Boarding or day?

Whilst Merchiston is primarily a boarding school many of the younger Pringle boys join as dayboys for their younger years. For the dayboys, the School provides many of the benefits of its boarding education whilst enabling them to return home each evening. The flexibility in our boarding arrangements clearly appeals to a wide range of families, particularly when both parents are working, and can be tailored to their individual needs. Dayboys are encouraged to take part in all aspects of School life, and at Merchiston we aim to be as flexible as possible to suit parents' work and social arrangements. As boys move up in Pringle many opt to become full time boarders

For boys who are considering boarding some of the benefits of boarding are detailed below:

Boarding can develop a higher level of confidence; community spirit; independence; social skills; cultural awareness; respect for others; self motivation; wide variety of interests; more diverse social life; closer relationships with friends; an enhanced curriculum and a good working relationship with teachers.

Day boys arrive at Pringle between 8.00 am and 8.20 am in time for registration at 8.30 am.

We have flexible collection times, depending on a boy's age. Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 4.00 pm for J4 & J5, from 7.10 pm for the First and Second Forms, and 7.45 pm for the Third Form, except by prior arrangement. Tuesday, Thursday: from 4.00 pm for all year groups. Saturday: 11.50 pm for all years groups from First Form, unless involved in sporting activity.

An after-School Club is run for our 8 and 9 year olds until 6.00 pm. First Form and above may opt for a longer day by joining boarders for supervised prep until 7.30 pm or even longer if boys wish to remain for activities such as swimming or football.