Durham School
Christian, Founded 1414
Updated July 2026
National Curriculum (England)
IGCSELanguages
English
FrenchDurham Cathedral Schools Foundation is a co-educational independent school foundation in Durham City, comprising the Chorister School (ages 3-11) and Durham School (ages 11-18). It offers a continuous educational journey from early years through to the Sixth Form, rooted in over 600 years of history.
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school is guided by the values of moral integrity, ambition, responsibility, and kindness. It seeks to nurture pupils to become mature, responsible young adults who are equipped to lead in an ever-changing world. The educational approach draws on centuries of tradition while embracing modern values to foster confidence and respect.
Programmes
The curriculum spans from EYFS to Sixth Form, with a focus on core subjects including English, Mathematics, and Science. The Chorister School offers a broad curriculum including French, Latin, and a specialized STEM programme, while Durham School provides GCSE and Sixth Form pathways. Music is a central pillar, with opportunities for pupils to join the Cathedral Choir, participate in orchestras, and receive individual instrumental tuition.
Outcomes
The school aims to equip pupils with the skills to face the future with a wide range of choices, fostering confidence, competence, and leadership. Alumni, known as Old Dunelmians (ODs), include notable figures in the arts and public life, such as Rowan Atkinson and Alexander Armstrong. The school tracks leavers' destinations and maintains a strong community of alumni.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides dedicated learning support services for pupils. International students have access to EAL (English as an Additional Language) support and IELTS preparation to ensure academic success.
Frequently asked questions(6)
- What curriculum does Durham School offer?
- Durham School offers National Curriculum (England), British EYFS and IGCSE.
- How much is tuition at Durham School?
- Annual tuition at Durham School is £8.2K–£58.8K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Durham School teach?
- Durham School enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- Is Durham School a day or boarding school?
- Durham School is a day and boarding school.
- Is Durham School co-educational?
- Durham School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Durham School located?
- Durham School is an international school in Sunderland, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026-2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Chorister School Day Pupil FS1 – Full time provision | 3–4 | — |
| Day Pupil FS2 – Year 2 | 4–7 | £15.1K |
| Day Pupil Prep School 3 – 6 | 7–11 | £19.4K |
| Cathedral Chorister | 7–11 | £8.2K |
| Day Pupil Senior School 7 – 8 | 11–13 | £22.1K |
| Day Pupil Senior School 9 – 13 | 13–18 | £24.1K |
| Weekly Boarder Senior School 7 – 8 | 11–13 | £40K |
| Weekly Boarder Senior School 9 – 13 | 13–18 | £48.8K |
| Full Boarding Senior School 7 – 8 | 11–13 | £46.5K |
| Full Boarding Senior School 9 – 13 | 13–18 | £54.7K |
| Overseas Day Pupil Senior School 7 – 8 | 11–13 | £24K |
| Overseas Day Pupil Senior School 9 – 13 | 13–18 | £26K |
| Overseas Boarder – Weekly Senior School 7 – 8 | 11–13 | £43.4K |
| Overseas Boarder – Weekly Senior School 9 – 13 | 13–18 | £52.5K |
| Overseas Boarder – Full Senior School 7 – 8 | 11–13 | £50.5K |
| Overseas Boarder – Full Senior School 9 – 13 | 13–18 | £58.8K |
Other fees(5)
| Application fee | £75 |
|---|---|
| Registration fee· For Peter Lee Scholarship candidates | £100 |
| Deposit· For British nationals day pupil | £250 |
| Deposit· For British nationals boarder or international pupils staying for less than 6 months | £500 |
| Mealsterm· Compulsory lunch charge per term | £332 |
Discounts
- Sibling discount: 5% for second child, 10% for third child, 15% for fourth and subsequent children
Admissions
The school provides an online enquiry form and a registration timeline tool to assist prospective families. An application fee of £75 is required, with a £100 fee for Peter Lee Scholarship candidates. Upon acceptance of a place, a deposit is required (£250 for day pupils, £500 for boarders), while international students must pay a full term’s fees in advance plus a compliance management fee.
Calendar
The academic year is divided into three terms: Christmas, Easter, and Summer. The school provides specific dates for boarders' returns, half-term holidays, and term ends, with the 2026-27 academic year running from September 2026 through July 2027. INSET days for staff are scheduled at the start of terms.
Facilities
About the campus
The Foundation operates across three sites in Durham City, including the Chorister School (ages 3-11) and Durham School (ages 11-18). Campus facilities include the Luce Theatre, a War Memorial Chapel, and extensive sports grounds. The school also maintains specialized spaces such as an Art Room and offers indoor cricket nets and astroturf for hire.
Co-curriculars
The school offers over 70 clubs and activities, including 20+ sports clubs and 15+ musical ensembles. Notable opportunities include the Boat Club, which has a history dating back to 1838, and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Pupils participate in competitive fixtures in sports such as rugby, football, netball, cricket, and hockey, as well as individual pursuits like athletics, gymnastics, and swimming.
- Dr. Michael AldersonPrincipal and Head of Durham School
Dr. Alderson serves as the Principal of the Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation and Headmaster of Durham School. He is featured in a welcome message on the school's website, where he emphasizes the school's commitment to providing a vibrant education that equips pupils for the future.
Ms. Jane LeitheadHead of Chorister SchoolMs. Leithead was appointed as the new Head of Chorister School in June 2026.
- Andrew BealesDevelopment Director
Andrew Beales is the Development Director at the Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation. He leads the team responsible for developing ties with Old Dunelmians, parents, and friends, and oversees fundraising efforts to support the school's excellence and diversity.