We were very sorry to learn of the news regarding the imminent closure of Durham High School (formerly Durham High School for Girls). Our thoughts are with all students, families and staff affected at what we recognise will be a deeply unsettling and distressing time for the whole community.
We are keen to offer support where we can and to provide clarity for families who may be considering their next steps; our main advice is not to panic, there will be options available and that we are here to discuss options relevant to your family’s unique circumstances.
We recognise that the situation is particularly complex for those currently in Year 10 and Year 12, who are midway through GCSE and A-Level courses, respectively. Differences in exam boards and subsequently different course content make school transfers at this stage especially challenging. We would welcome families getting in touch so that we can offer advice and guidance where possible. We would also encourage families with children in these years to contact their Local Authority and MP, who will have advice on options for these uniquely affected students.
Below is a summary of our current capacity across the well-established, robust and stable schools within the RGS Newcastle Group of Schools, which can offer families financial and pastoral security and have excellent transport links from Durham:
Westfield School (Gosforth) capacity
We currently have capacity in all year groups at Westfield School in Gosforth for September 2026 entry. Westfield is an especially nurturing and academically inclusive school, and we would warmly encourage any families who may be interested in exploring a transfer to contact us as soon as possible for an informal conversation about options. As with all admissions, there is a selection process in place to ensure that Westfield School is a place where each child will thrive. Families are welcome to visit throughout the summer break to explore our 6-acre site, meet our staff and to discuss your options.
Royal Grammar School Newcastle (Jesmond) capacity
For students currently in Year 11 and Year 12, we have limited capacity within the RGS Sixth Form for September 2026 entry. Offers would be dependent on subject choices aligning with our A-Level provision, alongside students meeting our minimum grade requirements (which are available here). We would encourage interested families to get in touch promptly so that we can discuss individual circumstances and what the options may be.
For other year groups, although we do not currently have capacity at RGS for September 2026, we strongly encourage families to register their details with us in the event that places become available. In such cases, our usual academic selection process would apply. We would also welcome anyone looking for entry in September 2027 or beyond, to register here.
We appreciate that this is a lot of information at a difficult time. We appreciate how difficult and uncertain this period will be, and we remain committed to offering support, guidance and, where possible, practical assistance to affected families. .
Mr Geoffrey Stanford
Executive Head, The RGS Newcastle Group of Schools
Families wishing to speak to Westfield Admissions are encouraged to contact our Admissions Officer, Mrs Jane Jokelson, directly to discuss their individual circumstances in confidence.
Families wishing to speak to RGS Admissions are encouraged to contact our Head of Admissions, Mrs Ali Perry, directly to discuss their individual circumstances in confidence.
