nurseries and primary schools - moving to the area

[sallybash]

Hi there

We are thinking of moving to East Dulwich/Forest Hill area with our son (3 in June) and baby due in 3 weeks. Am trying to get a "feel" for the area in terms of what it offers young families especially the good nurseries and primary schools but also play groups and activities. We are looking around the Underhill road area currently but that isnt fixed. Are there areas, nurseries, schools to avoid as well as knowing the best ones.

Would really appreciate any advice or insight people could share to help us get a handle on things. From research so far it looks like there are some great schools but you have to live practically in the playground to get in!

Thanks very much!

Sally

[kristymac1]

I would say there are no schools you should actively avoid - everyone has a preference of course (usually the one their little one is in ;-)). Depending on which side of Underhill, you should be in catchment (whatever that is!) for Goodrich, which has a new head teacher, or if further up the hill you may be in catchment for Horniman school?

We are extremeley lucky to have good primary schools across ED, we could do with one (or two) more though - the schools are running out of space to bulge........

Good luck with the move x

[gebbjane]

I live at the top end of Underhill Rd near belvoir road, with a 20month old. I think this end of the road isn't really in the catchment area for any school - just outside fairlawn and horniman I'm led to believe.

[jennyh]

Hi

Have a search on the forum for other threads about playgroups, nurseries etc as there are loads of other conversations going on about these things. My daughter is at My Favourite Nursery on Upland Road and I am very happy with it. Have no idea about primary schools though I'm afraid. As for the area generally, its a fantastic place to have children and there are lots of meet-ups and playgroups, regular music classes and baby exercise classes, sing and sign, swimming, mum's keep fit, plus a load of child friendly cafes and shops that sell all the bits you might need (albeit for a fairly hefty price!) Things you can do for free or for a small charge and then some things that are more expensive. There are also loads of great cafes, restaurants and pubs for you to go out on the occasional evening if you get the chance and 2 big parks and Dulwich woods. Definitely move here!

Jenny

[Fuschia]

I am not sure when school nursery places for sept are allocated ... Is either march or may iirc

Hope you don't miss the boat

[Belle]

Well we've just heard about a nursery place this week so poss March, but we've applied to several so if we get into more than one will obviously decline one of them - is it like school places where there's a shakedown and maybe places can get offered late on?

[sallybash]

Hi

Thanks to all for your mails - very reassuring to get! Everyone has been so helpful so far it makes ED very appealing and really reflects the community vibe we are looking for!

Second viewing on Sun so fingers crossed!

Cheers

Sally