Founded in 1128 The Royal High School is one of Europe’s oldest schools. Its history is deeply intertwined with Edinburgh’s. For centuries it was known as the Tounis Scule. Imagine its long journey. It has occupied many locations. These include sites within Holyrood Abbey. Another was the garden of the Blackfriars Monastery. The school even resided in Cardinal Beaton’s Palace. Then came Thomas Hamilton’s magnificent classical building on Calton Hill. Since 1968 The Royal High School has stood in Barnton.
The school boasts a rich legacy of notable alumni. Sir Walter Scott and Alexander Graham Bell are among the most famous. Think of the literary giants educated within its walls. William Drummond of Hawthornden and Robert Fergusson are but a few. Henry Mackenzie James Boswell and George Borrow also graced its halls. More recently Norman MacCaig Robert Garioch and Glen Chandler added to the school’s literary prestige. Even Deacon Brodie a former pupil’s life allegedly inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.
The Royal High School’s influence extends beyond literature. Alexander Nasmyth a former pupil painted the only known authentic portrait of Robert Burns. In the realm of science James Hutton’s Theory of Earth laid the foundation for modern geology. Another former pupil James Syme discovered a solvent for rubber. The school’s impact on music is undeniable. John Thomson became the first Professor of Music at Edinburgh University. Ronnie Corbett Britain’s favourite pocket-sized comedian was also a former pupil.
The school’s legacy in government and finance is equally impressive. Three former pupils became Lord Chancellor of England. Archibald Campbell Tait rose to become Archbishop of Canterbury. Sir John Law of Lauriston was Britain’s first millionaire. Robin Cook a gifted debater and Foreign Secretary also attended. The school’s history is a tapestry woven with threads of art science literature and politics. It is a place where the past present and future of Edinburgh intertwine. The Royal High School’s story continues to unfold. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of education.