Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation
· DH1 4SZ
Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation is a historic all-through independent school spanning ages 3–18, comprising Chorister School (3–11) and Durham School (11–18), both rooted in six centuries of tradition in the heart of Durham's cathedral city. The Foundation's dual focus on academic rigour and pastoral care, anchored by a strong Anglican ethos, emphasises moral integrity and respect. Boarding is available, and the school actively recruits international pupils alongside a significant chorister programme that feeds the Durham Cathedral choir.
- →Cathedral heritage and Anglican values; unique chorister pathway with cathedral integration
- →All-through provision (3–18) in a historic setting with strong music and pastoral tradition
- →Boarding facilities and international pupil community; clear progression from junior to senior school
Who thrives here
Pupils from faith backgrounds or families valuing Anglican ethos, those with musical talent or interest (especially choristers), and boarders or international families seeking pastoral community in a historic English cathedral setting.
Strengths at a glance
Percentiles within UK independent + grammar schools we track.
At a glance
Contact & visit
Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation, Quarryheads Lane, Durham
DH1 4SZ
Nearest stations
Notable alumni
Richard Hough
Historian, biographer of royalty and naval figures
Frequently asked questions
What are the fees at Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation?
Day fees at Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation are approximately £24,144 per year (2026/27). Boarding fees are higher.
How do you get into Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation?
Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation admits pupils at 3+, 4+, 7+, 8+, 11+, 13+, 16+. Entry is assessed by Interview, Assessment. See the Admissions section above for open days and key dates.
What are Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation's exam results?
At Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation, 16.9% of A-levels were graded A*–B and 41.1% of GCSEs were grade 7/A or above. Full results are in the Results section above.
Is Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation a boarding school?
Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation offers boarding as well as day places.
What is Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation's latest inspection rating?
ISI rated Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation “Excellent” (2023).
What parents say
Frequently praised
✓Strong music programme with cathedral integration; distinguished chorister pathway
✓Pastoral care and house system fostering community and moral development
✓Historic setting and Anglican ethos creating distinctive school identity and traditions
Common concerns
!Not yet Ofsted inspected; limited external accountability data available
!Remote location and boarding-heavy model may limit local day pupil accessibility