Durham University and Durham Sixth Form Centre warmly welcome the Government’s backing to move forward with pace the development of Durham Mathematics School (DMS) - a new specialist sixth form aimed at nurturing mathematical talent across the North of England.
The Maths School has now received Government confirmation to proceed to development. This represents a major milestone in delivering new opportunities for talented young people across the region.
The proposed school will offer A-levels in mathematics, further mathematics, physics and computer science, alongside access to a broad range of subjects at Durham Sixth Form Centre.
Students will benefit from specialist provision thanks to support from the Department for Education (DfE), building on the proven impact of University Maths Schools in driving excellence and equity.
As the only school of its kind in the North East, Durham Mathematics School will deliver outreach programmes and professional development for maths teachers, helping to raise attainment and inspire future generations in STEM.
This announcement marks an exciting step towards creating new opportunities for talented young people across the region.
This is a significant step towards a positive outcome for the North East of England. Approval of the Durham Mathematics School marks an important milestone. In partnership with Durham Sixth Form Centre, we are creating a specialist institution that will nurture exceptional mathematical talent and strengthen the region’s STEM capability. This initiative truly reflects our shared commitment to academic excellence and to providing opportunities for gifted students from all backgrounds. It will not only be a school but a beacon through which we work together with Durham Sixth Form Centre to raise maths attainment in our region.
Our mission at Durham University is to inspire and support students to reach their full potential and we’re very pleased to be joining forces with Durham Sixth Form Centre on this exciting project. As a University, we’re proud of the role we play in helping the North East flourish, academically, socially, culturally and economically and this Mathematics School will be a great example of how working together can bring the best out of talented youngsters from across the region. The North East has a vibrant technology sector and this school will help equip our most talented youngsters with the necessary skills to pursue STEM careers both in the region and beyond.”
This initiative reflects the University’s commitment to strengthening STEM education in the North East, building on the proven success of specialist maths schools in helping students excel and progress to top universities and STEM careers.
Existing maths schools encourage talented mathematicians from diverse backgrounds and champion both equity and excellence. Around 13% of their students are eligible for Free School Meals - almost double the national average - yet achieve higher grades, with strong representation of autistic learners and nearly a third of students being female.
Their impact reaches far beyond the classroom, supporting 4,000 students and 400 teachers annually through outreach and training, creating lasting benefits for the wider region.
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