Nursery & School Guide Latest News
in Edinburgh & the Lothians’ 

Nursery & School Guide marks 21 years by merging into a single Edinburgh & Lothians edition, available in print or online. Founded in 2005 by Nikki Miller, it lists and ranks schools (independent/state) and daycare nurseries.

Join World Afro Day Growing Together: kids and communities grow tea plants, watch Seed to Sip films, and celebrate with tea activities in September.

Parents are urged to seek early support for their children’s emotional well‑being as evidence grows that many mental health difficulties begin in primary school. Anchor Practice has launched Holding Parents in Mind, an online workshop for parents of primary‑age children to understand behaviour, emotional regulation and anxiety. Guided by Fanny Lena and Renata Bakker, the five‑session group uses psychodynamic, reflective parenting to build attunement and reduce isolation.

Merchiston Castle School invites prospective Sixth Form entrants to step into Sixth Form life, meet pupils and staff, and observe learning in action within the dedicated Sixth Form House. Whether considering day or boarding, Merchiston Castle School’s Sixth Form Open House offers an authentic glimpse into the community, support, and opportunities that make the Sixth Form a unique place to grow and thrive. The event takes place on Friday, 8 May, from 2:00–4:00 PM. Registration

Merchiston Castle School hosts the Merchiston Summer Rugby Camp 2026 in Edinburgh (July 20–24). Open to Under 10–Under 18 players; non-residential; sessions 9:30am–3:30pm (Fri 12:30pm). Cost £348

Cargilfield is Scotland’s first prep school near Edinburgh, offering 150+ years of excellence with outstanding academics and rich extracurriculars. Book a visit at cargilfield.com.

Join Edinburgh Steiner School on May 1 for an Open Tour and discover Waldorf education with screen-free classrooms, lifelong teacher continuity, and a broad, holistic program.

Emma Rattigan, Principal at Edinburgh Montessori Art School, shows how Montessori principles blend with a vibrant arts program to nurture curious, independent learners.

Families considering Year Two to Seven (6 yrs - 10 yrs) options for their children are warmly invited to attend Loretto Junior School’s Taster Day on Monday, 4th May. This is the perfect opportunity for you and your child to experience Loretto’s close-knit community and nurturing environment, according to Loretto's admissions team. You and your child will discover the exceptional opportunities on offer, including an expansive extracurricular programme and Forest School. Du

Join CeilidhKids for fun family dance sessions! Learn rhythm, movement, and social skills to music, all within a comfortable, supportive env

Professional and concise: SwimEasy offers premium, small-class swimming lessons from a family-run team. Expert coaching, faster progress, and lasting safety for your child.

Practical, clock-based sleep tips from The Sleep Lady for parents of 9‑month‑olds who wake early. Learn to set nap times, regulate routines, and ease early wakeups.

by Charlie Minogue, Headmaster - Fettes Preparatory School Charlie Minogue, Headmaster - Fettes Preparatory School In a world of fast content and constant distraction, the quiet act of reading may seem old-fashioned. It is anything but. As Headmaster of Fettes Prep, I believe reading is the single most powerful foundation we can give a child. It is not simply about decoding words on a page. It is about developing attention, empathy and resilience. When a child immerses

Memories by Maria, Family Photography offers Nursery & School Guide Readers a Free 8x12 Print. Maria is the photographer behind 'Memories by Maria', a family photography with her studio at Riverside House, Gorgie Road, Edinburgh. She specialises in capturing beautiful moments for families and their little ones. The studio offers sessions, including maternity, newborn, baby, birthday, family, and couples photoshoots, as well as outdoor sessions. Maria is also happy to accommod

The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival is back with an exciting line-up of performances for children aged 0 to 15 years and their families, from Saturday 30 May to Sunday 7 June 2026. The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival, marking its 35th anniversary this year, showcases exceptional Scottish and international theatre and dance for young audiences, with a focus on performances that are deeply engaging, innovative and inspiring. They have created a quick run

Discover Edinburgh's Easter and Summer holiday camps—from multi-sport programs to tennis, golf, rugby, netball and outdoor adventures—with options at independent schools for 2026 in Edinburgh and the Lothians.

With You Every Step of the Way: Stepping Stones Swimming provides a safe, encouraging environment where children develop skills to become confident, lifelong swimmers.

Running Should Be a ‘Lifelong Companion’ in Education, Nurturing Teamwork and Resilience Belhaven Hill School in East Lothian has recently welcomed runners back for the 40 th annual Belhaven Cross-Country Championships. Sponsored by East Lothian investment managers McInroy & Wood, this is the biggest cross-country competition in the annual junior and prep schools’ calendar. The event is organised and hosted by Belhaven Hill School, the boarding and day school for 4 to

Image: Casa Montessori Nursery When your first child starts at nursery, whether they are 6 months or 3 years old, it is an important milestone for your family. With over fifteen years’ experience working in nurseries, as well as sending my own daughter to nursery, I’ve gathered tips to support you and your child to have a positive start. Be prepared yourself – Know what’s required of you, both in terms of drop-off/pick-up procedures and equipment required. Your child will a