DUKE’S CADETS: Summer Camp and Glowing Inspection…

4th September 2025Rebecca Shaw

Duke’s CCF Summer Camp

Duke’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) let their light shine at Otterburn Summer Camp.

A huge well done to our Duke’s CCF! Each and every one of you were a credit to our school and we couldn’t be prouder of how you all articulated yourselves throughout the summer camp. We had countless comments from other schools and organisations in regards to the way our pupils carried themselves throughout a rather physically challenging camp. The cadets were well mannered, appreciative and gave 110% effort into everything they completed.

Taking part in various activities such as;

  • Competitive shooting on Cadet GP & air rifle.
  • Intense Fieldcraft Exercise involving fire & manoeuvre
  • Competition Day (Duke’s won a total of 3 competitions)
  • North Yorkshire Waterpark

A special shoutout to Kaiden Wright, Morgan Lamb and Isla Blake for winning awards throughout camp. As well Grace Simpson – who shot on a live firing range for the first time at summer camp and managed to out-shoot all other cadets and contingents, winning 1st prize for her impeccable shot. We are extremely proud! It takes great skill to fire such weapons, so a massive well done to Grace!

More Great News!

Duke’s Combined Cadet Force were subject to the bi-annual inspection in October, which is similar to an Ofsted inspection but for the CCF. Colonel Jeremy Dodd from the RRF came to inspect the running and effectiveness of Duke’s contingent. After a long wait, we finally have the report back!

We are absolutely delighted to announce that Duke’s CCF received 4/5 Above Standards thanks to the hard work from the CCF, Cadet Force Adult Volunteer’s (CFVA), SLT and our wonderful cadets. Our last standard was based on adult recruitment which we came out as ‘Standard’ on this one. Colonel Jeremy Dodd stated in the report “Overall a very successful Contingent who is on an upward trend” and “most of the cadets were aiming to achieve their 1-star qualification, with a healthy group aiming to achieve their 2-star award. Training was conducted at the right level with good resources”.

Help us to inspire the next generation…

Despite all of the praise received from the reviewing officer and other organisations – one thing which was made apparent was the lack of adult volunteers on the team. We have a wonderful team of dedicated and professional CFAV’s here at Duke’s, but we’re very quickly becoming outnumbered!

Do you want to inspire the next generation and make a real difference? We’re looking for enthusiastic adults who are seeking an adventure to join the Duke’s Combined Cadet Force as Volunteer Instructors. The contingent requires more volunteers to continue offering a range of activities and maintain growth to avoid stagnation in opportunities and learning, which could cause progression to become slower.

As a volunteer, you’ll help students develop important life skills like leadership, teamwork and discipline through various activities such as fieldcraft, adventurous training and drill. Working alongside our experienced team, you’ll receive training and gain valuable skills that will benefit you in both your personal and professional life. No military experience is necessary – just a passion for helping young people reach their full potential.

Learn how you can get involved by contacting our AUO Georgia Goodfellow via her email – georgia.hughes@dukes.ncea.org.uk

We look forward to welcoming you on the team!

RESULTS DAY 2025

28th August 2025Rebecca Shaw

Congratulations to all of our wonderful students in both Sixth Form and Year 11, who received their results on the 14th and 21st August, marking the end to another academic year. All of the staff at Duke’s are extremely proud of each of you for trying your best and achieving results that reflect the hard work and determination of each individual. We wish you all the very best of luck in the future and we can’t wait to see what the next chapter brings for you.

Sixth Form Results Day – 14th August 2025

Mr. Russ Atkinson, Headteacher at Duke’s Sixth Form, praised the students for their hard work and determination “I’m so proud of all our students for the effort that they have put in over the last two years. The results they receive today will hopefully help them to shape happy and successful lives in whatever field they choose to follow. I would also like to thank our staff, whose guidance and support will have been a huge part of these results today”.

