Year 13 Media Students, Codey A and Elliot M have launched a new video podcast, which features themed discussions that combine both humourous and mature topics.

Each year, our Year 12 students take part in Work Experience Week, with placements in a wide range of sectors.

Year 12 students at King James I Academy have won ‘The KEY+ Pitch Innovators of the Year’ award at The Key Awards 2026, which was held at Newcastle Crowne Plaza.

There are a number of opportunities for Sixth Form students to take part in paid work whilst studying at King James. These offer not just a welcome source of income, but also a way to gain valuable work experience and a respected addition to their CV.

Two teams of Year 12 Media students at King James I Academy have been shortlisted to receive an award at The Key Awards 2026. The teams, calling themselves ‘The Gourmet Gurus’ and ‘The Escape Artists’ have been nominated in the category of ‘Key+ Innovators of the Year’.

A team of Sixth Form students, calling themselves 'Gourmet Gurus Go Glamping', who have been taking part in The Key+ Challenge, have used their funding to organise an overnight glamping experience.

We are proud to announce that King James I academy has achieved CyberFirst School status, recognising our commitment to excellence in computing and cyber security education.

Year 12 Media Studies students have taken part in a fun team building activity at ‘Cluedini’ Escape Rooms in Darlington. In three teams of five, students worked together to solve problems in an attempt to escape their room in 60 minutes or less; only one team succeeded.

Media students have enjoyed a class social event at Uno Momento Italian restaurant in Darlington on the last day of half term.

Year 12 Business Studies students have visited The Auckland Project to take part in a learning experience to explore the different job roles that exist within the Palace and surrounding museums.