Confidence for Life. Respect for All.
Pupils demonstrate an extremely high level of achievement in their academic studies and through their co-curricular commitments. This reflects the successful realisation of the school’s ambitious aims to cultivate in pupils a desire to succeed in all that they attempt.
- ISI Inspection Report (2023)
The Governing Body of Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation is committed to widening access to the benefits of a Durham School education through the provision of financial assistance in the form of scholarships and/ or bursaries.
Reasons to Choose
Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation
1. All-Round Achievement
Pupils at Durham School are encouraged to excel both in the classroom and beyond. Academic achievement is strong, with 55.9% of all results in the grade A*-B range in 2025.
Many of our pupils progress to leading Russell Group universities, including the University of Oxford and Durham University.
Excellence extends well beyond the classroom too. Pupils have gone on to compete in sport at the very highest levels, from British championships and professional cricket to representing their country at the Olympics.
Our pupils also excel in the arts, with opportunities to develop their creativity through Art & Design, Drama, Music and Design Technology at A Level. We regularly stage unmissable musicals and plays in The Luce Theatre, as well as host stunning art exhibitions.
2. Values in Action
The Foundation’s values of Moral Integrity, Ambition, Responsibility, and Kindness underpin everything we do. These values are not just taught in lessons; they are lived out by both pupils and staff each day, shaping the way we learn, work and grow together as a community. We do not just talk about our MARK values — we weave them into daily life, encouraging pupils to practise them in class, in Chapel and beyond the school gates.
Moral integrity is about having the courage to do what is right, both in public and in private. It means standing firm in your beliefs, being open to challenge and taking responsibility for your actions and outcomes.
Ambition encourages every pupil to strive for excellence in all they do. It is about making the most of every opportunity at Durham School and Foundation, growing not only in achievement but also in character.
Responsibility calls pupils to be active members of our community, to take ownership of their choices and to develop their leadership potential in ways that benefit others as well as themselves.
Kindness reflects the Christian ethos that underpins our values. It means treating others with respect and tolerance, embracing diversity and working together as one Foundation family.
Our motto — Confidence for life. Respect for all. — captures exactly what we hope to instill in every
3. Your Path, Your Way
At Durham School, you don’t have to choose between your passions – you can be a sports champion and a talented musician, a promising actor that excels in mathematics. Here, you’re encouraged to be everything you want to be, and more.
Our wide range of co-curricular clubs and activities means there’s something for everyone, from animation and debate to sport, music, drama, and beyond. Whatever your interests, you’ll find opportunities to explore them and discover new talents along the way. We’re committed to supporting every pupil on their own unique journey.
All pupils are encouraged to take part in a wide range of co-curricular activities, not only to support their personal development but also to promote relaxation and wellbeing after periods of study.
4. Dedicated Staff
At Durham School, our teachers are not only highly qualified but also deeply passionate about what they do. Many have experience in their fields, which brings learning to life in the classroom. Their enthusiasm makes lessons engaging and enjoyable, helping pupils feel inspired and supported as they learn. Teachers take the time to get to know each pupil as an individual, building confidence and encouraging a love of learning. They are also available outside of lesson time for bespoke support.
We have a brilliant team of Learning Support Staff who work closely with pupils to ensure that every individual’s learning needs are met with care and expertise. Additionally, we offer EAL support to international pupils who may need it.
Our House staff create warm and welcoming spaces where pupils feel at home. Whether you are a day pupil or a boarder, you’ll quickly get to know them. They are there to support you, listen when you need it, and share in your successes. The close relationships built within the Houses mean that every pupil feels part of a caring community, with staff who know them well and are always ready to celebrate their achievements or offer a helping hand.
5. House System
At Durham School, our House system is at the heart of school life. Each House develops its own identity, built by its community, and every pupil represents their House with pride.
Because each House includes pupils from every year group, you’ll build friendships across ages – connecting with people you may not otherwise meet. Younger pupils benefit from the guidance and support of older peers, while older pupils enjoy the chance to mentor and share in the fun of school life with their younger peers.
Our Houses are not just communities, but physical spaces where pupils can spend time outside of lessons. They provide a true “home from home,” with common rooms to relax and socialise, kitchens for snacks, and study areas for focused work.
Throughout the year, Houses join in a wide range of events – many organised by pupils themselves – that bring everyone together, build teamwork, and create a real sense of community. From House Music and House sports competitions to House barbecues and regular socials, there’s something for everyone to get involved in.
6. Boarding
Boarding at Durham School is more than just a place to stay, it’s a vibrant community. You’ll form friendships across year groups, creating bonds that last well beyond school. With no daily commute to worry about, you’ll have more time and energy to focus on your studies and enjoy school life to the fullest.
