Top schools in Scotland: Family friendly places to live
Are you looking for a home near to one of the top schools in Scotland?
When it comes to choosing somewhere to live, homebuyers with children often prioritise access to reputable schools near communities that cater to a family-friendly lifestyle.
Scotland offers an array of top-quality schools located in areas that hold great appeal to families.
In this article we look at some of the top schools in Scotland and where to live nearby.
The Royal High School, Edinburgh
The Royal High School is a state school established in 1128. It stands as one of Scotland’s oldest educational institutions offering a comprehensive, non-denominational education.
Situated in the city’s west, the school provides a broad curriculum up to Advanced Higher levels, supporting all learners to achieve at the highest level possible.
Beyond academics, the Royal High School offers a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.
The school’s rich history and commitment to excellence make it a distinguished choice for families seeking quality education in a supportive environment.
Property near The Royal High
Cramond and Barnton are ideally located for proximity to Royal High. Situated in Edinburgh’s north-west, they are highly sought-after residential areas offering tranquillity and accessibility.
Cramond, with its coastal charm and historic village feel, has a quieter vibe.
Barnton on the other hand boasts spacious, upscale homes and a range of amenities.
The Edinburgh Academy, Edinburgh
Another of the top schools in Scotland is The Edinburgh Academy. Founded in 1824, it is a co-educational private day school catering to students aged 2 to 18. The school is situated across two historic campuses near the city centre.
It offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic excellence with a wide range of co-curricular activities, including arts, sports, and community service.
With small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, the Academy fosters individual talents and encourages personal growth. Its commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepares students for success in higher education and beyond.
Where to live near The Edinburgh Academy
Stockbridge, Canonmills, and Edinburgh’s New Town are excellent places to live near to Edinburgh Academy. Stockbridge offers a village-like atmosphere with independent shops, cafes, and a popular Sunday market.
Canonmills provides a blend of traditional and modern amenities along the Water of Leith.
New Town features Georgian architecture and grand townhouses. It combines historic elegance with easy access to the city centre’s cultural attractions, dining, and shopping options.
Jordanhill School, Glasgow
Jordanhill School, established in 1920, is a distinguished non-denominational school in Glasgow. The school offers comprehensive education from Primary 1 through Secondary 6.
Renowned for its academic excellence, it also provides robust programmes in sports, outdoor education, music, and the arts.
Its unique status as a grant-aided school, directly funded by the Scottish Government, allows for significant autonomy in curriculum design and resource allocation.
This independence, combined with a commitment to fostering individual potential, positions Jordanhill School as a leading choice for families seeking a holistic and enriching educational experience.
Property near Jordanhill School
Jordanhill School is located in Glasgow city centre so is very convenient for all surrounding areas. In particular, the West End with its elegant Victorian townhouses. Equally desirable, the suburb towns of Bearsden and Milngavie are highly sought-after.
The Glasgow Academy, Glasgow
The Glasgow Academy, founded in 1845, is a leading independent co-educational day school in Glasgow, catering to students aged 3 to 18.
With campuses in Kelvinbridge, Milngavie, and Newlands, the Academy offers a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic excellence with a wide range of co-curricular activities, including sports, arts, and outdoor education.
The school’s commitment to fostering individual talents and promoting a strong work ethic creates a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to aim high and enjoy learning.
This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for future academic and personal success.
Places to live near The Glasgow Academy
Glasgow Academy’s campuses occupy three sites across Glasgow. Their locations in Newlands in the southside, centrally located Kelvinbridge, and Milngavie to the north offer a variety of options for homebuyers.
Glasgow’s great transport links mean that living in a more rural locale a little further afield is an easy alternative.
Glenalmond, Perthshire
Glenalmond College, founded in 1847, is a co-educational boarding and day school offering both historical charm and a progressive educational approach.
Located on a scenic 300-acre campus amidst Perthshire’s rolling hills, the school features notable architecture, including a chapel by Sir George Gilbert Scott.
Recognised for its robust academic curriculum, Glenalmond offers small class sizes, and personalised support, preparing students for higher education.
Beyond academics, it encourages students to pursue a variety of co-curricular activities. These range from sports and arts to drama and outdoor pursuits, fostering a well-rounded, engaging learning environment.
Places to live near Glenalmond
Glenalmond College lies ten miles north-west of Perth City and is considered one of the top schools in Scotland.
The area around Glenalmond offers various property choices.
These include Victorian country houses, equestrian properties, large farmhouses, and converted steadings that can be found in and around villages and community hubs such as Crieff, Auchterarder, and areas to the north such as Dunkeld.
Strathallan, Perthshire
Strathallan School is set in a picturesque 153-acre rural landscape. This co-educational independent boarding and day school has upheld a tradition of academic excellence since 1913.
The school provides a well-rounded curriculum, blending academics with a strong focus on sports, arts, and a variety of extracurricular options.
Specialised academies include Rugby, Shooting, Tennis, and Swimming. Strathallan’s dedication to developing leadership abilities and promoting global awareness makes it a distinguished choice for parents seeking a comprehensive education for their children.
Where to live near Strathallan
The campus is located seven miles south of Perth City. Small villages such as Crook of Devon and Rumbling Bridge sit at the very south of the region, east of the Ochil Hills, and circa 17 miles south of the campus.
The closest town, Bridge of Earn is in easy reach of the school.
Gordonstoun, Moray
Gordonstoun, established in 1934 by educational pioneer Dr Kurt Hahn, is a renowned co-educational independent school located in Moray, Scotland.
Set on a 150-acre estate, the school offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates academic excellence with a strong emphasis on character development, leadership, and service.
Notably, Gordonstoun is the birthplace of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, reflecting its commitment to holistic education. The school’s unique approach includes extensive outdoor education programmes, fostering resilience and teamwork among students.
With a diverse international community, Gordonstoun prepares students aged 4½ to 18 for success in higher education and beyond, nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped for the challenges of the modern world.
Where to live near Gordonstoun
There are many popular places to live near Gordonstoun. Known as the “Jewel of Moray,” Lossiemouth is just a short drive.
Lossiemouth is a scenic coastal town famous for its sandy beaches.
Another is Elgin, which is referred to as the “Capital of Moray” being its largest town. The town of Buckie and the villages of Cullen and Findhorn are equally sought-after by those looking to relocate near to one of the top schools in Scotland.
Buying a property near the top schools in Scotland
With expert local knowledge and access to a range of off-market properties, a professional property finder can be instrumental in your property search.
Please contact us without obligation to discuss your plans to move near to one of the top schools in Scotland.
