Best Secondary Schools in County Durham

Haughton Academy is a secondary school located in Darlington, North East. With a student-teacher ratio of 13:1, we provide excellent academic support and individual attention to our diverse student body. Our dedicated teachers and resources contribute to our overall grade of B-, ensuring a good quality education for every student. We prioritize personal development, behaviour, and attitudes, creating a safe and inclusive environment. Our recent exam results show that 38% of students achieved Grade 5 or above in English & maths GCSEs, reflecting our commitment to academic excellence.

The Meadows School is a co-ed secondary school located in Spennymoor, North East. With a student-to-teacher ratio of 3:1, the school offers a broad and relevant curriculum, focusing on social, emotional, and mental health needs. The school has shown improvement in teaching and learning, preparing students well for their next stage of education. However, there are areas that require improvement, such as attendance, spelling, punctuation, grammar standards, and pushing the most able students forward consistently. Overall, the school provides a safe and resourceful environment for students, but parental involvement and accountability from the leadership could be strengthened.

Framwellgate School Durham is a co-educational secondary school located in Framwellgate Moor, North East. With a student-teacher ratio of 17:1 and a strong focus on personal development and behavior, the school provides a safe and supportive learning environment. Offering a sixth-form provision and achieving a Good rating from Ofsted, the school ensures quality education and prepares students for future success. With exam results showing 52% of students achieving Grade 5 or above in English and Maths GCSEs, Framwellgate School Durham prioritizes academic excellence.

UTC South Durham is a state-funded technical school and sixth form, offering a focused and STEM-focused curriculum for students aged 14-19. With effective leadership and management, the school has achieved a 'Good' rating in all categories during its first Ofsted inspection. The school has strong partnerships with employers that provide work-based skills and competencies, ensuring that students are well-prepared for future careers. Despite mixed outcomes in 2018, UTC South Durham prioritizes personal development, behavior, and welfare of its students. With an emphasis on workplace skills and strong educational foundation, UTC South Durham sets students up for successful futures in education, jobs, or training.

St Michael's Catholic Academy is a secondary school in Billingham, North East. With a student-teacher ratio of 17:1, our dedicated staff provide a safe and nurturing environment for students aged 11-16. Our academically focused curriculum, complemented by our commitment to personal development and strong Catholic values, ensures that each student achieves their very best. With a Good overall rating from Ofsted and a focus on restorative justice, St Michael's Catholic Academy is the ideal choice for parents seeking a Christ-centered education.

Ian Ramsey Church of England Academy is a well-respected secondary school in Stockton-on-Tees. With a student-teacher ratio of 17:1, the school ensures individual attention and support for each student. The school's good Ofsted grade highlights its commitment to providing a quality education. With a focus on personal development and strong leadership, Ian Ramsey aims to nurture students and help them achieve academic success. Additionally, the school's commitment to inclusivity is reflected in its support for students with special educational needs. With a diverse and welcoming community, Ian Ramsey provides a safe and supportive environment for students to thrive.

Hummersknott Academy is a prosperous and successful secondary school located in Darlington, North East. With a student teacher ratio of 19:1, the school offers a well-rounded education through a variety of extracurricular activities. The academy focuses on providing access to a variety of languages and has partner schools in France, Germany, Italy, and China. With good overall effectiveness and quality of education, Hummersknott Academy is committed to collaboration between faculty, parents, and students for the success of every child.

Outwood Academy Bishopsgarth is a secondary school located in Stockton-on-Tees. With a student population of 497, the school provides a co-ed learning environment for students aged 11-16. The school is known for its effective leadership and improvement in teaching quality. However, it faces challenges in addressing attendance and behavior issues. Despite these challenges, the school has demonstrated good student outcomes and offers good career guidance. Overall, Outwood Academy Bishopsgarth strives to provide a positive learning experience for its students.

Staindrop Academy is a secondary school located in Staindrop, North East. With a student-teacher ratio of 14:1, our co-ed school provides a nurturing learning environment for students aged 11-16. Our dedicated staff, led by Mrs Sarah Mitchinson, strive to deliver a good quality education, fostering good behavior, personal development, and strong leadership. With an overall grade of B-, Staindrop Academy focuses on academic growth while providing a safe and resourceful environment. Our 2019 exam results showed that 46% of students achieved Grade 5 or above in English & maths GCSEs, with an EBacc average point score of 3.63. We are proud to have 85% of our students eligible for free school meals, ensuring inclusivity for all.

Polam Hall School is an all-through co-educational school located in Darlington, North East. With a student teacher ratio of 16:1, the school ensures personalized attention for each student. The school emphasizes on personal development and offers a safe and supportive environment. With good overall effectiveness, quality education, and strong leadership, Polam Hall School is committed to providing a well-rounded education for students aged 4-16.

