Here at Merchiston, we believe that education should be tailored to meet the needs of the individual. Our approach to teaching is highly personalised, affording each boy the chance to flourish and pave the path to personal success.

But what does ‘individualised teaching’ mean in practice? And, how does Merchiston ensure that each child gets the attention they need to grow and thrive?

Small But Mighty  

Merchiston benefits from having a close-knit community, with a high teacher-to-student ratio and small class sizes. This structure enables our teachers to develop a much greater understanding of how each student works best, what motivates them and where they have room for growth.

Without the pressures of managing large classes, staff are able to spend dedicated time with each pupil during the course of a lesson – identifying where they may need additional assistance or, equally, where great potential is evident. By spending time one-on-one with the boys, staff gain a better picture of students’ strengths, interests and learning styles, informing how we teach and support them.

Outside of the classroom, teachers are also in a better position to pick up on individual preferences, be it skills on the tennis court or a strength in writing or art. With a high teacher percentage, staff can identify a boy’s hidden talents and interests, and actively encourage him to pursue these further.

First-Class Departments

Access to first-class facilities also helps boys to nurture and advance their individual skill sets. Whether he is a pro on the rugby field, a master of biology, or has a theatrical flair, Merchiston has the resources to support each student develop their passions. Our co-curricular activities are a prime example of this; should a teacher recognise a student who excels in Design Technology, they would encourage him to sign up for our STEM clubs. Likewise, a pupil with an interest in cooking would be invited to take part in our MasterChef competition. 

In the classroom, our expert teaching staff recognise when a student can be stretched beyond the standard curriculum, and equally where further support is needed. Extensive departmental resources, from our specialist science laboratories to the art studio, mean staff are always well-equipped to meet each student at their level.

Harvey Hub

Merchiston’s Harvey Hub offers additional support for learning outside of the classroom. From students who wish to be stretched academically, to those with additional learning needs, the Harvey Hub is a space for students and staff together to focus on what each pupil needs to flourish.

Working closely with each pupil, the Support for Learning team devises a schedule that allows structured time for boys to work on developing particular skills, techniques and strategies to perform to their personal best.

Whatever his ambition or level may be, the Harvey Hub is a quiet space for boys to further their studies and gain access to additional support for their learning.

Close Knit Community

As a school, we pride ourselves on our tight-knit community, where each student feels valued, listened to, and respected. Our small class sizes contribute to this, fostering strong bonds and a sense of familiarity between staff and pupils.

This element of camaraderie and fellowship across the school means that students feel comfortable raising issues with teachers, and staff in turn, are in a better position to notice when a boy seems out of sorts or needs some extra help. This insight into their personal lives is crucial when it comes to understanding how to best teach and motivate students to achieve their goals. 

By getting to know students both in and outside of the classroom, our teachers are in the best position to truly understand what makes each boy tick, what he is passionate about, and where his strengths lie. In doing so, staff are in the best position to provide truly individualised teaching that supports each student’s development and enables him to reach his personal best.

Are you interested in a school that treats your son as an individual? Get in touch with Merchiston’s admissions team here.