I think that we are lucky in that all the primary schools in this area are good. I have friends whose children are at Stillness, Fairlawn, Dalmain, Horniman, Rathfern, and Kilmorie. Generally everyone is happy with their school. OK there are always quibbles about this or that that could be better, but overall they are all quite a good standard.

Sometimes parents can get very patriotic of their own school and criticise other schools, which I don't think is very helpful.

I think you also have to look at the ethos of the school and whether it suits you and your child. That is kind of a gut instinct thing!

Lastly I am one of those who is all for going to your local school - community is very important to me and I like knowing other families nearby. I hate the idea of having to jump in a car to drive for miles to a 'better school'. Get involved on the school PTA, go to the Parent Council meetings, help to fundraise, help in the classroom etc etc - if everyone did this I think all schools and pupils would benefit!