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Moving for Better Schools: A Step-by-Step Plan

Admissions rules, not just distance, decide places.

Moving for Better Schools: A Step-by-Step Plan Residential Property Services in London

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Families · Schools

Moving for schools

Admissionscriteria
Last distanceoffered
Timingmatters
Rent or buyin catchment
In short: If you're moving for a school, start with the school's admissions criteria and the council's data on the "last distance offered" in recent years, which varies year to year. Many popular schools also prioritise siblings, faith or ability. Councils check your permanent address, and some investigate short-term rentals used only to win a place. Plan the move so you're living at the new address by the application deadline, usually October for secondary and January for primary in England.

Step by step

1
Shortlist schoolsRead Ofsted reports and admissions rules.
2
Check distancesLast distance offered data.
3
Plan timingMove before application deadlines.
4
Sell or letValue your current home.
5
Buy or rentIn the catchment area.

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent to get into a school?

Only if it's genuinely your home; councils check.

When are deadlines?

October for secondary, January for primary.

Moving for schools?

Talk to our team or get a free valuation.

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