Start with nearby school names, their recorded education phases and approximate straight-line distances. HouseDossier uses a dated DfE school directory to help make that shortlist. Then check the admission arrangements for the correct school year and your family’s circumstances; proximity does not guarantee a place.
What to check.
Separate distance and eligibility
Check the school’s own admissions criteria and the local authority’s guidance. A catchment boundary, a distance measurement and an available place are different things.
Read inspection information in context
Follow up with Ofsted for England or Estyn for Wales and read the latest inspection report alongside the school’s current information. Our directory does not retrieve inspection judgements, and newer Ofsted report cards do not use a single overall grade.
Confirm the moving timetable
Ask about evidence of address, deadlines and in-year applications. Use the appropriate system for England or Wales rather than applying one country’s guidance to another.
What the evidence cannot tell you.
Distances are approximate kilometres in a straight line, not walking routes or the council’s admission-distance calculation. The dated directory is not exhaustive, and schools without a supported phase or usable location are excluded. Confirm current school details, catchments and places separately; Welsh schools need council and Estyn checks.