The Best Schools In Durham Rated & Reviewed

School Guide has helped 20 million parents find the best school for their child and here we reveal the 5 best performing schools in Durham. These top schools near Durham are ranked by their School Guide Star Rating, which is 100% based on official performance data including exam results and Ofsted inspections.

✔ Visit each school’s page to see catchment area maps, parent reviews and exam results in full

✔ Compare all schools in Durham and see the best and worst performing schools

✔Also view the local primary school league table

1

Durham High School for Girls

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Our number one ranked school in Durham based on our official School Guide Star Rating is Durham High School for Girls.

Pupils
311
Ages
3 - 18
Gender
Girls
Type
Other independent school
2

Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation

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Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation is ranked second in Durham based on its performance data and Ofsted rating.

Pupils
753
Ages
3 - 18
Gender
Mixed
Type
Other independent school
3

Durham Johnston Comprehensive School

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At number 3 in the best schools in Durham based on our authoritative ranking is Durham Johnston Comprehensive School.

Pupils
1689
Ages
11 - 18
Gender
Mixed
Type
Community school
4

St Leonard's Catholic School, Durham

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The school ranked at number four in our Durham league table is St Leonard's Catholic School based on the summary of its performance in the last academic year.

Pupils
1361
Ages
11 - 18
Gender
Mixed
Type
Academy converter
5

St Bede's Catholic School and Sixth Form College, Lanchester

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Our number five ranked school in Durham based on our trusted School Guide Star Rating is St Bede's Catholic School and Sixth Form College.

Pupils
1315
Ages
11 - 18
Gender
Mixed
Type
Academy converter

Top 5 best performing schools in Durham and their catchment areas in Durham ranked by School Guide in 2025

  • Durham High School for Girls
  • Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation
  • Durham Johnston Comprehensive School
  • St Leonard's Catholic School
  • St Bede's Catholic School and Sixth Form College

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