Welcome to Barnard Castle School

Daily life at Barney – as our school is affectionately known – is characterised by an inclusive, friendly family atmosphere where children feel part of a purposeful community and are able to excel both inside and outside the classroom. We promote a sense of pride, endeavour and tremendous fun within a nurturing environment, supported by first class facilities and resulting in an excellent academic record.

In 1900 a wall in school was inscribed with a quotation from writings by John Ruskin: “That country is the richest which nourishes the greatest number of noble and happy human beings.” If there is one word that we hear used often to describe the atmosphere at Barney, it is “happy”. Ruskin’s words may have been covered in successive layers of paint, but his message has survived and is embodied in our boys and girls every day. Our pupils are wonderful, creative, confident, compassionate and polite young people who are full of humour and spirit, supported by dedicated staff who know and value each and every one as an individual.

The school’s ethos of openness means that we welcome parents, former pupils and friends of the school to join our community, and we encourage families to visit us and experience for themselves our welcoming and happy atmosphere.