Schools to Watch


The Scotsman, 13th March 2004, by Craig Brown

Merchiston Castle School's Headmaster is candid when it comes to his role. "I consider myself the least important person in the school," explains Andrew Hunter. "The pupils, the staff and the parents are the most important ones. They make us what we are."

Merchiston is a unique institution, the only boys-only school in Scotland. Bucking the education trends of boys under-performing academically, the school strives to give its pupils more opportunities to excel.

In recent years Merchiston has embarked on an ambitious building programme which has included a new technology and music centre and a state-of-the-art library. They recently opened a new teaching centre for eight to ten-year-olds, and final plans are being drawn up for a purpose-built sixth form house.

Mr Hunter says that the school is diverse in its encouragement of pupils.

"It's not just about exam results," he insists. "It's thriving in theatre and music; at least two-thirds of the pupils are involved in some sort of musical activity. And when it comes to sport, I believe in the 'sport for all' philosophy.

"One of my axioms is that we work hard, develop hard and play hard. In recent times, five Merchistonians have been in the Scotland rugby team, but I'm not just interested in the top of the pyramid. I'm interested in sports and wider development for all."

With a roll of 415, the focus on individual pastoral care is a key element of the boys' schooling. "Because of our size, none of the boys can hide," says Mr Hunter. "The staff know every pupil, and the community support that we offer is very important.

"Boys do develop at a slower rate than girls, but I don't mean that they are limited. We want to give them time to flourish and develop."

The fact that the school is single-sex does not mean the boys are deprived of female company. Merchiston has strong links with several of the local girls' schools and ensure that pupils mix regularly.

In the end, however, Mr Hunter is aware that the school's aim is to produce young men who understand the importance of a work ethic leading to an impressive academic performance, yet at the same time are fully rounded, inclusive citizens.

"I believe that the world needs leadership from the young men leaving this school," he says. "Moreover, the world needs these young men to ask, 'What am I going to contribute to society?"

"Boys' schools generally are the exception rather than the rule. I would say that we are worth watching because our story is an intriguing one."