Established in 1969 St Augustine’s RC High School stands proudly. This wasn’t always its location though. It’s a story of mergers and growth. The school’s roots lie in two older Catholic schools. Holy Cross Academy a selective school dating back to 1907. St Andrew’s Junior Secondary a non-selective school opened in 1962. These two schools merged to form the comprehensive St Augustine’s. The name St Augustine’s was chosen to honor the influential philosopher. The new school opened in 1969 on its present site. This served the west of Edinburgh.
St Augustine’s RC High School has seen significant changes. In 2010 it moved to a shared campus with Forrester High School. This new building is on what used to be the school’s football pitches. The building is divided. Forrester High School is on one side. St Augustine’s is on the other. The only shared area is the swimming pool. This is used on a rota basis. Students from both schools never occupy the same area at the same time.
Over the years St Augustine’s RC High School has educated many notable individuals. Alumni from its predecessor Holy Cross Academy include prominent figures. Gordon Cardinal Gray Archbishop of St Andrews and Edinburgh served for many years. Sir Francis McWilliams engineer and former Lord Mayor of London is another alumnus. Film director John Mackenzie also attended. Other notable alumni include Sir Tom Farmer and Keith Cardinal O’Brien. St Augustine’s itself has produced notable figures. Paul Cullen Lord Pentland former Solicitor General for Scotland is one example. Stuart Wood a member of the Bay City Rollers also attended. The school boasts a impressive list of alumni. They have achieved success in various fields. Angus MacKay a former member of the Scottish Parliament is another example. Alison Johnstone currently serves as Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament. The school’s contribution to society is clearly significant.
Today St Augustine’s continues its mission. It is a Roman Catholic secondary school. It serves the west of Edinburgh. With approximately 840 pupils it is a thriving community. It provides a comprehensive education. The school has a strong reputation. This is a testament to its dedicated staff and students. St Augustine’s RC High School remains a vital part of Edinburgh’s educational landscape. Its history and achievements stand as a testament to its enduring spirit.