Exactly, so for quality of life its not a viable commute to live more than an hour away from Brighton and then on top of that have to brave the delights of Falmer Hill, Lewes Road or London Road during rush hour.
I am speaking from experience here, I do the journey between Polegate and...
If the OP wants to live in Eastbourne then this is a great option, my Mum and Dad live in Willingdon village and it has a lovely feel to the place, right next to the south downs and close to Polegate for a train in to Brighton. As you say nice pubs as well.
My immediate thoughts are:
Berwick: no school (think the closest is the dicker or Alfriston) but trains direct to Brighton and Eastbourne.
The Dicker: trains from Berwick, park mead primary school and St Beads.
Alfriston: Primary School, trains from Berwick or Seaford.
Ringmer: just outside...