Application Process

Studying at Durham Sixth Form Centre is exciting, challenging, and highly rewarding. Every year, more than 1,500 students choose to apply for a place in Year 12. For some, it’s our city-centre location; for others, it’s our excellent results, our welcoming and adult learning environment, or simply the chance for a fresh start.

Applications for September 2026 are now open! Whatever your reason for joining us, we’d be delighted to receive your application. The deadline to apply is Thursday 30th April 2026.

If you’d like more information, please get in touch with Mrs Bruce, Student Recruitment Manager.

''Teachers embed opportunities throughout their courses to develop skills for future study and employment.'' - Ofsted, November 2024

✨ Your Pathway to Durham Sixth Form Centre ✨

At Durham Sixth Form Centre, there’s a wide range of courses and pathways for you to choose from – it all depends on your GCSE results and academic profile.

✅ To enrol, you’ll need:

GCSE English Language at Grade 4 or above
GCSE Mathematics at Grade 4 or above
At least 5 GCSEs at Grade 5 or above overall

📘 Some subjects have their own entry requirements. Don’t worry – we’ll go through these with you during your application and enrolment.

🚀 If you don’t quite meet the entry requirements but are still keen to study with us, you may be able to apply through our special consideration route. This isn’t guaranteed, but we encourage you to get in touch so we can discuss your options once you have your results.

Make An Enquiry

The Five Steps to Being a DSFC Student!

Come along to one of our Open Events (optional, but highly recommended!) – students and parents are very welcome. You’ll have the chance to hear a short presentation from the Principal, explore our facilities, and chat with subject staff and current students. See below for the latest dates.
Apply online using our application system before the deadline.
Attend an interview – this is your opportunity to talk about your interests and goals. If successful, you’ll be offered a conditional place. We’ll send you all the details in advance.
Join us for our Year 11 Open Day in July, where you’ll get to experience sample lessons in your chosen subjects and get a real taste of life at DSFC. This will be taking place on Thursday 16th July 2026.
Come to Enrolment Day (don’t forget to bring proof of your qualifications and ID!) – this is when you’ll officially become a DSFC student. We’ll send you all the details in advance. 🎉

Open Events

Every year, we offer a wide range of events to support you to make a smooth transition from secondary school to post-16 education.

These events are intended to help welcome you to Durham Sixth Form Centre, as well as to support you in choosing the right progression routes and courses.

📅 Upcoming Open Events

Thursday 23rd October 2025 – 4.30pm to 7.30pm
Thursday 19th February 2026 – 4.30pm to 7.30pm

No need to book – just drop in anytime during the event!

''Students achieve very highly in their qualifications and make excellent progress from their starting points. Most students go on to study in higher education, with most of the remainder beginning higher-level apprenticeships with renowned organisations or moving into employment..'' - Ofsted, November 2024

Year 11 Open Day – Save the Date!

Year 11s – we’ve got some exciting news! Our Year 11 Open Day is happening on Thursday 16th July 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity for current Year 11 students to explore what’s next, meet staff, and discover the opportunities available here.
✨ Pop the date in your diary now! Booking details will be shared closer to the time – so keep an eye out for updates. We can’t wait to see you there!

📅 Enrolment 2025

Enrolment will take place on 24/25/26/27 August 2026.

You will receive an enrolment pack which details all of the relevant information for starting with us early July.

If you have any queries, please contact us directly to discuss it.

Find Out More Make An Enquiry

Questions?

Thinking about joining us in September 2026? If you have any questions about the application process or what it’s like to study here, we’re here to help! You can call us on 0191 383 0708 or email us using the link. We look forward to welcoming you to Durham Sixth Form Centre!

Contact the Recruitment Team