A NORTH-East model of private school education is to be replicated across the globe, under a deal announced today (Monday, January 7).

Six-hundred-year-old Durham School, one of the region’s leading independent schools, is to set up multiple day and boarding schools on the ‘Durham model’, potentially all over the world.

Five locations in India have already been earmarked but project leaders say there is no upper limit for the number of schools which could be established and they could expand to other countries if appropriate.

Headmaster Martin George said: “In the 21st century businesses and services, including education, will only be truly successful in a global context.

“At Durham School we provide an amazing education to hundreds of pupils. To be able to deliver this to children around the world is not only exciting but, more importantly, necessary.

“This venture is going to bring to India and other countries, and in particular to their children, the immense benefits of what is the most highly regarded form of education in the world and one to which many countries aspire.

“I am confident the new global Durham School community will provide extraordinary opportunities for pupils in Durham and overseas.”

The deal sees Durham School teaming up with Infinity Group, an Indian outfit with experience in education, to form Durham Infinity International Schools.

It is believed to be the first of its kind involving a private school in the North and Infinity chose Durham above several other prestigious rivals.

A delegation from Durham is due to visit India to look at potential school sites in the next few weeks.

Ravindra Chamaria, chairman and managing director of Infinity Group, said: “The partnership with such a prestigious school as Durham School provides the necessary expertise to establish outstanding education across the globe.”

Alasdair MacConachie, chairman of Durham School’s board of governors, said: “I am absolutely thrilled that after many months of discussions we have reached the point where our shared aspirations can become a reality.

“Durham School has been providing first class education to pupils of all backgrounds for centuries. I am delighted that... this education can now be extended onto a global stage.”