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A warm welcome is waiting for everyone at St. John's Catholic School and Sixth Form
St. John’s Catholic School and Sixth Form in Bishop Auckland is more than just a school – it is a thriving, inclusive community where every student is encouraged to achieve their full potential. Through inspiring lessons, outstanding pastoral care, and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities, young people are motivated to aim high, embrace challenges, and pursue their aspirations with confidence.
Our nurturing Catholic ethos ensures that every child feels valued, supported and empowered to succeed. This commitment to excellence has been recognised by Ofsted, with St. John’s ranked among the Top 10 schools in County Durham in 2025. We provide students with the guidance, inspiration and opportunities they need to flourish academically, socially and spiritually, preparing them not only for exams, but for life beyond the classroom.
Open Evening – Tuesday 29 September, 5.30pm–7.30pm. Prospective students and families are invited to explore the school, meet staff and students, discover our curriculum and subject choices, and experience the welcoming St. John’s community. Headteacher presentations take place at 5.30pm and 6.30pm. Join us to find out why St. John’s is a leading choice for secondary and sixth form education in Bishop Auckland and County Durham.
Our Virtue Awards 2026
Latest News
St John's Weekly News - 6 July 2026
St John’s Students Celebrate Duke of Edinburgh Expedition Success
Students at St John’s Catholic School and Sixth Form in Bishop Auckland are celebrating the successful completion of both Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions, demonstrating resilience, teamwork and determination across some of the North East’s most scenic landscapes.
Year 7 Students Explore High Force on Geography Field Trip
Year 7 students at St John’s Catholic School and Sixth Form in Bishop Auckland have enjoyed their first Geography field trip, with every tutor group visiting High Force in Middleton-in-Teesdale over the past month. The educational visits gave students the opportunity to learn more about one of the region’s most famous natural landmarks while developing their understanding of waterfalls, rock formations and the surrounding landscape.
St John's Enrichment Opportunities
At St John’s Catholic School and Sixth Form, students enjoy an exciting range of enrichment opportunities, from choir, drama, sports teams and outdoor adventures to national and international trips. We encourage every student to step beyond their comfort zone, build confidence and take an active role in school life. Our enrichment programme broadens horizons, develops leadership skills and nurtures well‑rounded, aspirational young people who make a positive contribution to their community and embrace life to the full.
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Recognising Talent & Success
At St John’s, we celebrate student talent and success in all its forms. From academic achievement to sporting, artistic, and personal accomplishments, we recognise students through assemblies, awards and special celebration events. We value character as highly as attainment, highlighting resilience, compassion and respect. By fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where every student feels they belong, we help young people thrive, ensuring their hard work, talents and character are recognised and celebrated.
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Soar Higher at St John's Sixth Form
At St John’s Sixth Form, students benefit from a wide choice of academic and vocational courses, personalised guidance, and dedicated mentoring to help them take confident next steps—whether university, apprenticeships or employment. Sixth Form students play an active role in our community, supporting younger students, undertaking leadership opportunities, and engaging in meaningful local and international projects. These experiences build confidence, responsibility and essential life skills, preparing them to thrive as compassionate, capable global citizens.
Visit our Sixth Form website