Duke’s Sixth Form has a 99% pass rate and 100% of the students in Year 13 who applied to go to University secured their first choice place at university, with most choosing to stay local; Northumbria University, University of Newcastle and University of Sunderland – whilst some students are going further afield to Leeds Beckett University to study Marketing and Edge Hill University to study Primary Education with QTS. Over half of the grades achieved this year were A* – B. Vocational courses such as Business, Health & Social Care and Sport – 59% of the grades achieved were D* or Distinction.  

“I’m going to Northumbria University to study Computer Science. I got D*, D*, D in my A-Levels. My advice to the next group of students would be to make sure you finish your work before your deadlines, so that you can ask your teachers to help with improvements and you have enough time to make adjustments to your coursework.” – Year 13 student Isabelle.

“I did better than I expected and got a D* and D in Sports. I’m planning on going down the apprenticeship route. My advice to the next year group would be to study more in your own time and revise.” – Year 13 student Harry

Meanwhile, ICT and Business student Luke achieved D*, D, D, D and has secured a role working as a finance assistant.

“Just try your best, keep within your deadlines stay productive” said another Year 13 student.

“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself because that can stifle your productivity. Try hard, revise and do your best. I studied Music and Performing Arts. My plans for the future are to hopefully get a job within the music industry or performing arts. I previously did work experience at Mortal Fools and really enjoyed it, so I am hoping that I could potentially get a job there at the YMCA.” – Joe, Year 13 student.

Head of Sixth Form Mrs. Danielle Towers reflected on the last 12 months; “We are incredibly proud of our Sixth Form students, whose outstanding A Level results have secured them places at some fantastic destinations. A special celebration goes to our T Level students, whose amazing achievements mark a historic moment for us – this is the very first year we have offered the T Level in Education and Early Years, and they have truly set the bar high. Well done to all our students for their hard work, dedication, and success. We wish you all the very best for your future pathway.”

Highlights…

GCSE Results Day – 21st August

We celebrated GCSE results day together with our students and their families in a room filled with smiles, emotions and lots of hugs. The results are a reflection of all the time, energy and hard work the students have put into achieving their goals over the past academic year. Many of the students were chuffed with their results, with some very excited that they exceeded their predicted grades.

Students who earned grades 9, 8 and 7 in their GCSEs (equivalent to A**, A* and A) were interviewed and asked to give advice for the next year group of Year 11s:

Student Princess Opara, who achieved grade 9 in RS gave some heart-warming and insightful advice to future students when studying for their GCSEs; “If you are predicted bronze, aim for gold. If you are predicted silver, aim for gold. You can achieve whatever you put your mind to. My advice for the next Year 11s would be to make sure you revise early and believe in yourself and your dreams”.

High achiever Caitlin McAlpine also gave some great advice for the next cohort when asked for tips for achieving top grades; “Advice I would give to the next year group is to do bite-sized revision, then go off and do something you enjoy so that your brain can recuperate without having to cram it all in. Flash cards and mind maps are the way to go!

If you don’t do so well in your mocks, it doesn’t mean you will do badly in your exams – you have time to turn it around. One thing I would have changed was to revise over a longer period of time more slowly and spaced out to stop myself from getting overwhelmed. I wish I would’ve known that the lead-up to the exam is actually scarier than the exam itself!”

Student Liv Johnstone passed her History and English exams with flying colours, receiving grades 8 and 7. When asked about her achievements, she said; “Good revision techniques were using mind maps, flash cards, summarising and attending all of the schools extra sessions. It was hard work at the time, but I’m so glad I put in the extra effort as it really paid off! Things that helped me maintain a healthy balance between life and studying was taking regular breaks, where I would do things I found enjoyment in and I used sports as an outlet.

I just want to add that most of the credit goes towards my outstanding teachers. I want to give special thanks to my History teacher Mr Border and English teacher Miss Wardle, who were so dedicated and supportive throughout my time at Duke’s. I am now going on to do A-Levels in History, Psychology and BTEC in Applied Sciences, as I hope to pursue a career as a paramedic”.

