A Darlington school has been named among the best in the UK after being included in a list of the best 100 education facilities around.

A list of the top 100 best state schools has been revealed by the Daily Mail, based on GCSE and A-Level results, extracurricular activities, class sizes and The Good Schools Guide.

Introducing the list, the Daily Mail said: "Private schools are set to become around 20 per cent more expensive from January, with the scrapping of tax breaks on independent school fees.

"Many fear that will start a squeeze on places at the best state schools.

"And while Labour has pledged to pour money into state-funded education in its many guises - from faith schools to free and grammar institutions, parents who privately educate their offspring are set to help pay for it.

"So how many pupils will be moved to state schools by parents who can no longer afford the fees? Only time will tell."

The Darlington state school among the best in the UK

Within the list, Carmel College in Darlington made the list of 100.

The impressive feat of being included in the list was due to most of its students getting into their first choice of universities, including Russel Group and Oxbridge, as well as an 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating.

What did the top 100 list say about the Darlington school?

Explaining why Carmel College was featured on the list, the news outlet said: "The ethos at 1,200-pupil Catholic comprehensive Carmel College is to help students 'achieve outstanding outcomes, whatever their starting points'. In 2023, 25.7 per cent of all GCSE results were graded at 7 or above. Many students get their first university choices - including Oxbridge and Russell Group universities. A lively website and strong social media presence is helpful for parents, too.

"Percentage of pupils gaining 5 or above in English and maths at GCSE in 2023: 60 per cent."

Alongside  Durham Johnston Comprehensive School, these other North East schools made the list:

  • Whitley Bay High School, Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear
  • Queen Elizabeth High School, Hexham, Northumberland
  • Ponteland High School, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear
  • Durham Johnston Comprehensive School, Durham, County Durham
  • St Mary's Catholic School, Newcastle upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear