THE PARENT GUIDE
WELCOME TO MERCHISTON
School Life
Who is my son’s House Parent and how can I contact them?
Who else will be looking after my son at School?
Services and Assemblies: how will my son be involved?
SCHOOL LIFE & ROUTINES
Will my son be involved in weekend activities?
What Clan will my son join and what are School Clans?
Will my son join the Merchistonian Club once he graduates from Merchiston?
School Routines
What time is my son expected at school and when shall I collect him?
What is the process if my son is going to be late for School?
What is the process if my son is going to be absent from School?
Does my son need to sign-out when leaving School?
My son is a boarder: what happens during School holidays and Weekend Leave?
Health & Wellbeing
How will my son access the Medical Centre if he is unwell?
If my son requires any medication, how is this managed?
What meals will my son get at the School?
TECHNOLOGY, BEHAVIOUR & WEEKEND LIFE
My son has a food allergy/dietary requirements - how will this be managed?
Learning & Activities
What Curriculum will my son access at Merchiston?
Where can I access my son’s academic and activities’ timetable?
My son requires learning support. How does this work?
What sport and activities can my son access at Merchiston?
What music provision will my son be able to access at the School?
Can my son join the Pipe Band?
Uniform & Kit
What uniform and personal items will my son need?
Will my son need to wear a kilt and what type shall we purchase?
Where can I purchase uniform items?
Will my son be able to access laundry services at School?
Guardianship & International Information
Will my son need a Guardian?
We are an international family. Will my son need a VISA?
What are the requirements if my son travels internationally to/from School?
What are the requirements if my son is currently at a school outside the UK?
My son’s first language isn’t English. Will he have access to EAL (English as an Additional Language) support?
CONTENTS
Rules & Policies
Where can I find the School policies?
What information can I access via the Parent Portal?
What are the rules around device use at the School?
My son is in VI Form and has a car. Can he drive it to School?
SCHOOL LIFE & ROUTINES
Will my son be able to access shops in the local area?
Welcome
At Merchiston, learning is seriously fun—a balance of challenge and joy where pupils are encouraged to think deeply, grow confidently, and enjoy the journey. We value not only academic excellence but also character, resilience, and strong, respectful relationships. Our goal is to prepare young people not just for examinations, but for life—with curiosity, compassion, and purpose.
As an intentionally small school, we ensure every child is known, supported, and inspired. From our coeducational nursery and junior school to our all-boys senior school, each pupil benefits from a personalised education within a warm, ambitious, and nurturing environment.
Excellence at Merchiston is pursued with care and intention—whether in the classroom, on the sports field, in the boarding house, or beyond. Above all, we aim to develop young people who are grounded, self-aware, and ready to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.
This Parent Guide is designed to support you as you join the Merchiston community. Inside, you will find everything you need to know about daily routines, academic expectations, co-curricular opportunities, pastoral care, and how we work in partnership with families to help every boy flourish.
We look forward to welcoming you to our community.
Huw Jones Head
SCHOOL LIFE
Who is my son’s House Parent and how can I contact them?
You can email or phone your son’s House Parent - you will find their contact details on the Parent Portal. They will also be very happy to meet in person or via a video call.
The House Parent will keep in close contact with you and are a key figure in your son’ s journey at Merchiston; they help you as a family to get the best out of your son whilst he is at the School.
Who else will be looking after my son at School?
At Merchiston we ensure your son will be surrounded by a strong network of support throughout his time here. His House Parent will have a broad overview of all of your son' s care and needs.
In terms of academic support, your son will have a dedicated tutor, to support him with his academic work. Full details of Curriculum and Reporting can be found on the Academic section of the Parent Portal.
We have dedicated staff that lead the Support for Learning, and English as an Additional Language, should your son require extra support with learning or language skills.
Nurses are also always available throughout the school day - as are the Chaplain and other local health providers. Your son may prefer to receive ‘out of school’ help. This can be arranged with specialist agencies, if required. There is also a Counsellor service available.
Services and Assemblies: how will my son be involved?
Chapel service and Assemblies are an integral part of our School life. Below is an overview of regular events:
Whole-School Assemblies: every Tuesday morning at 8.10am
Sectional Assemblies: weekly (Monday- Juniors; Thursday- Middle Years; Friday- Sixth Form)
Boarders ’ Services (Sundays at 10 30am or, more frequently, 7 00pm)
Whole-School Services for occasions such as Harvest, Remembrance, Advent, Commemoration It is important for the school' s community spirit that all pupils (day and boarder) attend the Whole School Services
We very much welcome parents, families & guardians to attend our Whole-School Services, the dates of which can be found in the School Calendar Reminders for these events are also generally sent out closer to the date
Will my son be involved in weekend activities?
