Two leading Scottish schools set to merge

Two of Edinburgh’s leading single-sex secondary schools are to merge into one fully co-educational school.

Stewart’s Melville College and The Mary Erskine School will become a single, co-educational school from the start of the 2026-2027 academic year. The new school, which includes the ESMS Junior School, will collectively be named Erskine Stewart Melville and provide education for pupils aged 3-18.

Both schools already operate in part as a co-educational (diamond) model, with the junior school and sixth forms delivering the curriculum in this way. Once the transition takes place, all parts will become a simplified, single structure, operating as one school throughout every year group.

Anthony Simpson, Principal of Erskine Stewart Melville, said: “This is an exciting new chapter for the School. As we look to the future, this new simplified structure will enable us to broaden the curriculum and create a more inclusive environment that reflects the modern world. Our current schools are fantastic, inspiring excellent exam results every year and offering an extensive range of co-curricular activities. As we move to a fully co-educational model, our primary focus will remain unchanged – to provide a world class education that will give our students the skills and mindset they need to thrive.”

The decision by the School followed a comprehensive review of its operations, including a thorough assessment of the curriculum, co-curricular opportunities, wellbeing provision and operational efficiency.

Anthony Simpson continued: “The new structure is far more efficient, and beyond unavoidable VAT increases, it will help us to limit substantial fee rises. Crucially, it will also enable us to continue investing in innovative teaching and learning.”

Erskine Stewart Melville Senior School will be located at the current Stewart’s Melville site on Queensferry Road, whilst Erskine Stewart Melville Junior School will be on the Ravelston site. When the new School opens its doors, it will leave just three single-sex schools in Scotland, reflecting a long-standing trend towards co-education.

The new school name, Erskine Stewart Melville, honours the original founders of the schools and its new logo borrows heraldry from each of the schools. Established in 1694, it is one of the oldest schools in Scotland.