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Reasons to Join

There are many reasons why you should choose to study with us at Durham Sixth Form Centre. We are a large, vibrant and inclusive sixth form centre, offering a broad curriculum which demonstrates continued academic success. In addition, we offer the most extensive range of A Levels in the area, as well as BTECs and other Level 3 qualifications.

“Teachers have excellent subject knowledge which supports effective questioning and feedback for students” - Ofsted

Why Study Here?

16 to 19 Organisation

It’s your life, your future, so we’ll help you put together a programme of study that gets you where you want to go. At every stage we’re here to listen, advise and support you in your choices.

Results

Our students have an excellent record of success, which they work hard to achieve.  In our most recent Ofsted Inspection, outcomes for students were graded as ‘outstanding’.

Subject Choice

We offer the most extensive range of A Levels in the area, as well as BTEC qualifications and other Level 3 courses.  That means you will have more choice.

Location

Durham Sixth Form Centre is right in the heart of Durham City.  We are a couple of minutes walk from both the bus station and the railway station.

Student Life

You can take part in visits in the UK and overseas, or in activities related to your studies. You can join our Charity Committee, Sports and Arts Committees or debating teams to name but a few.

Financial Support

We offer our students financial support through our student bursaries. Talk to our Student Recruitment Team who will give you more information about financial support available.

Advice and Guidance

We will help you achieve and realise your ambitions.  Our award-winning Progression Team will support you in preparing for university or employment and help you get to where you want to be.

Pastoral Support

All of our students are assigned a Progress Tutor and Pastoral Support Manager.

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What Can You Study Here?

A Levels, or Advanced Level qualifications, are subject-based qualifications that are typically studied over two years. They are taken after GCSEs and are a natural progression for students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. We also offer vocational qualifications that can help students develop the knowledge, skills, and behaviors that employers and universities are looking for. They are available in many subjects, including science, engineering, business, art and design, and more.

Visit our courses page to view our full selection of courses.

Accounting

Art, Craft and Design

Biology

Business

Chemistry

Classical Civilisation

Computer Science

Computing

Criminology

Design and Technology: Product Design

Drama and Theatre

Economics

English Language

English Literature

EPQ

Fashion and Textiles

Film Studies

Fine Art

Forensic & Criminal Investigation

French

Further Mathematics

Games Development

Geography

Graphic Design

Health and Social Care

Health and Social Care Diploma

History

Information Technology

Law

Mathematical Studies

Mathematics

Media Studies

Medical Science

Performing Arts

Philosophy

Photography

Physical Education

Physics

Politics

Psychology

Psychology

Religious Studies: Theology and Ethics

Sociology

Sport Single

Sport Triple

TV and Film

''Leaders provide a wide-ranging careers programme for students. They employ a team of specialist careers advisers who provide expert guidance, which students value highly.'' - Ofsted, November 2024.

School Day

Our official school day runs from 8:45am to 3:30pm. Our opening hours are 7:00am to 5:00pm for students.

  • Year 12 timetable runs within the day from 9:15am to 3:30pm.
  • Year 13 timetable runs within the day from 9:00am to 3:15pm.

Student Testimonials

Find out what our students have to say about studying here at the sixth form.

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

Even if you start Durham Sixth Form Centre with no idea where you’re going, you will get the opportunities to talk about your future and go through it and you’ll know what you’re doing later on.

Alice Robson

Previous school - Belmont School

Durham Sixth Form Centre stood out to me for its amazing choice of subjects. I struggled to find anywhere else that would accommodate all my subjects and my specific combination.

Abbie Clifford

Previous school - Hermitage Academy