Moving for schools? Explore the best areas in the Thames Valley

For many families, moving home is about much more than finding the perfect property – it's about choosing a location that offers excellent educational opportunities alongside a fantastic quality of life. Access to highly regarded schools is often a key priority, with homes in popular catchment areas continuing to attract strong demand.

Whether you're buying your first family home or looking for more space as your children grow, these locations combine excellent schools with welcoming communities, green spaces and plenty of amenities for family life.

Why school catchment areas matter

Living within the catchment area of a well-regarded school can improve your chances of securing a place, although admissions are based on each school's individual criteria. Alongside education, many sought-after catchment areas also offer parks, leisure facilities, excellent transport connections and thriving communities, making them wonderful places to raise a family.

If schools are high on your list of priorities, it's always worth researching admission arrangements before committing to your move.

Great areas for schools and families

Across the Thames Valley, the areas we represent offer an excellent selection of highly regarded schools alongside fantastic places to live. Here are some of our top recommendations for families looking to combine quality education with an exceptional lifestyle.

Didcot

Didcot has become an increasingly popular choice for families thanks to its excellent educational provision and wealth of amenities. Well-regarded schools in the area include Aureus Primary School, Didcot Girls' School, Didcot Primary Academy, Blewbury Church of England Primary School and Chilton County Primary School.

Beyond the classroom, families can enjoy an active lifestyle with numerous parks and green spaces, the Didcot Wave Leisure Pool & Gym, a vibrant community library hosting regular events, and the Didcot Music Centre, offering opportunities for children to take part in bands, choirs and orchestras.

Henley-on-Thames

One of Oxfordshire's most picturesque riverside towns, Henley-on-Thames combines outstanding educational opportunities with an enviable lifestyle. Families benefit from a selection of highly regarded schools, including Badgemore Primary School, Peppard Church of England Primary School, Valley Road School, Gillotts School and The Henley College.

Famous for its annual Royal Regatta, Henley offers beautiful riverside walks, independent shops, cafés and restaurants, as well as cultural attractions including the Regal Picturehouse cinema and the historic Kenton Theatre, making it an attractive place for families of all ages.

Reading

Reading offers one of the widest selections of highly regarded schools in the region, making it a popular destination for families seeking both educational choice and excellent transport connections. Well-respected schools include Aldryngton Primary School, Birch Copse Primary School, Emmer Green Primary School, All Saints Junior School, Reading School, Kendrick School and Maiden Erlegh School.

As a vibrant town with excellent commuter links to London, Reading also boasts an impressive range of shopping, dining and leisure opportunities. Families can enjoy everything from Palmer Park Sports Stadium's extensive sporting facilities to days out at Beale Wildlife Park, while London Paddington can be reached in around 30 minutes by train.

Wantage

Wantage is a charming market town that offers a relaxed pace of life alongside a strong choice of schools. Families are well served by Fitzwaryn School, Stockham Primary School, Wantage Primary Academy, Millbrook Primary School and King Alfred's Academy.

Surrounded by beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, Wantage provides plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, while its bustling town centre features independent cafés, restaurants and regular markets. The Vale & Downland Museum also offers a fascinating insight into the area's rich local history, adding to the town's strong community feel.

Finding the right home for your family

Choosing where to live is about finding a location that supports your family's lifestyle both now and in the future. Excellent schools are often just one part of the picture, alongside transport links, green spaces, local amenities and a welcoming community.

Whether you're searching for your first family home or planning your next move, our experienced property experts can help you find a property in an area that meets your family's priorities.

If you're looking to find your next home, contact your local Davis Tate team today. We'd be delighted to help you find the perfect place for your family's next chapter.