A Durham education is one that inspires, nurtures and encourages students through the provision of the finest quality teaching coupled with extensive opportunities to enable students to achieve.

Our excellent teachers encourage students to think creatively, to apply knowledge and skills successfully and imaginatively, and to constantly challenge themselves whilst building ‘Confidence for Life’ in a positive and supportive environment.

Durham is committed to delivering an education that is engaging, challenging, motivating and fun.

Our Educational Ethos

Our core values of Moral integrity, Ambition, Responsibility and Kindness are the MARK of a Durham education and underpin all our teaching and learning.

We aim to develop a love of lifelong learning coupled with a culture of perseverance in the face of challenge so that students can flourish emotionally, socially, academically and physically. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves, think critically, explore different ways of doing things, reflect on their learning, collaborate and be team players. We believe this is fundamental in developing a child’s sense of well-being, nurturing their resilience, self-esteem, sense of respect for others and sense of social responsibility.

Our Mission is to provide students with a rounded education; one which inspires and nurtures a love of lifelong learning, an aspiration for achievement, respect for others, and ‘Confidence for Life’.

Whilst academic life is at the heart of the school, we set out to provide a host of opportunities in sport, music and drama so that every student is given a chance to explore their potential.

Our Values

Our core values of Moral integrity, Ambition, Responsibility and Kindness are the MARK of a Durham education and underpin all our teaching and learning at Durham.

Our Aims

Within a community shaped by moral integrity and kindness, Durham aims to cultivate responsibility, respect and ambition to ensure that every student can thrive, be happy and make a positive mark in the world.

The three pillars of a Durham School which support this aim and shape the environment where students can learn and grow are: