Cargilfield: Scotland's First Prep School

Founded in 1873, the oldest Prep School in Scotland, we remain a small, friendly school of 300 children, from 3 to 13, situated on the outskirts of Edinburgh. We are proud of our academic record, but are also proud of what happens outside the classroom: in drama, music, sport and in over 80 activities. Cargilfield is a place of hard work, challenge, courtesy, humour and a great deal of fun.

The school at a glance.

300 children taught in average class sizes of 14 pupils.
Two weekly, weekly and flexi-boarding to suit you the parent and 12 hour day education on offer.
Since 2004, 55 scholarships won to senior schools in the UK including Ampleforth, Eton, Fettes, Glenalmond, Gordonstoun, Loretto, Merchiston, Oundle, Queen Margaret’s York, Shrewsbury and Winchester.
French from 3, outstanding Classics throughout the school from the age of 8.
Over 80 clubs on offer, day, evening and weekends.
A £6 million development since 2003: Prep-Prep and Nursery department; Science department; 3 ICT suites; 2 astro pitches; sports hall; Art and Design centre; Chapel; Theatre; Music school; 2 new teaching centres and the main building.
Totally refurbished boys’ boarding accommodation and a new girls’ boarding house.
Daily mini-bus service from Fife, West Lothian and the New Town.
Up to 100% bursary support; all bursaries are means tested and we are particularly proud of the success of this support

If you are searching for information to help you choose a new school for your child, please see the Why Cargilfield? section of this site.

: School Tour Gallery

The Welcome from the Head section will also give you an understanding of the school’s ethos and why we believe Cargilfield offers parents and pupils such a great experience, no matter your child’s background or abilities.

If you do not find the information you are looking for on our website, please do not hesitate to contact the office on 0131 336 2207.

The school at a glance.

Happy Cargilfield Gallery

Scholarship Success