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Saturday Electives

school news

A Streetcar Named Desire Nalini Chetty as Stella Kowalski and Kirsty Stuart as Blanche. Photo Credit - Fraser Band

On the 30th of October, as part of the arts programme at Merchiston, we set off to see the play, “A Streetcar Named Desire” by Tennessee Williams. This production is relevant to us, as it is incorporated into the curriculum of the Sixth Form. 

Rowing

The boys and staff of Laidlaw North are embarking on a virtual row across the English Channel from Portsmouth Port to the beaches of Normandy, a distance of 170km!

Junior school boy students smiling

At Merchiston, we believe in developing well-rounded individuals by equipping our students with lifelong skills.

Our bold, new Saturday Electives Programme allows us to do just that! With 25 options ranging from Climbing to Kitchen Chemistry, Robotics to Politics, Model UN to Ancient Greek for Beginners, our students will be enthused, enlightened and inspired. Many schools have lessons on a Saturday but we have taken a fresh approach, using that time to open eyes, broaden horizons, spark interests and intensify knowledge bases. The move away from a more traditional Saturday teaching approach, which has been overwhelmingly well received by students, parents and staff alike, gives students hands-on experiences, bolsters their CV and gives them skills that universities and employers look for. Students are encouraged to not play it safe when choosing options but be open to new experiences because trying something new may well bring a hidden talent to the fore. Our Electives Programme is available across the Junior, Middle Years and Senior School, tailored to each stage at Merchiston and based on the skills and passions of staff and students alike. What new skill will your son learn this term? 

2022/23 Electives programme

Sports Desk is a fantastic and unique way to spend time with friends and enjoy the thrilling sports during a Saturday morning. However, it most importantly teaches you how to improve on persuasive writing and gives you an idea on how journalism is done, the marketing, and how the technical aspects of sports articles work.

Nathan C - Vth Form

You can read the inaugural Sports Desk report produced by our Students here.

The Climbing elective has been a great experience! From the moment I finish a session, I am already looking forward to next week. The instructors are great, and they have helped us learn all the necessary skills to climb on our own. I have been able to really improve my climbing skills, and I am very happy to be a part of this amazing elective!

Andrew K - LVI

In Conversational Spanish we practise Spanish while learning about the culture of Spain and other Latin countries. I enjoy this elective because it has helped me get a headstart on my GCSE Spanish and my favourite part has been cooking Spanish dishes in the kitchen.

Luke D - Shell