Key Summary
- To be in with a chance of getting into your preferred school setting, you will need to be in the correct catchment area.
- Some of the best schools in Manchester include The Manchester Grammar School, Cheadle Hulme School, and The Grange School.
- Contacting the school office, using catchment area websites, and using your local education authority can help determine what area you need to live in.
Advantages of Living Close to Good Schools
In recent years, Manchester’s property market has experienced notable growth and increasing demand. Investing in properties within renowned schools’ catchment areas can offer several advantages.
- Firstly, properties within these catchment areas are in high demand, leading to potentially higher rental yields and capital appreciation. Families are often willing to pay a premium to secure a property within close proximity to reputable schools, making it a lucrative investment opportunity for landlords.
- Additionally, properties within catchment areas of reputable schools usually experience more stability in terms of tenant retention. Families often prefer to settle in a location where their children can access quality education, creating a steady demand for rental properties in these areas.
How to Determine the Catchment Area for Your Preferred School
Sadly, these days, in an oversaturated market, it isn’t as simple as selecting your preferred school; you need to think about where you live too.
You can take some steps to determine the catchment area for your school. First, check out the school’s website or contact them directly to discuss their catchment area policy. Often, schools will have detailed information on the specific locations that define their catchment area, with some even having maps, or postcode lists, for reference.
The internet is another valuable tool, as many websites now show school catchment areas. However, we recommend exercising caution with these sites as the information isn’t always accurate and current, and some are chargeable.
It is also worth consulting your local education authority as they can provide guidance and information on school catchment areas for your region and offer resources to help.
Best Schools in Manchester
We understand the importance of finding the right educational setting for your child and the challenges that come with it. A recent Ofsted report stated a significant improvement in Manchester children’s education services, but it can be hard to know where to start when looking for the right school for your child. So, whilst looking for the best schools in Manchester, look at our list that compiles the best schools and the areas in which you’ll need to invest or rent a property to get your child into them.
Best High Schools in Manchester
1. Manchester High School for Girls
Manchester High School for Girls has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and empowering young women. With a focus on providing a comprehensive education, the school offers a wide range of subjects, extracurricular activities, and opportunities for personal growth.
Ideal areas to live:
- Didsbury
- Withington
- Chorlton
2. The Manchester Grammar School
The Manchester Grammar School, or MGS, is one of the country’s most prestigious and well-respected schools. With a rich history from 1515, MGS provides a rigorous academic curriculum and a supportive environment that nurtures intellectual curiosity and critical thinking.
Ideal areas to live:
- Fallowfield
- Rusholme
- Victoria Park
3. Withington Girls' School
Withington Girls’ School is renowned for its outstanding academic achievements and inclusive community. The school offers a broad curriculum, exceptional teaching, and a strong emphasis on co-curricular activities, enabling students to thrive academically and personally.
Ideal areas to live:
- Withington
- Didsbury
- Chorlton
Best Primary Schools in Manchester
1. St. Bede's College Preparatory School
St. Bede’s College Preparatory School is a famous independent primary school with a comprehensive curriculum and a supportive learning environment. With small class sizes and dedicated teachers, the school ensures each child receives individual attention and guidance.
Ideal areas to live:
- Didsbury
- Burnage
- Heaton Mersey
2. St. Philip's Church of England Primary School
St. Philip’s Church of England Primary School is committed to providing a well-rounded education rooted in Christian values. The school’s inclusive ethos, strong community spirit, and high-quality teaching make it an excellent choice for families seeking a caring primary school.
Ideal areas to live:
- Salford Quays
- Ordsall
- Weaste
3. The Manchester Grammar Junior School
The Manchester Grammar Junior School offers a stimulating learning environment where pupils are encouraged to think critically, be creative, and develop a lifelong love for learning. Focusing on academic excellence, the school provides a strong foundation for future success.
