Welcome to
The Old Dunelmian Society

Founded over 140 years ago, the Old Dunelmian Society brings together former pupils of Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation (including alumni from Bow School, Chorister School and Durham School) in a community that continues well beyond school. Its purpose is to keep Old Dunelmians connected with one another and with the School through a programme of events in Durham and across the UK, alongside a growing digital network. Being part of the Society offers clear benefits to the individual, including opportunities to build and strengthen professional networks, reconnect with contemporaries, and form new relationships across generations. It also provides routes to get involved through mentoring, volunteering, and supporting current pupils, all of which are both rewarding and professionally valuable. Whether attending events, offering time and expertise, or simply staying in touch, Old Dunelmians remain part of an active network that supports both its members and the next generation.

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MAKING A MARK Award

The Making a MARK Award celebrates our outstanding Old Dunelmians who have made an impact in their fields and communities. This prestigious award acknowledges those who are making a change, whether it is on a local or global scale.The award was launched in 2026 by the Foundation. It was created to share stories, recognise achievement and get to know our Dunelmian community.

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THE DEVELOPMENT OFFICE

Your gifts play a central role in supporting excellence, broadening access, and ensuring that a Durham education continues to give young people confidence for life.

Fees alone have never covered the full cost of a pupil's time at Durham. The generosity of the wider Foundation community, including ODs, that enhances and enriches education both inside and outside the classroom.

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Business Networking Hub

Build connections that go beyond the classroom.

Our Business Networking Hub provides a space for Old Dunelmians and parents to connect professionally, share opportunities, seek advice, and collaborate across industries. It is designed to help you build meaningful connections, extend your network, and engage with a community that is both supportive and professionally useful. There are also opportunities to mentor pupils and younger Old Dunelmians, offering guidance while strengthening your own connections within the network.

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Support your school

Support the School and play a direct role in shaping opportunities for future pupils. There are a number of ways to give, including online donations, regular support, and legacy giving through your will. Gifts from Old Dunelmians help fund bursaries, enhance facilities, and widen access to a Durham education. They ensure that talented pupils can benefit from the same experience that has meant so much to generations before them. Every contribution, whatever its size or form, is part of a long tradition of support that continues to strengthen the School and its community.

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Events

Stay connected through a programme of Old Dunelmian, Friends of DCSF, and wider community events, held in Durham and across the UK. These include reunions, professional networking opportunities, and informal gatherings designed to help you build relationships, extend your network, and stay closely connected to the School. Whether you are looking to reconnect with contemporaries, meet Old Dunelmians in your field, or simply remain part of the Durham community, our events provide a straightforward way to stay involved.

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Welcome to The Old Dunelmian Society