Moving to Sydney - Schools advice

[sunnym3]

Hi All,
I am flying out to Sydney tonight for 17 days for a possible job opportunity and I wanted some advice on schools.
If it all goes well I could be their for around 5 years.
I am looking for a primary and hight school (not private) for my 2 boys. For us personally I think this will dictate where we choose to live, so ideally, like the schools to be not far from each other. I will be working at CBD so anything that will allow me to commute within an hour would be perfect.

I've read about the following areas to live but not sure on distances between schools:

Balmain
Balmain East
Randwick
Kensington
Bondi
Cogee
Manly

Any advice would be really handy and if anyone would like a beer and chat all things cars let me know.

[Colonial]

One of the best high schools around is Mosman High School on the lower north shore.

I'm working in the CBD now but spending weekends 2 hrs away. Up for mid week beers.

[PomBstard]

I'm on the Northern Beaches, not far from Manly, and have three children, two of which are in primary school. Happy to help with some pointers in this area - Balgowlah Boys High School just outside Manly currently has a good reputation, which is not what it had until recently...

Most primary schools in the Eastern Suburbs (Bondi-Coogee), Lower North Shore and Northern Beaches are pretty good. But there are also lots of private schools for all ages - though most are religious, so be careful!

[sunnym3]

Thanks guys,
I am actually going to Manly today to have alook round. I was in the office yesterday and a lot of people recommend Manly/Northern Beeches.

Colonial,
Let me know about a drink. I am working on Kent Street and staying in Sussex St.

[Colonial]

I'm on Pitt nr Liverpool. It's a government role so any time after 5 Mon-thurs works.

If Googlebot sees this he might be keen as well

[sunnym3]

Colonial,
I can do tomorrow if you’re about?
Will pm you with my details.

Regards
Sunny