Boarders enjoy a full programme of activities and trips each week, from shopping and exploring Newcastle to go-karting, hiking, and even catching musicals at the theatre. In your House, you’ll enjoy cosy evenings by the fire pit toasting marshmallows, fun movie nights, and lively board game sessions with friends.
You’ll always be known and supported as an individual, with caring staff on hand to listen and guide you. In our boarding community, there is always someone to talk to.
Million thanks to dearest Durham School that has become a second home for our daughter. Thank you for your special attitude to all international students and the support you provide them with. It means a lot to our family.
- Durham School Parent
7. Connection Across Cultures
Durham School is home to a thriving international community, with pupils from over 25 countries. We are proudly diverse and welcome many international pupils each year.
As an international pupil at Durham School, you will have the opportunity to strengthen your English, experience local culture, and gain a global perspective through your peers.
Our diverse boarding community offers a welcoming environment where pupils build meaningful connections across cultures.
8. Beyond the Classroom
As a Durham School pupil, you’ll have the opportunity to enrich your learning experience through a wide range of insightful events and trips. As part of your A Level courses, you can experience Geography field trips, English trips to Stratford-upon-Avon and much more.
Outside of lessons, your learning and development can be supplemented through exciting trips like our international Sports Tours. These opportunities not only enrich your studies but also help you build confidence, develop independence and create lifelong memories.
In daily school life, you’ll have the chance to cheer on friends at sports fixtures, celebrate their talents on stage in the Luce Theatre, support them in concerts held in Chapel, and share in many more memorable moments.
Additionally, we are located on the doorstep of Durham City, which pupils may visit after school with friends. Our boarders often spend some time on the weekends here, exploring Durham Cathedral, walking by the riverside or browsing in the Durham University Library.
9.
Dedicated Pastoral Care
Our Houses act as the heart of pastoral care at Durham School. Each morning, pupils meet in their House for roll call and have the opportunity to speak with staff about any concerns or challenges they may be facing.
As our House system ensures that every pupil is known as an individual, pastoral needs are more easily recognised, and there is always a trusted member of staff available to offer guidance and support.
Pastoral care is led by a dedicated team of specialist staff who oversee this vital area. They also ensure that all members of staff are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective, appropriate care, so that every pupil feels supported throughout their time at Durham School.
10. Building Your Future
As a Durham School pupil, you won’t just grow academically — you’ll also experience valuable opportunities for personal and professional development throughout your time here. Chances to build confidence and transferable skills are integrated throughout daily life. From speaking in Chapel to organising events, every pupil benefits from these opportunities to grow.
Year 11 pupils can apply to become Peer Mentors, who work with other pupils who may need some extra support. Additionally, pupils who move up into our Sixth Form will have the opportunity to become Monitors who act as ambassadors for Durham School and regularly help the community through responsibilities such as organising events. Our Peer Mentors and Monitors are recognised and appreciated by our community for the important work that they do.
Following their time at Durham School, pupils are welcomed into the Old Dunelmian Society, the Foundation’s alumni network. Founded in the 1880s, the Society keeps ODs connected with one another while supporting the School and its current pupils as a united body. The OD Society organises a number of popular and enjoyable reunions and events each year as well as career events and networking opportunities.
The teachers are there to support you, and if you work hard, you will do well.
- Year 11 Pupil (2025)
I cannot thank the entire Teaching staff and Pastoral staff enough for this amazing celebration. You took our 12 year old daughter and turned her into an academic weapon!
- Durham School Parent
Burkitt Scholarships
The Burkitt Scholarships are awarded to candidates at 16+ entering Year 12. They are worth £1,000 per year and can be supplemented by means-tested bursaries up to 50% of the School tuition fees.
The Burkitt Scholarship Examination for September 2026 entry into Durham School will be held on Saturday 6 December 2025. The deadline for applications is Friday 28 November 2025.
• Burkitt Scholars are eligible for support worth up to £1,000 per annum if successful in gaining entry to either Oxford or Cambridge University.
• Burkitt Scholarships are available to both external entrants and current Durham School Year 11 pupils. King’s Scholars are not eligible to apply.
Scholarships Process
Burkitt candidates must take assessments in English, Mathematics, and online reasoning tests. Applicants also attend an interview with the Headmaster or Head of Sixth Form.
Entry Requirements
Burkitt Scholarships are awarded provisionally in December, based on performance in the tests taken. Burkitt Scholarships are confirmed in August, subject to satisfactory achievement at GCSE. The threshold for provisional awards is benchmarked against standards in previous years
The Value of Our Scholarships
Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation’s bursaries and scholarships change the lives of young people from disadvantaged backgrounds by giving them the opportunity to come to our excellent school and access a truly transformative education.
