NCEA Duke's Secondary School

Studying Business, Sport, and Sports Coaching at Duke’s helped Jack progress into a role with Nissan then Leading North East employer AkzoNobel. The former pupil from Welbeck Primary and Duke’s Secondary chose to continue his studies at Duke’s Sixth Form due to the excellent track record of results in the subjects he had chosen. Jack developed great relationships with the teaching staff, which made it very easy to continue to develop his skills with teachers that already knew him. Describing his seven years at Duke’s as fun, friendly and inspiring, Jack enjoyed the practical element of the courses and really enjoyed enrichment opportunities, which provided some much needed downtime. Jack was on the school football team and represented the school for a number of years. Jack said: “The atmosphere in the Sixth Form was great, you get to spend time with your friends in the huge common room as well as learning alongside.” “The teachers were all round nice people and they made sure you were continually inspired to help you achieve your best results.” Jack’s advice for other students is: “Keep your head down and work hard and make sure you take in as many opportunities as you can. Most of all though, enjoy yourself.” Jack is now working at local employer AkzoNobel as a line operative.

Studying History, Maths, Philosophy and Spanish at Duke’s helped Ellie progress into an apprenticeship with Womble Bond Dickinson, an International Law Firm specialising in Commercial Law. The former pupil from Coulson Park First School and Duke’s Secondary chose to continue her studies at Duke’s Sixth Form. Ellie appreciated the support of staff during her GCSE years which made the decision to continue the transition into Duke’s 6 Form a very easy choice. Describing her seven years at Duke’s as friendly, nurturing, and supportive, Ellie enjoyed the variation the courses offered coupled with placement opportunities that went alongside including inspirational speakers from the world of work. Ellie described the opportunities available to students who attend Duke’s Sixth Form, she said: “The work experience placement that I secured in Belfast confirmed that Law was the right choice for me, another opportunity that the school supports you to gain!” “If it wasn’t for the support and guidance from staff and the school careers advisor, I may not have been exposed to the Apprentice solicitor vacancy, my career could have been very different, I am so grateful for the guidance and support.” Ellie’s advice for other students is: “Don’t be scared to dream big!” Ellie is in her fourth year at Womble Bond Dickinson and thoroughly enjoying her Degree Apprenticeship. Ellie is currently working in the property litigation department at the Local Newcastle office.

After studying Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Economics and Business at Duke’s, Jack progressed into a role with Sage software development at their UK Headquarters in Newcastle. The former pupil from Moorside Primary and Duke’s Secondary chose to continue his studies at Duke’s Sixth Form because he had an amazing five years with staff and peers. Jack wanted this experience to continue into 6th form whilst staying in his local community. Jack developed great relationships with the teaching staff, which made it very easy to continue to develop his skills with teachers that already knew him. Describing his seven years at Duke’s as friendly and supportive, Jack enjoyed the tailored work experiences and the industry visits to support his future career choices. Jack said: “I also had the chance to take part in a once in a life time volunteering trip to Kenya, this trip changed my outlook and still has a positive effect on me today.” Jack said “Duke’s Sixth Form has a friendly environment. The separate Sixth Form area of the school was great for study and social time.” “The teachers were passionate about their subjects and have fantastic subject knowledge, they were happy to support out of class and were trusting too.” Jack’s advice for other students is: “Make the most of your free periods. Changing your mind on your future career is always an option, if it’s what you want to do. Definitely assess the apprenticeship options out there. I personally have benefited from taking that route.” Jack is now working at Sage Software development as a Junior Treasury Analyst. Sage is one of the largest business software companies in the world, and the global market leader for technology.