Social & Events

Our Sixth Form community is at the heart of Barney life – it is dynamic, ambitious, welcoming and, importantly, is not all about work. Friendships for life are formed in the Sixth Form and this comes from students socialising, as well as studying, together.

During their free time, Sixth Formers can walk into Barnard Castle to visit cafes, shops and banks, relax in the Sixth Form Centre or Common Room, or enjoy a workout in the School’s fitness suite. Students also benefit from a programme of organised exclusive social activities, ranging from light hearted quiz nights to formal black tie dinners each term. Events are coordinated by the Sixth Form Common Room Social Secretary.

Sixth Form formals are held approximately twice a term and contribute to our wider ethos of helping prepare students for life beyond school. Half are black tie and the other are fancy dress or arranged around a theme, for example a murder mystery or barn dance. Seating for the three-course dinner is arranged so students sit with a mix of people they know well and others they know less well, giving them opportunities to develop their social, conversational and listening skills and, consequently, self-confidence. The dinner is followed by entertainment along the events theme and relaxed social time. Additional events for boarders include open mic nights and quizzes. Our Year 13 students say farewell at a glamorous ball held at School on the last Saturday of the academic year and attended by students, parents, staff and friends.