Choosing where to buy a home always requires careful thought, but getting it right is especially important if you have school-age children or plan to start a family in the near future. Many parents want to relocate near top-performing schools, but since excellent local schools can drive up house prices within their catchment area, it can be challenging to strike the right balance between league tables and budget.
On the other hand, choosing to invest in a home in a prominent school district could prove profitable, whether you have children or not, as demand for property in certain catchment areas could remain stronger over time. Today, we’ll identify the top-rated primary and secondary schools in and around the town and explore what this might mean for you.
Top 5 Bridgend primary schools
Based on official performance data, including exam results and Ofsted inspections, the top five primary schools in Bridgend in 2025 are:
- Oldcastle Primary School
- Penybont Primary
- Heronsbridge Special School
- St Mary's R C Primary School
- Brackla Primary School
Top 5 Bridgend secondary schools
Bridgend and the surrounding areas are also home to a range of well-regarded secondary schools, with the top spots currently taken by:
- Porthcawl Comprehensive School
- Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Llangynwyd
- Archbishop McGrath Catholic High School
- Bryntirion Comprehensive
- Brynteg School
Considerations for homebuyers
Although Ofsted reports and performance data are crucial in determining the reputation of local schools, families should consider other factors before choosing a home, such as:
Catchment areas: While Welsh-medium and faith schools in Bridgend do not have strict catchment areas, most others do. Buying a house within a school's catchment area can increase the likelihood of your child being admitted.
Transportation: Eligibility for free school transport is based on the distance from the school. For primary schools, the distance is more than two miles, and for secondary schools, it’s more than three miles.
Language preference: You’ll need to decide between English-medium and Welsh-medium education, as this will influence school selection and potentially the area you choose to live in.
Extra support: Some schools have a strong reputation for adapting to children with special educational needs or those who require pastoral care, which may be more important to many parent-buyers than overall performance statistics.
Extracurricular activities and wrap-around care: Many schools gain favour with parents because they provide students with access to a broad range of clubs and sports, which can be essential for active children and working parents.
If you need help finding a home in your chosen school district, contact us on the details below to discuss your requirements