Open Morning at Edinburgh’s independent school encourages a balanced education in and out with the classroom
Learning at George Watson’s College in Edinburgh is about balancing education in the classroom and beyond. Meet the new Principal and find out more at the Open Morning on Saturday 5th October – register now.
George Watson’s College offers an exceptional education for children and young people from the age of 3 to 18 years. Preschool, junior and senior pupils all learn and play on the same 52-acre campus, where sports facilities, the music school, art department, technology building and drama studios are all within walking distance.
Located in the heart of Edinburgh, pupils not only receive an extraordinary education but are encouraged to immerse themselves in outdoor activities to boost their confidence, social skills, communication and motivation.
Extended knowledge and understanding come with the physical skills of outdoor education opportunities, which have been shown to boost pupils’ self-esteem and cooperative working in research carried out by the University of Edinburgh.
One of the most renowned outdoor education opportunities at its Senior School is its S3 Projects programme, which has been designed to extend pupils’ learning beyond academia, sport and extracurricular activities. Projects include elements of adventure activities, field studies, community life and cultural experiences for groups of 12 pupils, with three staff, over 10-14 days in residential settings away from the city.
Highly experienced and fully trained outdoor education staff lead the excursions, which are often looked back on by former pupils as the highlight of their Watson’s education and an experience which shaped their future lives for the better. With the programme now a firm favourite in the academic calendar, it is clear that the benefits have transcended over the years.
Shaping future excellence by broadening horizons
The Senior School Adventure Learning programme also includes Duke of Edinburgh, S1 Orientation, Adventure Club and Rock Climbing Club – encouraging pupils to immerse themselves in the wild outdoors on action-packed camps and activities.
Hikes in the Pentlands, evening kayaking, winter mountaineering weekends and annual sea kayaking excursions help to develop new skills. Climbing Club, helped by coaching at Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, improves pupils’ coordination, puzzle solving and helps to combat anxiety. The club is open to all, regardless of abilities.
Outdoor Nurture Sessions also offer a holistic approach to nurturing young minds, while honing practical outdoor skills offers opportunities for personal growth.
Enriching opportunities beyond the classroom are also offered to pupils in the Junior School. Action-packed excursions from P1, enable pupils to extend their learning and develop independence whilst encouraging a sense of discovery of the world around them. Annual residential trips to York in P4, camps in P5 and P6 and London in P7 confirm that learning off-campus has a hugely positive impact on pupil’s growth, confidence and resilience.
Providing an extraordinary education
Providing an outstanding preparation for pupils’ future lives and careers, with a mix of highly innovative and reassuringly traditional teaching, Watson’s broad curriculum is flexible enough to meet most young people’s needs, offering an unparalleled range of opportunities to enhance and enrich pupils’ educational journey.
The learning journey starts in the Preschool and continues in the Junior School with a curriculum that is rich and varied, ensuring children acquire a deep understanding of individual subjects. Specialist teachers in art, languages, music, sport and drama support the class teacher as pupils progress year to year, empowering them to be confident, successful and happy learners.
The choice and opportunities within Senior School are offered in abundance through 19 academic departments with 200 highly skilled teachers and professionals, including librarians, technicians, careers advisers, progression coordinators, artists in residence, music instructors and sports coaches.
The wellbeing and learning of all pupils is also supported by their form teacher and Pupil Support staff, as well as a specialist careers team to help make curriculum choices at key stages.
The original building is augmented by a range of purpose-built facilities, including:
· The Art School with dedicated studio spaces
· The Drama Centre with professional lighting and sound systems
· Design, Technology and Engineering Centre with equipment ranging from 3D printers to a metal forge
· The Music School with a 200-seat auditorium
· The Centre for Sport with a swimming pool, two sports halls, three gym halls and fitness suite
· Outside sports facilities including the famous Grandstand Pitch at Myreside
· Full-scale artificial hockey facility, tennis and squash courts, cricket square and boat house on the Union Canal
Meet the new Principal at Open Morning
To hear more from new Principal Lisa Kerr, who joins George Watson’s College as the former Principal at Gordonstoun School, register for the Open Morning on Saturday 5 October here
To find out more about 2025 admissions or to get in touch, visit the website
George Watson’s College is at Colinton Road, Edinburgh EH10 5EG.