Weekends at school offer a rich and varied programme of trips, events, and activities designed to give boarders fun, relaxation, and new experiences outside of the classroom Day Plus and Day Boys are also warmly encouraged to join in, with Day Plus pupils receiving priority booking for places
Past activities have included:
Watching Scotland play at Murrayfield
Exploring the Edinburgh Christmas Markets
Go-karting, paintball, and crazy golf
Movie nights, escape rooms, and more
There’s always something on offer to suit different interests, and we aim to make weekends a highlight of school life
Leave-Out
On occasion, students may request a Leave-Out - an overnight stay away from school on a Saturday night These are typically granted for special family events (e g celebrations or gatherings)
To request leave-out, please contact your child’s House Parent by Thursday evening of that week, providing:
Contact details (address and telephone number)
Clear information about the leave-out plans
Please note:
Leave-out begins after lunch on Saturday, once all school commitments (such as sports fixtures) are fulfilled
Students are expected to return to their House by 6:30pm on Sunday if there is a Boarders’ Service that evening
Boarding- In
At certain times in the year, the school holds Boarding-In Weekends, when all boarders are expected to remain in school. These weekends are an important part of community life and usually include a Whole School Service on the Sunday. Please refer to the School Calendar for dates.
Weekend Leave
We also have designated Weekend Leave dates when most boarders go home or stay with their guardians School typically finishes early on Friday afternoon, with no Saturday school or commitments that weekend
Boarders who choose to remain in school during Weekend Leave may do so for a small charge During these weekends, all remaining boarders will be accommodated in one of the Laidlaw Houses
What Clan will my son join and what are School Clans?
At Merchiston, the clan system is a cherished tradition that plays a significant role in school life, fostering a strong sense of community, belonging, and healthy competition among the boys
Every student is assigned to one of four clans- Dreghorn, Pentland, Redford, or Spylaweach proudly represented by its distinctive colour: blue, green, red, and purple, respectively Once you have been informed of your son’s assigned clan, it is important to order the correct clan-coloured top
The clans provide more than just group identity; they encourage teamwork, leadership, and school spirit. Throughout the year, the boys participate in various competitions and events where they earn points for their clan These include the annual Whole School Cross-Country and Sports Day This system motivates the boys to support one another, build friendships across year groups, and develop a genuine pride in their clan
For parents, the clan system offers a wonderful opportunity to see your son fully engaged in school life, forming connections and developing a sense of camaraderie that extends beyond the classroom Whether competing in sporting events or taking part in creative challenges, his clan provides a supportive community and a source of pride that enriches his overall experience at Merchiston.
In the interest of family tradition, we generally assign boys who have other Merchistonians in their family to the same clan Please note, however, that while we strive to accommodate this, it is not always possible
Will my son join the Merchistonian Club once he graduates from Merchiston?
Each year graduating pupils of Merchiston Castle School, become officially known as Merchistonians and join the ranks of the Merchistonian Club- a vibrant, global community that supports its members long after they leave The Club offers a wealth of opportunities, including introductions, job prospects, networking events, and career mentoring, helping former pupils thrive wherever their paths lead
Beyond professional support, the Club hosts a rich social calendar filled with annual dinners, class reunions, and informal gatherings around the world. Sporting passion remains a core part of the Merchistonian experience, with Sport Secretaries actively arranging fixtures ranging from curling and cricket to fives and fly-fishing, offering members competitive and social engagement reminiscent of their school days.
Members stay informed and connected through the Merchistonian Club section in the School Magazine, featuring personal stories, news, career highlights, contact updates, and upcoming events. In addition, a monthly newsletter keeps Alumni up to date with the latest Club news and opportunities.
Membership is open to boys who have been at the School for one year or more and are over 16.Further details on membership cost is available from the Head of Finance and Leavers will be offered the option to join during their last Term, with the charge being added to their final School bill.
The Club thrives because of its active members, and new alumni are warmly encouraged to get involved and contribute to this dynamic network.
To contact the Club, please email merchistonians@merchiston.co.uk
SCHOOL ROUTINES
School Routines
What time is my son expected at school and when shall I collect him?
Your son ’ s day will generally start with Roll Call (registration) in the respective House Roll Call timings will depend on Assemblies and will therefore vary between year groups See below more information on the weekly sectional Assemblies and a full overview of the dropoff and pick-up times
Monday: Juniors’ Assembly - 8:20 am
Tuesday: Whole School Assembly - 8:10 am
Thursday: Middle Years’ Assembly - 8:20 am
Friday: Sixth Form Assembly - 8:20 am
Juniors Day Plus Flexi-Boarding
Registration/ Roll Call Pick-Up
Monday
8:10am
4:30pm end of school day
5:40pm if staying for tea
Tuesday
8:00am Wednesday
6:30pm after prep (does not apply below I Form)
8:20am no prep option
Thursday 8:20am
Friday 8:20am
4:30pm end of school day
5:40pm if staying for tea
6:30pm after prep (does not apply below I Form)
*no tea option below I Form -collection at 4:30pm.
