Merchiston Castle School

From its humble beginnings to its prestigious standing today, Merchiston Castle School’s journey is truly remarkable. In 1828, Charles Chalmers, brother of a renowned philosopher and theologian, established a small school in Park Place, Edinburgh. This marked the inception of what would eventually become Merchiston Castle School. The school’s first move was to the historic Merchiston Castle, once home to John Napier, the inventor of logarithms. This relocation in 1833 not only provided a larger space but also gave the school its enduring name, Merchiston Castle School. As the student body expanded, the castle’s confines proved inadequate. In 1930, Merchiston Castle School found its permanent home on a sprawling 90-acre estate in Colinton. This move, four miles southwest of Edinburgh, ushered in a new era of growth and development. The new campus boasted impressive architecture, including boarding houses designed by Sir Robert Lorimer. Merchiston Castle School’s academic prowess is noteworthy. In 2018, an impressive 50% of A-Level grades achieved were A*/A. Beyond academics, Merchiston Castle School has a rich sporting tradition, particularly in rugby union. Over 60 Merchistonians have represented their countries at the international level. The school’s rugby history is intertwined with the very origins of the sport. The Merchistonian Football Club, composed of the school’s former pupils, was a founding member of the Scottish Rugby Union and participated in the first-ever international rugby match. Merchiston’s rugby legacy continues to thrive, as evidenced by their record eight wins in the Scottish Schools U18 Rugby Cup. They also uphold the world’s oldest continuous rugby fixture against the Edinburgh Academy, a tradition dating back to 1858. The school’s unique tartan, designed in 1988, reflects its connection to John Napier. Based on the Napier tartan, it incorporates the school colors of royal blue, navy, and scarlet. Merchiston Castle School has also faced difficult times. The Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry brought to light instances of historical abuse, prompting an unreserved apology from the school to affected former pupils. Merchiston’s influence extends beyond Scotland. In 2018, Merchiston International School opened in Shenzhen, China, marking a new chapter in the school’s global reach. This international school, catering to students aged 5 to 18, follows the English national curriculum and offers boarding facilities.