The Chronicle 2025

The

Chronicle

A spirited snapshot of life at the school where girls are fearless and free

2025 Edition

Contents Message from the Head Why St George’s?

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High Ambition Big 4 and Mini 4 on Leadership Women in Computing STEM: F1 in schools / Can Sat / Med Soc Speaking Up and Out Careers: Thinking Big, Starting Early Speech Day

6 8 10 14 16 19

Diverse Opportunity Art Music Drama Sport Outdoor Education Camps The Great Outdoors (P5) Walking High, Aiming Higher Going through challenges (P6) Exchange (Chile and Australia) Exchange (USA and Canada) Berlin and Andalucia

20 24 28 32 44 46 48 50 51 52 54

Nurturing Hearts & Minds A Year in Pages, Voices and Ambition From Fossils to Fantasies (P1) Past, Present and Play (P2) Independent Thinking Turns to Gold Houldsworth House Cultural Kaleidoscope International Winter Fair Charity: Service, Strength and Self Discovery Charity: Soul Food and Therapets Hue’s Going to Win?

56 60 62 64 65 66 67 68 70 72

Community Parent Teacher Forum Goodbye Lansdowne! Hello One School!

Tooled Up Leaving staff Yeargroup collages: P1-S1 Valete 2025

74 76 77 78 80 88

St George's | Introduction

Letter from the Head Welcome to this year’s edition of the Chronicle, in which we are proud to be celebrating all our pupils, their successes and all the diverse opportunities they have taken up throughout the year.

2024-5 has been an exciting and significant one at St. George’s, with a huge amount happening in many areas of school and campus life. In this edition of the Chronicle, we bid farewell to our Lansdowne site. I would like to thank those of you who were able to join us for the joyful community events held to mark the contribution of our Lansdowne site to the St George’s story and reminisce over the stories and memories of time in these beautiful buildings. St George’s has always adapted to, and thrived in, the different contexts in which it has found itself and so we do so again now. The move of Middle School onto the main Ravelston campus this summer has been a huge success, and we are feeling the benefits of being a physically united community once more. No more dashing between sites to discover what amusements Remove have invented to keep themselves busy! More opportunities for the different year groups to interact and new outdoor spaces for adventure and activity.

We hope you enjoy this year’s edition of the Chronicle, which exemplifies all that we know is so special about being part of the St George’ community: Enduring friendships, a spirit of adventure and a fearless and open-hearted approach to life and all the challenges it brings. We are exceptionally proud of all that has been achieved by the pupils, with the support of all the staff, and their friends and family and look forward to another successful session this year. With grateful thanks to you all for your unique and much valued contributions to school life.

A Note from The Editor This issue is structured around three key themes that have emerged across our school community: High Ambition, Diverse Opportunity, and Nurturing Hearts and Minds. Many of the pieces featured could easily fit under more than one theme – a reflection of the richness and interconnectedness of life at our school. It has been a pleasure to put this edition together and I hope you enjoy it.

Olivia Mott

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St George's | Introduction

What Makes St George’s Unique In recent months, our Senior Leadership Team, Council and Marketing team have been revisiting what makes St George’s truly unique.

Our aim has been to distill the themes that define the St George’s experience - what makes our community, environment and student experience so compelling - and express these with clarity, consistency and confidence.

Edinburgh has a particularly high concentration of independent schools, yet St George’s holds a unique position as the city’s only all-girls school. With growing awareness of the pressures facing young people especially girls - through social media and societal expectations, our mission feels more relevant than ever: to help girls develop confidence, resilience and a strong sense of self.

Listening and Learning This process began with research, and we sincerely thank all parents who took part in focus groups, interviews and the survey. Your insight was invaluable and affirmed what families value most about a St George’s education.

From this work, three core themes emerged:

“Every girl. Every opportunity.

Every dream.”

Diverse Opportunity High Ambition No: Charity OSCR

Nurturing Hearts and Minds

Diverse Opportunity

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Our learning goes everywhere students want to take it.

From science lab to sports field, we adapt to every girl's interests and ambitions creating opportunities to discover, participate and achieve.

Examples include: • Individualised ‘Best of British’ curriculum • Broad range of trips, exchanges and adventures

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• International outlook and associated awards • Inclusive co-curricular opportunities (creative, active, performance and team-based)

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Together, these themes reflect what defines St George’s: an empowering all-girls education that nurtures confident, independent young women ready to step boldly into their future.

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St George's | Introduction

Rooted in a Pioneering Legacy Our founding principles, established over 130 years ago, remain as relevant today as ever. St George’s was built by brave Victorian women on the belief that girls deserve a full and equal education. They knew that an environment free from bias and stereotypes would encourage girls to develop their talents and passions with courage and conviction.

Today, our purpose is clear: Whether she dreams of leading a company, curing to create a learning diseases, creating art, or chasing dreams we haven’t experience where girls are even thought of yet, we give her everything fearless and free. Everything she needs to get there. we do enables our girls to explore their interests, try new Examples include: things, challenge perceptions • Outstanding academic results and achievements and discover what truly inspires • Diverse variety of destinations and career pathways them - without judgment or • Opportunities to participate, perform and lead limitation.

High Ambition

“High standards, endless possibilities.”

(incl. CCF, theatre and music) • Successful and inspiring alumnae

Championing Gender Equality

Nurturing Hearts and Minds

We are proud to play an active role in tackling gender disparity, especially in fields such as STEM An all-through school with a village feel, where genuine and sport. By inspiring the next generation of female scientists, bonds form between teachers, families and students, technologists and innovators, every girl is known, understood, and free to be herself. our girls are poised to make a From Nursery to Sixth Form, she learns in a community positive impact on society, the that truly sees her. economy and industry.

Events such as Scottish Women Examples include: and Girls in Sport Week and • Strong commitment to girls’ wellbeing Fearless Women in Computing • Focus on meta-skills and personal growth Scotland’s flagship event attracting over • Exceptional learning support 600 girls from across Edinburgh - highlight • Inclusive community the importance of encouraging girls to see • Intimate class sizes themselves in every sphere, especially those where female representation remains low.

Championing this, in all that we do - and extending our mission beyond our own school gates - is not just a passion.

It is a vital role of our brand.

“Known by name and by nature.”

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High Ambition | The Big Four

The Big Four

Verity sees leadership as advocacy. “It’s about being the voice of the pupil body,” she explains.

“I listen to what the girls are thinking and feeling and take that to staff so we can celebrate what’s working and improve what’s not.”

Anna highlights the unique culture at St George’s that fosters a collaborative, ambitious spirit. “This school has given me a real work ethic and a culture where girls encourage each other. It isn’t cut-throat.

It’s supportive ambition.”

Our Head Students share their reflections on St George’s and leadership.

For Saskia, leadership has meant stepping confidently into the spotlight. Public speaking has been a big part of the role. She shares that “the confidence to do this came from school.

I’ve been here since nursery.”

Rachel reflects on organising the Upper 6 Leavers Ball.

“Coordinating the team and managing logistics was a challenge,” she says. “It taught me to stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly, and delegate thoughtfully.”

Prefects Careers:

Chelini Abeyasinghe

Charities:

Trisha Denis and Katie McCarlie

Design, Innovation & Engineering:

Iona Maclean

Diversity:

Jemima Macaulay

International:

Sofia Konechny

Learning and Teaching: Mahdiyah Ahmed Leadership opportunities this year have included: • Chairing and facilitating Student Council meetings to ensure productive discussion and decision-making.

• Meeting regularly with the Head to communicate student feedback and contribute to school development initiatives.

• Mentoring and coordinating the wider prefect team to promote collaboration and effective leadership across year groups.

Music:

Christine Sang

L5:

Izzy Nicolson

Libraries:

Jennifer Chen

PR:

Amy Cormack and Zarah Price

Social Sciences:

Molly Mathers

Sport:

Susannah Hotson and Kayla Hui

Sustainability:

• Taking a leading role in planning and delivering major school events, including Founders’ Day, the Christmas Ball, and the Burns Supper.

Sophie Blythe and Rose Henderson

U4:

Monica Young

U5:

Louise Thomson

• Representing the school at key occasions such as Open Day, Welcome Evenings, and whole-school assemblies.

Wellbeing:

Anna Shaw

Yearbook:

Charlene Ho

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High Ambition | The Mini 4

Celebrating the Mini 4: Leadership in Action This year, our Middle School student leaders, known proudly as the Mini 4, have made a remarkable impact across the school community. Fleur (Head Student), alongside Olivia, Bess, and Charlotte (Deputy Head Students), have led with confidence, integrity, and genuine care, setting an outstanding example for their peers.

Throughout the year, the Mini 4 developed a wide range of metaskills, from communication and problemsolving to empathy and initiative. They have risen to every challenge presented to them, showing maturity beyond their years and a deep commitment to serving their school.

Key highlights of their year include: • Gathering student voice during the One School campus transition, ensuring younger voices were heard and valued.

• Playing a key role in shaping the Lansdowne Legacy Party, helping preserve memories and celebrate a chapter of school history.

Olivia

• Welcoming visitors to the school with warmth and confidence, acting as proud ambassadors for the Middle School.

• Representing the school at the Merchiston RRSA Conference, where they spoke alongside older students and shared their perspectives on children’s rights and leadership.

• Organising thoughtful celebration events for S1, creating meaningful moments of joy and connection across year groups.

Bess

Charlotte

Fleur

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High Ambition | STEM

STEM: Women in Computing Event 2024 St George’s played host to a day that felt less like a school event and more like a festival of ideas and ambition. The second annual Women in Computing drew 598 pupils from 13 schools across 4 councils – our most wide-reaching celebration of computing to date.

From the moment they arrived, girls were immersed in a buzzing atmosphere.

Corridors and classrooms became interactive labs, with more than 30 companies running workshops in robotics, AI, app design and digital creativity. Global leaders such as Amazon and Canva shared cuttingedge technologies, while partners including Storm ID and RBS helped pupils explore how design, data and digital skills shape the world around us.

Above all, it was Skyscanner’s support that ensured the event’s impact stretched beyond our own gates. By sponsoring transport, they made it possible for state schools across Edinburgh to attend – removing barriers and widening access so every girl could share in the opportunity.

The day carried weight at the highest levels too.

The Cabinet Secretary for Education, Jenny Gilruth MSP, joined the event and spoke to students, reinforcing the message that Scotland needs their voices in STEM. One pupil summed up the impact: “Seeing how advanced AI is made me want to explore a career in computing.”

What began as a St George’s initiative has already grown into a Scotland-wide movement, showcasing diverse opportunities and high ambition. Schools are eager to return, companies are queuing up to be involved, and our pupils are leaving with a sense of confidence and belonging that is changing the story of who belongs in computing.

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High Ambition | STEM

Computing continued...

This year, Computing at St George’s combined outstanding academic achievement with leadership, innovation, and real-world impact.

An impressive 85% of our Higher Computing candidates achieved an A grade, a testament to their dedication, persistence, and ambition.

We’ve launched Fearless Fridays, a pilot programme of informal sessions with industry leaders, aimed at expanding horizons and sparking ambition.

This exciting initiative will continue to grow next year, opening up opportunities not just for our own students, but for the wider community.

Finally, St George’s was proud to host a landmark Computing Roundtable, bringing together leaders from education, government, and industry to explore ways to widen participation in computing – and underlining our commitment to shaping the future of tech education.

The DressCode Coding Club continued to thrive, becoming a vibrant hub of creativity and collaboration.

Older students took on leadership roles as mentors, guiding younger Middle School pupils through app development, game design, and AI projects. Their support helped transform the club into a dynamic space where imagination meets innovation.

We were proud to see our team reach the Final Four of the DigiInventors BootCamp in Glasgow, where they presented a tech solution to a real-world problem.

This success highlights how Computing at St George’s goes far beyond the classroom. Instead, it’s about using digital skills to create meaningful change.

