Durham High School staff member’s message as site to close

The school, which has stood in Durham for 142 years, confirmed to families on Wednesday (July 1) that its owners had decided to close the site, leaving pupils, parents and staff facing an uncertain future.

The announcement brought an end to weeks of concern among families, some of whom had already begun looking for alternative school places amid fears Durham High would not reopen after the summer holidays.

Now, Mike Parker, director of marketing and admissions at Durham High School, has shared a heartfelt message following the closure announcement.

Durham High School (Image: GOOGLE)

Writing in an online post, Mr Parker said the day had marked his first anniversary at the school.

He said it had been his “privilege” to work in three “fantastic independent schools”, each with its own individual character and focus.

Reflecting on Durham High School, he wrote: “Of the three, this one is the kindest, happiest and most gentle. It’s a lovely school for lovely children.”

Mr Parker said staff and pupils had been told the school would be closing its doors after 142 years, including the final two years as part of Galaxy Global Education Group.

He added: “Whatever you read, this isn’t a VAT story. It isn’t a ‘falling rolls, unstoppable decline’ story.

“The truth is deeper and more complex and, eventually, the truth will out.”

Paying tribute to his colleagues, he described them as “lions led by the proverbial”, in a pointed and emotional comment following the announcement.

Durham High School’s own statement to parents described the closure as a “terribly sad chapter” in the school’s history.

The school said: “Today, we write the last chapter in this incredible history.

“It is a terribly sad chapter as our owners are closing the school at the end of this term.”

Addressing pupils, they said: “To the 281 current pupils, we are deeply sorry you will not have the chance to reach the end of your journey in this truly special school.

“Go with strength and the values you embody to make a difference in your next chapter.”

The school also thanked staff for their commitment, saying the time they had invested in sharing their “joy of learning” with pupils had given them “the greatest foundation for life”.

Parents were also praised for their “caring and compassionate” engagement with the school community.

Durham High School, founded in 1884, has long been regarded as one of the region’s leading independent schools.

It had recently begun admitting boys as part of plans to expand and was named the Sunday Times Independent Secondary School of the Year for the North East in 2024.

The school is owned by Durham Education Limited, part of Galaxy Global Education Group, which has also been linked to the recent closure of other independent schools.

Further details about transition arrangements for pupils and staff have not yet been confirmed.