Darland High School

Dear Parents and Carers,

Thank you for your continued support and cooperation following our recent communication regarding pick-up and drop-off arrangements. We would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and sincerely thank the many parents and carers who consistently work with us and respect the procedures we have in place to keep our school community safe.

The safety and wellbeing of our pupils and staff has always been, and remains, our highest priority. As most parents are aware, access to the school site for pick-up and drop-off has only ever been offered to a small number of families, specifically those with children within our Resource Provision who may require additional specialist support.

During the first week back in January, due to severe weather conditions and changes to school transport arrangements, we temporarily allowed all parents access to the bus park during peak times. We hope this short-term measure was helpful during what was a challenging week for many families. However, this arrangement was intended for one week only, and we are now asking parents to make suitable and safe arrangements to drop off and collect students away from the school site.

We understand that the roads surrounding Darland High School can be challenging at busy times, and we appreciate the patience and understanding shown by the majority of parents. However, in order to maintain a safe environment for students, staff, and visitors, we are unable to permit open access to the site. Parents who have previously accessed the site without a valid site pass are kindly asked to make alternative off-site arrangements moving forward.

For the small number of parents who do drive their children to school, we would also like to thank those who are mindful of our neighbours and local businesses, and we kindly ask that this consideration continues, particularly in relation to private car parks which are essential for nearby residents and businesses.

We are grateful for your understanding and ongoing support in helping us keep everyone safe. Should you have any specific questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

Yours sincerely,
Joanne Lee

Congratulations to our winners Charlie and Jack who appear in the Leader Live School Report this week. Darland Bake Off. Thank you to our residents in Rossett Rossett Community Council for being such kind judges. Check out the full article at

Anniversary landmark, winning bakes, and more from the region's schools As well as our regular news and photos from schools across Wrexham and Flintshire, we have a round-up of events and achievements in today's School…

Welcome Everyone - 24th September - 6-8pm.

A delight to welcome Andrew Ranger - MP for Wrexham in the first of this year’s careers assemblies. Mr Ranger shared a snapshot of how varied a ‘week in the life of…’ a politician really is. He also discussed the lowering of the age to vote in Wales at Senedd and local elections.

Open Evening Wednesday 24th September- Welcome One and All. Doors open at ⏱️6:00pm. Headteacher presentations take place at 6:00pm and 7:00pm. Tours also available during the day - to book, contact Mrs Pickup via the main school number ☎️ See you all there.

Looking forward to welcoming our new Yr 7s and welcoming back our Yr 8-11s tomorrow. Hope your pencil cases are fully stocked. 😁

Great day of learning and training with our Primaries today, working with Dave and Nina from Independent Thinking. Ysgol yr Holl Saint - All Saints' The Rofft School, Holt Primary and Llay Parc. Unfortunately, Mr Hatwood, Mr Morris and Mrs Sturt disappeared before the camera came out 😁.

Wrexham company attracting technicians from across the world with new Academy Wrexham company attracting technicians from across the world with new Academy A Wrexham-based company is putting the city on the global automotive map after launching a training academy that is attracting technicians from across the world. Maverick Diagnostics has developed a specialist Automotive T...

Darland School Celebrates Sixth Year of GCSE Excellence

Darland School is celebrating another exceptional year of GCSE success, marking its sixth consecutive year of improved results. In a climate where national outcomes remain unpredictable, Darland stands out as a model of consistency, inclusivity, and academic strength.

Every student at Darland achieved qualifications in both English and Maths, reinforcing the school’s mission to provide success for all learners. The overall results reflect a school-wide culture of ambition, high expectations, and committed teaching.

Results across subject areas were outstanding. Science remains a flagship department, with 100% of students securing A*-C grades in Biology and Physics, and 96% in Chemistry. In English, 84% of students earned A*-C, and 73% met that benchmark in Maths. Creative and applied subjects also thrived, Art (95%), PE (86%), and French (77%) highlighting the school’s balanced academic offer.

Headteacher Joanne Lee praised both students and staff:
“I could not be prouder of this cohort. Their resilience, work ethic, and determination have been nothing short of inspiring. These results are a reflection of a school community that believes in excellence for every child.”

Among many strong performers, several students achieved particularly notable results:
• Aadhya Gupta: 13 GCSEs at A*-A grades.
• Lucy Collins, Bryony Jones, Libby Shelmerdine: 12 A*-A grades each. Bryony will study Maths, Chemistry and PE at Colleg Cambria; Libby heads to Bishop Heber for Maths, Further Maths, Chemistry and Biology.
• Lexi Shaw: 11 A*-A grades; will study Biology, Chemistry, Maths and French at Castell Alun.
• Harvey Roberts, Lucy Syrett, Alfie Gaunt-Evans: 10 A*-A grades each. Harvey goes on to study Maths, Chemistry, Law and Physics. Lucy goes on to study Biology, Chemistry and Maths, both at Colleg Cambria. Alfie goes on to study Maths, Physics, Philosophy and Art at Kings School.
• Megan Davis, Aimee Bennion, Iwo Rozbicki: 9 A*-A grades. Megan will study Law, Biology, Psychology and English Literature at Colleg Cambria.

Darland’s success isn’t limited to top performers. The majority of students earned nine or more GCSEs at grade C or above, confirming that the school’s high standards are achieved across the board.
Deputy Headteacher Andrew Clarkson emphasized the strategic vision behind the results:
“These achievements are not accidental. They come from a clear vision, relentless dedication, and belief in our young people. Success belongs to every student and every member of our staff who walks beside them.”

Assistant Headteacher Lisa Easton reinforced the school’s caring ethos:
“Our results reflect a school that cares deeply—not just about grades, but about each individual child. Our students leave not only with qualifications but with confidence, values, and a sense of purpose.”

Darland balances academic rigour with personal support, ensuring that students are intellectually challenged while being known and supported as individuals. Staff across teaching and pastoral teams work collaboratively to help every student thrive, both academically and personally.

With 100% of students achieving English and Maths qualifications, Darland ensures all students leave equipped for the next stage, whether that’s sixth form, apprenticeships, or employment.

As the Class of 2025 moves on, Darland School looks to the future with confidence and pride, celebrating results that reflect not just academic achievement, but a vibrant, supportive community committed to opportunity for all.

Tomorrow - Uniform Pre-loved event. Darland High School Wed 20th August 10am - 12 noon. Come and Pick Up or Drop Off. Year 11, why not recycle your uniform - Free to Good Homes.

Calling all Year 5-7 students in Darland Cluster schools. Check messages from your schools this week for a great opportunity over the summer. Working with Wrexham AFC to deliver coaching sessions to students ages 9-11.

Another great article in Leader Live School Report, the whole school supporting Wrexham Foodbank. Working Together. Full article in this week’s Leader.