Winner of Tatler Schools' Guide 'Best Prep School in the UK' for 2026. Come and find out why!

Come and discover what makes Cargilfield extraordinary

Founded in 1873, Cargilfield is a leading independent day and boarding school in Edinburgh for around 300 girls and boys aged 3–13. Set within acres of beautiful grounds between the city and the sea, Cargilfield offers children the space to thrive academically, socially and creatively before moving on to many of the country’s most respected senior schools.

We’re proud to have been named ‘Best Prep School in the UK 2026’ by the Tatler Schools Guide and ‘Best of the Best for Extra-Curricular 2026’ by The Week UK Independent Schools Guide. We were also a finalist for ‘Independent Prep School of the Year 2026’.

Come and meet the pupils and staff who make Cargilfield such a warm, close-knit community, and see what a school day here could look like for your child.

Book a personal tour of Cargilfield
Watercolour painting of our private prep school in Edinburgh

What we’ve been up to!

U11 Rugby Tour 2026

A fabulous few days in the North of England!

P2 study Islam

Learning about world religions

Art visit to the National Galleries

An inspiring art trip!

Cargilfield Talks - Mark Agnew

Conquering the Northwest Passage

The Benefits of Transition at 13+ for Prep School Pupils

Being part of a smaller nurturing community

The Internet & Its Impact On Our Children

Welcome to our video highlights from Cargilfield's panel discussion "The Internet & Its Impact On Our Children"

Learning for the 21st Century

We prepare pupils for the tests of life, not a life defined by tests. Academic ambition lies at the heart of Cargilfield, where pupils develop strong foundations in literacy, numeracy and critical thinking. At the same time, they are encouraged to question, collaborate and think independently to solve problems - skills essential for the modern world.

Small classes and inspiring teachers ensure every child is genuinely known, supported and appropriately challenged. High expectations sit alongside care and encouragement, creating an environment where pupils feel secure enough to be ambitious and confident to take risks.  

Excellence at Cargilfield is reflected both in the outstanding results our pupils achieve and in the resilience, determination and character they develop that will guide them throughout their lives.

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Two children learning through play outside at our private primary school

A Broad Education

A Cargilfield education extends far beyond the classroom. We offer a wide range of experiences designed to make the prep school years some of the happiest and most formative in a child’s life. It is a time to build lasting friendships, create special memories and grow in confidence.

Children are encouraged to explore their interests and build a strong sense of identity and belonging, taking pride in their time at Cargilfield. From sport and the arts to outdoor learning and more than 70 clubs and activities, every child has the chance to discover new passions and strengths.

We place great importance on a truly all-round education. Each child is supported to make the most of their abilities in every aspect of school life, whether in the classroom, on the games field or on the stage. Through these experiences, they gain the self-belief to embrace future challenges.

We hope you enjoy exploring our website and discovering what makes Cargilfield such a special place for children to learn and grow.

Read More About Cargilfield
Children hiking on a trip with Cargilfield private boarding school Edinburgh

Join Us at Our Open Morning

Come along and see what makes Cargilfield special.

Date: Friday 3rd October | Time: 9am to 1pm | Refreshments available

There will be guided tours from the children, a chance to meet and talk to staff and see the school on a normal working day.

Book by emailing [email protected] or visiting https://www.cargilfield.com/open-morning

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