Walkability is top of my list (as aren't any bad schools around here really) - we both use PT to get to work so far easier to walk kids to school then walk to station (so fact there are before and after school care options at school is a factor).

Less time getting too and from school means more time for other stuff plus shouldn't be too far from other pupils. I don't like rushing kids about so even if have to rush on foot it still feels like nice time with kids, chatting playing etc on way.

I think it also depends on what you can offer outside of school, so that school + home life complement each other to give whole picture. So things like art and exposure to animals, environmental stuff, open space etc. I feel can give outside of school so not fussed about in school (e.g. One reason I have heard for people not liking school mine will go to is lack of outdoor space - but I can take the kids places for that so doesn't bother me).Different families can offer different things so for me is just about achieving right balance and because there is lots I want to do with kids outside school then the fact travel time is so short enables that.

In my book any second language is good, it so happens or closest school is bilingual which I am mega pleased about although French would not have been my first choice, but if it wasn't easy walking distance I wouldn't have chosen to walk further just to go to that school. Some people don't choose it because it is bilingual e.g if child is already bilingual but not with French English.

My only real very slight concern is we are not that great a fit with the rest of the community, I know from playgroup and childcare that I am a bit of an 'oddball' but I am used to that and so "community fit" has been a consideration but only a very slight one.