Relocating to a new city is never easy,  especially when you’ve got children to think about. For families moving to Bristol, finding the right school is often just as important as finding the right home. Fortunately, this vibrant city is full of fantastic education options. Whether you’re looking for a nurturing primary school or a top-performing secondary, Bristol has something to offer every family.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the city’s best-rated schools, the key things to consider when choosing one and how to make your move as seamless as possible,  with a little help from us at Bristol Van Removals.

What Makes a Great School?

When it comes to selecting a school, parents often start with Ofsted ratings. Schools graded as ‘Outstanding’ or ‘Good’ offer a reassuring standard of teaching, behaviour and leadership. However, there’s more to the story. Academic progress, pastoral care, class sizes and special educational needs support all play a part in creating the right environment for your child.

Catchment areas are also crucial. Most schools prioritise children living nearby, so where you move can directly affect where your child gets a place. That’s why many families plan their relocation around school applications and it’s something we’re well used to helping with.

Top Primary Schools in Bristol

Among the city’s most highly-rated primaries is Westbury Park Primary School, praised for its academic excellence and warm community feel. It holds an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating and sees well above-average pupil progress. Over in St George, Summerhill Academy stands out with impressive Key Stage 2 results, with a high percentage of pupils meeting or exceeding expected standards.

Another strong contender is Frome Vale Academy, which has maintained an ‘Outstanding’ status and is known for supporting children’s development both in and out of the classroom. For families seeking a Catholic ethos, Holy Cross RC Primary in Bedminster offers a close-knit environment and high parent satisfaction.

These schools aren’t just about strong academic results; they’re known for supporting happy, well-rounded children.

Leading Secondary Schools

When it comes to secondary education, Bristol families are spoilt for choice. Redland Green School consistently ranks among the city’s top performers, combining strong GCSE results with a modern, inclusive atmosphere. Montpelier High School, formerly Colston’s Girls’, offers high academic standards in a girls-only setting and has an admissions process based on random allocation rather than distance,  a rare feature in Bristol.

Cotham School, serving the Bishopston and Redland areas, is another popular option with solid academic outcomes and a diverse community. St Mary Redcliffe and Temple School is one of Bristol’s few faith-based secondaries. As a Church of England academy, it offers a structured, values-driven education and impressive exam results.

Where to Live for the Best Schools

Bristol’s school quality often goes hand-in-hand with certain neighbourhoods. Areas like Clifton, Redland and Henleaze are especially popular with families, thanks to their proximity to top-rated primaries and secondaries. Westbury Park Primary, Redland Green Schooland Cotham School are all within reach here.

Hotwells and Cliftonwood also rank highly on family wish lists. These neighbourhoods not only offer a strong sense of community, they also provide easy access to schools like Hotwells Primary, Ashton Park and St Mary Redcliffe & Temple School. Further out, the Chew Valley area appeals to families looking for a more rural lifestyle, with good local schools such as Chew Valley School and several well-rated village primaries.

Applying for School Places

School admissions in Bristol can be competitive, particularly in areas with high demand. Applications for reception and Year 7 typically open in the autumn and close by mid-January, so planning ahead is essential. Some schools prioritise siblings, others consider faith or special educational needsand a few,  like Montpelier High,  allocate places without relying on catchment boundaries.

We always recommend visiting schools in person if possible, as it gives you a feel for their ethos, culture and facilities. Sites like Ofsted.gov.uk, Snobe and the Good Schools Guide offer detailed insights, including academic data, parent reviews and comparisons that can help narrow down your choices.

Why School Quality Affects Moving Decisions

For many families, school quality isn’t just a consideration; it’s the driving factor in where they choose to live. A good school can set the tone for your child’s future and offer a sense of community from the moment you move in. That’s why it’s important to time your move carefully, especially if you’re hoping to get into a specific catchment.

We often help families plan their move around term dates or school applications, making sure they’re settled in with time to spare. Whether you’re moving during the summer holidays or need to switch homes mid-term, our local experience and flexible approach means we can adapt to your family’s needs.

How Bristol Van Removals Helps Families Move with Ease

At Bristol Van Removals, we understand how stressful moving with children can be, especially when schools are involved. That’s why we offer flexible removals tailored to families. Need to move during half-term or school holidays? No problem. Want your kids’ bedrooms unpacked first so they feel at home straight away? We’ve got it covered with our Bristol packing service.

We’re based right here in Bristol, so we know which areas align with which school catchments. That means we can help you coordinate your move with school applications and get settled into the right neighbourhood quickly. From packing up your old home to setting up your new one, our team is here to make the whole process smooth, efficient and stress-free.

Ready to Make the Move?

Finding the right school is one of the most important decisions a family can make and getting your move right can make all the difference. With the right planning, resources and support, you can make sure your child starts their Bristol journey in a school that suits them perfectly.

So if you’re relocating to Bristol and want a moving team that understands the school run as well as the removals run, get in touch. Our friendly team can help with packing, storage, cleaning and removals in Bristol.

Contact us today for a free quote and let’s plan your move around what matters most to your family.