ACCESS & Curriculum Enrichment

Our Access Programme has been designed to ensure that all students have access to an exciting range of activities, both within and outside the classroom. Throughout their time at Durham Academy, we want students to be exposed to experiences which will enhance their learning, take part in unique and engaging trips and ensuring that they have gained the appropriate knowledge and understanding to support their progress into the world of work, or further education, when they leave us at the end of year 11.

As part of our ACCESS offer at Durham Academy,  students benefit from ACE sessions designed around their own interests, making this time one of the most rewarding parts of the week. For 45 minutes, they step away from traditional lessons and fully engage in activities such as swimming, golf, equestrian, Italian club, media studies, and many more. Because sessions are grouped by interest rather than age, pupils are free to pursue their passions in a supportive, mixed environment that builds confidence, skills, and friendships. This personalised approach not only enhances learning but also sparks curiosity, nurtures creativity, and instils a genuine love of discovery that stays with them well beyond the classroom.

Media Studies

Explore the world of journalism, photography, and digital storytelling as you learn how to create compelling media projects and sharpen your communication skills.

Theatre Club

Step into the spotlight! Whether acting, directing, or designing sets, this club brings creativity and teamwork to life through exciting performances and productions.

Foreign Language Film

Travel the world through cinema! Watch, discuss, and analyse international films while deepening your appreciation for global cultures and languages.

Equestrian School Team

Join our equestrian team to develop advanced riding skills, care for horses, and compete with pride and sportsmanship in local and regional events.

Guitar

Strum, pick, and perform! Learn new techniques, collaborate on songs, and build confidence as a guitarist in a supportive, creative environment.

Orienteering and Forest Schools

Adventure awaits outdoors—learn navigation, teamwork, and survival skills while discovering the beauty of nature through hands-on forest school activities.

Swimming

Make a splash in fitness and competition! Develop your technique, stamina, and confidence in the pool while enjoying the spirit of teamwork.

Darts

Sharpen your focus and precision! The Darts Club combines skill, friendly competition, and fun in a relaxed social setting.

Golf

Perfect your swing and enjoy the challenge of the course. Learn technique, patience, and sportsmanship while playing one of the world’s most rewarding games.

Volleyball

Bump, set, and spike your way to success! Build teamwork, agility, and communication skills in this fast-paced and energetic sport.

STEM Go Kart

Design, build, and race your own go-kart while applying engineering, physics, and teamwork—where innovation meets high-speed excitement!

Dog Therapy

Take part in a calming and restorative session with trained therapy dogs, designed to promote wellbeing, reduce stress, and encourage positive mental health.

Students have access to a range of extra-curricular activities on both a lunchtime and after school.

Library Clubs

Our library offers exciting clubs daily. The library is open during break and lunch times. Sign up in the library at break to collect your early lunch pass. It is also open daily for homework and quiet reading.

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