Academic Life
At Erskine Stewart Melville we push the boundaries of traditional education, blending academic excellence with innovative teaching methods, ensuring our students not only excel in their studies but also develop the skills, resilience, and mindset needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Our teachers are passionate about their subjects and go beyond the curriculum to inspire a love of learning. They nurture curiosity, champion creativity and empower students to reach their full potential.
98%
gain admission to their firm choice university
70.9%
A Rate at Higher for The Mary Erskine School
64.9%
A Rate at Higher for Stewart's Melville College
38
subjects to choose from
Ambition in Learning, Ambition in Life
At the heart of our academic approach is ambition. Students are encouraged to aim high, work hard and carve their own individual path to success. Our sector-leading teaching, progressive curriculum, and extensive co-curricular opportunities help students to surpass their own expectations.
A Broad Curriculum
Our broad curriculum helps students to discover their passions:
| Art & Design | Accounting | Biology | Business Management | Chemistry |
| Classical Studies | Computing Science | Design & Manufacture | Drama | Economics |
| English | Environmental Science | Fashion & Textile Technology | French | Geography |
| German | Graphic Communication | Health & Food Technology | History | Latin |
| Mathematics | Mathematics of Mechanics | Media | Modern Studies | Music |
| Physical Education | Physics | Politics | Product Design | PSE |
| RMPS | Spanish | Statistics |
A Culture of Innovation
As one of Edinburgh’s top private schools, innovation drives everything we do. We embrace practices that enhance learning, from adaptive teaching strategies to pioneering educational technology. We are a Microsoft Global Showcase School, leading by example and preparing students and staff alike to be forward-thinking and ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the future.
Our Results
With hard work and the support of their dedicated teachers, our students achieve nationally outstanding results every year. They go on to study at leading universities across the UK and around the world, secure competitive apprenticeships, and carve their own unique and creative paths in various industries, setting a foundation for lifelong success.
The Mary Erskine School Results
| Qualification | Mary Erskine Pass Rate % | National Average Pass Rate % | Mary Erskine A Rate % | National Average A Rate % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S4 National 5 | 98.2 | 77.2 | 85.4 | 38.0 |
| S5 Higher | 98.0 | 74.9 | 70.9 | 30.3 |
| Sixth Form Advanced Higher | 94.5 | 75.3 | 55.7 | 30.0 |
Stewart's Melville College Results
| Qualification | Stewart's Melville Pass Rate % | National Average Pass Rate % | Stewart's Melville A Rate % | National Average A Rate % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| S4 National 5 | 96.2 | 77.2 | 75.0 | 38.0 |
| S5 Higher | 93.4 | 74.9 | 64.9 | 30.3 |
| Sixth Form Advanced Higher | 89.9 | 75.3 | 50.0 | 30.0 |
Opportunities for Academic Enrichment
We offer a wide range of enrichment activities including academic clubs, guest talks, trips and opportunities to enter national competitions. Whether it is taking part in the Chemistry Challenge Club, climbing on a glacier, or winning the Arkwright Engineering Scholarship, these opportunities ignite curiosity and deepen the understanding and passion students have for their subjects.
Inspiring a Lifelong Love of Learning
At Erskine Stewart Melville, academic life is about more than just achieving excellent results – it’s about fostering a lifelong love of learning. Our holistic approach encourages pupils to explore their interests, challenge themselves, and build the skills and confidence they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