Ideal areas to live:
- Fallowfield
- Victoria Park
- Rusholme
Best Secondary Schools in Manchester
1. Cheadle Hulme School
Cheadle Hulme School is renowned for its outstanding academic achievements and extensive extracurricular offerings. With state-of-the-art facilities and a supportive learning environment, the school provides students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for higher education and beyond.
Ideal areas to live:
- Cheadle Hulme
- Bramhall
- Handforth
2. Stretford High School
Stretford High School prides itself on its commitment to academic achievement and personal development. The school’s dedicated teachers, comprehensive curriculum, and supportive environment enable students to reach their full potential and excel in their chosen fields.
Ideal areas to live:
- Stretford
- Old Trafford
- Gorse Hill
3. Chorlton High School
Chorlton High School is known for its inclusive community, high academic standards, and focus on personal development. The school offers a broad curriculum, exceptional teaching, and a range of extracurricular activities, enabling students to thrive academically and personally.
Ideal areas to live:
- Chorlton
- Whalley Range
- Fallowfield
Best Grammar Schools in Manchester
1. Altrincham Grammar School for Boys
Altrincham Grammar School for Boys consistently ranks among the top grammar schools in Manchester. With a commitment to academic excellence and a strong emphasis on personal development, the school equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel academically.
Ideal areas to live:
- Altrincham
- Hale
- Timperley
2. Urmston Grammar School
Urmston Grammar School is known for its high academic standards and supportive learning environment. The school offers various subjects, extracurricular activities, and enrichment programs, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education.
Ideal areas to live:
- Urmston
- Flixton
- Davyhulme
3. Sale Grammar School
Sale Grammar School is a highly regarded grammar school that fosters academic excellence and personal growth. With a focus on individualised learning and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, the school provides students with a solid foundation for their future endeavours.
Ideal areas to live:
- Sale
- Ashton upon Mersey
- Brooklands
Best Schools in Greater Manchester
1. Stockport Grammar School
Stockport Grammar School is a highly esteemed independent school that provides an excellent all-round education. With a strong emphasis on academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and personal development, the school prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.
Ideal areas to live:
- Bramhall
- Cheadle Hulme
- Hazel Grove
2. Bolton School
Bolton School is a leading independent school that offers an exceptional education from nursery through to sixth form. The school prepares students for a bright and fulfilling future by focusing on academic excellence, character development, and community engagement.
Ideal areas to live:
- Heaton
- Lostock
- Bromley Cross
3. Bury Grammar School
Bury Grammar School is a renowned independent school that combines academic excellence with a supportive and nurturing environment. The school enables students to achieve their full potential with a wide range of subjects, extracurricular activities, and enrichment programs.
Ideal areas to live:
- Ramsbottom
- Tottington
- Greenmount
Best Private Schools in Manchester
Typically, private schools don’t have catchment areas as they are privately funded however, for ease, you will want to live close by to avoid the busy rush hour traffic. Here are our top picks of private schools and the best places to live:
1. The Grange School
The Grange School is a highly respected private school that provides a holistic education focused on academic achievement, personal development, and social responsibility. The school offers a broad curriculum, dedicated teachers, and excellent facilities. Located in the suburb of Hartford, the school enjoys a peaceful and picturesque environment while being close to nearby towns and amenities.
Ideal areas to live:
- Hartford
- Weaverham
- Northwich
2. The King's School, Manchester
The King’s School, Manchester, is a highly regarded private school that provides a nurturing environment and a well-rounded education. The school prepares students for future success by focusing on academic excellence, character development, and community engagement. Situated in the desirable area of Macclesfield, the school benefits from a picturesque setting and a supportive local community.
Ideal areas to live:
- Macclesfield
- Prestwich
- Wilmslow
Conclusion
Regarding your kids’ education, we know you will want to find the best schools in Manchester to ensure your child is provided with a high-quality education.
One of the most essential factors in getting into your preferred school option is the area you live in. Make sure you research catchment areas to increase your chance of getting into your preferred choice.
