Thinking of making a move?

Why is Oxford an increasingly popular destination for many SW London families?

“I wonder if anybody does anything at Oxford but dream and remember, the place is so beautiful. One almost expects the people to sing instead of speaking. It is like an opera.” WB Yeats

A spider’s web

There are a wide range of maintained and independent primary and secondary schools to choose from.

There are many day school options, but also excellent boarding schools, if required. These schools are described as a perfect mix of academic and sporty, and there is a school that would suit each individual’s needs.

Children have more space and freedom.

Countryside pursuits and healthier lifestyle.

Parents can work in London and commute easily.

There are excellent transport links within Oxford and beyond including pedestrian, bikes, buses, tube (to London), trains and there is also Heathrow

Airport nearby.

Children in London increasingly have to travel further to get to schools and the traffic is often congested making for longer days on top of their academic work.

Safety was something that they felt was a consideration with reported muggings and knife crime over past years in London.

Independence for the children – they can walk to and from school and if not catch a bus home.

Facilities: there are cinemas, theatres, shopping centres (including the Westgate Centre).

Excursions to London are possible to access the museums and many cultural benefits within a day.

Where to live?

This would really depend on the schools that the children attend and whether a family would prefer to live in the centre or in the surrounding area. A word of warning, traffic in the centre can be heavy in peak periods and this is something that is worth consideration. Prices in Oxford match London house prices and therefore there is not necessarily a financial advantage, but you are likely to get a larger property with more green space nearby by relocating.

TOP TIPS:

1. Spend time in Oxford and get to know the town. 2. Visit the schools and attend Open Days well in advance of considering any move. (Do book spaces in advance as they often are filled quite quickly.) 3. Ensure that your children have secured a place at your schools of choice before renting or buying a property, if you are considering independent school options, and you will need a suitable postcode in the correct catchment area before being considered for places at maintained school options. 4. It may be worth considering renting for the first six months to become more familiar with the local area and where you may prefer to live long term. 5. Liaise with the local estate agents and build a relationship – many properties are not advertised on Rightmove as people do not wish to leave a digital footprint and therefore there may be properties available that are not always advertised.

Suggested property advice:

Rentals: Finders Keepers www.finders.co.uk – rentals tend to fall in line with the academic year Estate agents: Penny and Sinclair www.pennyandsinclair.co.uk – they have a very good local knowledge

Education Choices were thrilled to be able to speak to a long-standing client about their reasons for moving away from SW London and relocating in

Oxford and are very thankful for their valuable contribution.

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