Advice from our Year 11 graduates…

Emily Turnbull  “I didn’t try and overwhelm myself but didn’t forget about it and kept it at the forefront of my mind. Flash cards and go over topics I knew I was struggling with. Start making revision materials earlier. Kept a good balance without putting too much pressure on myself and I’m really pleased with my results”. Emily’s next adventure will be at Newcastle Sixth Form studying Art, Psychology and Music Technology.

Leyla Mae Mercel “I got the grades I did because I revised for like a whole year, I tried very hard and my advice I would give to the next year group would be to try hard and make sure you revise early”. Leyla is off to Sixth Form at KEVI.

Highlights…

The class of 2025 Year 11 students faced unprecedented challenges, unlike any other cohort before them – largely due to COVID-19 restrictions. They are the first year group to complete their entire first year of Secondary School from home and have come such a long way, overcoming challenges and setbacks – and rising above it all! A huge well done from everyone at Duke’s. You will be a huge miss and we wish you all the very best of luck in the bright futures that await you all.

Duke’s Achieved Silver School Games Award!

3rd July 2025Rebecca Shaw

We did it!

Well done to all of our pupils for achieving the School Games Silver Award and to our staff in the PE department who facilitated the success of clubs, teams and competitions! Your collective hard work and dedication has paid off, congratulations everybody!

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NCEA Duke’s Secondary SchoolDownload

GOODBYE YEAR 11: 2020 – 2025

20th June 2025Rebecca Shaw

GOODBYE YEAR 11: Class of 2025

 

Year 11: 2020 – 2025

 

A massive congratulations to our exceptional Year 11 students who have completed Secondary School at Duke’s. On Friday 13th June, our Year 11s celebrated their time at Duke’s by signing farewell messages on each other’s beautifully decorated school shirts, ahead of their assembly dedicated to all of the memories made during their time with us. Emotions were high as we took a look back upon the years spent at our school, including many throwback photos from their journey dating back to Primary School within NCEA Trust. The whole school then came together to applaud the students on their ‘Walk Out’ for their achievements.

Dear Class of 2025 Year 11s,

What an extraordinary journey you’ve embarked on since joining us in 2020. No other cohort has navigated the unique trials and triumphs you have, overcoming unprecedented challenges due to COVID-19 – and rising above them. We couldn’t be prouder of the incredible progress each of you have made. Your resilience against set-backs and collaborative teamwork have shone brightly throughout your journey at Duke’s.

We couldn’t be more proud of the determination you’ve demonstrated in preparation for your GCSE’s. Take a moment to truly appreciate how far you’ve come, you all deserve to be immensely proud of your accomplishments. It’s been an absolute privilege for all your teachers to witness your growth and watch you all blossom into the people you have become. Keep on letting your light shine! Wishing each of you the very best of luck in the future and we look forward to seeing what you achieve as you begin the next chapter.

Please read the heartfelt messages your teachers have written for you! You will be greatly missed by all at Duke’s.

 

“Thank you year 11 for all the laughs over the last five years. It’s certainly going to be a quieter time on duty without you all. To my English class, you’re all absolute stars. Good luck on the next adventure, and remember, ‘ I don’t play golf!’.” – Mrs Wilkinson

 

“Year 11, I’ve always had a soft spot for you, (as some of you know) as I have a daughter the same age. This makes me feel as though I have been a closer part of your journey through secondary, as I’ve parented a child through the same things at the same time. I felt your worry when you started year 7 mid covid. I felt your angst as you were choosing your options, and I’ve felt the build up to you sitting your GCSE’s.

I actually cannot believe that you, and her, are ready to leave school. The last 5 years have gone by in the blink of an eye!! Those of you who I have taught PE….thank you. I’ve enjoyed sharing the last five years with you and I hope you have enjoyed at least some aspects of PE if not all.

