Houses and Pastoral Care
Visitors to the School frequently comment on the friendliness of our community. The happiness of all our pupils is at the very top of our list of priorities and it is primarily through our fabulous House system that we strive to ensure this.
We hope you enjoy finding out a little about our House system when you browse through this section of the site.
Please contact the School if you would like to find out more. A visit to one of the five Houses (and the chance to speak to a Housemaster or Housemistress) is normally included in any tour of the School by prospective parents.
Here are some of the key features that make our pastoral care system so special:
- Separate buildings with excellent facilities for leisure and private study
- Single-sex haven within a co-educational community
- Dedicated and experienced staff (some of them resident) always on hand to talk to pupils and/or their parents
- Vertical system means that pupils belong to their House for their entire time at the School, develop a strong sense of belonging and become very well known to the House staff
- Opportunities for leadership - senior pupils can play an active role in looking after junior pupils in their House, thus developing important life skills
- House councils ensure that pupils’ opinions are heard
- Regular House competitions foster intense loyalty within the Houses and a friendly rivalry between them
... and many more!
next event
National Schools' Biathlon semi-final
Sunday, 05 February 2012
More forthcoming events.
recent news
Boys House Water Polo Results
Intermediate (years 9 & 10) The Caffinites win
Senior (years 11-13) Poole win
Read more recent news.
photo gallery
See more photos of the senior school in the photo gallery.
Testimonials
"Since joining Durham School in Year 12, my time here has been an experience I will remember throughout my life. I have made great friends who I value tremendously. The opportunities on offer here are fantastic and I have benefited greatly from them. Furthermore, I believe that Durham School has made me into the more intelligent, athletic and dedicated person that I am now.
"
Sam Harrison (Year 13 student)