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High Ambition | STEM

STEM At St George’s, STEM goes beyond textbooks. It’s brought to life through practical, handson experiences in classrooms, workshops, and even launch pads. From designing space colonies to building microsatellites, our students explore real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration.

STEM is part of the journey from Junior School to Sixth Form. Whether in lessons or through enrichment activities, our students engage actively with science, technology, engineering and maths, building skills that support their future goals with confidence and enthusiasm.

Enrichment programmes like the Young Engineers Club, Young STEM Leaders, and Med Soc provide space for students to explore their interests, take initiative, and develop leadership. These are supported by partnerships with universities and industry professionals, offering students valuable insights and encouragement along the way.

As one Sixth Form student shared: “At St George’s, I’ve had the chance to build robots, write code, and even design a space colony – it’s shown me that STEM is for everyone, and that I really can make a difference.”

Highlights over the last year include:

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Med Soc: Supporting Future Healthcare Professionals

Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine

Ashmita, an integral part of Med Soc and L6 student, writes...

St George’s’ Medical Society (Med Soc) is an excellent place to delve deep into the field of medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine and explore healthcare professions. This studentled club offers the younger years the opportunity to practise their surgical skills, develop their reflective abilities through virtual work experience, hear from those working in scientific communities and truly gain an insight into the role and life of a medical professional.

At Med Soc, Upper Sixth students assist younger pupils in building on and improving their critical thinking by presenting them with ethical scenarios and encouraging them to consider how best to handle these difficult issues.

Useful tips and advice are provided on essential stages of the medical application process, such as the UCAT, the personal statement and interviews. Med Soc aims to nurture students’ interest, demonstrate the realities, and support them in achieving their goals in achieving a medical, dentistry, veterinary medicine or healthcare career.

High Ambition | STEM

F1 in Schools: A Fast Start In our first year taking part in the F1 in Schools Challenge, three teams represented St George’s at the regional finals – and made a strong impression.

In a short space of time, students created detailed portfolios, used CAD software to design and 3D print their cars, built display stands, and secured sponsorships - all while learning about branding and business strategy.

• Team Hydra placed second in the Development Class and earned a place at the National Finals. They also won the Sponsorship and Marketing Award and were nominated for Team Identity.

• Team Crystalline created the fastest car in their class and were nominated for both Sponsorship and Marketing and Best Pit Display.

• Team Blue Pilots won the Team Identity Award and received a nomination for Best Pit Display.

This early success sets a strong foundation for future involvement in the competition and builds valuable skills in teamwork, design, and innovation.

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High Ambition | STEM

CanSat: A Mini Mission with Big Impact As part of the CanSat Challenge, students worked in teams to design, build, and launch a miniature satellite (about the size of a drinks can) to collect data during a 300-metre descent.

With guidance from the University of Edinburgh’s Rocketry Society and Heriot-Watt’s Electronics Team, students learned to code, assemble, and test their

CanSats with real precision. On launch day, everything worked as planned – the satellites captured useful data and landed safely.

The project offered a great opportunity to apply technical knowledge while developing resilience, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures In our all-girls learning environment, students are encouraged to pursue STEM subjects with confidence and curiosity, free from traditional gender expectations.

Recent leavers show where this mindset can lead: • Bushra secured a Graduate Apprenticeship in Engineering Design and Manufacture with Leonardo S.p.A., a global aerospace and defence company.

• Amelia earned a place on a BA (Hons) Architectural Assistant Apprenticeship at TP Bennett, a leading UK architectural firm.

These apprenticeships are highly competitive, and many of our current Sixth Form students are also progressing to top university courses in areas such as Medicine; Mathematical Physics; 3D Modelling; Mechanical Engineering; Microbiology and Mathematics. These are just the courses beginning with ‘M’!

Maths Almost one in three Lower Sixth students take Higher Mathematics, with an impressive 78% achieving an A grade.

Regular opportunities for ‘stretch and challenge’, such as UKMT competitions, continue to drive this high level of achievement.

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High Ambition | STEM

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High Ambition | Speaking Up and Out

Speaking Up and Out

Model United Nations From MUN to MPs, from controversial topics at MisEducation to discussing the challenges of crime and justice, the Faculty of Social Sciences has dabbled in it all. These opportunities, both in school and out, have given our students wonderful chances to voice their views, speak up for issues they think are important and explore the challenges faced in our

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society. S1 loved quizzing Mrs Christine Jardine about her work and her priorities as an MP. She had such a good time that she said we could invite her back any time. We hope she doesn’t regret saying that because one student said ‘I loved being able to ask anything and get an answer’ and another commented that the discussion was ‘amazing’. If our S1s are keen now, wait

High Ambition | Speaking Up and Out

“”

until they get a chance to try out Model United Nations (MUN) now that they are in Senior School.

Where else can you take on the role of an international diplomat and get your teeth stuck into debates about food shortages or nuclear weapons? Conferences and the weekly club offer students a real opportunity to learn more about international issues. We were so proud of their contribution to the recent conferences at Peebles High School and George Watson’s College and look forward to welcoming them and many new members to our own conference in December 2025. If MUN is not your thing, MisEducation might be. An open forum for students in S4-S6, any and all topics are up for discussion, from immigration to Labubu toys – the floor is yours. This all happens in a safe and supervised way to support open and diverse dialogue.

The RMPS and Modern Studies Departments recently joined forces to host an event designed to give our examination candidates valuable insights from experts to support their study of Crime and Justice topics. Students heard from a range of outside speakers and took part in thoughtful discussions on

Where else can you take on the role of an international diplomat and get your teeth stuck into debates?

issues such as drug use and the purpose of prison sentences.

A clear highlight of the day was a dynamic presentation from our guests at Community Justice Scotland, who guided students through the challenges of creating a more compassionate and rehabilitative justice system.

Here’s to inspiring the next generation of young people – passionate, socially aware, and ready to make a difference in whatever they do!

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High Ambition | Careers

Thinking Big, Starting Early At St George’s, we know that no two girls are the same. Each pupil brings her own set of interests, quirks, talents and hopes for the future, and our careers programme is designed with that in mind. No conveyor belts, no cookiecutter templates. Just thoughtful, tailored support from the very start. That means early conversations about what lights a spark. One-to-one chats. Encouragement to think aloud and ask questions. Alongside all that personal guidance, we offer a whole menu of hands-on experiences to bring ideas to life. These include: • Lunchtime and after-school speaker events - where pupils hear directly from people doing interesting jobs.

This year we heard from former student Rachel Steadman, consultant doctor and Team GB powerlifter, and enjoyed an engaging talk from Miya Scott, who entertained us with her humorous tales about Dyson, engineering, and apprenticeships.

• Work shadowing placements and industry visits - where students get a feel for different opportunities.

These ranged from law firms to chiropractors.

• Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Medicine - early morning sessions where S5 and S6 students work through medical ethics debates.

• S1 faced the Dragon’s Den - and produced creative solutions to real problems.

• S5 attended Meet the Researcher Event at the University of Strathclyde. They followed in the footsteps of the Princess Royal who also toured the exhibits.

Future-Focused Thinking We don't have a crystal ball - but we do know the world of work is changing fast. What questions are our students asking? The right ones: "What jobs will exist in 10 years that don't exist now?" and "How can I make a difference?" Recent leaver Imogen McCall, inspired by all the diverse opportunities at St George's, carried her questions straight into Interdisciplinary Futures at Edinburgh University - a course that sits at the crossroads of science, policy, technology and ethics. It's this thoughtful future-focused thinking that we encourage.

Because when girls start thinking about careers early - not in terms of job titles, but in terms of values, ambition and impact - something clicks. School starts to feel less like a set of hoops to jump through, and more like the beginning of something real and exciting.

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High Ambition | Careers

Celebrating Ambition: Future Asset Success We are also proud to share the recent success of our Future Assets Team, who secured an impressive runner-up position in the national final. The team – consisting of Ruqaya (S4), Chaarvi (S4), and Rachael (S4) – represented St George's among the final four schools out of 65 from across Scotland in the Junior category.

Future Asset introduces high school girls to the world of investment and finance, showing them that gender should never be a barrier to ambition. Through workshops, mentorship, and competition, participants gain a valuable insight into financial services, build confidence, and develop key skills for the future. Our students’ outstanding achievement in the competition reflects not only their analytical and presentation skills, but also the school’s commitment to empowering girls in fields where women remain underrepresented.

P6 Look ahead at their Careers Journey with Confidence Primary 6 pupils took part in a thought-provoking careers session with our Head of Careers Mrs Hall, which opened their eyes to a wide range of professions – and, more importantly, to the skills they already possess.

The session explored what it takes to work in different fields such as architecture, sports, film editing, and copywriting. Each career was brought to life with fun, interactive moments – including a surprise round of squats to show the physical demands of being a sports professional! The afternoon was filled with curiosity, laughter, and learning.

One of the most valuable parts of the session was the focus on transferable skills – qualities that can be used across many different jobs. Pupils were surprised (and proud) to realise just how many of these they already use every day. From verbal communication, developed through presentations, debates, and meetings, to teamwork, creativity, and problemsolving, it became clear that P6 are already building a strong foundation for their futures.

“At first, we thought Primary 6 was quite young to start thinking about careers,” shared Saanvi and Lorelei. “But now we understand that thinking about it early helps us make better decisions later – like what we might want to study and how that connects to future jobs.”

And that’s exactly the point: we’re not asking them to have it all figured out. We’re simply encouraging them to stay curious, notice what excites them, and recognise the strengths they already bring to the table.

Because the future might still be a long way off, but the confidence to walk towards it? That starts now.

In this edition, we’re shining a light on how that begins in P6, where curiosity is high, and the future is already knocking.

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High Ambition | Careers

ACP We are also shining a light on the first-ever Scottish edition of the Schools' Aerospace Careers Programme (ACP). This session we hosted a pioneering STEM event, which brought together students from both state and independent schools, for a day of immersive aerospace education and career exploration. They participated in hands-on workshops featuring flight simulators and virtual reality technology, gaining practical insights into aerospace engineering. Industry experts from ACP, Babcock International, and SaxaVord Spaceport delivered engaging presentations, offering pupils a glimpse into the diverse career opportunities within Scotland's growing aerospace sector. "Bringing the Schools' Aerospace Programme to Scotland for the first time has been incredibly exciting," says Steph Hall, Head of Careers at St George's. "Watching pupils from different schools collaborate, engage with industry professionals, and discover the possibilities in aerospace has been truly inspiring.”

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High Ambition | Speech Day

Speech Day

Speech Day 2025 was held in St Mary’s Cathedral, where pupils, staff, families and friends gathered to celebrate a year of outstanding achievements. Addresses by Sheila Voas, Chief Veterinary Officer for Scotland since 2012, and our Chair of Governors, Tracey Ashworth-Davies, together with performances and reflections by leaving students, were memorable and thought-provoking. The grandeur of the Cathedral added to the sense of occasion as the community came together to honour the girls’ hard work, resilience and creativity. It was a proud and uplifting celebration of all that St George’s stands for.

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Diverse Opportunity | Art

Penny Morriss

Art A Level Showcase

Penny Morriss

A spotlight on this year’s artwork, praised for its ambition and imagination.

The Art Department are proud to showcase the final works of this year’s A-Level students, which reflect two years of creative exploration, personal growth, and commitment. Throughout the course, students were encouraged to make individual choices and develop their own artistic direction. With strong guidance and high expectations from staff, each student flourished, producing work that is both technically accomplished and highly personal.

The external moderator praised this year’s cohort, noting that “Outcomes were ambitious and creative....and a pleasure to see.” He continued, “students made exceptional use of unusual combinations of sources to achieve highly original and creative responses”.