Regular pick-up I Form and up
follow Day Plus pick-up schedule on non-boarding days
Middle Years
Tuesday 8:00am
Wednesday 8:20am
Monday 8:20am 4:30pm by 8:00pm by 8:00pm on non-boarding days n/a - boarding at the school
Thursday 8:10am
Friday 8:20am
Saturday
Sixth Form
Tuesday 8:00am
Wednesday 8:20am
Monday 8:20am 4:30pm by 8:00pm by 8:00pm on non-boarding days n/a - boarding at the school
Thursday 8:20am
Friday 8:10am
Saturday
*see information below the table section after end of Period 4 (i.e. 12:20) or after final commitment of the day n/a
OnSaturdays,boysareexpectedtoeitherplayinsportsfixturesorattendElectivesinschool.
DetailsofsportfixturetimingscanbefoundonSOCsandboysinvolvedinfixturesshouldregisterwiththeir respectivecoaches.BoysarrivingintoschoolforelectivesshouldregisterinHouse-
timings vary and will be as per communication from your son ’ s House Parent Saturdays collection will be at the end of Period 4, at 12:20 - or after your son ’ s final commitment of the day
Full timings for the school day (including meal times) can be found on the Merchiston Parent Portal in the ‘School Day’ section
What is the process if my son is going to be late for School?
If for any reason your son is running late for school, we ask that please follow the below procedure:
Send a text message to the House Parent Mobile number to inform them that your son will be late
Remind your son to check in with a member of his House staff team, in House
If he is unable to speak to any of his House staff team, he is to go to the Reception or Medical Centre to sign in and then go to his class/commitment
What is the process if my son is going to be absent from School?
Please do let the House Parent know in advance if your son is going to be absent from school, for any reason All requests will be reviewed by the House Parent and may be referred to the Deputy Head for approval
On occasions Sixth Form pupils might have to leave school on an unaccompanied trip; this might be for a University Open Day, a representative sporting fixture, an interview or a number of other reasons For such trips, we require a full itinerary, copies of travel tickets and parental permission All documentation needs to be submitted at least 48 hours prior to the trip
For any unplanned absence, we would kindly ask that you make contact with your son ’ s House Parent by 8 00am GMT, that morning
Does my son need to sign-out when leaving School?
It is very important that your son signs out when leaving the School This applies to all pupils and timings will depend on whether your son is a Day/DayPlus student or FlexiBoarder/Boarder
For Day Boys, for example, this should happen at the end of the school day
If your son has not signed out when leaving the school, we will contact you to confirm your son ' s location This may be done via an automated text message sent to the contact numbers we hold on file for each pupil
My son is a boarder: what happens during School holidays and Weekend Leave?
Parents of boarding students will be sent a form to complete ahead of Half Term and end of Term breaks, as well as Weekend Leave This form will allow the School to gather information on your son ’ s travel arrangements and date/times of departure and return to School.
The accurate filling in of the form is not only vital in terms of ensuring your son ' s safety and ease of travel, but also enables us to comply with UKVI requirements for sponsored students At the end of each Half Term, including the end of Terms, every boy must return home or stay with his appointed Guardian(s)
HEALTH & WELLBEING
Health & Wellbeing
How will my son access the Medical Centre if he is unwell?
In the event that your son becomes unwell during his time at school, you can rest assured that he will receive appropriate and professional care
The Medical Centre is staffed by fully qualified registered nurses who provide day-to-day medical support, oversee ongoing health needs, and maintain regular communication with parents when necessary
While there are no fixed times for pupils to visit the Medical Centre, boys are encouraged to attend during break times for non-urgent matters, in order to minimise disruption to their academic and co-curricular commitments
Outside of school hours, the initial point of contact for medical advice is NHS 24
The School’s Medical Officers are General Practitioners based at Colinton Medical Practice, located adjacent to the school Weekly clinics are held on site, and all boarders are registered as NHS patients with the School Doctor, who is responsible for delivering general medical services throughout the school year
If my son requires any medication, how is this managed?
It is very important that you let our medical staff know (as part of the Medical Questionnaire) about any medication that your son is currently taking or is required to take
This health questionnaire containing family history, immunisation status, drug sensitivities and current treatment must be completed for every pupil and should be returned to School prior to your son starting at Merchiston Please remember that it is a condition of the School’s contract with parents that they disclose any physical or emotional needs which may impact on the School’s care of their child
The Medical Centre will liaise directly with the House Parent to ensure the medication is stored in a safe place and is also administered when needed, in a safe and controlled way
What meals will
my
son get at the School?
