Driven by a commitment to internationalism and diversity, we are working on expanding our global reach and reputation through the establishment of new international schools.

International School Vision
Internationalism and diversity lie at the heart of Barnard Castle School’s ambitions for future development, and through the implementation of a new international development strategy, our global reach and reputation will be further enhanced through the establishment of new international schools.
We aim to build a global community of exceptional international schools, offering a growing number of pupils worldwide the opportunity to develop character, resilience, and intercultural competence. These schools will nurture conscientious global thinkers who act with ambition and dare greatly to make the world a better place.
Barney’s widening community of international schools will:
- Provide the opportunity for rising numbers of students across the world to grow into conscientious global thinkers who develop character, resilience, and intercultural competence; act with ambition, and dare greatly to make the world a better place
- Create a cohesive global community of staff and students in the UK and overseas who participate in collaborative international projects, overseas exchanges, and benefit from links
- Financially support Barnard Castle School’s charitable objectives in the UK
Informed by the school’s rich 142-year history, Barnard Castle School aims to transpose its values, ethos and approach overseas in as close alignment as appropriate to the UK school, with respect to varying international contexts, always acting as a positive force for global betterment.
Governors
Below are the Governors with responsibility for International School development oversight
- Catherine Sunley (Chair)
- Erland Rendall
- David Osborne
International Partnerships
We are actively seeking international partners who have a genuine interest in building and operating international schools in new territories with support from Barnard Castle School. If you are looking to work with a distinctive UK Independent School brand in the development of new international schools, we would be delighted to speak with you.
Typically, our local partner will own, operate and fully fund the school, but will benefit from a set of agreed services from Barnard Castle School towards areas such as:
- Governance
- Branding
- Marketing
- Operational Policies, Procedures and Support
- School Building Design
- Head Teacher Recruitment
- Pastoral Care and Student Wellbeing
- Curriculum
- Staff CPD
- Quality Assurance
- Educational and Cultural Collaborative Activities
- Assessment and Diagnostic Tools
- University Counselling
Each international school partnership will differ, and we aim to work collaboratively in the development of unique partnerships that work to the benefit of both parties and provide exceptional outcomes for our students. We seek to combine the regional knowledge and financial backing of our partners with educational expertise and guidance provided by Barnard Castle School in the UK, established in 1883.
FAQs for Barnard Castle School UK Parents
What is Barney’s involvement and responsibilities towards international schools?
Each international school partnership is different. However, Barney only works with well-established, experienced and trusted international school operators. We believe that a relationship of trust, collaboration and mutual learning is essential for the best possible outcomes and future pathways for young people. Whilst the Barnard Castle School UK team is not responsible for the day-to-day running of international schools, agreed services are provided to our international school partners.
Why are Barney planning to support the opening of international schools?
International links provide opportunities for our school community through collaborative projects, exchanges, and links. Involvement in these projects helps our pupils develop their cultural awareness and international connections. Additionally, these new long-lasting, impactful and sustainable partnerships create new income streams to support Barnard Castle School’s charitable objectives.
Do these international schools take teachers’ focus away from Barney pupils in the UK?
These projects do not impact the school’s core provision. They have the potential to provide great benefits to staff and pupils alike, and make a positive impact on our fantastic school through mutual learning opportunities.
For any general enquiries regarding Barnard Castle School’s International School Development, or if you have any questions about partnering with Barnard Castle School, please contact Dave Bates: djb@barneyschool.org.uk.
Community · Character · Ambition
Community that lasts a lifetime
Barney is a down-to-earth, inclusive community where laughter matters and friendship runs deep. From our vibrant boarding houses to the daily rhythm of school life, this is a place where everyone belongs and everyone contributes. The bonds formed here last a lifetime, and the culture of support and belonging stays with our students long after they leave.
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