Amelia Cormack focused on an architecture-themed project, taking inspiration from the surreal cityscapes of Giorgio de Chirico. Using CAD software, she reimagined old buildings through dreamlike

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Jana Leung

Diverse Opportunity | Art

Amelia Cormack

Jana Leung

Amelia Cormack

Penny Morriss

“”

Highly original and

Amelia Cormack

compositions that balance precision Jana combined digital image creative responses. and imagination. The moderator manipulation with traditional oil painting, External Moderator’s highlighted her work with a special focusing on limbs. Her pieces demonstrate a Report mention. thoughtful connection between contemporary Penny Morris explored female identity and processes and classical techniques. femininity in the contemporary world. Her series of These 3 candidates are now studying Art or portraits capture the complexity of growing up in a Architecture at University, as are many others who took modern society, expressing individuality, rage, and A-Level Art. We look forward to their next steps, and introspection. trust they’ll pop in to share their stories as they unfold.

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Diverse Opportunity | Art

Sophie Melbourne

Sophie Melbourne

Amy Guo

Amy Guo

Chantal Cuesta Andoh

Art

Chantal Cuesta Andoh

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Eva Morrison S4 GCSE

Eva Morrison S4 GCSE

Diverse Opportunity | Art

Amy Guo

Natasha Gardiner Amy Guo

Natasha Gardiner

Natasha Gardiner

Charlene Ho

Amy Guo

Textiles Amy Guo

Natasha Gardiner

Vivi Young

Vivi Young

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Diverse Opportunitiy | Music

Music at St George’s A Year of Confidence, Creativity and Celebration

At St George’s, music doesn’t just fill our corridors — it fuels courage, confidence, and joy. Across the school, girls discover their voices, develop their passions, and step boldly onto every stage. From intimate recitals to grand cathedral services, the music department has celebrated talent, nurtured creativity, and built community in ways that capture the very essence of our school.

Music of the Season Christmas is always a highlight of our musical life, and this year was no exception. The Junior School Christmas Concert thrilled audiences with performances featuring everything from P1 & P2 Singers and Mini Maestros to Rock Band and Musical Theatre. Alongside this, a series of charming nativities showcased the youngest performers, creating a joyful and heartwarming atmosphere. This rich and diverse programme gave every child the opportunity to shine and highlighted the incredible musical talent across the Junior School.

At the Lower School Carol Service, the Lower School Choir led the way, supported by fantastic soloists and ensembles. Each performance was brimming with confidence and character, creating a joyous and unforgettable musical experience that truly captured the spirit of the season.

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The Upper School Christmas Concert showcased our senior musicians at their finest, performing across a variety of ensembles with skill, passion, and flair that left audiences thoroughly impressed. Together, these events offered every girl the opportunity to explore her musical potential and contribute to the magic of the season.

The festivities culminated in the Upper School Carol Service at St Giles’ Cathedral, where audiences were spellbound by a stunning performance of Elgar’s The Snow by Senior Strings and Senior Choir. Adding a spirit of generosity to the celebrations, the Strings & Friends Charity Christmas Concert raised over £300 for Drake Music Scotland, proving that music at St George’s is as much about community and heart as it is about excellence.

Diverse Opportunity | Music

Celebrating Excellence: Competitions

Our hallmark competitions showcased extraordinary talent. The Young Singer of St George’s featured outstanding performances across the school, with Eva Morrison crowned winner for her moving rendition of Gluck’s O mio dolce ardor. Amy Cormack and Beth Obe took second and third place, while Ariana Costache and Darcey Bunker received high commendations. Esteemed adjudicator Colleen Nicoll praised the artistry and perfectly chosen repertoire of every singer.

The Young Musician of St George’s Competition featured 17 remarkable performances. Pianist Christine Sang reclaimed her title with Lecuona’s Ante el Escorial, while Charlotte Tin and Eva Morrison took second and third place. Five further performers were highly commended: Clara Yearley (cello), Amy Guo (harp), Joanna Pilbeam (flute), Connie Dickson (electric guitar) and Amenah Jumani (piano) Guest adjudicator David Elliott applauded both the technical skill and the energy of the performers, keeping the audience engaged and entertained throughout.

Concerts, Platforms and Performances Across the year, concerts and recitals gave every girl her moment in the spotlight. The Spring and Summer Concerts celebrated ensemble and solo music-making with joy and flair.

The Cantate Concert marked a poignant farewell, as it was the final time Anne Lewis’ vocal studio performed together, celebrating her extraordinary legacy and the generations of singers she has inspired.

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Diverse Opportunity | Music a testament to the vibrant, nurturing, and inspiring community that defines St George’s.

Farewells and Gratitude

Regular Performance Platforms in the Junior and Middle Schools provided supportive stages where pupils could grow in confidence and showcase their progress.

The year concluded with the Leavers’ Recital, a heartfelt farewell to Upper Six musicians whose artistry and leadership will be deeply missed.

Beyond school, St George’s music resonated in the wider community. At the Annual Ball at Prestonfield House, memorable performances were given by Isla Morrison, Amenah Jumani, and Amelia Cormack, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.

At St George’s, music is more than performance; it embodies our ethos: Courage to succeed.

Freedom to flourish. From Nursery through to Upper Six, girls are seen, heard, and empowered to express themselves, develop confidence, and celebrate achievement. This year’s musical highlights - from competitions and concerts to musicals and carols - are

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Behind every performance is the dedication of teachers and leaders. Special thanks go to Music Prefect Christine Sang, whose energy and commitment inspired many. This year, we also bid farewell to the following members of staff: • Miss Anne Lewis, teacher of singing, after 35 years of exceptional guidance • Mrs Elena Bannatyne, piano teacher for 31 amazing years • Mr James Goodenough, french horn and piano teacher • Mrs Anna Cooper, our dedicated music administrator Their contributions have been immense, and their legacy will continue to resonate in the life of the department for years to come.

Proud of our partnership with St George's.

Our schools play to the individual strengths of every boy and every girl.

0131 312 2200 admissions@merchiston.co.uk merchiston.co.uk

Diverse Opportunity | Drama

Beauty and the Beast review C J Arnott

Last winter, the St George’s Drama Department grandeur and mystery of a haunted castle, and even a delighted audiences with an enchanting production of thrilling journey into a wolf-infested forest. The spirit of ‘Beauty and the Beast’, featuring standout teamwork was evident from the very first number, performances from Rosa Weir and Yarema ‘Belle’, where the ensemble cast perfectly Yakobchuck. Rosa, a remarkable talent captured the bustling energy of the town. from the younger years, impressed The combination of choreography and everyone with her stunning singing raw talent created a routine that was Mila’s comic timing voice, while Yarema’s deeply emotional both captivating and vibrant – and energy made rendition of ‘If I Can’t Love Her’ clearly engaging audiences visually and Gaston a memorable showed why he was worth “stealing” all musically alike. highlight throughout the way from Merchiston.

A special mention must go to Mr the show.

Bringing this magical story to life was Raynor and the music department. Their truly a team effort. The dedication of the addition of live music infused the production technical crew, choreographers, stage managers, with a unique vitality, drawing the audience deeper and set designers shone through every scene – from into the story and making every moment feel the lively streets of a small French village to the immersive and alive.

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Diverse Opportunity | Drama

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Together, they created a truly charming and memorable production Among the ensemble, two performers particularly stood out. Eva Morrison dazzled as ‘Madame’, her operatic voice and commanding stage presence brought the eccentric character vividly to life, beautifully complemented by the stunning costumes.

Meanwhile, Mila Greiling stole every scene as ‘Gaston’, delivering a hilariously self-absorbed and possessive performance, complete with a comically oversized gun. Mila’s comic timing and energy made Gaston a memorable highlight throughout the show.

Overall, congratulations to everyone involved – from Musical Directors and Conductors Mrs Nicholson and Mr Raynor, to Director Mrs Gøtzche-Robertson, and every student who contributed. Together, they created a truly charming and memorable production that showcased the immense talent and dedication within the St George’s Drama Department.

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Diverse Opportunity | Drama

Lights, Camera, ACTION! Primary 3 and 4 starring in... Michael Recycle!

In our Primary 3 and 4 musical, we introduced you to Michael Recycle, a superhero who travels around teaching people about how to reduce waste and recycle properly. Throughout our musical, we learned simple yet important things, like how recycling helps reduce pollution and why it’s important to save resources like water and energy. The key message from our musical was how small changes – like reusing materials or cutting down on plastic – can make a big difference for the environment. We even found ourselves singing along to the catchy songs about recycling!

P3 Isabella – I really liked the singing, and my favourite song was ‘In the World of My Tomorrow’ Cassie – I really enjoyed performing my line in front of the audience.

Lyra – I liked dancing with Michael Recycle because it felt special.

Inara – I liked acting as a factory working and pretending to making things.

Florence – I really enjoyed all of the songs and the dancing.

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Adelie – I liked acting out my part and using the props.

Diverse Opportunity | Drama Sorcha – I really enjoyed rehearsing the show and learning the songs.

Eilidh – I loved getting dressed in our costumes and finding out the story as we act.

Maria – I loved the singing and the dancing that we did.

Solomiia – My favourite part was doing a magic trick on stage with my friends.

Larissa – I enjoyed saying my line and acting on the stage.

Sienna – My favourite part was dancing on the stage in front of the audience.

Sofia – I liked dancing in the show.

P4 Arabella – I loved the costumes and the props and all the speaking parts.

It was so creative.

Mabel – I enjoyed all the characters that were in the show.

Isabel – Everyone in Primary 4 sang a solo in the songs Pure Imagination and Wonderful World. I enjoyed singing and listening to other people.

Norah – I liked being Mrs Litterbug and I loved my costume.

I enjoyed performing with Mr Litterbug who was Aria.

Sadie – Primary 3 and 4 also got to learn recycling facts from the quiz master.

Matilda – I was the Quiz Master and one of the facts that I did not know was that a glass bottle takes 1,000 years to break down! I got to wear a sparkly dress.

Aria – I loved having an opportunity to show how good the Primary 4 singers are, and we showed that we don’t waste we Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Oona – It was good that we collected real, clean rubbish like tins, cardboard and bottles to use in our show.

Florence – We went up the stairs at the sides of the audience in the RMC. I really enjoyed doing this in the show.

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Ayana – I liked singing in a trio and the recycling squad quiz.

Ella – I was a narrator in the show and my costume was a green t-shirt and black trousers. I liked wearing this costume.

Rosie – I found out in the quiz that a renewable energy source is wind.

Emilia – The Michael Recycle show was interesting and I learned lots of recycling facts. We didn’t buy anything new instead we reused our clothing.

Gracie – My favourite part of the show is when I walked on stage as the Mayor, and everyone cheered and wanted my autograph. I was famous!

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Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Sport A spotlight on PARTICIPATION St George’s is bucking the trend in girls' sports with impressively high participation levels throughout the school. While only 12% of girls in Scotland regularly participate in sport at age 15, an outstanding 100% of our girls are still actively playing sport at age 17 or 18.

They thrive across a diverse range of activities, from cricket and judo to rugby and curling, without feeling held back by stereotypes.

We are proud to foster an inclusive, supportive sports culture where girls feel confident and encouraged to try it all. It’s important for life beyond St G’s. In fact, recent research shows that 80% of female CEOs in Fortune 500 companies played sport at

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100% of our girls are still actively playing sport at 17 or 18.

school. The link is clear: sport builds resilience, leadership, teamwork, and the confidence to push boundaries - all of which are vital for future success.

A Sport for EVERY STUDENT Our commitment begins with Sports for All, making sport accessible to every student through a wide range of clubs and activities. The ultimate goal is Sport for Life, encouraging lifelong participation in sport and physical activity for health, enjoyment, and wellbeing.

Christine Fourie, Head of Sport

Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Sport: Competitive A Year of Remarkable Success

Team of the Year: Middle School

Our annual Sports Celebration brought together the school community to recognise the exceptional sporting achievements of our students throughout the year.

