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At Barney, Open Days are all about you. They’re your chance to dive into school life, meet new people and find out what it’s like to be part of our community.

Your next adventure begins here

Step into Barney life

From the moment you arrive for an Open Day, current pupils will be there to welcome you and help you feel at home. As you explore the school, you’ll get a real sense of the energy and spirit of our community, imagining how you could get involved, discovering new passions and building friendships that could last a lifetime.

Whether you’re interested in Prep School, Senior School or Sixth Form, you’ll leave with a real idea of what your days at Barney could be like.

Barnard Castle School pupils in a DT class.

Explore, engage and discover

What your day will look like

During the tour, you’ll visit classrooms, music and drama spaces, sports facilities and, if you’re interested, the Boarding Houses. Along the way, you can ask anything you want about school life, from favourite subjects to House Competitions and weekend activities.

There will be plenty going on: music and drama performances, subject demonstrations, sports matches and student Q&As. It’s a great way to see how busy and varied life at Barney really is.

We finish the day with refreshments in the Dining Hall, a chance to relax, chat with teachers and pupils and feel even more at home.

Barnard Castle School pupils in the dining hall.

Your day, your way

Try something more personal

If you’d prefer a visit tailored just for you, we also offer one-to-one tours. These can include a more detailed look at the subjects or activities you’re most interested in, time with the Headmaster or Heads of School, and (for boarding visitors) the chance to properly explore our Boarding Houses. and meet Houseparents. Day visits usually last around 90 minutes, while boarding visits are a little longer.

We also host induction days and welcome events before you start, so you’ll feel comfortable and part of the Barney family from your very first day.

Barnard Castle School pupils in the common room of the dorms.

If you’re curious about Barney, the best way to find out more is to come and see for yourself. Check out our upcoming Open Days or ask your parents to contact our Registrar, Mrs Bronwyn Huddleston, at admissions@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.

Explore Barney Open Events