Education

Education in Morpeth

Morpeth offers a high-quality state school system anchored by an Outstanding-rated high school, two well-regarded middle schools, and a choice of first schools — all connected through the Cheviot Learning Trust and set in one of Northumberland's most desirable market towns.

How It Works

The Three-Tier System

Morpeth uses the three-tier school system — the same as Gosforth but different from Newcastle's two-tier system. Children move through three stages, with most schools part of the Cheviot Learning Trust.

Ages 4–9

First School

Reception – Year 4

Children start at a first school from age 4 (or 3 with nursery provision). Morpeth has four first schools: Abbeyfields, Stobhillgate, All Saints, and Morpeth First School. At the end of Year 4, pupils transfer to a middle school.

Ages 9–13

Middle School

Year 5 – Year 8

Morpeth has two middle schools — Chantry and Newminster — both rated Good by Ofsted and part of the Cheviot Learning Trust. Each has around 555 pupils. At the end of Year 8, children move to the high school.

Ages 13–18

High School

Year 9 – Year 13

King Edward VI School is the sole high school for Morpeth, rated Outstanding by Ofsted. Founded in 1552, it educates around 1,400 pupils including a sixth form of approximately 450 students.

In-Depth

School Profiles

Detailed guides to individual schools and nurseries in the Morpeth area.

At a Glance

All Morpeth Schools

Every school in the Morpeth three-tier system with ratings, age range, and pupil numbers.

SchoolTypeAgesRating
King Edward VI SchoolState High13–18Outstanding
Morpeth Chantry Middle SchoolState Middle9–13Good
Morpeth Newminster Middle SchoolState Middle9–13Good
Abbeyfields First SchoolState First3–9Good
Morpeth Stobhillgate First SchoolState First3–9Good
Morpeth All Saints C of E FirstState First3–9TBC
Morpeth First SchoolState First3–9TBC
Early Years

Nurseries in Morpeth

Nurseries and early-years settings in the Morpeth area.

The Nursery at Whitehouse Farm

Whitehouse Farm, Morpeth

Ages 0–5Outstanding (May 2025)

Goosehill Private Nursery

Morpeth

Ages 0–5Exceptional — top 0.3% nationally

Bolland Hall Day Nursery

Pottery Bank, NE61 1DF

Ages 0–5
Multi-Academy Trust

The Cheviot Learning Trust

Most of Morpeth's schools are part of the same multi-academy trust, providing continuity across the three-tier system.

Seamless Transitions

The Cheviot Learning Trust brings together King Edward VI School, both middle schools, and Stobhillgate First School under one umbrella. This means shared curriculum planning, coordinated transition programmes, and a consistent approach to learning as children move between tiers — reducing the disruption that sometimes comes with school changes.

A Strong State System

Unlike many areas, Morpeth has no independent schools — and doesn't need them. The state system is strong, with an Outstanding-rated high school and Good-rated middle schools. Families moving from areas with a private school tradition often find that Morpeth's state schools match or exceed their expectations.

Useful Links

Resources for Parents

Private Tutors

Lessons, Coaching & Tutoring

Local tutors covering music, academic subjects, sports coaching, dance, languages, and the arts. All based in or around Morpeth.