The year featured: the launch of Judy Murray's Learn to Lead programme, our first ever football match, hosting major events like the U14 Scotland Lacrosse Tournament and our annual S1 Sports Tour to Newcastle.

Remove Netball Team - Alba (Remove), Alice (Remove), Annabel (Remove), Audrey (Remove), Georgia (Remove), Melody (Remove), Poppy (Remove), Teria (Remove), Tessa (Remove)

Award Winners Year Group Sports Awards • Primary 6 - Alice • Remove - Annabel • S1 - Charlotte • S2 - Martha • S3 - Emmie • S4 - Lucy • L6 - Imogen

Team of the Year: Upper School U15 Cricket Team - Anais (S3), Adwita (S2), Caoimhe (S1), Hollie (S1), Bella (S3), Bridget (S3), Beth (S3), Diya (S2), Grace (S1), Kari (S3), Maisie (S1), Minna (S1), Saanvi (P6), Megan (S3)

Steedman Salver Award: Florence and Hannah (joint winners - right) for excellence across multiple sports

PE Award:

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Year Group Excellence Sports Awards This year we saw the • Primary 6 - Gigi introduction of sports clubs for • Remove - Abigail Primary 1 and 2 students, complete • S1 - Minna with age-appropriate equipment • S2 - Florence to create a fun and engaging environment.

• S3 - Kari • S4 - Abby • L6 - Mary

Volunteer/Contribution Award Anais (S3) - Anais coached our P6 Hockey team this year and brought a fresh energy to the warm-up sessions, motivating the girls to be focused and ready to play. Her kind nature and supportive approach was a real asset to the team. Thank you for your dedication and hard work.

Outstanding Performances: Middle School U13 Hockey Team - Bess (S1), Charlotte (S1), Clara (S1), Grace (S1), Isobel (S1), Larissa (S1), Maggie (S2), Maisie (S1), Minna (S1), Natalia (S1)

Outstanding Performances: Upper School Teme won Gold for long jump in the Indoor Scottish competition

Isabelle for representing 1st Teams in Hockey, Lacrosse, Netball, and Cricket, plus National Lacrosse

New Leadership Initiative: A highlight was launching our Sport Leadership Initiative with new appointments: • Sports Prefects: Florence and Hannah • 1st Team Hockey Captain: Izzy • 1st Team Netball Captain: Iris • Lacrosse Captains: Sofia and Imogen T

Pathway Selections: We celebrated 21 students selected for sports pathway programmes • Iris (L6) - Netball: U17 Edinburgh District • Kari (S3) - Netball: U15 Edinburgh District • Anais (S4) - Hockey: U15 and U17 East District Team • Kari (S3) - Hockey: U15 and U17 East District Team • Emily (L6) - Hockey: U17 East District Team • Francesca (S4) - Hockey: U17 East District Team • Imogen (L6) - Hockey: U17 East District Team • Abby (U5) - Hockey: U17 East District Team • Lily (U5) - Hockey: U17 East District Team • Florence (U5) - Lacrosse Development Squad • Bridget (S3) - Lacrosse Development Squad • Sophia B (S3) - Lacrosse Development Squad • Sophia M (S3) - Lacrosse Development Squad • Imogen (S2) - Lacrosse Academy Squad • Isla (S2) - Scottish Curling Academy programme • Bella (L6) - East of Scotland Swimming

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Diverse Opportunity | Sport • Anushka (L6) - Tennis: East of Scotland U18 • Ludovica (S3) - District Volleyball • Emmie (S3) - SRU East U16 Regional Talent Pathway • Beth (S3) - SRU East U16 Regional Talent Pathway

• Sophia (S1) - Badminton Scotland's Regional Performance Programme • Chloe (S3) - Badminton Scotland's Regional Performance Programme

National Success

We also honoured 13 girls for earning places on National and International squads: • Alexia - GB Fencing • Caoimhe - Swimming - Scottish Swimming Junior Academy • Teme - Scotland Gymnastics • Lucie - Scottish Rowing • Emmie - Scotland U15 Touch Rugby Squad • Tamsin - Scotland U18 Touch Rugby Squad

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• Lucy - Scotland U18 Touch Rugby Squad • Deepti - Badminton - Scotland Junior National Squad • Diya - Cricket - Scotland Girls U17 Cricket Squad • Adwita - Cricket - Scotland Girls U15 Cricket Squad • Kari - Scotland Netball U15 Squad • Isobelle - Scotland Lacrosse • Abi - Hockey - Edinburgh Lightning Brave Aspiring Girls Squad

Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Guest Speaker and Thanks: The evening featured guest speaker Trudy Lindblade, Chief Executive of Cricket Scotland. Christine praised her as "a remarkable leader in what was, not too long ago, considered a male-dominated sport."

Special thanks were given to our sponsors: I-confidential (1XI Hockey Team), Brodies LLP (2XI Hockey Tournament), and Limitless (PE Staff kit), along with our dedicated coaching staff.

Christine concluded with our philosophy: "Our overarching goal remains clear: Sport for Life. We aim to instil in every student the joy of participating in both competitive and recreational sports, helping them carry these healthy habits and values into adulthood."

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Every woman's success should be an inspiration to another. We're strongest when we cheer each other on.

Serena Williams

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Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Sport: Hockey S1 Hockey Team Clinches Plate Victory at East District Tournament The S1A hockey team triumphed with a thrilling Plate victory at the East District 1st Year Tournament. After a strong run of matches and a hardfought final against Fettes, the team showed incredible resilience and composure to secure the win on running penalties.

Earlier in the day, the team delivered impressive performances, narrowly missing out on the Cup group only on goal difference after close matches against Mary Erskine School and Edinburgh Academy, and convincing wins over North Berwick and Boroughmuir.

Undeterred, the girls powered through the Plate semi-final with a commanding 4–0 win over Firhill, setting the stage for the tense final.

Despite going behind early in the final, the team fought back with great spirit to equalise and keep their focus through to the penalty shootout, where sharp finishes and confident goalkeeping sealed their success.

What a display of skill, teamwork, and determination – a proud moment for the team and a perfect example of our pupils thriving through sport.

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Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Sport: Netball Netball Programme Soars to New Heights in 2025 The 2025 Netball Programme at St George’s has been a season of growth and achievement, with record participation and a fuller competition calendar making netball a key part of our school community.

We’re proud of Iris and Kari, who represented Edinburgh District Teams – Kari making history as the first St George’s player in the U15 National Squad.

Their dedication inspires all players.

From Primary 5 to seniors, every team developed through friendly matches and tournaments. Our A teams excelled in the Scottish Cup, reaching the top 16 schools in Scotland – a fantastic accomplishment.

A highlight was the final Primary 6 and 7 Netball Tournament on Lansdowne's MUGA, where our teams showed great spirit. Congratulations to Primary 6 for

Silver and Remove 7 for the championship!

Our Remove team also won the Edinburgh Schools Tournament trophy, a well-earned victory.

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Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Sport: Cricket Cricket Success Congratulations to our U15 Cricket team on securing Silver at the Cricket Scotland Schools Finals Day! After a strong semi-final win against Bell Baxter, the team went into the final against Fettes full of determination.

A special mention to Diya for her unbeaten 44 runs in the semi-final, and to Bella for her 26 not out in the final - fantastic performances!

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Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Sport: Tour S1 Sports Tour to Newcastle Our S1 girls brought determination and team spirit to their end-of-year hockey and netball tour to Newcastle which was a fitting celebration of an excellent season.

From a reflective beach walk in Bamburgh to lively fixtures against Newcastle School for Girls and Dame Allan’s, the team embraced every opportunity with courage and enthusiasm.

Playing on Newcastle University’s home astro offered a fantastic chance to apply everything they’ve learned this year, including the transition from 8-a-side to 11-a-side hockey.

Beyond the games, highlights included a competitive round of laser tag (with teachers dramatically eliminated!) and a bus journey home filled with song and celebration as they crossed back into Scotland.

As they look ahead to the next season, we’re certain they’ll continue to grow as ambitious young athletes.

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Diverse Opportunity | Sport

Sport: Badminton Our badminton team joined forces with Merchiston Castle once again to compete in both the Edinburgh Schools and the SSBU Quaichs tournaments.

In the Edinburgh Schools competition, they delivered a strong performance, winning decisively in the first round against Royal High School. They then advanced to the semi-final, where they secured another convincing victory over ESMS, earning their place in the final against a tough George Heriot’s team.

Our senior badminton team concluded their season with a well-earned second place in the Edinburgh Schools competition. They have every reason to be proud of their accomplishments, and with such talent on display, the future looks very bright.

Sport: Equestrian 2024/25 has been an exciting year for the St. George’s equestrians with new team members joining and new equine partnerships being formed.

The schools’ season began with Strathallan’s Show Jumping competition at Highfields Equestrian Centre in November. Three students, Orlaith Bailey (U5), Bea Earnshaw (L6), and Afton Learmonth (U6), competed with great enthusiasm. The team finished second in the 90–95cm event, with Afton also placing second individually and third in the 100–105cm class. Excellent results in strong fields.

In March, the same riders represented St George’s at

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Strathallan’s NSEA Dressage and Showjumping Qualifiers. Orlaith placed sixth in Prelim Dressage and won the Novice class, qualifying for the NSEA Championships. Afton came fourth in the 95cm and second in the 1.10m showjumping classes, fantastic achievements against strong competition.

Orlaith later placed third in the Jumping with Style (90–95cm) class at the National Schools Championship Festival in Alnwick, securing another NSEA qualification.

Congratulations to all our riders on their hard work and success.

Diverse Opportunity | Sport

LEARN TO LEAD In June, we were thrilled to partner with Judy Murray to launch her new LEARN TO LEAD programme. We were delighted that the launch of the programme was celebrated widely with great coverage and that over 20 schools could join us for the big event.

The programme is aimed at developing girls’ confidence and leadership skills at the top end of Primary School whilst creating opportunities for girls in tennis. They learn and teach younger girls the Miss-Hits - Tennis For Girls content within their community.

Each Learn to Lead school is also linked to a tennis club to help continue to grow the sport and opportunities for girls in tennis.

During the launch itself, our Remove students stepped into coaching roles whilst our Junior School students got to try new, fun and challenging tennis skills, alongside students from many visiting schools.

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Diverse Opportunity | Sports Day

Sports Day Junior and Middle School This year we had our first combined Junior and Middle School Sports Day on Tuesday 17th June. A gloriously sunny day filled with enthusiastic and talented participants enjoying sprints, obstacle challenges, hurdles, high jump and much more! Well done to everyone for creating a fantastic atmosphere on the day and special congratulations to our winners:

P5 Championship: 1st = Emily R 2nd = Jessica M 3rd = Aaliyah M P6: 1st = Gigi L 2nd = Prisha A 3rd = Eliza S Remove: 1st = Teria D 2nd = Georgia C 3rd = Alice B S1: 1st = Minna O 2nd = Bess L 3rd = Esmee P

Finally, well done to Douglas for winning Junior School Sports Day and to Lindsay for winning in Middle School!

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Diverse Opportunity | Sports Day

Upper School Upper School Sports Day the following week was a brilliant celebration of sport, with the Sports Day trophy fittingly won

by Douglas on Miss Campbell’s last sports day at St George’s.

Teme’s record-breaking on the day was a particular highlight setting no fewer than four new records this year! They were: • 10.1 seconds in the 80m sprint; the previous record was 10.5 set in 2000.

• 11.6 seconds in the 75m hurdles, beating 11.9 in 2006.

• 8.76m in the shot putt, beating 8.47m in 1998.

• And finally, 5.04m in the long jump to equal a record set in 1970!

