Durham School New Pupil Induction

Moving schools can be a nerve-wracking experience. At Durham School we are very anxious that our new pupils settle quickly and easily into their new environment and have a carefully planned programme to ensure that this happens. Our excellent Pastoral Care system will monitor each pupil's happiness and progress carefully, especially during the first important weeks of his or her new school career. However, our Induction Procedure begins long before your child joins the School.

Information for new pupils and their parents

Once a place has been accepted, your child will receive a new pupil pack with a mine of useful information about the School. Parents too receive their own 'Information Pack for New Parents'.

New Pupil Acquaint Days

During the Summer Term prior to admission we organise two 'New Pupil Acquaint Days' - one for pupils entering Years 7 and 8 and one for pupils entering Year 9 - which are designed to bring all the new pupils together for the first time and to begin the induction procedure which is designed to put new pupils at their ease when they join us in Sepember. The programme includes some lessons, lunch and, very importantly, time with tutors and House staff in the House the pupils will join in September. Parents join us for tea at the end of the day. We have run these Acquaint Days now for several years and they have proved to be extremely popular with our new pupils and their parents.

New Pupil Induction Day in September

All new pupils are expected to attend the Induction Day on the day before the start of the Christmas Term. The purpose of this occasion (which is strongly House-based) is to build on the confidence the new pupils have acquired through the earlier Acquaint Day and, very specifically, to take them through everything that will happen on their first full day. This is the first time that all the new pupils will be together as Durham School pupils in uniform and experience has shown that attendance on this day dispels much of the nervous anticipation often experienced before joining a new school.

Evening for New Parents in September

After a few weeks of the Christmas Term have elapsed and new pupils are, it is hoped, well settled in, all new parents are invited to the School for a special evening event that has also proved very popular. The evening is kindly organised by the Friends of Durham School who take advantage of the opportunity to explain their valuable role in the School to new parents. However, it also gives new parents the early opportunity to meet each other and to discuss with senior staff any issues that might have arisen in the first few weeks. Additionally to this event, there is a formal Year 7 Parents' Evening in the Christmas Term.

open mornings

Many people experience Durham School at an open morning. Find out more about our open mornings and individual visits.

photo gallery

See more photos in the prep school photo gallery or in the senior school photo gallery.

request prospectus

Find out more about the school by requesting our prospectus.

Testimonials

"Since James has been at Durham School, we have noticed a dramatic change in his willingness to learn and listen. He has matured beyond our expectations. This transformation occurred within the first year at Durham School."
Mr Bryn Whyte