For many families, school catchment areas are more than just a consideration. They’re a key priority. With applications opening this September for the 2026 to 2027 academic year, now is the time to start thinking ahead. Whether you’re buying or selling, being near to a good school could make all the difference.
If you’re considering selling your property or moving to the area, take a moment to browse our Properties for sale in Wentworth Estate, Properties for sale in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. If you have any questions, you can also visit our award-winning website or call us on 01344 843000 and email us.
At Barton Wyatt, we understand how the local school run can shape property decisions for busy households. Buyers hoping to secure places at well-regarded schools need to be registered at the right address before admissions close. For sellers, this creates a real opportunity. Now is the right time to market your home while motivated families are actively searching.
Why school catchment areas matter to buyers
Catchment areas influence property choices across all age groups. Parents want to be near quality schools, and many buyers plan their move well in advance of their children starting Reception, Year 3, or Year 7.
A property located near a high-performing school can carry a premium. It’s not uncommon for homes in high-performing school catchments to attract offers 10 to 15% above those for similar properties in nearby areas. For this reason, homes near excellent schools are in constant demand, particularly in sought-after areas like Virginia Water and Wentworth.
Why Virginia Water and Wentworth appeal to families
This area offers more than elegant homes and countryside charm. It also offers close proximity to a variety of highly regarded schools that attract families from across the UK and overseas.
Popular local schools include:
• St Ann’s Heath Junior School – Virginia Water
• Trumps Green Infant School – Virginia Water
• The Marist School – Sunninghill
• TASIS England (The American School in England) – Thorpe
• ACS Egham International School – Egham
• Heathermount School – Ascot
Being close to these schools often puts homes at the top of family buyers’ lists. Buyers appreciate the convenience of short commutes, community-focused areas, and access to strong education from an early age.
Virginia Water and Wentworth also offer the perfect place to call home with a wide choice of excellent independent schools in the surrounding areas:
For boys:
• Papplewick School – Ascot
• Sunningdale School – Sunningdale
• St John’s Beaumont School – Old Windsor
• Eton College – Windsor
For girls:
• St Mary’s School, Ascot – Ascot
• Sir William Perkins’s School – Chertsey
• The Marist School – Sunninghill
• St George’s School, Ascot – Ascot
Co-educational options:
• Hall Grove School – Bagshot
• Salesian School – Chertsey
• Gordons School – West End, Woking
• Lambrook School – Winkfield Row
• Wellington College – Crowthorne
These schools are a major draw for relocating families, offering high standards of education and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities. Living nearby can make a meaningful difference when it comes to admissions and school run logistics, particularly for those applying under tight deadlines.
Key school application deadlines
The school admissions process for the 2026 to 2027 academic year begins in September 2025.
- Primary school (Reception) applications open on 1 September 2025 and close on 15 January 2026.
- Secondary school applications follow the same opening date but have an earlier closing date, usually 31 October 2025.
Applicants must be living at their new address before the deadline for it to count for admissions. Buyers are already searching, and many are keen to complete before the school term begins or before the application windows close.
Remember that private schools often have earlier application deadlines than state schools, so it’s important to factor this into your moving plans.
Why timing is key
Summer tends to be the busiest season for family buyers. Many aim to move during the holidays or early autumn to avoid disruption to school routines. Listing your home now means you’re more likely to attract buyers who are focused, organised and ready to proceed quickly.
What sellers can do to attract school-focused buyers
If you’re preparing your home for sale, it helps to think about what families want. At Barton Wyatt, we will include key details about local schools with good reputations in your marketing to highlight your home’s appeal to buyers focused on education.
You can also support the process by sharing information about daily conveniences like school run routes, nearby transport, and parking options. This practical insight can make a big difference to parents making a decision.
When it comes to staging, we recommend creating a family-friendly feel. Open-plan living spaces, safe outdoor areas, and plenty of storage are popular with buyers who plan for the long term.
Finally, keeping your home tidy and decluttered is essential. A clean, fresh presentation helps buyers imagine living there and gives your property the best chance to stand out.
Working together, we can make sure your home attracts the right buyers before the school application deadlines.
Why selling now puts you in a stronger position
Families want to move well before the application deadline. They also want to avoid rushing into decisions at the last minute. By listing your home now, you can reach these active buyers at the point when they’re most motivated.
You may also face less competition. Some sellers delay putting their home on the market until later in the year. If you act early, your home may stand out more clearly in a less crowded marketplace.
How Barton Wyatt can help
At Barton Wyatt, we bring decades of experience in Virginia Water and Wentworth. We know what families want and how to position your home to attract them. From pricing to presentation, we can guide you through the process from start to finish.
Our insight into local schools and their catchment areas allows us to speak with confidence to prospective buyers. We also understand the urgency many face. Buyers trust us to help them secure the right home in the right location before key deadlines arrive.
Ready to take the next step?
The school admissions process is just around the corner. If you’re thinking of selling, don’t wait. Families are already looking, and this window won’t stay open for long.
Get in touch today to arrange a free valuation or to learn more about selling your home before the application deadlines.
GET IN TOUCH
If you’re planning to buy or let in Virginia Water, Wentworth or the surrounding areas, we’re here to help. Our expert team can guide you through the process and highlight properties aligned with key school catchment areas. You can call us on 01344 843000 or email us. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to stay updated.
