Secondary education in Edinburgh 2025

Edinburgh offers an extensive range of educational services, from a variety of primary schools to excellent options for higher education and vocational training. This picturesque, historically rich city hosts world-famous festivals, events, architecture, and museums, providing an ideal balance of lively urban life and stunning natural scenery. For three years, Edinburgh has been recognized as the UK's second-best student city and ranked 18th worldwide in the QS World Rankings for student cities.

Public Schools: Highly regarded and tuition-free, Edinburgh's public schools receive funding from national taxes and operate under a catchment area system, which affects school placement based on residential location—an essential aspect for expatriate families.

Independent Schools: Known as private institutions, these schools do not depend on public funds. While the public education system in Edinburgh is commendable, many expats prefer private schools because they consider them to have higher and more rigorous academic standards. These institutions typically feature smaller class sizes, modern facilities, and diverse extracurricular activities. However, admission can be competitive, often requiring entrance exams or interviews, and slots fill up quickly due to specific enrollment periods.

The educational institutions in Edinburgh offer a level of education that meets both European and international standards. Despite its long history, the city's schools, universities, and colleges embrace modern educational methods. Edinburgh's low crime rate contributes to a safe environment for students. The learning experience is enhanced through trips to cultural landmarks such as Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, the National Museum of Scotland, the National Portrait Gallery, and the Scottish National Galleries.

Edinburgh attracts thousands of international students from over 180 countries, providing local students with opportunities to connect with diverse cultures worldwide.

The academic year in Edinburgh's schools starts in September and ends in July, with a typical school day running from 9 am to 4 pm, Monday to Friday.

Noteworthy subjects in Edinburgh's schools include computer science, social sciences, and humanities. Public schools adhere to the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence, which includes Broad General Education (kindergarten, primary school from P1 to P7, and middle school from S1 to S3) and the Senior Phase (S4 to S6).

While there are no schools specifically for international students from certain countries, several offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, ideal for many expatriate students because it is standardized worldwide and widely recognized by universities globally.

The City of Edinburgh Council offers support for students with special needs, including disabilities, family challenges, or English language learning support.

Home schooling is also legally recognized in Edinburgh. Parents must notify the city council if they withdraw their child from school; newly arrived children who have not yet attended school can be home-schooled without notifying authorities. Parents must provide an education suitable to the child's age and abilities, with local authorities entitled to conduct annual visits and assessments to ensure compliance.