Schooling in SE London: What Makes Our Local Schools So Special and what you need to know
By Kate Hill, Director at Greater London Properties and proud Dulwich & Herne Hill Family Scoop contributor
One of the things I love most about living and working in this pocket of South East London is the strong sense of community that surrounds our schools. Whether you're a first-time parent navigating the primary school application process or a seasoned local with little ones moving up through the years, the schools in Herne Hill and Dulwich aren’t just about great Ofsted reports — they’re vibrant hubs of family life.
Here’s our GLP guide to some of the best-loved local state schools — from how to apply, to the wonderful extras that make each one special.
🌿 Dulwich Village Infant School (DVIS) – Infant (Reception–Year 2)
Ofsted: Outstanding
Vibe: Warm, nurturing, and right in the heart of Dulwich Village
What makes it special: The school’s community spirit is legendary. The PTA organises brilliant events like the annual Summer and Christmas fairs — proper village fêtes with bunting, cakes, and live music. Families look forward to the Hamlet & DVIS camping weekend, which brings parents, teachers and children together under canvas for storytelling, marshmallows, and bonding that lasts for years.
Catchment: Typically tight – sometimes as little as 250–300 metres.
How to apply: Applications for Reception places open in September and close in mid-January for the following September intake. Apply via your local borough (Southwark or Lambeth).
📚 Dulwich Hamlet Junior School – Junior (Years 3–6)
Ofsted: Outstanding
Vibe: Academic, creative, and forward-thinking
What makes it special: Strong music, sport, and arts programmes. Their school plays are epic, and the link with DVIS creates a seamless journey for many. Like DVIS, the Hamlet is all about that village-school feel — but with an added focus on independence and ambition.
Catchment: Often follows DVIS pupils, but others are welcome if space allows.
Top tip: Families often move close to DVIS in Reception years to ensure an easier path to the Hamlet.
🐙 Judith Kerr Primary School – All-through Primary (Reception–Year 6)
Ofsted: Good
Vibe: Bilingual, inclusive, and international
What makes it special: Named after the much-loved author of The Tiger Who Came to Tea, this newer school near Herne Hill and North Dulwich has a modern outlook. Their legendary OctoFest (yes, it’s an actual school Oktoberfest!) brings families together over bratwurst, bouncy castles and steins of beer. They celebrate culture, language and diversity in a really joyful way.
Catchment: Larger than DVIS; often up to 600–700 metres.
How to apply: Standard Reception application through your local borough.
✨ Jessop Primary School – All-through Primary (Reception–Year 6)
Ofsted: Outstanding
Vibe: Diverse, vibrant and values-driven
What makes it special: Tucked just off Herne Hill Road, Jessop is part of the outstanding Dulwich Learning Trust. It’s known for its inclusive ethos and excellent music provision — think choirs, violins, and steel pans. Their PTA is active and fun, with regular quiz nights and discos.
Catchment: Can stretch further than others, depending on year.
Application: Standard Reception route — same borough deadlines.
🌳 St John’s & St Clement’s Primary School – All-through Primary
Ofsted: Good
Vibe: Faith-based, caring and community-led
What makes it special: A Church of England school with a real focus on character and kindness. Their community garden and sustainability work are inspiring, and families love how involved the school is with local charities and projects. Their winter fair is a real highlight.
Catchment: Faith-based admission criteria apply for some places, but many are offered purely on distance.
Top tip: If applying under a faith place, make sure you understand the supplementary form requirements.
🏫 Bessemer Grange Primary School – All-through Primary
Ofsted: Good
Vibe: Creative, inclusive and down-to-earth
What makes it special: With a strong emphasis on art, music and outdoor learning, Bessemer is a real favourite among families near Denmark Hill and East Dulwich. Their Forest School is a hit, and they’ve got a reputation for embracing individuality and expression.
Catchment: Generally wide – a great option for those not in the tight DVIS/Jessops triangle.
Application process: Apply through your local borough by the January deadline before your child’s Reception year.
🏫 What about Secondary Schools?
For families staying long-term, it’s worth knowing that Dulwich and Herne Hill are in reach of some fantastic secondaries. While most of the schools above feed into a mix of schools across Southwark and Lambeth, popular local options include:
The Charter School North Dulwich (Outstanding)
Kingsdale Foundation School (Good – with an emphasis on music and sport)
Alleyn’s and JAGS (private, but with bursaries and scholarships available)
🗓 Key Dates to Remember
Reception applications open: September (the year before entry)
Deadline to apply: Usually 15 January
Offer day: Mid-April
Remember, even if you're just thinking ahead, it’s worth attending open days (many happen in the autumn) and connecting with other local parents — you'll often get the best insights from the school gate or those legendary PTA events!
💛 Giving Back to Local Schools
At Greater London Properties, we believe in supporting the communities we serve. That’s why for every home we sell, we donate 10% of our sales fee to a local school of the seller’s choice. It’s our way of helping ensure our brilliant local schools continue to thrive.
To stay in the loop on local events, property insights and school news, sign up to our newsletter and come and say hello over on Instagram: @glp_dulwich
Kate, 0207 113 1066