Relocating to Reading with Children
I’m planning a move to Reading with my children, who are in Year 4 and Year 7. I’ve heard that we need to secure a property or rental agreement in Reading before we can apply to local schools.
The challenge I’m facing is that the school choices will influence where we decide to live, creating a bit of a catch-22 situation.
I’d love to hear from anyone who has gone through a similar process. Is it realistic for my eldest to consider grammar schools, given that they require an entrance exam?
Moving to a new area can be tricky, especially when trying to balance schooling for your kids. You’re correct that many schools in Reading, especially the grammar schools, require proof of residency before you can apply. Typically, you need to have an address secured to be eligible for a school place.
For your eldest in Year 7, grammar schools do usually have entrance exams, so you’d need to think about that timeline as you plan your move. It might be worth considering finding temporary accommodation in Reading while you familiarize yourself with the area and schools, giving you the opportunity to secure a place at a grammar school if that’s your goal.
Additionally, many parents find it helpful to contact the schools directly for advice on their process and timelines. You might also want to reach out to local parent groups or forums where others have shared their experiences, as they can offer valuable insights and possibly even recommendations on where to live based on school admissions. Good luck with the move!