Upper School

Whether conducting an independent study on contemporary conceptions of crime and punishment, shattering records in track and field, building weather balloons to photograph the curvature of the earth, or belting out show tunes on stage, Durham Academy Upper School is a place where being fully engaged — where striving to be your most authentic self — is not only accepted, it is embraced and expected.

Academic Curriculum

College-level courses foster independent thinking.

Learning Environments

New state-of-the-art facilities give students tools to succeed.

Arts

Discover new passions & refine skills.

Athletics

With 20 sports offered, there's a team for every athlete.


Meet Our Faculty

Our enthusiastic and dedicated teachers are eager to share in students' love of learning and are ready to support them emotionally, socially and intellectually.

“I consider myself a well-rounded student without a specific emphasis on STEM or the humanities, so a large part of enjoying school for me is finding a balance between the two different class types. At Durham Academy, there is an equal emphasis on both facets of education, and I have been able to explore many different areas of study in the Upper School.”

Student

“I have been able to find so many different homes at DA — whether it’s in the Chinese classroom, the podcast club, the theater or on the track. I’m so grateful to have been able to meet the most wonderful people who want to have fun, study, sing and run!”

Student

“What I value most about DA is the generosity of our teachers. Teachers are always willing to dedicate so much time and energy to every single student, whether that means staying an extra few hours after school to help students studying for exams or taking on the lead role in a club that needs a sponsor!” 

Student

Jay Shanahan

"The running programs at Durham Academy have given me the opportunity to reinvent myself. I have incredible teammates as well as amazing coaches to guide me and make me a better person, whether on the track or in the classroom. I look forward to continuing to grow under the excellent athletic programs at DA."

Student


College Counseling

Our three full-time college counselors' student-centered approach and partnership with parents focuses on finding the perfect fit.

Senior College T-Shirt Day


Wellness

We care for the whole child at Durham Academy, with a deliberate focus on students' physical, social-emotional and mental wellness.

Learn About Wellness at the Upper School

Fueling Curiosity, Chasing Passions

Unique Experiences

Competitive Academic Teams, Global Online Academy, Cavalier Capstones, Senior Challenge & International Trips

Character & Community

How Our Students are Working to Better Their Community, from Special Olympics to SOCK Camp