit daunting), are there other smaller secondaries or areas worth considering that are progressive, diverse, and safe - ideally with good SEND support too (one of our younger ones is likely mild ASD, currently under assessment)?

I’d really appreciate any advice, especially from families who’ve been through this kind of move or have insight into East Finchley, Archer, or similar areas/schools. Thank you!

I don’t know East Finchley but we bought for primary and then had to move again for secondary. I do very much see the benefits in doing it once and getting settled! Best of luck, OP

I think what you probably need is Stokey!

I second this - are Stoke Newington or Highbury out of reach?

Its not too early to think about it... but just be aware that schools can change within a few years. However a school that has always had a good reputation as is making steps to improve will be a safe choice.

Have you considered Walthamstow? Very diverse, secondaries are decent and primaries are great. Lots of families of all types with young children, thriving LGBT scene.

East Finchley is a nice area and sounds like it would suit you. The area is generally quite diverse. It is not too early to think about secondaries, although your opinion may change as you get to the know the area and see how your kids develop.
Archer and Fortismere are good, high achieving schools. My impression is that Archer is less diverse than Fortismere and bear in mind that the former doesn't go to A levels (although they have an agreement with a sixth form college, Woodhouse College in North Finchley). To get into Archer living in East Finchley, you would need to live quite close to the school in N2 (you can see historic offer maps) or one of the priority postcodes (NW11 or N3).

I wouldnt say EF is very diverse, at least not the bit around fortis green. I would say it is not diverse but it is cosmopolitan if you understand the nuance. We are a mixed-race family and faced some discrimination in primary school. Perhaps if you cross the high street, house prices are slightly lower and it may be more diverse. But if it lacks in diversity, EF is still very welcoming and a great area for young families. School are great. If you are looking at Archer, a N2 postcode won’t do.