Well done to Anais on winning the 1500m Bewshar Trophy, as well as the following year group champions:

S2: 1st = Teme D 2nd = Isla K 3rd = Florence B S3: 1ST = Kari F 2nd = Sophia B 3rd = Bella O Senior: 1st = Anna M 2nd = Mary B 3rd = Francesca E

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Diverse Opportunity | Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education: A Powerful Tool for Growth and Wellbeing It’s not just refreshing, it’s transformational. Research shows that regular outdoor learning boosts mental health, improves focus, builds resilience, and strengthens social skills. It gives young people the space to grow, the freedom to lead, and the confidence to push their boundaries.

That’s why Outdoor Education remains a vital part of our school’s approach to holistic learning. From Primary 6’s fearless raft-building to S1 and Remove students navigating the Scottish Highlands, pupils across the school have embraced the challenge, adventure, and discovery that only the outdoors can offer.

As pupils journeyed through forests, paddled across lochans, and built shelters in the wild, they were also building something less visible but just as important: confidence, resilience, and a sense of independence.

Spending just two hours per week in nature significantly boosts wellbeing

Primary 6: Fearless Adventures at Lendrick Muir In May, our Primary 6 students took part in a thrilling two-night residential at Lendrick Muir Outdoor Centre in Perth. Building on their shorter Primary 5 experience, this was their first full Outdoor Education residential – and they rose to the occasion with energy, curiosity, and fearless determination.

Blessed with sunshine, the group took on a wide range of challenges: from the adrenaline-pumping King Swing and Bushcraft survival skills, to the everpopular Murder Mystery evening and high-stakes Team

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Challenges. The highlight for many was raft-building on the Lochan, where students practised lashing techniques, tested their engineering skills, and relied on strong teamwork to stay afloat – literally and figuratively.

This trip marked a key step in their journey through Middle School, helping them develop leadership, collaboration, and practical problem-solving skills in a fun and memorable setting.

Diverse Opportunity | Outdoor Education

Remove and S1: Adventure and Ambition at Lagganlia At the start of the academic year, both our Remove and S1 students travelled to the Lagganlia Outdoor Centre, set on the edge of the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park. These week-long residentials offered students the chance to step away from classroom routines and engage fully with the outdoors – and themselves.

Remove students, for whom this was their first full Outdoor Education residential, tackled a series of exciting and challenging activities including hiking,

Why Outdoor Learning Matters Across all three trips, students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones – both physically and emotionally. The outcomes speak for themselves. Students returned more confident, more connected, and more capable of navigating the challenges of school life and beyond.

abseiling, gorge walking, mountain biking, and canoeing. These experiences were carefully designed to nurture independence, self-awareness, and organisation – skills essential as they begin their journey through Secondary Education.

For the S1 cohort, Lagganlia marked a culmination of Middle School, a final opportunity to reflect, grow, and prepare for the transition into Upper School.

Whether pushing themselves to scale new heights or guiding peers through group tasks, the students demonstrated impressive leadership, adaptability, and resilience.

There’s a growing body of evidence that supports the value of Outdoor Education.

According to Natural England: • Spending just two hours per week in nature significantly boosts wellbeing.

• 92% of teachers observed improved social skills in pupils following outdoor learning.

• 79% noticed increased confidence and motivation.

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Diverse Opportunity | Trips

The Great Outdoors P5 Trips

Jupiter Artland There was lots of amazing artwork in Jupiter Artland but our favourite one was the one where there was a stairway going down to a hole filled with amethyst. At the top there was a ring of obsidian and in the corner, in a hole of the artwork, there was a live, little Froggie!

Eva and Mini Going to Jupiter Artland was very interesting.

Putting rocks in trees was very creative! This artwork was talking about what strength means from different perspectives! Ellora and Viyan

Outdoor Learning

Scald Law Everyone was moaning and groaning while they were going up but when we reached the top, everyone was so relieved that they dropped to the floor. When we were coming down, someone screamed, “I am free” at the top of their lungs and it was really funny. Maria & Aaliyah

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We had a lot of fun making our own rangoli pattern using different colours, patterns and shapes. It was interesting learning about Indian festivals. Eliza & Melina In PE, we have different outdoor sports such as football, cricket ball, hockey, tennis and athletics. It is really fun learning how to do everything. School runs are great fun as we have blossom trees and amazing greenery in our school to run through! Emily, Holly & Jessica

Diverse Opportunity | Trips

Eco Day On eco day we picked up litter around the school with the P6s and we also got to come to school wearing green. We also went on a scavenger hunt finding natural materials and different natural objects which were furry, smooth or rough. Dynamic earth visited us to talk about climate change - it was really fun. Liana & Olivia

Bannockburn Bannockburn was an amazing and fun experience because we had a chance to look at the battle scene, recreate the battle experience and realise the effective tactics the Scots used to defeat the English cavalry. We learnt that there were way fewer men in the Scottish army than the English army but the Scottish army still won. We saw mini movies from both the Scottish and English perspectives which were really interesting. Orianna, Julia E, Luwie, Amelia, OdellMay, Alice, Nika & Akshara

Camp at Lendrick Muir We did the King's Swing at camp - it was so much fun!

One of our favourite activities was the King Swing because we went to the very top and it quickly released us and swung us so high. In our dorms we got to spend 2 nights with all our friends - it was fantastic. During camp there were lots of outside activities and one of them was called Leap of Faith where you had to climb up a ladder to reach the top and then you jumped off!

Nightline and survival games were such fun too. We also got to go to Wallace Monument and Stirling Castle as part of the camp trip. Julia S, Natalia, Rose, Keira, Anna, Harriet, Lola, Georgia & Raeka

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Diverse Opportunity | DofE

Walking High, Aiming Higher: The Spirit of St G's “There’s something special about St G’s students. I don’t know exactly what it is, but there really is.”

When the Head of Outlook Adventures says that to you as you’re lacing up your boots and preparing for a long day in the hills, it’s hard not to feel a quiet surge of pride, even with the toughest climb still ahead.

Later, back at school, I shared the moment with our Head. We ended up in that familiar, slightly impossible conversation: trying to put our finger on exactly what that special something is. Because it’s there. Everyone feels it.

It’s not just one thing - it never is. But one quality stood out clearly: the strength of the relationships between our students and their teachers. There’s a sense of mutual trust, respect, and shared purpose. It feels like we’re on the same team, and we are. We know each girl not just by name, but by nature. That means we can guide when guidance is needed, offer calm during a wobble, and celebrate loudly at every step along the way.

And speaking of steps: this year, St George’s students have walked (quite literally) across some extraordinary landscapes - from the wilds of The Lowther Hills to the windswept highs of Ben Macdui, the second highest peak in the UK. Along the way, they’ve earned their Bronze, Silver and Duke of Edinburgh Gold awards –

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...they were asking to do a record-breaking number of 'Munros'...

and probably a few blisters, too.

But beyond the certificates, it's the character shown that really shines - the determination, humour, kindness and team spirit. That might just be the special something.

NB. When asked whether he’d mind being quoted in the magazine, The Head of Outlook Adventures, Stuart replied: “We witnessed it again very evidently on the 4 Day Gold Qualifying Expedition this August, the St George's pupils opted to go high for the Expedition to take advantage of a good weather window. That special ethos, motivation and resilience was evident throughout the 4 days but particularly as they were asking to do a record-breaking number of 'Munros' (mountains over 3000ft). It was a joy for me and fellow Instructors to witness their achievement and success.”

Diverse Opportunity | DofE

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There’s something special about St G’s students. I don’t know exactly what it is, but there really is.

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Diverse Opportunity | Trips

Growing Through Challenge P6 Trips This year, our Primary 6 pupils have embraced a range of exciting, real-world learning experiences designed to deepen their understanding and spark their curiosity. At each step, they’ve been confident, capable, and eager to explore the world around them.

From climbing Arthur’s Seat and visiting Dynamic Earth to investigate plate tectonics, to discovering more about animal reproduction, growth and developing during a hands-on day at Edinburgh Zoo, our learners approached every opportunity with enthusiasm and purpose.

In January, Primary 6 pupils took part in an exciting trip to The Risk Factory – a dynamic, hands-on centre where children explore real-life safety scenarios in a controlled way. Students embraced the challenges, confidently engaging with situations involving floods, fire, electrical hazards, building sites, train tracks, and more.

The highlight for many, including Gigi and Lorelei was the simulated fire alarm evacuation, where pupils worked together to guide others to safety – showing not only understanding, but leadership and empathy.

“We had to evacuate and get people out with us. We learnt that when a building is on fire, you must not go back in. Instead, get out as quickly as you can, close the door and call 999”.

“We really enjoyed this trip and can’t wait for more opportunities like this” report Gigi and Lorelei who, like others on the trip, thrived in an environment where they had to think critically, act responsibly, and be themselves.

Free from stereotypes, our Primary 6 learners have continued to shine – not just in the classroom, but wherever learning takes them.

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Diverse Opportunity | Exchange

Across the Globe: Sixth Form Exchange Adventures in Chile and Australia Our Sixth Form exchange programme took two brave solo adventurers on journeys across the world. CJ traveled an astounding 7,712 miles, navigating four airports to reach Southern Oxford School in Villarrica, Chile.

Meanwhile, Adora headed in the opposite direction, covering 10,130 miles and passing through three airports to join Ascham School in Sydney, Australia.

Both students embraced the challenge of living far from home, immersing themselves in new cultures, and gaining valuable life skills.

CJ reflects on the Chile experience: “My exchange to Chile was genuinely an incredible, lifechanging experience where I learned to be independent while also gaining a family, who I’m still in contact with now – a year later! Spending time there helped me develop a love for South American history and culture, inspiring me to do a human rights course in Argentina a year later as well as consider spending even more time there in my future. A particularly memorable moment was climbing up a volcano as smoke erupted out of it and celebrating my host partner’s birthday party with her extended family, who all welcomed me as if I were one of their own. My Spanish skills have been immensely helped by this experience, I am so much more comfortable going out into the world on my own, and I have definitely made friends for life.”

Adora shares her highlights from Australia: “Taking part in the exchange to Australia was an unforgettable experience that allowed me to develop independence and immerse myself in a new culture. It strengthened my confidence and communication skills. I really appreciated the opportunity and have made friendships that will last a long time. My favourite part of the exchange was when I ate ice cream in Bodalla with my exchange family.”

These remarkable journeys demonstrate how our Sixth Form exchange programme pushes students beyond familiar horizons – building resilience, cultural understanding, and friendships that span continents.

We congratulate CJ and Adora for their adventurous spirits and look forward to more life-changing exchanges in the years to come.

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Diverse Opportunity | Exchange

Stepping Beyond Borders: United States of America and Canada Our exchange programmes offer students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in new cultures, build international friendships, and create memories that last a lifetime.

The 2024–2025 experience was one to remember, with 13 adventurous students heading to our North American partner schools for 2, 3, and 4-week experiences.

Guided by the mantra of stepping outside their comfort zones, these students embraced challenges and new environments with open minds. Let’s hear from some of the students themselves: “My time in Philadelphia was amazing, a lifechanging experience. To choose any highlights is very difficult as every part of the exchange was unforgettable. My time at Germantown Friends School was enjoyable and a highlight of the trip. We were warmly welcomed by all students and teachers, everyone was so friendly and kind — they all made my experience truly special.” Alessandra

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My exchange was such a unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity...

“My exchange was such a unique, once-in-alifetime opportunity, and I loved every second of it. I made lifelong friendships and had so many new and exciting experiences. What I really enjoyed was meeting so many new people — it was great!

