The Sixth Form at Durham is due to commence in September 2028. It will represent the pinnacle of a student’s school journey - a time of independence, intellectual growth, and preparation for life beyond school. At Durham International School, students in Years 12 and 13 follow the IB/A Level programme, widely recognised by leading universities across the world for its academic rigour and depth of study.
Our Sixth Form curriculum will allow students to specialise in subjects they are passionate about, while continuing to develop the critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills that will serve them at university and in their future careers. With smaller class sizes and close support from specialist teachers, students will experience a learning environment that encourages debate, independent research, and academic excellence.
Life in the Sixth Form will extend far beyond the classroom. Students will take on leadership roles within the school community, mentor younger students, and participate in service projects and co-curricular activities that promote responsibility, resilience, and global awareness. Dedicated university and careers guidance will ensure that each student is supported in planning the next stage of their educational journey, from personal statement writing to interview preparation and course selection.
Tutors will be at the heart of each student’s journey. They will take the time to really know their tutees and offer expert advice on future pathways, whether that’s university or careers. With this dedicated support, students not only thrive academically but also grow into resilient, independent, and well-rounded young adults, equipped to make their mark with confidence.
At Durham, the Sixth Form will be a time of opportunity and transformation - where students refine their ambitions, gain confidence in their voice, and develop the skills, integrity, and independence needed to thrive at university and as future leaders in a global world.
Our Form Tutors at Durham International School are important in the lives of students. Meeting with them every day, Form Tutors play a crucial role in making our promise a living reality. Given that importance, we look very closely at ways in which we can support and enhance the work Form Tutors do for the students in their care. A vital administrative aspect of tutoring involves overseeing academic progress and yet the essential value of the role lies in expanding students’ intellectual, personal, cultural and moral horizons as part of our community and in preparation for higher education and the adult world. Equally importantly, the Form Tutor is uniquely placed to provide significant pastoral support and a bridge between the School and parents or guardians. The Form Tutor is often the first port of call for advice, help, sympathy, or simply a chat about the last sports match, play or musical event. We task our Form Tutors with explaining and reinforcing the Durham ethos to ensure that every student understands our expectations in all aspects of their lives.
To think, to commit, to engage and to share, all fit within our overriding objective, which will always be grounded in the happiness and flourishing of individual students within the strength of community, guided by tutoring of the highest quality.
In Geography, students explore ways in which our planet’s features are shaped, interconnected and change over time. As students progress their growing knowledge about the world, they deepen their understanding of the interaction between physical and human processes, and how these affect the way we live today and might live in the future.
History develops concepts like cause and consequence to bring the past to life. Skills like assessing evidence, making balanced arguments and reaching conclusions are developed – all skills that are valuable for upper primary, secondary school and beyond.
By introducing students to a wide range of exciting activities, we give them the opportunity to try new things and find new interests. Students are challenged to think creatively and develop new skills, giving them the opportunity to succeed and build confidence in their abilities.
In Years 5 and 6, our Prep School students particularly benefit from being part of an all-through school, with access to the expertise and facilities usually reserved for older students. They are taught by subject specialist teachers who bring passion and depth to their lessons, helping to extend knowledge and inspire curiosity. Learning takes place in state-of-the-art science laboratories, drama studios, computer science suites, and art and design workshops, allowing pupils to explore subjects in greater depth, develop practical skills, and gain confidence in preparation for their transition to Senior School.
