Stewart's Melville College
ESMSSecular
Updated July 2026
Languages
EnglishErskine Stewart Melville is an award-winning, co-educational independent school in Edinburgh for students aged 3 to 18. It provides an all-through education focused on academic excellence, personal development, and community.
Curriculum
Term structure
Teaching approach
The school is guided by five core values that encourage students to develop a good heart, make sound decisions, embrace curiosity, and face challenges with confidence. It emphasizes individuality, ambition, innovation, and community, aiming to empower students to dream big and exceed their own expectations. The educational approach is progressive, challenging traditional thinking to prepare students for a dynamic world.
Programmes
The school offers an all-through education starting from Nursery, which utilizes a play-based curriculum, through to the Junior School (Primary 1–7) and the Senior School (S1–S6). The curriculum is broad and supported by specialist areas such as art, design and technology, and languages. From August 2026, the Senior School will be fully co-educational. Sixth Form students receive dedicated careers and higher education guidance.
Outcomes
The school aims to equip students with the tools and mindset to thrive and make a positive impact on the world. It focuses on academic success while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Students are prepared for various future paths, including higher education and career destinations.
Student support
Learning support
The school prioritizes student wellbeing through a sector-leading programme and dedicated support staff. It has achieved the WeCare Award Recognition Badge for its commitment to identifying and supporting young carers, including the provision of Young Carer Coordinators, pastoral support sessions with Wellbeing Support Assistants, and peer connection groups.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- How much is tuition at Stewart's Melville College?
- Annual tuition at Stewart's Melville College is £13.8K–£20.7K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What ages does Stewart's Melville College teach?
- Stewart's Melville College enrolls students aged 3 to 18.
- Is Stewart's Melville College a day or boarding school?
- Stewart's Melville College is a day school.
- Is Stewart's Melville College co-educational?
- Stewart's Melville College is a co-ed school.
- Where is Stewart's Melville College located?
- Stewart's Melville College is an international school in Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2026/2027| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Primary 1 – Primary 3 | 5–7 | £13.8K |
| Primary 4 – Primary 6 | 8–10 | £16.1K |
| Primary 7 | 11–11 | £16.2K |
| Senior School | 12–18 | £20.7K |
Other fees(3)
| Enrolment fee· Non-refundable enrolment fee due when returning the enrolment form to secure a place. Includes VAT. | £360 |
|---|---|
| Meals· Annual charge for Nursery to S3. Compulsory from Nursery to Primary 1, optional thereafter. S4-S6 students pay between £726 and £835. | £925 |
| Uniform· New uniforms, PE, and Games kit are sold by Stevensons. A Thrift Shop is also operated by the school for second-hand uniforms. | — |
Discounts
- Full-payment discount: 1%
- Sibling discount: 25%
Admissions
The admissions process is supported by a dedicated team, with specific contacts for Junior and Senior School enquiries. Prospective families are encouraged to book a visit to tour the campuses and meet students and staff. Applications can be submitted online, and early applications are recommended to secure a place. The school offers means-tested bursaries and scholarships for the Senior School.
Calendar
The school operates on a term-based calendar. Specific term dates for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 academic years are available on the school website.
Facilities
About the campus
The school operates across two campuses in Edinburgh: Ravelston and Queensferry Road. Facilities include historic and modern buildings, cutting-edge science laboratories, libraries, art studios, design and technology workshops, and language labs. Sports facilities include sports halls, tennis courts, a swimming pool, and playing fields at Inverleith. From August 2026, the Nursery and Junior School will be based at Ravelston, and the fully co-educational Senior School will be at Queensferry Road.
Co-curriculars
The school provides an extensive co-curricular programme featuring nearly 300 clubs and over 400 trips. Offerings include a leading outdoor learning programme, a wide range of sports (such as rugby, hockey, athletics, and cricket), and performing arts. Students can also participate in holiday camps and clubs.
- Anthony SimpsonPrincipal
Anthony Simpson is the Principal of Erskine Stewart Melville. He holds a Bachelors and Masters degree in Mathematics, previously served as Senior Deputy Head at Giggleswick School, and has extensive experience in the maintained sector in Liverpool and Bradford.
- Lynn SmithChief Operating Officer
Lynn Smith joined as Director of People in August 2023 and was appointed Chief Operating Officer in January 2025. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development and a Member of the Institute of Directors, with over 25 years of cross-sector leadership experience.
- Mike KaneHead of Erskine Stewart Melville Junior School
Mike Kane is the Head of Erskine Stewart Melville Junior School. He holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Aberdeen and joined the management team at Stewart’s Melville College in 2004 before becoming Head of the Junior School in 2016.
- Frances McCruddenHead of Stewart's Melville College
Frances McCrudden is the Head of Stewart's Melville College and will become Head of Erskine Stewart Melville Senior School from August 2026. She joined the ESMS family in 2006 and previously served as Head of Business Studies, Head of Careers, and Director of Sixth Form.
- Kirsty NicholsonHead of The Mary Erskine School
Kirsty Nicholson has been Head of The Mary Erskine School since August 2018, having served on the school management team since 2006. She previously taught Geography at Stewart’s Melville College and served as a Principal Teacher of Guidance.
- Dan OvendenChief Digital and Transformation Officer
Dan Ovenden joined ESMS in July 2024 as Chief Digital and Transformation Officer. He is a seasoned leader with over 20 years of experience in digital, data, and technology, having previously held leadership positions at RBS and Heineken.
- Sarah DuguidChief Financial Officer
Sarah Duguid is the Chief Financial Officer at ESMS. She is an accomplished business leader and finance professional with over 25 years of experience across financial services, SMEs, and consultancy.