Everyone was so kind and welcoming, and I really felt at home at Branksome.” Lily

Diverse Opportunity | Exchange

“This April, I went to Toronto on the exchange, and it was one of the best things I did! We did so many activities but for me, when people asked what the highlight was, I always said it was the school, St Clement’s. Having never been to a different school or lived outside Scotland much, the best part was meeting so many new people and making so many friends. The thought of doing it is super scary and outside your comfort zone, but I would say just go for it and sign up because I gained so many new friends and memories.” Sophie “I had the most incredible opportunity to take part in an exchange programme in Texas, where I stayed with my amazing and welcoming host family. I

experienced so many new activities and lived in someone else’s shoes for three weeks. School was different, especially since it was co-ed. I was excited but also nervous at first. I’ve made lifelong memories, new friendships, and learned so much about Texas and a different way of life. The warmth of my host family and everyone at the school made every moment special.” Isla “My overall experience in Canada and at Havergal was amazing. It gave me confidence in meeting new people and a fresh perspective on life on the other side of the world. I’ve made lifelong friendships and bonds that I’m so grateful for.” Gracie

We’re proud of all our students who took the leap and embraced the adventure. These stories show how stepping beyond familiar surroundings can open doors to new perspectives. growth, and friendships that transcend borders.

If you’re inspired by these experiences, keep an eye out for next year’s exchange programme details - your journey could be just around the corner!

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Diverse Opportunity | Trips

Berlin Interdisciplinary Trip

A Capital Education It was time for St George’s to learn its wurst from its Weimar last November, as forty of our R&P, History and MFL students took up the opportunity to travel to Germany’s capital. In Berlin they found the language and lore of their classrooms brought to brilliant life.

Whether in the retro chic of the DDR museum, the dizzying glass exterior of the Reichstag or the unsettling idyll of the Wannsee Conference where the

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horrifying logistics of the so-called “Final Solution of the Jewish Question” were agreed, students found a city that both answered and challenged the questions in their textbooks. Our students navigated these tonal and historical shifts – not to mention the U-Bahn - with unfailing sensitivity, energy and good humour. Berlin was at its frosty, wide, blue-skied best on our last morning, but it was their company which was the true highlight.

Diverse Opportunity | Trips

Lost in translation? Not us.

Set against the breathtaking foothills of the Sierra Nevada, Granada’s stunning architecture and the iconic Alhambra palace formed the perfect backdrop for an immersive and unforgettable educational journey. Each morning, our students attended classes at the prestigious Centro de Lenguas Modernas (CLM), where native-speaking instructors led dynamic Spanish lessons. At St George’s, languages don’t just survive – they flourish. An impressive 100% of all Higher results in Latin, Spanish, and Mandarin were awarded the top-grade A this year, defying national trends and highlighting the school’s fearless commitment to academic excellence.

But language learning was only part of the story.

The cultural programme brought Granada’s rich heritage vividly to life. Students wandered the historic streets of the Albayzin neighbourhood, took in panoramic views from the Mirador San Nicolás, and experienced the warmth of a traditional Moorish tea house. The highlight was the majestic Alhambra, where students deepened their cultural understanding while practising their Spanish with expert guides.

In true St George’s style, the experience celebrated more than language – it embraced the arts. Students took part in Flamenco dance lessons by day and attended captivating live Flamenco performances in the An impressive unique setting of the 100% of all Higher Sacromonte caves by night, engaging fully with Andalusia’s results in Latin, Spanish, vibrant cultural traditions. and Mandarin were Beyond the planned awarded the top-grade activities, students explored A this year lively markets, savoured authentic tapas, and engaged in interactive challenges like scavenger hunts and peer presentations.

The whole itinerary was woven together by the languages department to foster independence, teamwork, and cultural appreciation – essential skills for thriving in today’s interconnected world.

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Library

A Year in Pages, Voices, and Ambition From TikTok-inspired verses to author-led workshops, poetry festivals, and student-run book clubs, the Library at St George’s has been “booked all year” in the most inspiring way.

Libraries as Launchpads The Library at St George’s is much more than a space for silent reading - it's an energetic hub for discovery, collaboration, and growth. With author engagements, performance opportunities, competitions, and student leadership, English here is lived, not just taught.

Authors, Audiences, and Inspiration This year’s author visits added depth and energy to our reading culture.

• Award-winning verse novelist Sarah Crossan challenged S1–S4 students to explore poetry in unexpected forms, from Shakespeare to social media. Her teaching session with Advanced Higher students gave them fresh tools and bold confidence in their craft. Since her visit, her works have remained among the most borrowed in the Upper School Library.

• In the run-up to Christmas, Sibéal Pounder visited Primary 4 to Remove, leading quizzes, games, and storytelling around her new festive title Sprouts!

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• As she concluded her patronage as Patron of Reading, Elle McNicoll left a lasting legacy at St George’s through creative challenges, literary conversations, and representation. Among her lasting impacts: two S4 students, Ruqaya and Cherise, conducted professional interviews with her to support their Higher Project Qualification research.

• Pamela Butchart, with her trademark humour, visited Primary 3–6. Joined by visiting pupils from feeder and partner schools, she led students through mock performances of her stories, encouraged them to step on stage, and inspired confidence and theatrical flair.

Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Library

World Book Day: Reading in Costume World Book Day lived up to its hype. This year’s theme, Heroes vs Villains, infused the whole school with literary spirit. Mary Poppins and Mrs Trunchbull wandered the halls, the Junior School girls paraded in the playground, and workshops ran alongside author visits.

• Emily Dodd visited Junior classes, leading dance routines inspired by nature and helping students build imaginative rockets.

• Justin Davies visited Middle School students at Merchiston for an author event followed by a book-themed scavenger hunt.

• Upper School students played Literary Pairs, teased out murder mysteries, and celebrated the joy of reading together – all amid playful costumes and spirited discussion.

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Library

Poetry in Action: Junior School Clubs In Junior School, Poetry Club became a space of playful discovery.

Students donned the role of poetry leaders, reciting poems, hiding verses in classrooms for friends to find, and bringing poetry into everyday corners of school life.

Hands on Leadership: Student Librarians Student librarians across Junior, Middle, and Upper Schools have shaped not only library spaces, but the culture of reading at St George’s.

• In Junior School, librarians take charge of World Book Day logistics, run the Winter Post, and this year helped coordinate the St George’s Picture Book Awards – with I Did See a Mammoth! by Alex Willmore crowned winner.

• Middle School librarians collaborated on displays and represented the school in the National Reading Champions Quiz, competing against 17 other schools.

• Upper School librarians managed creative events (bookmark design, Halloween themes, murder-mystery evenings) while cultivating a welcoming and engaging library environment.

Poetry on Stage: StAnza & Competitions In their roles as Scotland’s Young Makars, Sophia (L5) and Fatima (L5) took part in the StAnza International Poetry Festival, reading and performing their work on a public stage - a powerful platform that elevated their voices and underscored the ambition the school fosters in English. They had the privilege of meeting celebrated social media poet Len Pennie, known for her engaging work promoting Scots language and poetry across digital platforms.

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Upper School Book Club: Conversations & Community At the heart of the Upper School Library lies the Book Club, led by students with a rotating selection of titles. This year’s favourites included Boy Like Me by Simon James Green and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. S2 student Liyana reflected: “It was a great experience to hear what everyone else had to say, and it was a great way to share. I feel like we’re all good friends after.”

Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Library & IW

Quick Thinking, Deep Reading The National Reading Champions Quiz – a challenging event that tested our Middle School student's knowledge, teamwork, and quick thinking.

Participating online, our team answered questions across eight rounds, emailing in their responses after each stage. The quiz, hosted by the entertaining Mr. Dilly, brought together 17 teams from across North, East, and South East Scotland – including some familiar faces of friends in other schools.

The quiz covered a broad range of reading topics.

The first round, focusing on general reading

knowledge, was especially thrilling, and our team did exceptionally well, answering many questions correctly.

The final round was particularly distinctive: students watched five short films connected to different books, each containing hidden clues. Here, Anaya (Remove) stood out by identifying 3 out of 5 clues, showcasing her keen attention to detail and deep love for literature.

The team’s strong performance reflected their passion, dedication and character.

Independent Women: Our award-winning student magazine Have you read IW, our student-led magazine? The 2024 edition, titled “Our Lives, Our Voices,” explored the joys and challenges of being young – especially as girls. It featured everything from reflections on the latest music albums to discussions about catcalling and beauty standards.

IW

AUTUMN 2024

Pretty Privilege

Highlights of the edition: • Filters: friend or foe? By Katherine Dixon (Conclusion *spoiler: foe!)

• When do looks outweigh talent? By Sophia Belsey • Good news stories by C J Arnott • The Rise of AI by Cara Walker • Fem Soc by Molly Mathers Next edition coming soon. Interested in writing or producing?

All welcome. Join in on Thursday lunchtime.

That’s Hot! All the Best Reviews

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | P1

From Fossils to Fantasies: Imagining the Age of Dinosaurs in P1 Primary One had a roaring good time diving into our dinosaur topic! We were transported back to the Mesozoic Era, a time when these magnificent creatures roamed the Earth.

Our mini paleontologists were fascinated by the world of fossils. We had our very own fossil excavation, carefully unearthing ‘dinosaur bones’ from our digging trays.

Students examined their findings under microscopes, revealing the tiny details of what once was. To top it all off, we got our creative juices flowing and made our very own fossils, shaping them with salt dough and imprinting real leaves to replicate those found in nature and dinosaur footprints.

A highlight of our learning journey was discovering the life of Mary Anning, the remarkable fossil hunter. She made significant contributions to our understanding of dinosaurs, and it was inspiring to see how curiosity can lead to incredible discoveries!

We delved into the different types of dinosaurs, exploring their diets and habitats. The excitement didn’t stop there, as we created erupting volcanoes bringing a little bit of the prehistoric past into our classroom. We even engaged in imaginative writing, crafting stories about what we would do if a dinosaur spent the day at school – an activity that sparked endless giggles and wonderful tales!

Mathematics became a prehistoric adventure too, as we measured the area of dinosaur footprints and compared them to our own. Our trip to Dynamic Earth for a dinosaur storytelling workshop was fun and engaging, allowing us to travel back in time and experience the world of dinosaurs in a whole new way.

Overall, the dinosaur topic has been an unforgettable journey for Primary One, igniting a passion for learning and exploration!

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | P1

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | P2

My toy is a unicorn teddy bear. When you press his nose he says, “sparkles of fun!” You can put a necklace around his neck. He’s made from cotton and wool and soft fabric, so he’s very cuddly.

Lailah

Past, Present & Play: A Journey Through Toy Time This session Primary Two embarked on an exciting journey into the world of toys! It allowed us to explore the rich history of toys from the past but also to ponder what the future may hold for playthings.

To kick off our topic, we brought in our favourite toys from home. Everyone took turns sharing stories that highlighted the sentimental value of their toys. This led to intriguing conversations about what makes a toy truly special.

In the spirit of creativity and imagination, we transformed our classroom into a bustling toy factory!

We had the chance to sketch out our ideas, engage in testing, and construct toys to play with. We showcased our resourcefulness and imagination, as we experimented with a variety of materials to bring our visions to life.

Delving deeper into the past, we took a trip to the Museum of Childhood where we marveled at toys from different eras, gaining insight into how toys have evolved over time. We were particularly intrigued by how the design and materials used in toys have changed, and it was a fantastic way to juxtapose our own experiences with those of past generations.

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I created a game.

You have to try to shoot the pom poms through the hoop but there’s an obstacle course.

The little monsters try to stop you.

There is a googly eye river, an arm with no hands and silver seaweed to try to get through.

Inspired by our experiences at the museum, we eagerly embraced the task of Isla designing our own toys for the future.

We imagined unique features and innovative materials that could revolutionise play. This sparked incredible ideas and discussions about technology, sustainability, and creativity.

We also visited the Design and Technology workshop. Here, we were introduced to various tools, machines, and materials used in toy creation. The older students shared their knowledge and skills, demonstrating how the tools work and showing examples of their impressive projects.

