Two teams of Year 12 Media students at King James I Academy have been shortlisted to receive an award at The Key Awards 2026. The teams, calling themselves ‘The Gourmet Gurus’ and ‘The Escape Artists’ have been nominated in the category of ‘Key+ Innovators of the Year’.

A team of Sixth Form students, calling themselves 'Gourmet Gurus Go Glamping', who have been taking part in The Key+ Challenge, have used their funding to organise an overnight glamping experience.

We are proud to announce that King James I academy has achieved CyberFirst School status, recognising our commitment to excellence in computing and cyber security education.

Year 12 Media Studies students have taken part in a fun team building activity at ‘Cluedini’ Escape Rooms in Darlington. In three teams of five, students worked together to solve problems in an attempt to escape their room in 60 minutes or less; only one team succeeded.

Media students have enjoyed a class social event at Uno Momento Italian restaurant in Darlington on the last day of half term.

Year 12 Business Studies students have visited The Auckland Project to take part in a learning experience to explore the different job roles that exist within the Palace and surrounding museums.

Thanks to a fundraising bake sale, we have raised £180 for If U Care Share, the North East charity which supports families affected by suicide.

As part of our Careers and Aim Higher programme for Sixth Form students, Year 13s have enjoyed a unique learning experience at Durham University Hospital.

Students and staff at King James I Academy have raised £521.41 for Macmillan thanks to a coffee morning held in the Sixth Form Common Room.

King James I Academy Sixth Form students are celebrating another fantastic year of success, following A' Level, Applied General and Tech Level results. Many students are now looking forward to starting degree courses at universities across the country.