Duke’s Activities Week has been a huge success, with students giving their trips and in-house events a fantastic 10 out of 10!

From the Tutor Duck Challenge and our inspiring PROUD assemblies to surfing at Blyth—where we may even have made an appearance as extras in a BBC drama—there was something for everyone.

Students chased thrills at Flamingo Land, took to the ice rink, and even tried their hand at dry slope skiing, with some future Winter Olympians certainly in the making!

One of the week’s highlights was our giant sandcastle-building competition at Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, where teamwork and creativity were on full display. Students also enjoyed testing their skills at the golf driving range, playing footgolf, bowling, and tackling the challenges of Clip ‘n Climb.

For those who love shopping and exploring, there was a trip to the Metrocentre, while others enjoyed fascinating cultural visits to Beamish, Alnwick Garden, local zoos, and many other exciting destinations.

Throughout the week, Duke’s students have been an absolute pleasure to take out on visits. Time and again, members of the public commented on how polite, respectful, and well-mannered our students were. It was wonderful to hear such positive feedback and to see our students representing the school so brilliantly while enjoying themselves and making lasting memories.

A huge thank you to all the staff who helped organise and support these fantastic experiences. Most importantly, well done to all of our students for embracing every opportunity, demonstrating our LIGHT values, and making Activities Week such a memorable success!