To celebrate and share our knowledge with the wider school community, we held an assembly. We performed songs about toys, delighting parents and classmates alike, and shared our innovative ideas for future toys. The pride on our faces was evident as we presented, reflecting both our hard work and passion for the topic.

Nurturing Hearts and Minds | P2

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | IPQ

Independent Thinking Turns to Gold: A Milestone for Our School

What do the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Great White Shark and Macaroons have in common? They are all topics that last year’s Remove students explored to secure their Independent Project Qualification certificates. The iPQ gives students the unique opportunity to pick, research, present and reflect on a subject they feel truly passionate about, which is also off the beaten track of the everyday school curriculum. Unsurprisingly, our students took the latter directive to heart, immersing themselves in the relative merits of protective parents, sustainable cities and the rise of Coco Chanel, all whilst honing

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their project management skills. They then showcased their creations with authority and enthusiasm to parents and fellow students at a oneoff event in the summer term. To top it all off, our S1s achieved a magnificent 100% pass rate - with 70% of our students achieving a merit or above - and their efforts have secured the school the iPQ Gold Award, the first of its kind in Scotland.

This prestigious recognition celebrates our commitment to developing our students’ independent thinking, curiosity and resilience through a rigorous research project.

Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Houldsworth House

Houldsworth House What was your favourite memory at Houldsworth?

"Generally chatting with the houseparents & the fun involved here!" Cherise Pollard S4 "Spending time with friends & the outings to the theatre and the movies." Francesca Jones S3 "Making friends and watching Traitors in the bungalow common room!" Anna Mackenzie U6

stay

Sum up in th your ree w ords !

Cal relax m, i at ea ng, s e Livia Collin

i S4

Party Time

Baking with Mrs Hallifax

Saturday Night Campfires

r p you Sum u e words! thre stay in

Fun, g, atin t mo iv ring p ins i S4 y Wu

Hayle

Ceramics painting at the Honey Pot Creative Cafe

Spring time!

Fancy Dress party stay

Sum up in th your ree w ords !

Cos inclu y, 2 pou ded, nds!

Linb o Zh ou S

3

Sunday at the Chocolatarium

Preparing for Mid-Autumn Festival

USC Ice Bucket Challenge

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Culture Day

Cultural Kaleidoscope St George's held its annual Culture Day, offering students the opportunity to celebrate global traditions in a vibrant, inclusive environment. With 28 home languages spoken across the school, the event reflected the rich cultural backgrounds that make up our community. Pupils fearlessly shared their heritage through dress, dance and different dishes, reflecting an environment where each individual has the freedom to flourish.

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | International Winter Fair

International Winter Fair

We were whisked off on a whistle-stop tour of the world - but with no flight delays, no jet lag, and definitely no questionable plane food.

Organised with creativity and flair by our tireless language leaders, the fair featured a delightful mix of culture, chaos, and colour. You could hop from France to Germany, pop over to Iceland, and end up in China, all over lunch.

There were face paints and photo booths, a clothes swap for the fashion-forward, and a lucky dip for those feeling brave. Young Enterprise stalls gave future CEOs a chance to shine, and a BAME stall offering henna.

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Charity

Service, Strength, and Self-Discovery A group of Middle School girls stepped beyond the classroom walls and into a space where empathy, action, and leadership came to life. Their visit to the Fresh Start warehouse in North Edinburgh was an opportunity to learn through service, and they embraced it wholeheartedly.

Fresh Start is a local charity supporting people as they transition from homelessness.

During the visit the girls toured the warehouse, seeing first-hand the generosity of individuals, companies, and supermarkets who donate essential items. But this wasn’t just about seeing, it was about doing.

In the warehouse, the girls demonstrated that they were organisers, listeners, problemsolvers, and compassionate citizens. Some took quiet leadership, ensuring each pack was carefully considered; Others asked thoughtful, challenging questions about homelessness and how the charity works. Each girl flourished in her own way, stepping into her strengths and showing a deepening understanding of the world around her.

By the end of the visit, the reflection was clear: we are incredibly fortunate - and we have a responsibility to act for others. The girls returned not only with stories, but with a changed perspective - and a greater sense of who they are becoming.

This visit was just one of many charitable initiatives where our students have stepped forward with purpose. The Lower 5s participated in the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI), researching local charities and advocating passionately for their chosen causes. Their dedication paid off when they won £3,000 for the Breakfast Bothy, a charity helping homeless people in Edinburgh, showcasing the power of youth leadership and philanthropy.

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Charity Other highlights included girls spearheading a fundraising campaign for Children in Need, raising over £800 across Middle and Upper Schools, and Middle School ambassadors supporting the Marie Curie Daffodil Breakfast hosted by our Nursery.

Their warmth, maturity, and joyful energy brought the event to life, perfectly reflecting the school’s values in action.

In addition to these student-led initiatives, the St George’s community raised over £2,400 for Movember.

Several teachers joined in, sporting moustaches of all shapes and sizes! The ‘after’ photo is ‘missing’. How could that be?

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Charity

Soul Food: One table, lots in common

The Big Four, our student leaders, are asked many questions in an average week. One day in 2024, they were asked if they knew of any charities that would be good for St George’s and the Parent Teacher Forum (PTF) to support. Lexi Parkinson, our Head Student, gave a two-word answer that led to an incredible story - and hundreds of meals delivered in school to those in need.

‘Soul Food’ at St George’s is now a club, a group of friends, and a well-established, regular community meal delivered by the full range of the St George’s community. Helpers span from Primary 1 to Upper 6 and include lots of parents and members of staff too. If you

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ask anyone who has been involved, they will tell you it has been an absolute privilege to be there.

The guests frequently comment on how much they look forward to the St George’s meals - not just for the delicious food, but to see the volunteers. School is an easy conversation starter, as everyone has something to say about their school experience, good or bad! The delicious food that accompanies these conversations is provided by Thomas Franks, our outstanding caterers.

The generous donation from the PTF to Soul Food has also helped to fund hundreds of meals across the city in other venues. A magical story from a two-word answer!

Nurturing Hearts and Minds | Charity

Therapets at St G’s.

Studies show that spending just ten minutes with a therapy animal can lower stress levels by up to 25% and boost happiness. We’re very lucky to have Millie and Dylan, our Therapets, who visit the school every week. Pupils love stroking them, talking to them, and feeling calmer afterwards.

Research also suggests that therapy dogs can help improve focus and confidence in the classroom.

We’re so grateful for the joy and comfort Millie and Dylan bring to our school community.

Dylan

Milli

e

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Nurturing Hearts and Minds | House Events

Hue’s Going to Win? A Colourful Contest at St George’s

At St Georg e’s we play, compete, an d cheer, With House events held all through the year.

From sporty feats to dram a glow, We chase th e points wit h flair (you know!).

Quizzes, m atches, mus ic too There’s fun for all, not just a few.

With laugh ter loud an d spirits hig h, We build H ouse pride that’ll never die!

Final scores for 2024-25 1. Douglas (237)

House Captains:

House Vice-Captains:

Argyll: Ishbel Devin

Argyll: Livi Flynn-Pullar

Buccleuch: Laura Shoniwa

Buccleuch: Holly Hughes

Douglas: Caitlyn McCracken

Douglas: Vanessa Bruce

Lindsay: Abi Grahamslaw

Lindsay: Maighdlin Bruce

Moray: Sana Sharif

Moray: Tabby Short

Strathmore: Mariam Al-Muzian

Strathmore: Aakriti Kharal

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2. Lindsay (230) 3. Argyll (220) 4. Buccleuch (208) 5. Strathmore (185) 6. Moray (177)

Nurturing Hearts and Minds | House Events

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Community | Parent Teacher Forum

Parents play powerful parts in St George’s decisions and progress Everyone is welcome! The PTF representatives volunteer to ‘represent’ parents within a year group.

The PTF role is hugely important in helping new parents setlle in, and assisting with year group communications, trips and much more. You cannot be at St George’s long before you appreciate the ambitious and responsive Social Committee; these parent volunteers give their time, ideas and brilliance to help enhance the community. In a relatively short space of time, they have masterminded Prestonfield balls, Christmas fairs, wine tasting, summer events, as well as more friendly welcoming coffee mornings than we can count. A huge success, the family ceilidh is indicative of the committee’s commitment to finding what sort of events really work for our community and then making them happen. The Saturday Cafe, another PTF initiative, which offers warm drinks and friendly chat for anyone watching their daughters in fixtures, is another example of this. The success of all these events and the generosity of our parent community has led to the funding of the exceptional new low-ropes course, VR headsets and 3D printers, giant games and water activities for the Junior and Middle School, as well as donations of well over £10,000 to charitable local causes in the last two years.

Although there is some work involved, it is a fabulous team to be part of. Please be in touch with Emma Chandler-Thompson or your year group rep for more information or to express an interest in joining.

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Community | Parent Teacher Forum

Dates for your Diary 2026 Coffee Morning: Friday 16 January, Friday 20 March, Friday 24 April, Friday 12 June 8.30 -10.00am Family Ceilidh: Saturday 24 January 2- 4pm Summer Event: Saturday 30 May 2- 4pm

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Community | Article

Goodbye Lansdowne!

Hello One School Lansdowne had an absolutely fabulous send-off as alumnae, parents, families and friends all gathered in the beautiful Edinburgh summer sun for a last farewell. Fizz, fun and great stories were in abundance. It has played a key part in St George’s history and the fond memories will be forever treasured. Adventurous souls made it up into the ‘out of bounds’ tower and the archives room had a truly fascinating selection of wonderful pictures, books and items from its time as St George’s at Lansdowne House.

There was excellent music, ice creams, souvenirs, flowers a plenty, a bouncy castle, silent disco and endless summer games played, as everyone relaxed and soaked up the history and atmosphere of the beautiful buildings.

One School

Long will ‘Lansdowne’ live in our memories and history.

This year’s transition to our unified One School campus has been a resounding success - especially for our inaugural Middle School cohort, who have adapted seamlessly and embraced the exciting changes. For our S1 students, the integration has created a stronger sense of community and brought tangible day-to-day benefits. Many report feeling more connected to the school and enjoy the practical ease of moving quickly between classes.

“Being on one campus has been easier,” shares Darcy (S1). “We’ve enjoyed playing tennis at break and lunch, and our breaks feel longer since everything is closer together.” Academic support has improved too. “It’s easier to ask teachers for help since their offices are all on this campus,” one girl explained, highlighting the increased accessibility of staff. It’s clear that our unified campus isn’t just about buildings – it’s about creating an environment where our youngest secondary students are thriving academically and socially.

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Community | Article

Growing Resilience Together: St George’s and Families in Partnership with Tooled Up Nursery Team We know that when a child feels seen, heard, and supported, they can truly flourish. Emotional wellbeing lies at the heart of learning, growing, and forming strong friendships – and that’s what we nurture every day.

In May 2025, we were proud to host a live webinar with Dr Kathy Weston, national expert in evidencebased parenting and founder of Tooled Up Education.

Entitled Parent Power: “Impactful Tips for Boosting Your Child’s Emotional Wellbeing and Resilience”, the session explored key challenges in the early years.

Dr Weston shared research-backed strategies on easing separation anxiety, supporting sleep routines, exploring parenting styles, and nurturing emotional literacy. Attendees joined in person and online, with a thoughtful Q&A to close.

Our partnership with Tooled Up Education extends well beyond this event. Through ongoing professional development, our nursery team engages with a range of resources and tools, including the Wobble Ladder – which helps children overcome anxieties step by step –

and the Five Fingers of Support framework, encouraging confidence and self-esteem.

We’ve also embedded Catching Children’s Resilience, a practice that celebrates every moment a child perseveres through difficulty, turning challenges into growth.

To extend learning beyond the webinar, we have shared curated Tooled Up articles such as: • Parenting Tots and Toddlers: Helping Under 5s to Thrive • Helping Children to Settle Well at Nursery • 30 Ways to Support a Five-Year-Old’s Learning at Home • Supporting Meltdowns in Early Childhood • Why Is Play So Important?

