Year 10 History students visited the city’s Castle and Palace Green Library on the trip organised through Durham University’s 4schools programme. The 15 students were taken on a guided tour of the 11th century Durham Castle, and learnt about how the county was once ruled by Prince Bishops.

They then visited Durham Palace Green Library, and were shown artefacts from the Norman period, including books from the university archive, some dating back more than 1,000 years.

Headteacher Christine Forsyth said: “Our students are fortunate to live in County Durham where they can see first-hand how the Norman Conquest shaped the past. We are proud of our students’ achievements in History. Over 70% gained a GCSE pass, with a third of students being awarded A*/A grades. Progress in History at Woodham Academy is in the top 2% of similar schools nationally.”

Main Picture: Students on The Black Staircase in Durham Castle.

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