Basic Information & Location
Founded in 1414, Durham School is one of the oldest schools in the country. The School is fiercely proud of its heritage, yet tradition does not interfere with its desire to provide girls and boys with an all-around, modern education. Set in 35 acres of beautiful grounds and facilities in the heart of Durham City, the School has a quaint, rural vibe and yet is comfortably within walking distance of the world-famous Cathedral, the River Wear, the castle and shops in the centre city.
School Motto
Durham School’s mission is to provide its students with a complete education; one which instils in them an aspiration for achievement, a respect for others and a confidence for life.
Academic Matters
Year 7 & 8 students at Durham School are offered a challenging, stimulating curriculum designed to stretch their capabilities. Within the school environment they will develop the time management, communication and study skills required to set them on the road to successful independent learning in the future. The Middle School is designed to build on the core learning skills and knowledge developed in the Lower School. The sixth form is designed to allow greater specialism and further opportunities for independent study. Additional support for elite course applications is also organised, such as subject-specific Oxbridge tuition, Critical Thinking and the Extended Project Qualification.
Boarding / Pastoral Care
Boarding encourages pupils to take full advantage of everything that Durham School has to offer, living their lives to the full as part of a community in which the individual flourishes. There are four boarding Houses situated on or within easy reach of the main campus, with separate Houses allocated for boys and girls. The Houses are at the heart of pupils’ lives, and all boarders will experience a warm and supportive atmosphere in their House, each run by an experienced and dedicated team of Housemasters/mistresses, Tutors and Matrons. Boarders support each others’ achievements on the sports’ field, in concerts, on stage and in the examination hall. Pupils compete in many events as a House, and there is a strong sense of community through the School with major competitions in singing, debating and most major and minor sports.
Extracurricular
The School has a well-deserved reputation for sport, music and drama. Teamwork, leadership and community work are encouraged in a range of disciplines, such as rugby and rowing. The Durham School Boat Club has a proud tradition, and is the third oldest boat club in the world. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award and the Combined Cadet Force are always strong favourites with pupils.