Durham School Speech Day 2026 brought together pupils, staff, parents, Old Dunelmians and members of the wider community for one of the most significant occasions in the School calendar, celebrating achievement, service, leadership and the enduring traditions that have shaped Durham School for more than 180 years.
A cornerstone of School life since the Victorian era, Speech Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of the academic year, recognise the accomplishments of pupils through the presentation of prizes and awards, and celebrate the values that continue to define the Durham School community. In recent years, the event has returned to its traditional place at the beginning of the May Half Term, reaffirming its status as a cherished annual occasion.
This year, the School was honoured to welcome Professor Carlos Frenk as Guest of Honour. Professor Frenk is Ogden Professor of Fundamental Physics and founder of the Institute for Computational Cosmology at Durham University. An internationally renowned cosmologist, he is one of the originators of the Cold Dark Matter theory of cosmic structure formation and has made a profound contribution to our understanding of the universe through his pioneering research.
In his address, Professor Frenk reflected on our shared humanity and the idea that we are all made of stardust. Speaking about the uniqueness and value of every individual, he challenged the audience to consider how these truths call upon us to confront violence and repression wherever they occur. His thoughtful and inspiring speech resonated deeply with pupils and guests alike, offering a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion, understanding and respect.
The ceremony featured addresses from Chair of Governors, Mr Simon Dobson OD, and Foundation Principal and Headmaster, Dr Michael Alderson, who reflected on another successful year for the School and the many achievements of its pupils across academic, sporting, creative and co-curricular pursuits.
A particular highlight of the afternoon was the presentation of the Making a MARK OD Award by Old Dunelmian Society President, Mr Chris Elliott OD to Mr John Davison OD. Receiving the award during the week of his 91st birthday, John was recognised for a lifetime of achievement in transport and logistics, as well as his commitment to supporting the wider community.
Throughout his career, John has combined business success with public service, including significant contributions to road safety initiatives in partnership with Durham Police. Remarkably, he still holds the HGV licence he first gained after taking a “day off” from Durham School in 1952 to sit the test. His story serves as a wonderful example of the lasting impact that Old Dunelmians continue to make within their professions and communities.
Speech Day also celebrated the next generation of Durham School leaders through the formal transition of the Monitor Team. In one of the School’s most cherished traditions, the outgoing and incoming senior pupils crossed the stage, each exchanging a handshake with their counterpart in a symbolic passing of responsibility and leadership. The ceremony marked the transition of the Head of School, Deputy Head of School and Heads of House as they formally assumed their new roles for the year ahead.
The Vote of Thanks was delivered by the Heads of School, Sophie and Jessica, bringing the formal proceedings to a close before the School community joined together for prayer and to sing Floreat Dunelmia. Sung with pride by pupils, staff, parents, Old Dunelmians and guests, the School Song provided a fitting conclusion to an occasion that celebrates not only individual achievement, but also the shared values, traditions and sense of belonging that unite generations of Dunelmians.