I wish you all the very best in the next stage of your journey – whether that be here at Dukes or pastures new. Good luck for August 21st – I’ll be thinking of you all.” – Mrs Davies

 

“Art Students….You have been amazing!! Epic!! Wonderful!!!. It has been a delight to teach you and see you flourish in Art.” – Mrs Gatti

 

“It’s been such a joy to work with you over the past 5 years, I’m so proud of how you’ve matured and grown into the lovely people you are. Wishing you every success and happiness in your futures.“ – Mrs Wardle

 

“Best of luck to all of you in the future, sure you’ll go on to achieve amazing things! Shout out to my year 11 business class, my first ever KS4 class I’ve had for the 2 years; it has been a delight & pleasure teaching you all these last two years, we’ve had some great times, memories & laughs, you’ll be a big miss! & can’t wait to see your amazing results in the summer & all the great things you’ll achieve in your future!” – Mr Hart

 

“Well done on all the hard work you have put in with your exams. Enjoy the summer and whatever your next adventure is. Go and be amazing!” – Mrs Henderson

 

“What a year we have had year 11 – ups and downs and lots of class changes! Well done for all your hard work and getting through the exam period. I wish you all the best in whatever the future holds for you!” – Miss Weaver

 

“Good Luck Year 11! I hope all your dreams come true.  Remember don’t limit your challenges, challenge your limits.” – Mrs Barker

 

“Today is both the end and the beginning (that’s a juxtaposition) as we say goodbye to you all as you walk into a whole new, exciting chapter of life.  Whatever your plans for the future, remember you have the resilience and strength to face all challenges. Go forward with confidence, take care of yourselves and take pride in all you do. Best wishes to you all!” – Mrs Chima

 

“Year 11 – your struggles will always be worth it…remember that failure is the key to success!!” – Mrs S, Mrs F and Mrs W in Hospitality

 

“It has been a pleasure to see so many of you grow into mature and responsible young adults. You all have so much potential – use it, don’t waste it. Be determined, be focussed, be responsible and kind and the world will be yours. Also remember the old cycling saying, ‘ Sometimes the wind is at your back and sometimes it is directly in your face, but whatever way it is blowing and however hard it is, keep turning the pedals and you will eventually get to where you want to be. Good luck everyone, It has been a pleasure.” – Mr Line

 

“Year 11, Good luck in all your future endeavours” – Mrs Carter

 

“As the ‘Covid year group’ you faced challenges no one could have predicted. Remote learning, cancelled events, uncertainty, and a whole lot of screen time.   

But you adapted, you showed resilience, and you got through it – and that says so much about who you are.  Watching you all arrive that September – slightly too small for your blazers, being in bubbles and encouraging you to sanitise your hands every 5 minutes.

You were my last year group as head of year, however I’ve kept a close eye on you all – through your highs, your struggles, and everything in between. I’ve seen you grow into confident, capable young people. 

 You’ve now reached the end of Year 11 – a huge achievement in itself. Whether you’re heading to sixth form, college, apprenticeships, or something totally different, you’ve got everything you need to succeed. You are more prepared than you think, and more capable than you know.” – Mrs Young 

 

“Don’t forget to “let your light shine” come and say hello if you see me out and about.” – Sally

 

“To Year 11 EN4,  I have loved being your English teacher! I have loved the ups and downs, the breakthroughs and the moments where it clicks. I have loved seeing you grow and mature into young adults with so much potential.   Whatever comes next for you, know you always have a place in this world. It is never too late to start over, try something new or make a change. Take good care of yourselves.” – Mrs Hartley

 

“Year 11 – ICT, as you come to the end of your ICT journey, we want to take a moment to say how incredibly proud we are of each and every one of you. You have all worked with dedication, resilience, and determination to achieve your grades, and your effort has truly paid off.

It’s been a pleasure to see you all grow in confidence and capability over the course of the year. We have no doubt that whatever path you choose next whether it’s further study, apprenticeships, or stepping into the world of work you will continue to succeed. Wishing you all the very best for the future. Keep believing in yourselves, and never stop learning. Best wishes!” – Miss Miah and Mr Caddies Green

 

“As you finish year 11, it’s probably become clear that there are 3 types of people in this world… Those who can count and those that can’t. All the best for the future – Its been interesting knowing you.” – Mr Butler

 

“Congratulations on completing Y11. Always try to be a better version of yourself. Grades are important but they are not everything. Never get upset with a failure. It’s just a new beginning of another journey. Set your goals high and always dream big. Because you’re only as big as the dreams you dare to live.

Don’t forget our 80% attitude/20% ability motto, it will serve you well in the future! Hard work beats talent, when talent doesn’t work hard. Best wishes!” – Mr Blight

 

“To my brilliant Year 11 BTEC Sport legends,

Just wanted to say how proud I am of the effort, energy, and questionable stretching techniques you’ve brought to BTEC Sport this year. Honestly, you’ve tackled assignments, smashed practicals, and survived more PowerPoints than any human should ever have to. That deserves serious respect.

You’ve learned muscles I forgot existed (hello, gastrocnemius ), memorised enough fitness tests to start your own gym, and probably heard the words “principles of training” in your sleep. You’ve lifted, lunged, laughed (sometimes at me), and powered through like absolute pros.

I know it’s not always easy balancing coursework, practicals, and the occasional running rings around the 3g whether it’s football, cricket, rounders, you guys brought a respectful laugh and made me smile ear to ear with your witty sarcasm – you’ve shown up, stayed strong, and worked hard. That’s what makes you BTEC beasts.

Keep pushing yourselves, not just in sport, but in everything. And remember: no matter what, you’ve already proved you’ve got the determination, the grit, and the banter to smash whatever comes next. Proud of you. Even when you forget your kit.  I’m a big fan of you all, good luck.” – Miss Mckinney

 

“Veni, vidi, vici  (Julius Caesar ) “I came; I saw; I conquered”  – You have overcome  many years of school and learning and you will go on to be more successful in life. Remember, every challenge is a battle and one you can always win! I wish you all the best of luck.” – Mr Tarling

 

“It has been a pleasure watching you all grow during your time at Duke’s. Remember to dream big and achieve big! I wish you every success and am so proud of everything you have accomplished. Good Luck!” – Miss Ireland

 

“When you look back at your time at Duke’s, you won’t remember the lessons your teachers spent hours planning, or the fantastic work you produced. What you will remember is how it felt to be part of Duke’s family.

The staff that encouraged and supported you, the friends that made you feel important and the stability that you had. As you move through to your next chapter, surround yourselves with positive people, aspire to make a difference in the world and never forget…..once Duke’s, always Duke’s. Best of luck, Year 11’s 2025!” – Mrs Chapman

 

“Well guys, Lets reflect…… There have been some great times, and some good times, some trying times, some emotional times and some tough times. That’s what life is about. Its about experiencing , learning and growing. 

I hope you can all take away positives from your time here and look back knowing that it was a time of growth and maturing.  Keep going on life’s journey….whatever that holds for each one of you. Grab each opportunity that comes your way with both hands…. And remember, (those who know, know) keep putting your big girl/boy pants on and go for it….you can do this. You will be missed!!!”  – Miss Graham, Head of Year 11

 

“It has been a pleasure to oversee your education here at Duke’s. You are a fantastic group of kids, and I wish you all the best for your future lives. If you work hard and be kind I’m sure it will be filled with happiness and success.” – Mr Atkinson, Headteacher

Y13 Advice & a Slice Night 11 December

29th November 2024Fran Davison
 Y13 parent/carers evening with a difference.
The evening will be an opportunity for parent/carers to find out about;
  • Discuss your child’s progress & get advice on how to support them at home
  • Collect your child’s mock exam results 
  • Hear about the university & student finance application process
  • Get advice about supporting your child to find apprenticeships

All over a cup of tea and slice of cake with their tutor, Head of year and subject teachers.