Merchiston Tennis Academy offers a clear and proven pathway for players ranging from top county level to junior Grand Slam competitors.
We deliberately limit our intake to just 28 players at any one time, ensuring a highly personalised training experience and consistent one-to-one support. This focused approach enables our athletes to continually improve their performance and maintain a high level of consistency on court.
With a strong track record of developing every aspect of a player’s game, our programme combines a world-class tennis experience with an exceptional boarding school education. Players benefit from elite coaching, access to appropriate level tournaments and a bespoke training schedule designed to meet their individual goals.
High standards are set by both coaches and players, creating an environment that balances high performance with a genuine love of the game. Our integrated boarding and training model provides the perfect foundation for those aspiring to a professional career, supporting not only sporting excellence but also personal development and growth.
Merchiston Tennis Academy Programmes
Merchiston Tennis Academy has two programmes, each with a tailored schedule and the appropriate level of training and conditioning to match individual talents and skill levels as a tennis player. Entry to both academies is by assessment only, ensuring players train in the environment best suited to their levels and goals. There is often overlap between training environments, allowing flexibility as players progress and develop.
Age: 10 to 18
The Merchiston Tennis Development Academy provides regular opportunities for players who love tennis to train together. The Development Academy will suit players at U12 and Regional/National standard, U14 and County standard or U18 and Club/County standard.
Breakdown of training per week (based on a minimum of 10/11 hours per week):
- 10 hours of squad training
- 3 hours strength and conditioning
- 1 x 1 hour individual training (extra cost)
Age: 12 to 18
The Merchiston Tennis Performance Academy provides regular intensive opportunities for players who have a strong profile in areas of focus, commitment, game development and competition to train together. The Performance Academy will suit players at U14 and Regional/National standard or U18 and County/Regional/National standard.
Breakdown of training per week (based on a minimum of 15 hours per week):
- 2 x 1 hour individual training
- 13 hours squad training
- 5 hours strength and conditioning
Facilities – The Tennis Dome
At the heart of Merchiston’s Tennis Academy is our impressive on-site Tennis Dome, home to three indoor tennis courts and providing pupils with year-round access to high-quality training facilities in a consistent, professional environment.
Located within the School’s extensive campus, the dome allows academy players to move seamlessly between academic lessons and training, maximising both court time and time in the classroom. Whatever the Scottish weather, pupils benefit from uninterrupted coaching, structured practice and performance development throughout the year.
As part of one of the UK’s leading school tennis academies, these purpose-built facilities give pupils the opportunity to train, compete and develop their game to the highest level.
Academy Spotlights & Achievements
- National champions across singles and doubles age-group competitions.
- Winners and finalists at prestigious Tennis Europe tournaments.
- Regular representation of Scotland at the Four Nations Championships.
- Players selected to represent Great Britain in international team competitions.
- Junior international world-ranked players emerging from the programme.
- Selection for GB international training camps.
- National titles including Road to Wimbledon and British National Championships.
- Invitations to participate in player demonstrations during The Championships, Wimbledon.
- Consistent success in British National Tour events.
- Players competing successfully against leading international opposition.
“Before I came to Merchiston, I had to travel 2 hours to play tennis, now I just need to walk 5 minutes, which allows me to maximise my tennis and educational potential. The teachers and coaches guide me and help me a great deal and I really appreciate their support.”
Current Player
Tennis Academy Fees
| Academy | Fees (in addition to school fees) |
| Tennis Academy Performance Squad | £2,145 per annum |
| Tennis Academy Development Squad | £1,035 per annum |
