Oldham is one of the most affordable places to buy a house near a school that has been rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, according to a new study.

It is often assumed that properties near good schools can carry higher price tags – but research from education experts UTS Online has proven this is not always the case.

The organisation analysed the percentage of schools rated by Ofsted as outstanding in more than 150 parts of England, comparing the figures to the average house price in each area.

It found that Oldham was the 33rd cheapest place to buy a home close to a school rated ‘Outstanding’, just behind Chorley and Preston, both in Lancashire.

According to the study, the average house price in the borough was £188,965.22 – with 7.3 per cent of Oldham’s schools rated ‘Outstanding’ at the last Ofsted inspection.

The Oldham Times: There are three 'outstanding' schools in Oldham and more than 10 graded 'good'There are three 'outstanding' schools in Oldham and more than 10 graded 'good' (Image: Google Maps/Blue Coat/The Radclyffe School)

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Luton and Watford, both in the South of England, were found to be the cheapest places to buy a house close to an outstanding school, while Elmbridge, the most expensive area in England, sat at the bottom of the table with only 1.14 per cent of schools rated 'Outstanding'.

A spokesperson for UTS Online said: “Every parent wants their child to get the best schooling, so living near good schools is a top priority for many families.

“This study’s findings offer some fascinating insights into areas across England where families can find a good education without blowing the budget.”

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