St Aidan's Church of England Academy is a secondary school located in Darlington. With a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, our dedicated staff provides outstanding care and guidance to students. Our Christian values of care, respect, honesty, and forgiveness are instilled in daily behaviors. We strive for excellence, motivating students to reach their full potential through high-quality education and opportunities. Our good Ofsted rating and commitment to personal development ensure that students flourish both academically and personally. With a focus on character development and a passion for learning, St Aidan's is the perfect place for your child's education.

English Martyrs Catholic School and Sixth Form College is a co-ed Roman Catholic secondary school located in Hartlepool, North East. With a student-teacher ratio of 17:1 and a strong emphasis on personal development, the school provides a supportive learning environment for students aged 11-18. Despite requiring improvement in some areas, the school's sixth-form provision is rated as good, and exam results show a 45% achievement of grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs. With a dedication to academic excellence and a focus on overall student growth, English Martyrs Catholic School and Sixth Form College is a reputable choice for parents seeking a well-rounded education for their children.

St Leonard's Catholic School is a Roman Catholic secondary school located in the City of Durham. With a student-teacher ratio of 16:1, the school strives to ensure each student reaches their full potential. The school focuses on providing a safe and nurturing environment where students are valued and encouraged to develop their gifts and talents. St Leonard's offers a good quality of education, as recognized by Ofsted. The school also has a strong commitment to its Catholic Christian heritage, promoting the values and attitudes of Jesus Christ. With a focus on academic achievement and personal growth, St Leonard's is dedicated to preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century.

Consett Academy is a secondary school located in Durham, North East. With a focus on academic potential and personal development, the school aims to nurture remarkable, resilient, and self-assured young individuals. The dedicated staff and supportive parents work together to help students achieve their goals. The school offers a safe and inclusive learning environment with a student-teacher ratio of 18:1. With good behavior and attitudes, the school promotes tolerance and responsibility. Although the overall effectiveness and leadership require improvement, the school's previous inspection grade was good. Consett Academy provides a sixth-form provision with a good track record. Exam results boast a 31% achievement of grade 5 or above in English and maths GCSEs and 7.4% achieving AAB or higher in A-levels. With a strong emphasis on student support, Consett Academy strives to inspire achievement in its exceptional educational community.

Park View School is a secondary school located in Durham, North East. With a student teacher ratio of 26:1, the school provides a co-ed learning environment for students aged 11-18. Offering a comprehensive education, Park View School focuses on academic achievement with 41% of students achieving Grade 5 or above in English & maths GCSEs. The school also has a good track record in personal development and sixth-form provision, ensuring students receive a well-rounded education. Although the school requires improvement in certain areas, it prioritizes the safety and well-being of its students and provides ample resources to support their learning journey.

Welcome to Wyvern Academy, a secondary school in Darlington. With a student-teacher ratio of 13:1, we provide individual attention to ensure every child succeeds and reaches their potential. Our goal is to create a safe and inclusive environment where students feel appreciated and belong. With a focus on self-discipline, motivation, and excellence in learning, we aim to equip students with the skills they need to become independent and successful adults. Join us for a holistic education that promotes personal and academic growth.

Rise Carr College is a good secondary school located in Darlington, North East. With a strong leadership team and effective safeguarding measures, parents can trust that their children receive a high-quality education. The school offers excellent pastoral support and has created Clifton House for extra support. Although there have been some challenges with attendance and reading skills, the school is committed to addressing these issues and ensuring students' success.

Hope Wood Academy is an all-through school located in Easington Colliery, North East. With an exceptional student-teacher ratio of 8:1, the school provides a safe and nurturing environment for students aged 2-19. Led by highly effective leaders, the school focuses on quality teaching and learning, outstanding behavior, and welfare. Although opportunities to challenge the most able pupils are sometimes missed, the school offers a well-planned and structured curriculum. Overall, Hope Wood Academy is a good school that prioritizes personal development and ensures the safety and success of its students.

Durham Trinity School & Sports College is an all-through school located in Durham, North East. With a student teacher ratio of 8:1, the school provides individualized attention to each student. The school offers a safe and nurturing environment with excellent resources. It has been rated 'Good' by Ofsted, demonstrating effective leadership, teaching, and personal development. With a focus on sports and academic achievement, Durham Trinity prepares students for success in their educational journey.

Villa Real School is an all-through school in Durham, offering education for students aged 2-19. With a student-teacher ratio of 6:1, our dedicated staff provide individualized support and a nurturing environment. We have excellent resources, ensuring a high standard of education. Our Ofsted report highlights our good overall effectiveness, quality of education, and personal development. We offer a strong early years provision and a good sixth-form program. Our exam results show above-average scores in maths and reading. Villa Real School is committed to providing a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students.