Feeding your son’s body is every bit as important as feeding his mind After all, his days will be packed with learning, sport and activities, not to mention the important business of growing
The team of chefs from Chartwells Independent, our caterers, source the finest ingredients, locally wherever practical, to ensure your son enjoys a choice of appetising, nutritious and delicious meals throughout the day
Here are some sample menus for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
The below table details what meals you son will be offered throughout the School day:
Day
Day Plus Flexi-Boarding Boarding
Access to Breakfast Club, by booking (7:30am)
Breakfast on boarding days
Access to Breakfast Club on non-boarding days, by booking (7:30am)
Breakfast (MonSat)/Sunday Brunch
Your son’s House has a kitchen where snacks can be prepared at breaks. Our Catering Team supplies Houses with a daily delivery of snacks, milk & fruit. You can find a sample snack guide here.
My son has a food allergy/dietary requirements - how will this be managed?
There is a daily vegetarian option and we use Halal meat wherever possible. If your son has special dietary requirements or allergies, the General Manager is very happy to meet with you to discuss these and we have a dedicated Dietary Counter in the Dining Hall.
LEARNING & ACTIVITIES
Learning & Activities
What Curriculum will my son access at Merchiston?
You will find a number of Curriculum Booklets and Academic Information on the Parent Portal, that cover all aspects of the Curriculum taught here at Merchiston. Here you will also find External Exams, Results Information, UCAS and Careers Information. Please see below a summary of our Junior, GCSE and Sixth Form curriculum.
Junior Curriculum
Our curriculum at Merchiston Juniors is designed with the following principles in mind:
Challenge and enjoyment
Breadth
Progression
Depth
Personalisation and choice
Coherence
Relevance
Four capacities:
Successful Learners
Confident individuals
Responsible citizens
Effective contributors
GCSE Curriculum
The GCSE Curriculum at Merchiston is designed to give your son as wide a choice of subject combinations as is possible The Curriculum booklet contains the course descriptions written by the relevant Heads of Department and are a very helpful tool to give an idea of the content of each GCSE subject GCSE Please note that when we mention GCSE in general text, we are referring to either GCSE or International GCSE courses: specific information to this point is available in the subject sections
The GCSE Curriculum will unfold as follows:
Fourth Form: broad-based foundation
Shell: start of a 2-year GCSE course of studies
Fifth Form: GCSE (or IGCSE) public
Examinations
The reason behind GCSE subject choice is due to the demanding programme of in-depth academic study; it is not possible for your son to continue with all subjects to this level, and so a selection must be made. In addition, everyone has certain individual academic strengths and interests: it is sensible for him to build on these strengths by studying their preferred subjects in greater detail.
Flexibility of choices
Most students in the Middle Years do not yet have a specific career path in mind For this reason we encourage your son to follow a broad range of subjects to GCSE: in this way a good base is provided for further specialisation in the Sixth Form and beyond
The National Curriculum has a set of core subjects that remain compulsory at GCSE level; this core is extended at Merchiston to comprise:
English Language and English Literature or English as an Additional Language (EAL)
Mathematics, which can be gained as either a Higher Tier or Foundation Tier qualification
Science: three sciences are studied either as single subjects or through the Double Award route Any desire to study only two sciences must be discussed fully with the Academic Leadership Team
Modern Foreign Languages: at least one to be studied
Religious Studies (non-examined)
Personal, Social, and Health Education (PSHE)
Sixth Form Curriculum
At Merchiston, we are in the fortunate position of being able to offer to our Sixth Form pupils three types of globally-recognised, ‘gold standard’ qualifications: English A Levels, BTECs and Scottish Highers
Whilst we remain committed to providing the academic rigour offered by A-Level study, our bespoke Curriculum affords us the opportunity to capitalise on the advantages of both English and Scottish systems by offering uniquely tailored combinations of qualifications, with outstanding outcomes for our pupils across the board.
All Merchiston pupils take (at least) four subjects in the Lower Sixth year and the majority will follow the traditional ‘three A Levels route’ to university However, in an increasing number of cases, such as those in which it is the pupil’s intention or desire to keep his options open and study a wider variety of subject disciplines, it can be advantageous to pursue a combination of A Level, BTEC and Higher qualifications in the Upper Sixth year
Please refer to the Sixth Form Academic Booklet for further details on Sixth Form subjects and courses
Where can I access my son ’ s academic and activities’ timetable?
You will be able to access the following, on the Parent Portal:
Academic Timetable
Weekly instrumental lessons
Published end of Term reports
My son requires learning support. How does this work?
At Merchiston, we take a whole-school approach to Support for Learning Every teacher is responsible for supporting the individual needs of the pupils in their class, and our Support for Learning Department works closely with staff to provide guidance on research-based teaching strategies that help every boy achieve his full potential
This support may involve extending and challenging more able learners or providing tailored assistance for pupils with specific learning differences, such as dyslexia, dyspraxia, ASD, or ADHD
Your son will have access to a range of weekly drop-in sessions for individual subjects should he require additional academic support. A dedicated Support for Learning drop-in session is also available each week
If your son has identified additional support needs, the Support for Learning Department will work in partnership with you and your son to create a personalised profile This helps teachers apply the most effective strategies to support his learning in the classroom
Where appropriate, boys may receive timetabled Support for Learning sessions, held in the Harvey Hub These sessions typically focus on developing literacy, revision strategies, and exam technique Many pupils have achieved excellent results through this structured and supportive approach, regardless of any challenges they may face
If your son requires support, it is essential that this is disclosed at the time of registration by completing the relevant section on the medical and learning disclosure form contained in this pack This information does not influence the admissions decision, but it enables us to plan ahead and ensure that any necessary support is in place, allowing all pupils to fully access the school curriculum
What sport and activities can my son access at Merchiston?
