A proud heritage in sporting excellence

Merchiston is steeped in sporting excellence. For over 175 years, the School has been producing a wide range of sportsmen. From the three Merchistonians who played for Scotland in the world's first ever rugby international, to the 23 cricket internationalists and the national honours in tennis, athletics, curling and shooting, the School has always espoused a passion for sport, a passion for excellence, and an enjoyment of the buzz of competition as both individual and team players.

Over 61 of our boys went on to represent their country at rugby - and most recently Oliver Hairs represented Scotland at cricket whilst still at School. Our rugby 1st XV has won the Scottish Schools Cup five times since 1997, and the 1st VII is the only Scottish team to reach the semi-final of the National Schools Sevens at Rosslyn Park. Our tennis team recently won the Independent Schools Championship at Eton College.

Pioneering in specialist sports education

Today, Merchiston is one of the leading innovators of sports education in the UK.  The School established Scotland's first Tennis Academy (in partnership with St George's School for Girls and Tennis Scotland) in 2007. This allows boys to attend the school and benefit from an excellent education whilst gaining world class tennis coaching and competitive experience. Already The Tennis Academy Scotland is producing promising young stars for tomorrow.

At home in the home of Golf

As a Scottish school, proud of our Scottish heritage and traditions, we have launched The Golf Academy at Merchiston. Scotland is after all, the Home of Golf; and the School is within one hour's drive of over 40 of some of the world's best golf courses.

A school that understands the needs of the sportsman

The boys will have access to all the facilities and sports expertise available at the school. This includes a fully-equipped modern gymnasium, swimming pool, indoor sports hall and advice and mentoring from the School's sports staff, the Housemasters and Tutors. Thus the balance between education, pastoral care and golfing excellence is delivered to provide a unique educational experience.