If you're moving to Cardiff and have children, finding the best schools in Cardiff is likely high on your priority list. In fact, many families choose to relocate specifically to be within a preferred school’s catchment area — and when you’re investing in a home, ensuring excellent local education is key.
At Fortis Estate Agents, we work with families across Cardiff, Penarth, Llandaff, Cyncoed and the surrounding areas, helping them not just find their dream home, but settle into a lifestyle that suits their needs. In this guide, we share expert advice on how to identify the right school for your children when moving to the Cardiff area.
Cardiff is home to a wide variety of excellent schools — from high-performing state secondaries to prestigious private schools. The challenge is often not a lack of choice, but narrowing down what matters most for your child’s development.
Before you begin your search, consider:
Do you prefer state, private, or grammar schools?
Is academic performance your main focus, or are sports, arts, or music more important?
Are you looking for co-educational, single-sex, day, or boarding options?
Does your child have special educational needs that must be supported?
Is proximity to your new home essential?
By listing your top priorities, you'll be better prepared to evaluate schools against your personal criteria — and focus your home search in the right neighbourhoods.
Once your priorities are clear, begin researching schools in Cardiff as early as possible — ideally before your move. This allows you to factor local school catchments into your property search, especially if you’re considering top-tier schools with limited places.
Use these trusted online resources:
Individual school websites for open day information, virtual tours, and admission policies
Ofsted reports for state schools
Remember, competition for places at Cardiff’s best schools can be fierce — so having a shortlist of 2–3 viable options is wise.
While online research is useful, nothing replaces visiting a school in person. Touring the facilities, meeting the staff, and observing the school environment will give you valuable insight into where your child will feel most supported and inspired.
What to look for on a school visit:
Do teachers seem engaged and approachable?
Are children happy, confident, and well-behaved?
Is the school environment clean, safe, and well-equipped?
Does the ethos align with your family values?
If visiting in person isn’t possible due to relocation timelines, ask for a virtual tour or schedule a video call with the headteacher. Many Cardiff schools are happy to accommodate relocating families this way.
When you begin viewing properties in Cardiff, take time to speak with local residents — especially parents. They’ll offer invaluable first-hand insights into school culture, pastoral care, and how well the school communicates with families.
Ask questions like:
Which schools are most popular in the area?
What’s their experience with admissions and catchment areas?
Would they recommend their child’s school?
These local conversations often reveal practical information that formal rankings can’t.
Even with thorough research and planning, school admissions aren’t guaranteed — particularly for high-demand schools in areas like Cyncoed, Pontcanna, or Radyr.
Make sure to:
Apply to more than one school
Understand the admissions criteria (catchment, sibling priority, etc.)
Be realistic about entry requirements and waiting lists
Having a shortlist of suitable alternatives ensures you’re prepared for any outcome, while still aiming for your top choice.
At Fortis Estate Agents, we specialise in helping families move into Cardiff’s most sought-after neighbourhoods. Whether you're looking for a detached family home in Lisvane, a Victorian townhouse in Llandaff, or a modern executive property in Penarth, our experienced team can guide you through every step — including advice on school catchments and local amenities.
📞 Call us on 029 2056 1111
📧 Email: hello@fortis.homes
🌐 Explore homes near top schools at: https://fortis.homes
Your dream home — and the right school — are both within reach when you work with Cardiff’s local property experts.
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