At Merchiston, sport is much more than just physical activity - it’s a vital part of nurturing wellbeing and confidence We believe that engaging in sport helps pupils develop not only strength and fitness but also resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills that extend beyond the playing field Sport supports mental and emotional wellbeing by encouraging healthy habits, relieving stress, and fostering a positive sense of achievement
Your son will be encouraged to participate in both team and individual sports throughout the year, ensuring a balanced and varied sporting experience In the Autumn and Lent terms, the main focus is on Rugby, where pupils develop core skills, strategic thinking, and teamwork During the Summer term, the emphasis shifts to Cricket and Athletics, offering opportunities to build speed, coordination, and competitive spirit Sport is genuinely for all here and your son can choose from up to 20 different sports
In addition to these three major sports - Rugby, Cricket, and Athletics - the School also runs specialist academy programmes in Tennis and Golf. These academies provide tailored coaching and development opportunities for pupils demonstrating particular enthusiasm or potential, helping them to refine their skills and compete at regional or national levels.
Our wide-ranging sporting programme is designed to help pupils uncover hidden talents and passions they might not have explored before. With access to excellent facilities - including modern pitches, indoor courts and a sports hall - pupils train and compete in a supportive environment focused on boosting their confidence and overall wellbeing.
Beyond skill development, we emphasize the importance of balancing physical performance with mental and emotional health. Through regular fixtures, tournaments, and house competitions, pupils build friendships, enjoy camaraderie, and experience the joy of personal progress. Whether playing competitively or for fun, every pupil is supported to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally - making sport a cornerstone of a happy, healthy school life.
What music provision will my son be able to access at the School?
Music plays a vibrant role in life at Merchiston. All boys study Music as part of the curriculum from J5 through to Fourth Form, with the option to continue at GCSE and in the Sixth Form.
Beyond the classroom, there is a rich co-curricular offering, including instrumental tuition, choirs, ensembles, pipe band, jazz band, and concert opportunities. Pupils are encouraged to take up a musical instrument, developing not only technical skill but also confidence in public performance and collaborative music-making.
For more detailed information, including instrumental lesson policies and ensemble opportunities, please refer to the full Music document available on the Parent Portal.
Can my son join the Pipe Band?
The Pipe Band is a unique fusion of music and sport and allows pupils to gain confidence in performing and developing those all-important teamwork skills. The Pipe Band performs and competes regularly locally, nationally and internationally - as well as featuring at many School events throughout the year.
Recent highlights for the Pipe Band include our tour to New York Tartan Week and placing in the prize list with a 4th place finish at the British Pipe Band Championships in Novice Juvenile B. This was the first time the Pipe Band has competed at this level and bodes well that more success can come with continued hard work.
Merchiston offers a player pathway program through three levels, Pipe Band Club, Development Pipe Band and the Firsts Pipe Band. With 20% of the School involved in the Pipes and Drums it really is a fantastic opportunity to be a part of something special at Merchiston.
Contact Director of Pipes and Drums Mr K Warren for more details on how your son can join the Pipes and Drums program
Details of instrumental lessons and can be found on the Pipes and drums instrumental lessons policy and pipe band membership guide for parents. A comprehensive list of ‘Extra Charges’ is available from the Head of Finance
UNIFORM & KIT
Uniform & Kit
What
uniform and personal items will my son need?
Full uniform and kit lists can be found on the Merchiston Parent Portal
General
Information on Clothing
We highly recommend that you name everything Remember it is not enough to initial items or write names on with a pen, as these wash out over time Items should therefore be named before your son arrives at school, bedding items (such as duvet covers) should also be named
Academic Kit
We kindly ask that your son comes to school with a pencil case containing the following essential items:
Several blue or black ink pens
Several graphite pencils
Highlighters and an eraser
A 30cm ruler, protractor, and a pair of compasses
A scientific calculator
Teachers may recommend any additional specialist equipment required for specific subjects as the term progresses
Please note that correction fluid is not permitted in school
For pupils who are boarding:
If you son is boarding at School, in addition to the items indicated in the uniform and kit lists above, they should also have access to the following:
Smart Casual: Please can you also ensure that your son has a smart casual outfit. By this we mean a pair of chino trousers, a collared shirt and smart shoes such as loafers or deck shoes and not trainers.
Casual clothes: Boys will need to bring comfortable clothes to relax in, they will be wearing these before and after school every day. T-shirt, hoodie and sweatpants are the default for most boarding students.
