We live in Honor Oak and were one of a number who didn't get any of our choices for a reception place last year - we were offered a school 3 miles away. Not practical when you work and have other kids in nursery. Despite reassurances from very kind friends that a waiting list place would come up at our nearest schools, it didn't! We are 430 metres away from our nearest school, Fairlawn, and started off at about 16 on the waiting list. I don't know where we are now, I nolonger take much of an interest, but I know several people who are ahead of us and I'd guess we are about 9th place, even though it is now summer term). We were similarly far down the waiting list for all our other options. My advice would be to try and find a back up - once you know where you are on the waiting list, it's easier to take a call. We ended up applying to a Southwark school we live very close to and getting in on the waiting list (via Lewisham admissions team). Our son is really happy, and the school is just 200 metres up the road - the only reason we didn't apply originally is because it is a faith school and we didn't think they would let us in! He's thrived there, the teaching is excellent, and he's having lots of fun. It was such a stressful time, but all has worked out fine and our son is happy. And even better, he doesn't have to commute to school! I realise faith schools are not everyone's cup of tea, but if you live on a boarder of a Borough, and are close to one, they are worth considering. Whatever happens, I'm sure your kids will thrive. For me, the most important thing was for my son to not have a mega commute to school, and to be able to walk there. And now we are juggling both school and nursery runs, I'm very grateful for it. Really hope I haven't freaked anyone out too much!