We look forward to future events with Tooled Up Education – strengthening the connection between home and school in meaningful, evidence-informed ways. Do sign up and explore if you have not already done so. It’s an excellent resource.

A snapshot of what our teachers have been reading, and how this compares to families at home:

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Community | Staff

Leaving Staff Jill Bryce – 37 years’ service Jill arrived at St George’s in 1988 as a brand-new teacher. She has given 37 years of loyal service in several different and crucial roles: as teacher and Head of Maths, Head of Sixth Form, Senior Deputy and Head of Boarding. There are generations after generations of St George’s students, whose lives have been positively impacted by the time, inspiration or care provided by Jill.

Fiercely loyal to St George's and its students Jill has a firm commitment to the power of an all-girls education. She herself, attended St Margaret’s School in Edinburgh and has kept in touch with her former schoolmates - for which we are immensely grateful, as her extensive network has been incredibly helpful for recruiting inspirational governors and prize-giving speeches!

Jill has many admirable personal qualities that make her a fantastic colleague and Jill has many teacher. admirable personal She loves her Maths and really values qualities that make her time in the Maths classroom. Many of you may not be aware how much time her a fantastic she devotes to tutoring Maths in the extravaganzas will go down in colleague and Boarding House over the evenings and history! She has fully embraced life teacher. weekends and she is always prepared to give on stage, and pink seems to be the the time and care needed to prepare engaging recurring theme! Jill can carry off a and accessible lessons. Her logical mathematical horse mask with panache for World Book Day approach to issues and problems is, of course, (Black Beauty) worn to assembly and staff briefings. extremely valuable at Senior Leadership level. She Only Jill could make a horse mask look so serene and brings an analytical perspective that is so valuable. graceful. Less panache with the ‘Scream’ mask for Jill’s history at St Gs has been a family one. We have Halloween disco - utterly terrifying for students and had the pleasure of teaching both of Jill's daughters, staff alike.

Rebecca and Caroline. Alison Strathdee also fondly Jill is pretty unshockable and whilst we might share recalls numerous gatherings where young John was a the odd moment of ‘filter-off’ about whatever a familiar and welcome presense. All three are an member of staff or student has done now, the minute absolute credit to Jill and Andrew. she walks out from my office, I know she will be as We know that Rebecca, Caroline and John are just professional as you could possibly hope and deal with as proud of their mum and all she has achieved, as Jill whatever crosses her path with humanity, patience and is of them. the best interest of all at the heart. Her commitment to Jill must have attended and participated in the good of the school and sense of personal hundreds of trips, clubs and events with the school responsibility - increasingly rare - is at the heart of such during her time here and we have no doubt that her dependability and loyalty and was, and still is, deeply personal qualities have been in great demand. appreciated.

Shattering any preconceptions and stereotypes that We all wish Jill a very happy and enjoyable people may have about a Maths teacher and/or Senior retirement, spending more quality time with the family.

Deputy Head, Jill's performances in the staff She will be greatly missed.

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Community | Staff

A taste of the ex cuses she heard:

Elaine Ford – 22 years’ service Elaine has been a stalwart of St George's - truly in with the bricks and a super supportive colleague to work with. Over the years Elaine has been the face, or more accurately - the voice of St George's - on the other side of the phone. Her years of taking those calls from parents, informing school why their daughter is off or will be late will hopefully form the basis of a best seller of School Excuses, and keep Elaine comfortable for years to come.

Always professional, Elaine goes above and beyond what is expected of her role. If she can help, she will.

Elaine is truly a people person, and her kindness, thoughtfulness and calm demeanour means that a quiet and supportive word from Mrs Ford usually helps.

A talented baker too! Over the years Elaine has provided us with the motivation to bake for others and raise money in the process. Her beautiful bakes - especially the exquisite Chiffon Cake - are stuff of legend.

We are so grateful to Elaine for all that she has given to St George's.

In addition to the members of staff who have been written about here, St George’s would like to record its thanks to the following colleagues who have worked at the school for a shorter period of time:

The puppies wrec ked the kitchen.

I got lost.

My brother would n’t get up.

I was wearing the wrong shoes.

I was walking too slowly.

My art portfolio is too big.

My sister hid my uniform.

I had trouble gettin g the hairspray to work.

I forgot my crown .

What time is it Mr

s Ford?

Alasdair Dunlop

Jo Casely

Peter Verecchia

Anne Lewis

Kyle Ely

Rachel Tsai

Bornie Lamotte

Laraine Housley

Steven Cleary

Elena Bannatyne

Laura Scott

Jamie Hogarth

Louise Scott

Steven Muir (in memoriam)

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Community | P1

P1

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Community | P2

P2

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Community | P3

P3

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Community | P4

P4

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Community | P5

P5

84

Community | P6

P6

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Community | Remove

Remove

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Community | Lower 4 / S1

L4/S1

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Community | Valete

Valete UPPER 6P Chelini Abeyasinghe 2018 - 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Medicine Aksara Balakumar 2011 – 2025 Platinum Badge The University of Edinburgh – Medicine Sophie Blythe 2021 – 2025 University of St Andrews – Biology Rose Henderson 2021 – 2025 University of Glasgow – Zoology Kayla Hui 2019 – 2025 University of Aberdeen – Psychology Melissa Irons 2017 – 2025 Heriot-Watt University – Applied Modern Languages & Translating: Chinese/Spanish Sofia Konechny 2017 – 2025 University of St Andrews – German and Italian (year abroad) Iona McLean 2018 – 2025 Heriot-Watt University – Mechanical Engineering Saanvi Panigrahi 2017 – 2025 University of St Andrews – Mathematics Zarah Price 2020 – 2025 University of Glasgow – Microbiology

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Amber Swanson 2019 – 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Scottish Ethnology and Scottish History

UPPER 6R

Monica Young 2017 – 2025 University of Dundee – Mental Health Nursing

Kelsie Brain 2024 – 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Mathematical Physics

UPPER 6Q Victoria Akoh 2019 – 2025 University of Aberdeen – Law with English Law Vanessa Bruce 2019 – 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Law Heather Conroy 2018 – 2025 University of Dundee – Education Ishbel Devin 2017 – 2025 University of Aberdeen – Medicine Charlotte Dickson 2015 – 2025 King’s College London, University of London – Law

Mariam Al-Muzian 2016 – 2025 Newcastle University – Economics

Francesca Cucchi 2019 – 2025 Edinburgh Napier University – International Festival and Event Management and Marketing Marie Chantal Cuesta Andoh 2019 – 2025 Heriot-Watt University – Civil Engineering Serena Dallas 2024 – 2025 University of Aberdeen – Politics and International Relations Natasha Gardiner 2020 – 2025 Heriot-Watt University – Design for Textiles (Fashion, Interior, Art) Sanna Ghazoul 2018 – 2025 Durham University – Anthropology

Katherine Dixon 2009 – 2025 Platinum Badge University of Cambridge – Modern and Medieval Languages

Daisy Helliwell 2023 – 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Product Design

Faith Kwan 2021 – 2025 King’s College London, University of London – Physiotherapy

Charlene Ho 2020 – 2025 University of Dundee – Art & Design (General Foundation)

Lauren Wang 2021 – 2025 Gap Year

Aakriti Kharal 2019 – 2025 University of Aberdeen – Law with English Law

Stella Whitworth 2021 – 2025 Lancaster University – Mechanical Engineering with Placement Year

Amrien Rahim 2010 – 2025 Platinum Badge University College, London – History

Community | Valete Emma-Clare Simpson 2021 – 2025 Edinburgh Napier University – Criminology

UPPER 6S Mahdiyah Ahmed 2021 – 2025 University of Glasgow – Molecular and Cellular Biology Jennifer Chen 2021 – 2025 University of Glasgow – Law Amelia Cormack 2017 - 2025 Degree Apprenticeship, Architecture with TP Bennett and London South Bank University Trisha Denis 2020 – 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Medicine Lucie Edwards 2024 – 2025 Queens University Belfast – Archaeology Thalia Elbatta 2021 – 2025 Heriot Watt University – Business Administration Abigail Grahamslaw 2017 – 2025 University of Sheffield – International Relations and Politics Molly Mathers 2018 – 2025 University of Glasgow – Central & East European Studies and History Caitlin McCracken 2019 – 2025 University of York – Law Mollie Rose 2019 – 2025 Heriot-Watt University – Spanish for Business Management

Sophia Saber 2011 – 2025 Gold Badge University of Aberdeen – Law with English Law

UPPER 6X Leonie Chinchon 2024 – 2025 Université Paris Cité in Paris – Medicine Amy Guo 2013 – 2025 Gold Badge Leeds Arts University – Animation (with placement year) Jana Leung 2021 – 2025 University of Dundee – Art & Design (General Foundation) Jemima Macaulay 2018 – 2025 University of Leeds – History Sophie Melbourne 2012 – 2025 Platinum Badge University of Strathclyde – Architectural Studies Christine Sang 2016 – 2025 Durham University – Philosophy, Politics and Economics Anna Shaw 2013 – 2025 Gap Year then University of Bath – Economics Tabitha Short 2014 – 2025 Newcastle University – Animal Science Camilla Weir 2023 – 2025 University of St Andrews – English Vivian Young 2020 – 2025 Parsons University USA – Fashion

UPPER 6Y Heather Cheng 2019 – 2025 University of Manchester – Law Nadia Chiu 2021 – 2025 Glasgow School of Art – 3D Modelling Gunes Cig 2023 – 2025 City (City St George's, University of London) – Accounting and Finance Afton Learmonth 2024 – 2025 University of Aberdeen – Real Estate Katherine McCarlie 2019 – 2025 Newcastle University – Environmental Science Katherine Morris 2024 – 2025 University of Aberdeen – Business Management and Legal Studies Ellie O’Connor 2010 – 2025 Platinum Badge University of York – Criminology Mhairi Pickavance 2019 – 2025 Royal Navy – Warfare Aviation Officer Training Louise Thomson 2021 – 2025 King’s College, London, University of London – Law

UPPER 6Z Maighdlin Bruce 2012 – 2025 Platinum Badge Durham University – Biosciences Connie Dickson 2015 – 2025 University of York – Music and Sound Recording

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Community | Valete Kiana Erxleben 2017 – 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Veterinary Medicine Olivia Flynn-Pullar 2021 – 2025 University of Glasgow – Sociology (SocSci) Susanna Hotson 2015 – 2025 The University of Edinburgh – Veterinary Medicine Holly Hughes 2020 – 2025 Durham University – Anthropology Justine MacDonald 2022 – 2025 Oxford Brookes University – Foundation in Business

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Isabel Nicolson 2010 – 2025 Platinum Badge Newcastle University – Business Management Sana Sharif 2019 – 2025 University of Strathclyde – Law (LLB) Laura Shoniwa 2012 – 2025 Platinum Badge University of Aberdeen – Business Management Rebecca Tidswell 2017 – 2025 Durham University – Combined Honours in Social Sciences

STUDENT LEADERSHIP TEAM Head of Boarding Anna Mackenzie 2021 – 2025 University of Glasgow – Philosophy/Politics (SocSci) Senior Prefect Rachel Jackson 2012 – 2025 Gold Badge The University of Edinburgh – English Literature Deputy Head of School Saskia Skipworth 2010 – 2025 Platinum Badge Durham University – Physics Head of School Verity Shand 2009 – 2025 Platinum Badge University of Aberdeen – Law with English Law

OSCR Charity No: SC012632

Courage to succeed Freedom to 昀ourish At St George’s school, we get your daughter.

Really get her. We see her spark, fuel her 昀re then back her all the way.

Empowering all-girls experience Intimate class sizes Outstanding academic results Full, 昀exi and ad hoc boarding

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