Devices
All electrical items will be logged on the electrical list taken at the start of Term. We ask boys to remember to log any new items during the course of the term with their House Parent. Also, if the device has a non-UK plug - please do remember some socket and power adapters. Any expensive items should be covered by your own insurance policy.
Use of Deodorant
We ask that your son uses a roll-on deodorant please; aerosol deodorant is not allowed due to effects on those with asthma and the risk of setting off fire alarms
Personal items
To help your son feel more at home in the boarding house, we recommend packing a few personal items that provide comfort and familiarity - such as favourite posters, photos of family and friends, or books he uses regularly These simple touches can make his room feel welcoming and truly his own
Labelling Items
We kindly ask all parents to ensure that every item of clothing and personal belongings is clearly labelled Labels should include your child’s first name and family name (e g , Alex Smith) This makes identification straightforward for staff and students alike.
Labels can be ordered online directly from a range of suppliers Whether you choose sew-in, iron-on, or stick-on options, please ensure they are durable enough to withstand regular washing and wear
Will my son need to wear a kilt and what type shall we purchase?
At Merchiston, boys wear a kilt for Sunday morning (Whole School) chapel services, and for formal dances, choir performances, and special occasions such as Prizegiving, Graduation etc. Many boys also like to wear the kilt to informal dances with a white shirt (or even a rugby jersey to ‘dress it down’)
If your son already has a kilt, he can of course wear it - just look through the details for each year group requirements below If your son does not have a kilt, this can be purchased ahead of the start of Term or when you arrive
At the start of Term, the School arranges for Leith Mills to bring a selection of kilts to school We appreciate that a new full kilt regalia is expensive, so good quality second hand ones are available via The School Uniform Exchange Shop, which will also be open at the start of Term You may even find very good quality second-hand ones in shops in Edinburgh
Unless your son is a member of the Pipe Band, there is no special plaid or tartan which he needs to wear (with the exception of Pipe Band members) but your kilt must be a clan tartan If you have Scottish connections, then the tartan can be one appropriate to your family If you have no Scottish family links, then just choose a tartan which you like As a guide to correct length, the kilt should not quite touch the floor when you are kneeling down with both knees on the floor
To complete the formalwear, you son will be expected to wear: a white shirt a kilt jacket:
Junior and Middle Years should wear a tweed jacket
Sixth Form pupils can choose between a tweed, Argyll or ‘Prince Charlie’(most formal) jacket their school tie - or a plain coloured (or tartan) tie knee-high woollen kilt socks in tone with the jacket (no cream socks, please) a leather sporran their school laced black shoes or Ghillie Brogues garter flashes
Kilt belts are optional If you are in doubt, do ask for advice from your supplier
Kiltwear can be purchased from either of the suppliers listed below:
Leith Mills: Leith Mills, 70/74 Bangor Rd, Edinburgh EH6 5JU tel: +44(0)131 553 5161
Kinloch Anderson: 4 Dock Street, Leith, Edinburgh, EH6 6EY, tel +44 (0) 131 555 1390 email: enquiries@kinlochanderson com
Where can I purchase uniform items?
Merchiston has partnered with BE Uniforms, a well-established, family-run company located just 10 minutes from the school BE Uniforms stocks the full range of school uniform, sportswear, and sundry items, and offers a dedicated online service specifically for Merchiston families
Orders can be delivered directly to your home address or to the School. A convenient clickand-collect option is also available from the BE Uniforms store
Our Second-hand Uniform Shop remains available on campus and can be visited by appointment To arrange a suitable time, please contact the Main School Reception
For all BE Uniforms enquiries, please contact: support@beuniforms.co.uk
To book an appointment for the Second-hand Uniform Shop, please contact:
Tel: +44 (0)131 312 2200
Email: reception@merchiston co uk
Will my son be able to access laundry services at School?
The School operates an onsite laundry service that handles a range of items, including all school/smart shirts, duvet covers, underwear, socks, casual clothing, as well as rugby and sports kit
Items such as school jackets, kilts, trousers (whether washable or not), sweaters (whether washable or not), and ties are professionally dry cleaned The cost of dry cleaning is charged directly to your son ’ s account
Please note, it is recommended that pupils avoid bringing clothing that requires specialised laundering facilities
Guardianship & International Information
Will my son need a Guardian?
At Merchiston, we require all pupils whose primary address is outside the UK to have an appointed Educational Guardian. This is a legal requirement in Scotland for all boarding students under the age of 16, and a school policy for those aged 16 to 18.
UKVI Compliance
To comply with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) regulations, all students who are not UK domiciled must have a confirmed guardianship arrangement before applying for a sponsored visa. Proof of guardianship must be submitted as part of the visa application process.
Who Can Be a Guardian?
