What stories do these walls hold? Portobello High School stands here a beacon of learning. It is one of Edinburgh’s largest secondary schools. Portobello High School has a rich history. Its present-day commitment to education is clear.
Portobello High School’s current headteacher is Greg McDowall. He took office in 2024. The school’s location is 1 Milton Road. That places it in the vibrant Portobello area.
With over 1400 pupils, Portobello High School plays a vital role. It serves the local community. The school’s motto “Ope Et Consilio” hints at its values. It suggests a focus on both effort and wisdom.
The school’s colors are yellow, blue, red, and green. These colors represent the four houses. They are Abercorn, Brunstane, Crichton, and Duddingston. These houses foster a sense of community. They also encourage friendly competition among students.
Portobello High School’s journey hasn’t always been smooth. In the early 2000s, redevelopment plans sparked debate. A feasibility study led to public consultations. People discussed the best site for the school.
In December 2008, the City of Edinburgh Council pledged £41M. This money was for the school’s redevelopment. The chosen site was controversial. It led to legal action and public campaigns. Groups like Portobello for a New School supported the project. The Portobello Park Action Group opposed building on common land.
The Scottish Parliament approved a Private Bill. It granted powers to use the park for educational purposes. Construction finally began in October 2014. The new Portobello High School opened in October 2016. It stands less than a mile from the original site.
The old buildings on Duddingston Road were demolished. This happened in 2017. The land was prepared for a new St John’s Primary School. The old St John’s was demolished in December 2018. The site became Treverlen public park. This replaced parkland used for Portobello High School.
Portobello High School boasts notable alumni. These include journalist Ian Bell. Actor Ewen Bremner also attended. Boxer Ken Buchanan walked these halls. Folk musician Phil Cunningham honed his craft here. Actress Shauna Macdonald is another successful graduate. Footballers Jackie McNamara and John Robertson are alumni too. Television presenter Gail Porter once studied here.
Portobello High School aims to provide learners with insights. They delve into the political forces that shaped our world. The school encourages students to become active thinkers. It equips them with skills to analyse evidence. Students expand their knowledge of cultural heritage.
The curriculum includes diverse topics. Students explore the Age of Empire and the Nuclear Age. They study the Romans and the Holocaust. The curriculum covers the Civil Rights Movement in the USA. It also examines the First World War. Older students explore Lenin and the Russian Revolution. They study Scots during the Great War.
Advanced Higher History offers in-depth study. Students can explore Northern Britain from the Iron Age to 1034. They can examine the American Civil War. Another option is Russia from Tsarism to Stalinism.
Portobello High School strives to be a caring community. It promotes high standards. It develops young people as successful learners. The school’s role stands at over 1400 pupils. Portobello High School continues to shape young minds. It prepares them for the future.