Merchistonian Newsletter
August /September 2025
As the new academic year unfolds at the School, we are delighted to share with you stories of accomplishment, tradition, and community from within our network.
This year is also a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with the School, return to the grounds, and meet the new Head. We are especially keen to introduce him to as many Merchistonians as possible, and hope he can join us at a variety of Club events It is important that he has the chance to get to know our vibrant community and understand the strong bonds that tie us together
The Rt Rev Dr John Armes, Bishop of Edinburgh retires
Merchiston sends its very best wishes to the The Rt Rev Dr John Armes (MCS 1969-74) on his retirement from the position of Bishop of Edinburgh, which he has held since 2012.
The Diocesan Service of Farewell took place with choral evensong at St Mary’s Episcopal Cathedral in the presence of a large congregation on Sunday 24 August.
We are delighted to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Cameron Adam (2015-2021), who continues to make waves in the world of golf.
Cameron has been recently selected as part of the GB&I team to play the USA at the next Walker Cup event.
With a string of recent successes, Cameron embodies the perseverance and sporting excellence so often nurtured at Merchiston His progress is an inspiration to the next generation of Merchistonian golfers, and we will be following his journey closely
A message from Robert Cook, Chairman of the Board of Governors:
As we begin an exciting new academic year at Merchiston, I am delighted to share with you a welcome message from our new Head, Mr Huw Jones.
This video, originally shared with parents, pupils and staff, sets out his vision and enthusiasm for the journey ahead, and I am pleased to extend it to our alumni community.
Obituaries
We were very saddened to hear of the passing of the following Merchistonians:
Cameron Adam
Reminder: Merchistonian Club Annual Dinner
7 November 2025
We are looking forward to welcoming all Merchistonians to the Merchistonian Annual Dinner on Friday, 7 November – a highlight of the Club calendar and a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and fellow alumni
We are pleased to confirm that the Early Bird offer has been extended until the end of September (follow the instructions on the booking page). We understand that many of you may have been away on holiday when the first communication was circulated, and we do not want anyone to miss out on the chance to secure their place at a discounted rate
To book your tickets now, please use the ‘Book now’ button below.
Book now
For any issues or questions, please contact the Club at merchistonians@merchiston.co.uk.
Making a weekend of it? The Merchiston 1XV will be playing Boroughmuir away in a Conference match on Saturday 8 November. KO at 10.30am. On Saturday Scotland will be taking on the All Blacks at Scottish Gas Murrayfield as part of the Autumn Test Matches KO at 3 10pm
Fundraising for Papyrus in memory of Ben Vessey
In our June edition, we shared news of a fundraiser in support of Papyrus and in memory of Merchistonian Ben Vessey (MCS 2012–17)
On Saturday 30 August, organisers and fellow Merchistonians Luca Serafini-Fracassini (MCS 2012–17) and Xander MacKay (MCS 2007–17) took on the Edinburgh 7 Hills Challenge Following the event, they joined a commemorative gathering attended by many former pupils (see image above).
The fundraiser has already raised an incredible £38,000, with donations still being accepted here.
As a gesture of support, the retiring collection at our Start of Term Service this Sunday (7 September) will also be in aid of Papyrus, recognising and celebrating this remarkable effort.
Stay connected
As always, we encourage you to stay in touch, share your news, and contact us about upcoming reunions
The best way to contact the Club is via email at merchistonians@merchiston co uk
Upcoming fixtures and results for all sporting teams at Merchiston are available to view here
Open Day - call for Alumni Ambassadors
Merchiston will be holding an Open Day on Saturday 4 October (10am1pm). If you are a Merchistonian and would like to join as an Alumni Ambassador, please get in touch with the team at marketing@merchiston.co.uk.
Luffness Golf Outing
On Sunday 31 August, the Merchistonian Golf Club enjoyed a fantastic day at Luffness for their latest event. With an excellent turnout and great camaraderie on the course, it was a memorable occasion highlights can be seen in the photo collection overleaf
Congratulations to Mike Rolland (MCS 1998-2003) who took gold and Andrew Light (MCS 2001-2003) for his silver
Merchiston’s upcoming fixtures
Luffness Golf Outing
Sunday 31 August 2025
Left to right: Freddie Ward (MCS 2007-11), Alex Thom (MCS 2013-21)& David Hutchison (MCS 1973-76) (capt.)
David Hutchison (MCS 1973-76)(capt )
Left to right: David Hutchison (MCS 1973-76)(capt ), Freddie Ward (MCS 2007-11) & Charlie Simpson (MCS 1994-98)
Mike Rolland (MCS 1998-2003)& Andrew Light (MCS 2001-2003)
George Walker (MCS 1969-74)(former capt.)
Left to right: Chris Bell (MCS 2014-19), Fin Stewart (MCS 2014-19 & Jamie Dobie (MCS 2012-19) - Winning Team
From left to right: W Graeme Dickie (MCS 1975-80), John Hewat (MCS 1951-56)& Angus Cartwright (MCS 1976-80)
We are delighted to continue Merchiston Portraits series highlighting the people shaping the School a the Merchistonian Club.
From new leaders to long-standing contributors, t stories keep our community connected to the valu progress, and legacy of Merchiston -wherever you in the world.
Giada Canderle - Marketing & Alumni Relations, Club secretary
Giada joined Merchiston in 2022, following a career with the Royal Collection Trust at the Palace of Holyroodhouse and subsequent roles across the tourism & leisure sector in business development and marketing. An Italian by birth, Giada’s heart has been firmly stolen by Scotland She now lives in Edinburgh with her husband, their toddler, and their dog, Rufus
Fluent in Italian, English, German, and Spanish, Giada brings a love of languages, culture, and community to everything she does. Outside of work, she is a figure skating coach, enjoys cooking, and loves exploring the Pentlands on long walks.
Morning person or night owl?
Morning person all the way.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I was a competitive roller figure skater from the age of 4 and competed nationally and internationally until I was 19.
Coffee or tea?
I am a coffee person, true to my Italian passport.
A quote or motto that inspires you?
“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall” - Nelson Mandela