We accept guardians who meet one of the following criteria: Are registered with a professional guardian agency Are close relatives or family friends who are British citizens or hold settled status in the UK
Are residents within a reasonable distance from the school (please check with your son’ s House Parent if in doubt)
We strongly recommend choosing a guardian through a member agency of AEGIS (The Association for the Education and Guardianship of International Students).
If you have any questions about guardianship requirements or need support in appointing a suitable guardian, please contact the Admissions Team or your son’s House Parent.
We are an international family. Will my son need a VISA?
At Merchiston, we are committed to supporting all families through the visa and immigration process while ensuring full compliance with UKVI regulations. Below is a summary of the key requirements for students who need a visa to study in the UK.
Sponsored Student Visas (Tier 4/Child Student Visa)
For those requiring a sponsored student visa, a limited number of Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) are available and are issued via our visa processing partner, Holmes & Partners
To begin the visa application process, the following must be in place:
Offer letter issued and deposit paid
Copy of valid passport
Proof of appointed guardianship
Parental contact details
We recommend allowing at least 8 weeks to complete the visa process. Holmes & Partners will notify us once the process is complete, and we will receive a full copy of the documentation for our records.
Arrival and Compliance Procedures
Upon arrival at the School:
House Parents will collect passports from all sponsored students for secure storage Passport movements will be logged and monitored to meet compliance requirements All travel details (including arrival and departure dates and times) must be communicated promptly and accurately to your son ’ s House Parent This ensures that we can provide appropriate documentation if requested by immigration authorities, particularly in the context of an inspection
Other Visa Types
If your child is travelling under a different immigration route (e.g. BNO, Dependant Visa, or ETA), we will collect and record the relevant visa and passport details during the Admissions process. This documentation is securely stored for compliance and inspection purposes.
What are the requirements if my son travels internationally to/from School?
UK law requires that students under the age of 16 must:
Be accompanied as far as security and seen through security when travelling internationally Be collected by a responsible adult upon arrival
Most airlines require that children under the age of 12 travelling alone are booked as Unaccompanied Minors. It is the responsibility of parents or guardians to arrange the appropriate flight booking and complete any necessary documentation. Any relevant documents should be shared with your son’ s House Parent for information and safekeeping.
Please be aware that airline policies regarding unaccompanied travel can vary. We strongly advise that you check directly with your chosen airline to ensure all requirements are met.
What are the requirements if my son is currently at a school outside the UK?
Below is an overview of the key steps and documentation required if your son is currently studying at an international school.
Assessments and Interview
All applicants are required to take part in an assessment and interview, led by a member of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT). This interview is with the pupil only and is designed to:
Assess suitability for the School academically and pastorally Confirm the identity of the applicant (proof that the student is who they say they are)
Required Documentation
In order to formalise an offer of a place, we must receive the following documents:
Passport and/or Birth Certificate
For UK applicants, one of these is sufficient For international applicants, both will be requested for visa and compliance reasons
School Reference and Academic Reports from the applicant’s current school
These must be sent directly from the school whenever possible, so as to ensure their authenticity Depending on the type of School and the age, we might request exam results and/or reports
Where applicable any Support for Learning information is also to be sent to the school
English Language Assessment
Where applicable, pupils will have a meeting with our English as an Additional Language (EAL) team to assess their level of English and determine whether any necessary support is required.
Subject Choices
Prior to joining, pupils will have the opportunity to discuss subject choices with a member of the Academic Leadership Team (ALT). We aim to arrange this meeting in advance of arrival, wherever possible.
My son’s first language isn’t English. Will he have access to EAL (English as an Additional Language) support?
At Merchiston, we are committed to providing effective and tailored support for our international pupils who speak English as an additional language (EAL)
EAL support is organised at the start of each academic year or term, based on individual pupil needs. For those with developing English skills, it may be appropriate to replace certain classes - such as Modern Languages or Latin - with additional English language support, including in-class assistance when necessary. Nevertheless, we encourage pupils to participate fully in mainstream classes wherever possible to facilitate their full integration into school life.
All pupils requiring EAL support undergo an assessment upon entry to ensure the appropriate level of assistance. Pupils who meet the English language requirements typically follow the mainstream IGCSE English curriculum. Alternatively, many choose to study the Cambridge B1 PET or B2 First qualifications, which are offered from 2 Form through V Form. These courses are especially suited to short-term pupils or those wishing to pursue accredited English language qualifications.
For international VI Form pupils, preparation for the IELTS examination - often required for university admission and visa purposes - is available through small group or one-to-one tuition.
Please note that there is an additional charge for EAL sessions; full details of ‘Extra Charges’ available from the Head of Finance.
We ensure that this cost fairly reflects the high-quality support and expertise offered by our EAL department.
The EAL team is always available to assist with any academic challenges related to English language learning, ensuring that every pupil has the opportunity to thrive.
RULES & POLICIES
Rules & Policies
Where can I find the School policies?