Candidates apply from a wide variety of local schools, particularly those in Sunderland and County Durham. Further funds are attached to each bursary to ensure every pupil can fully participate in all aspects of life at Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation.
History
Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation comprises the Preparatory School, Chorister School and the Senior School, Durham School. These two institutions merged in September 2021 to offer an all through co-educational education to pupils aged 3-18.
Thank you
The Burkitt Scholarships are some of a number supported by donations from ODs, Parents and other supporters.
Lt Colonel Henry Burkitt
A magnificent bequest was made towards bursaries at Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation by Lieutenant Colonel Henry Gale Stewart Burkitt. He was a pupil at Durham School between 1926 and 1932.
Having been educated at Cambridge, he joined the Indian Army and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He retired from the Army in 1948 and then went to Oxford where he read Law.
He was always a strong supporter of Durham School and had indicated some time ago that he intended to leave the residue of his estate to Durham School, now the Foundation, in order to provide opportunities for young people to study at Durham.
The Burkitt Bequest, made in 1985, was over £400,000. Since 1986, hundreds of young people have been given a chance to study for A Levels at Durham School thanks to his generosity.
Picture: 1932 School House Cricket Team including Henry Burkitt (highlighted).
Durham School Sixth Form
Most of our pupils go on to study at university, with the majority attending a Russell Group University, including Oxford and Cambridge.
Pupils can choose to study three or four subjects to A Level/BTEC, and may also complete an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), worth half an A Level. It is possible to study four A Levels, but we recommend taking three unless taking Further Mathematics. Universities want the three best grades.
MARK Values
A thread of core values, known by the acronym MARK, is stitched through our heritage: Moral Integrity, Ambition, Responsibility and Kindness continue to underpin every aspect of School life. These values help shape our pupils’ lives so they can positively impact the lives of others.
The staff at Durham School know the pupils they teach very well; that is one of the significant strengths of the Foundation. This, along with a sense of history, bond of community, friendships and becoming part of the “Old Dunelmians” when you leave - all add up to the mark of a great education.
You Will Be Made Most Welcome
At Durham School we are committed to giving every pupil Confidence for Life. Pupils thrive at Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation because of the three strong pillars that we provide: Academic Challenge, Pastoral Care, and Cocurricular opportunity. Durham is one of the most historic and majestic cities in the UK. At the centre are the twin UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Durham Castle and Cathedral.
A Level Subjects Available
The subjects currently available are:
• Art
• Biology
• Business
• Chemistry
• Classical Civilisation
• Computer Science
• Design Realisation
• Economics
• English Literature
• French
• Geography
• German
• History
• Latin
• Mathematics
• Further Mathematics
• Music
• Physical Education
• Physics
• Politics
• Psychology
• Religious Studies
• Spanish
• Theatre Studies
We also offer a BTEC in Business and the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is available to all Sixth Form pupils.
Our pupils are encouraged to be independent learners and think for themselves, vital skills if they are to make the best use of the freedom offered at university and beyond.
- Mr Andrew Pearson, Deputy Head (Academic)
Our Former Scholars
Ed
Former Head of School (2024/25)
From the moment I arrived, I knew Durham wasn’t just a school it was something far more. A community. A rhythm. A legacy. It’s a place that gives you confidence for life, not just through grades or results, but through the experiences that challenge and shape you.
Lucy
Achieved A, A, A at A Level (2025)
Coming to Durham has benefitted me more than I can articulate. Without the brilliant teaching, extra-curricular and sporting opportunities and the constant support, I don’t think I would have performed so well in my exams.
Our Former Scholars
Millie (DCSF 2020 - 2022)
Destination: University of York
Jamie (DCSF 2020 - 2022)
Destination: Newcastle University
Laura (DCSF 2018 - 2020)
Destination: Cambridge University
Jake (DCSF 2017 - 2019)
Destination: University of York
Elise (DCSF 2017 - 2019)
Destination: Cambridge University
Benjamin (DCSF 2015 - 2017)
Destination: Cambridge University
How To Apply
If you are interested in applying for a Burkitt Scholarship, we ask that you follow our formal application process. Our application process can be found on our website - www.dcsf.org.uk.
If you are interested in finding out more about our Scholarships, please feel free to get in touch with our Admissions Team.
• 0191 731 9270 • admissions@dcsf.org.uk.
The closing date for the Burkitt Scholarship applications is 28 November. The Admissions team will send you sample examination papers on receipt of application.
