Framwellgate School Durham

The school is built upon three core values: Excellence, Compassion, and Respect for All. It aims to be an inclusive community where every child is known, valued, and supported to reach their potential. The school promotes fundamental British Values, including democracy, the rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance.

The school offers a broad and balanced academic curriculum across Key Stages 3 and 4, with a Sixth Form providing A-Level provision. At Key Stage 4, students typically take 10 qualifications, including GCSEs in English Language, English Literature, Maths, Science, and History or Geography, alongside option subjects in sport, arts, or technology. The school is also a CyberFirst-accredited institution, with plans to transition to a TechFirst programme focusing on computer science, AI, and quantum computing.

The school emphasizes academic excellence, with the majority of students entered for the English Baccalaureate at the end of Year 11. Students are prepared for post-16 pathways including university, apprenticeships, and the workforce. The school also tracks destinations and provides careers education based on the Gatsby benchmarks to support long-term social mobility.

The school provides dedicated support for students with additional needs, including the use of silent, discreet fidget tools for those with permission from the SEN team or their Head of Year. A trained careers advisor is employed to support students with future planning. Furthermore, the school offers a 16-19 Tuition Fund to provide additional support to eligible students.

Framwellgate School Durham follows the Durham County admissions process for all year groups. The school works closely with local primary schools and parents throughout Years 5 and 6 to facilitate a smooth transition for new students. Prospective parents are encouraged to contact the school office to discuss in-year admissions or to arrange a visit prior to making an application.

The school operates on a term-based calendar, with the academic year typically running from September to July. Key dates include a staff training day on July 3rd, 2026, and the final day of the summer term on July 17th, 2026. The school also observes a contingency day for public examinations, which for the summer 2026 series is June 24th.

The campus includes the Sjøvoll Centre, which provides multipurpose rooms available for hire, including spaces that can be configured into a large double room. The school is currently preparing for a new build project. Students have access to a library, and the school provides specific study areas, such as 'Einstein’s', for students during exam periods.

The school offers a variety of enrichment opportunities, including the Fram Media club, which allows students to collaborate on video projects. Students also participate in library-based reading challenges, craft activities, and puzzle-solving. Additionally, the school hosts an annual End of Year Art Exhibition to showcase the creative work of students in Years 10 through 13.