Durham Academy

What Ofsted said

From the inspection on 20 January 2026

This is a small school with big aspirations for its pupils. Over time, many aspects of school life have improved significantly. These include pupils' attitudes to their studies, rates of attendance and the wider opportunities provided for pupils. Despite the school's high ambitions for pupils and increasingly effective classroom practice, pupils do not achieve as well as they might. This is particularly the case in national tests and examinations. Over time, pupils' attainment has been below average. The proportion of pupils achieving a strong pass in English and mathematics has been low. While many pupils do make positive progress from their starting points, this has not been matched by positive attainment. Leaders know that this is the case and are taking action to address this. However, it is too soon to see the impact of this work. Pupils' educational experience is much better than it was in the past. The curriculum on offer and how this is taught continues to strengthen. Many pupils engage enthusiastically in their learning. Staff support pupils well so that they become confident in themselves and their abilities. Staff recognise the variety of life experiences pupils have. Careful consideration is given to ensure that all pupils thrive and benefit from high-quality support for their emotional and wellbeing needs. Pupils behave extremely well in lessons and around the school. If conduct does not meet leaders' high expectations, it is swiftly and effectively dealt with. Pupils are absent much less frequently than they once were. They enjoy coming to school and feel safe. Pupils appreciate that staff know them well. They are confident that they have someone to speak to if something worries them. Pupils rarely experience bullying. If it does take place, staff do their best to resolve it. The school emphasises the importance of being kind and respectful. Older pupils are role models for their younger peers. Educational visits enhance the curriculum. These include trips to foreign countries and to local employers. Pupils are increasingly ambitious for their futures. The school community is proud of what it has achieved together to date.

What the school should improve

• Leaders should ensure that gaps in pupils' knowledge and skills are closed rapidly so that attainment in national tests and examinations improves and pupils are better prepared for their next steps in education, employment or training. • Leaders should ensure that their expectations of teaching are consistently well embedded across the school and that adaptations are used highly effectively for pupils.

Read the full Ofsted report (opens in a new tab)