All of the school policies are available on request and the following policies are available directly from the Merchiston Parent Portal:
International Student Policy
Pastoral Policies
Access, Security and Visitors Policy
Alcohol and Drugs Policy
Anti-Bullying Policy
Attendance Policy
Behaviour Management Policy
Child Sexual Exploitation Policy
Child Wellbeing and Protection Policy
Child Wellbeing and Protection Guidance
Complaints Policy
Confidentiality Policy
Food and Nutrition Policy
Gender Policy
Knives and Offensive Weapons Policy
Missing Child Policy
Missing Items Policy
Personal Device Policy
Physical Contact and Safe Touch Policy
Prefect Policy
Self-Harm Policy
Smoking & Vaping Policy
Health & Safety Policies
Electrical Appliances Policy
Pupils With Cars in School Policy
Digital Policies
Personal Learning Device Policy
Photography Policy
What information can I access via the Parent Portal?
School Information
Parent Guide
Key Contacts
Key Contacts - Houses (House Welcome Videos)
Policies & School Vision
Opening Times
School Day (DAILY ROUTINE)
School Transport
IT information
ACCEPTABLE USAGE AGREEMENTS
PERSONAL LEARNING DEVICES
DIGITAL DEVICES
Parents' Forum (Parents' Forum Aims & Reps, & minutes)
Pupil Leaders
School Shop and Uniform
Uniform Lists by form
Mouth Guard Letter
Uniform Exchange Shop
Catering and Nutrition
Pupils' Charter and general guidelines
Good Schools Guide (external link)
Calendar and Term Dates (School Calendar)
Academic
External Exams and Results Information
Academic Information
Curriculum Booklets
UCAS Information Careers
Sport (Sports Results & Fixtures)
Activities
Music Groups
Musical Instrument Lessons (Music Instrument Lessons Form, Instrumental Lessons Policy, Pipes and Drums Instrumental Lessons Policy and Pipe Band Membership Guide for Parents)
Pipe Band
Trips
Community Service and Charity
Combined Cadet Force (CCF)(CCF information for Shell)
PSHE
New Parents
New Pupil - Forms to be completed
Guardian Form
Medical Health Questionnaire
Parental Consent - Activities and Trips Form
Photography Consent Form (under 12s only)
Safeguarding and Wellbeing Lead information
Getting to Know You
Health Insurance - apply for AXA Health Insurance
Healthcare New Pupils information
Insurance for Pupil Absence and Pupils’ Personal Belongings
Refund or Personal Property insurance, please contact the Bursary
Insurance - Personal Accident
Insurance - Personal Property
Insurance - Fees Return
Medical Centre Information
Personal Learning Device Policy
Personal Learning Device Policy
IT information
Wellbeing and Support
Orah
Counselling
Chaplaincy
Tooled Up
Merchiston Juniors Post
What are the rules around device use at the School?
In today’ s world, information and communication technology (ICT) plays a vital role in all aspects of life - particularly for young people. The rapid pace of technological change brings both exciting opportunities and important challenges While mobile phones and personal devices are now commonplace, it is essential that their use is approached with responsibility and care
Ownership and management of personal devices remain the responsibility of pupils and their parents The School is committed to supporting pupils in understanding and fulfilling their responsibilities around safe and responsible device use
Rather than implementing a universal ban, we focus on educating pupils about selfregulation and responsible digital behaviour We believe that sensible limits on screen time and appropriate usage controls can have significant benefits, and we insist on these safeguards being in place
All electronic communication by pupils must adhere to the Acceptable Use Agreement, which is signed by every pupil annually Parents can access a copy of this agreement on the Parent Portal
My son is in VI Form and has a car. Can he drive it to School?
Many Sixth Form students choose to undertake driving lessons during their time at Merchiston To minimise disruption, we ask that all driving lessons be scheduled after 4:30pm, with lesson times subject to the approval of the student’ s House Parent
If your son is a UVI day pupil and he wishes to drive to school, you must submit a written request to the Deputy Head Wellbeing to seek permission If granted, pupils may park their vehicles in the designated car park adjacent to the Art Department Please note that permission is not guaranteed and will be considered on a case-by-case basis
If permission is granted, the following conditions apply:
Pupils are not permitted to carry any passengers to or from school without explicit permission from the School and the consent of both the driver’ s and passenger ’ s parents
All pupils must observe speed limits on school grounds and comply with parking instructions
Car keys must be signed in and out with the House Parent whenever a vehicle is brought onto school premises
Any breach of these guidelines, or any reckless driving, will result in withdrawal of permission to drive to school
Further details can be found in the Pupils With Cars in School Policy, available on the Parent Portal.
Will my son be able to access shops in the local area?
Students may visit Tesco and Colinton village on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons after all school commitments have been completed and no earlier than 4 30pm
VI Form and V Form students may visit Edinburgh on Saturday and Sunday - after all school commitments have been completed
There are strict guidelines on what locations students are allowed to visit in Edinburgh, and House Parents will make this guidance clear, ahead of each visit
