Moving for School Catchment areas in Worthing and Lancing

28 Aug, 2025

For many parents, getting a place at their preferred school can feel like a postcode lottery. Each year, we hear stories of siblings being separated or children facing long, impractical journeys to school. Yet the reality is often more positive than it seems. Just last year in 2024, for example, 83% of children were offered their first-choice secondary school and 93.2% of children were offered their first-choice primary school in England secured a place at one of their top choices, a reassuring statistic for families beginning the school admissions journey this term.

That said, competition for places remains strong. A recent survey by Santander (August 2025) found that one in four parents would consider moving house to live within the catchment area of their preferred school. With applications for September 2026 school places now approaching, it’s a good time to explore what schooling looks like in Worthing and Lancing, and how catchment areas and your postcode play a role in your application. 

What is a catchment area?

A school’s catchment area is the geographical boundary it serves. Living outside of this area makes it harder in some instances to secure a place, which is why some families buy or rent property specifically within the catchment zone. You can search your catchment area here.

Each school sets its own admissions criteria, available on its website or through West Sussex County Council. When applications exceed available places, priority is usually given to children living closest to the school or within its defined catchment. Some schools without a fixed catchment instead use distance as their main deciding factor. It’s important to note, however, that even living a short walk away from a popular school doesn’t always guarantee a place, this can be the case for certain Faith Schools where entry criteria will differ. That’s why it’s recommended to apply for several schools in your catchment area to keep your options open. A useful resource is the West Sussex County Council website which provides detailed insights into school place boundaries and success rates.

Map Source - Click link to use the interactive map.

Moving house to secure a school place

A recent Santander UK study found that 73% of parents are willing to pay a 15% premium on property prices, which can amount to an average of £57,000 extra on a £380,000 property, to secure a home in the catchment area of a good state school. This increased competition is partly due to the VAT hike on private school fees, with many parents planning to move their children to state schools and, consequently, to top catchment area Schools.

For parents set on a particular school, moving into the catchment area can improve the chances of success, but it must be done carefully. The address provided on your child’s application must be permanent, with proof such as utility bills, a tenancy agreement, or a solicitor’s letter. Schools are increasingly vigilant about fraudulent applications, so transparency is essential.

It’s also worth noting the cost implications. In the Santander study, families who moved to secure a school place were willing to pay more since the previous year, with 73% of parents ready to pay a premium compared to 63% in the prior year. (2024 v 2025).

Schools in Worthing and Lancing

Worthing and Lancing offer a wide choice of education, from infant and primary schools through to secondary schools and sixth form colleges. There is also good provision for children with special educational needs (SEN).

For example:

The Worthing area is divided into several catchments: Worthing, Broadwater, Durrington, Heene, Tarring, Findon Valley, and Goring-by-Sea. Checking these boundaries early is important for families hoping to secure their preferred school.

A tradition of strong schools

Education has deep roots in Worthing. The first schools opened in 1811, and by 1833, there were already 11 private schools in the area. Today, Worthing and Lancing are home to 43 schools. Among the most highly regarded primaries are Springfield Infant School & Nursery, Seaside Primary School, Broadwater Primary, Vale School, and Goring By Sea C of E Primary School. 

At secondary level, Durrington High School, Bohunt School Worthing, St Andrews C of E High School, Worthing High School have all been rated ‘Good’ in their latest Ofsted inspections. Whist St Oscar Romero Catholic School and Davisons C of E High School for Girls have recently been rated as 'Outstanding' in Ofsted inspections. You can find all the data on local schools on the schools guide website.

Celebrating Exam Success

Last week saw the release of this years GCSE Results for the local Worthing based High Schools. In West Sussex, 68.1% of students achieved a grade 4 or above, the equivalent of the old grade C. The Sixth Form College’s in Worthing have also recently celebrated their most recent A Level Results with the newly opened St Oscar Romero Sixth Form College celebrating a successful first year for their first cohort, they did exceptionally well across both academic and vocational subjects with a large number of students achieving the highest grades. 

Choosing the right school

When selecting a school, parents should look beyond league tables. Ofsted reports, available through the Locrating website, provide valuable insights into academic standards. However, school life is about more than results. Consider the following:

  • What after-school clubs and sports are on offer?

  • Does the school atmosphere feel warm and welcoming?

  • Are relationships between pupils and staff positive and respectful?

  • Do pupils appear engaged, well-presented, and happy in lessons?

  • Will the journey to and from School suit you as a family?

With the new school year fast approaching (September 2025), families applying for September 2026 entry should be preparing their applications. Deadlines are:

  • Secondary school applications: October 2025

  • Primary school applications: January 2026

It is advisable to list at least three schools in order of preference and to visit them during a normal working day to get a genuine feel for the environment. Open evenings are helpful, but a real-time visit gives a clearer picture of everyday life. 

Worthing & Lancing, ideal for families

Once seen as retirement destinations, Worthing and Lancing are now thriving family communities. With excellent schools, good rail connections to London, and the benefits of coastal living, the area has become increasingly popular with young families.

Housing is another draw. While the average London house costs around £562,000, a similar property in nearby Brighton is around £413,000 and prices in Worthing are lower still at £309,000. Families can enjoy spacious Victorian homes, modern apartments, and affordable rentals, all within reach of good schools and the sea. *Data Source

Final Thought

As the September 2025 term is about to begin, now is the time for families in Worthing and Lancing to plan ahead for school admissions in September 2026. Whether staying put or considering a move, doing your research early will give your child the best possible start.

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