Any further questions?

Our Registrar, Mrs Eileen Cathrae is on hand to answer any questions you may have about coming to Durham School and she will be delighted to help you. Mrs Cathrae can be contacted by telephone on 0191 3864783 extension 2268 or by email: e.cathrae@durhamschool.co.uk. Some of the more frequently asked questions and answers are:

Q: Where do I get my school uniform from?

A: Your New Pupil Pack will contain a list of uniform and sports kit items you need and both are supplied locally to Durham School so you can go along and purchase whatever you need.

Q: What's the food like at Durham School?

A: We have excellent catering staff at Durham School and the food is wonderful. We have a two week menu so each day there is something different. We have hot meals where you choose from two dishes and then help yourself to vegetables, potatoes, pasta etc and we also have fresh salads, sandwiches and homemade soup. There is always a hot pudding or you can have yogurt, fresh fruit salad, cakes, biscuits and there are vegetarian options too. Special dietary requirements can also be catered for.

Q: How many times per week do pupils go to Chapel?

A: Pupils go to Chapel four times per week, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday mornings and on Friday there is an evening service. On Wednesday mornings pupils spend this time with their tutors in their Houses.

Q: How long is a typical school day?

A: There is nothing typical about a day at Durham School, there is always a variety of things going on from the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) to activities and clubs, from inter-House competitions to the Dunelm Run when all pupils have to run a cross-country course which is twice around School grounds. The day begins with roll call at 8.40 in Houses. Pupils then either go to Chapel or to tutor period depending upon which day of the week it is. Lessons begin at 9.00 a.m. with a break at 10.55 a.m. when pupils go back to their Houses for toast and a catch up with their friends. Lessons commence at 11.15 a.m. until lunch at 12.15. Afternoon lessons begin at 1.15 p.m. until break at 3.10 p.m. and then at 4.30 p.m. back to your House for tutor period. The school day ends at 5.00 p.m. but a variety of activities are available to extend your day. Supervised prep (homework) is available to those requiring it and supper is at 6.00 p.m. for anyone who wants to stay. Often Houses arrange their own activities including a trip to the pancake house in Durham or treats from matron whilst gathering together to support their local football teams on the television.

"Our guide's engaging manner, politeness, sense of humour and informative commenting said much about the school and ensured that our visit was both positive and worthwhile."
Mrs Garner, Open Morning visitor