Council offers support to families as hundreds of children left in limbo following school closure
Parents are urged to contact the council following closure of a Wearside school
Education chiefs at Durham County Council are offering support to parents of pupils who attended Durham High School after the private school confirmed it was closing after 142 years of educating Wearside’s children.
The girls’ school, which educates children from nursery through to A Levels, is based in Durham City, and earlier this week posted a statement on its website confirming it was closing.
School chiefs said: “Today, we write the last chapter in this incredible history. It is a terribly sad chapter as our owners are closing the school at the end of this term.”
The closure has left hundreds of children in limbo, including those pupils halfway through their GCSE and A Level courses.
Education chiefs at the Council have said they are setting aside time to help parents and children find alternative schools ahead of the new academic year.
Cllr Cathy Hunt, Durham County Council’s Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “We were really sorry to hear the news about Durham High School and fully appreciate how concerning this must be for children, parents, and staff.
“Officers within our admissions team are setting aside time to support parents looking to get their children into alternative schools and have already responded to multiple requests, offering advice on availability of places.
“We are very conscious that some young people will be in the middle of GCSEs and A-Levels and our officers are able to provide advice and support on availability of Sixth Forms and other post-16 provision within the local area.
“Support will continue to be available for young people with special educational needs and disabilities via our SEND teams and we can also provide advice about alternative childcare.
“We understand that some staff may be seeking employment opportunities and would be more than happy to signpost them to schools and other settings.”
The Council have said parents are “very welcome” to contact their admissions team at [email protected] or by calling 03000 265 896.
Parents seeking alternative childcare can find out more information on the Council’s website.