James Gillespie's High School

Our School, founded in 1803,is situated in the heart of the beautiful and vibrant City of Edinburgh, Scotland. We are a modern culturally diverse comprehensive High School, educating pupils aged 11 to 18 years of age. Our students describe us a great school and a happy place to be part of. In November 2015 we were named in the Sunday Times Good Schools Guide as State School of the Year (2015) for Scotland.

In addition to having an outstanding academic record, our school prides itself on the varied and extensive extra-curricular programme of activities on offer. All our pupils are fully supported by a dedicated and committed staff who strive to ensure that all pupils realise their potential. We provide Gaelic Medium Education for students from S1 to S6.

Our aim at Gillespie’s is to encourage each student to be self-confident, inquiring, tolerant, positive, well-rounded, independent and an individual who respects and appreciates the value of growing up in a culturally diverse and enriched world. By the time he/she leaves the school, we want each student to have that true sense of self-worth which will enable him/her to add value to society.

Our ethos is excellent and frequently praised. The learning and teaching approaches are varied and student-centred. The school is open to change but as a reflective learning organisation we do not embrace innovation without careful thought.

Our vision is to provide a curriculum which enables all learners at James Gillespie’s High School to achieve their potential. We aim for excellence in learning and teaching and expect all learners to be actively engaged in their own learning. We recognise that learning is a lifelong process and is one to which we, as a school community, make a significant and lasting contribution.

As well as an outstanding academic record, we are proud of all the extra-curricular programme of activities on offer. Gillespie’s has a particularly strong tradition in music and the performing arts and we besides provide Gaelic-Medium Education from First Year onwards. Our aim at Gillespie’s is to encourage each student to be self-confident, inquiring, tolerant, positive, well-rounded, independent – young men and women who will understand and cherish a rich and varied world. In an atmosphere of diligence, tolerance and mutual respect, we aim to send forth secure, confident students – new citizens ready and able to enrich our society.

Religious and Moral Education classes are non-denominational and study a wide range of world religions and personal beliefs. In later years our pupils have an opportunity to discuss topical subjects such as racism or multi-cultural issues. Classes are compulsory but parents do have a statutory right to withdraw their child and should write to the Head Teacher giving their reason.

There is a range of extracurricular activities available for pupils during lunchtime and after school. Parents will be informed about these by the school. In addition to in-school activities, classes also make varied and regular educational visits and field studies. These visits are linked to pupils’ class work.

In all this we are supported not just by our dedicated staff – striving every day to help every pupil reach their potential – but in ongoing partnership with our parents, carers and the local community.