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

P1/P2 Hive at Fettes Pre-Prep Open Afternoon Fettes Pre-Prep will host an Open Afternoon for the P1/P2 Hive on Friday 23 January from 3–4 pm. The event highlights how curiosity is encouraged, confidence is nurtured, and a love of learning begins within the Pre-Prep Years. Families will have the opportunity to meet the dedicated team, explore the welcoming classrooms, and experience the nurturing environment provided for the youngest pupils. This Open Afternoon offers a wonder

Clifton Hall School in Edinburgh hosts a free, adults-only workshop for families with children aged 3–6 on 30 April, 6–7 pm, covering phonics, early numeracy, outdoor learning, and readiness for primary education. Register via the contact form for Preparing for Primary One.

An Edinburgh teacher shares her perspective on smartphones in schools, why a meaningful citywide policy is needed, and how you can help shape what’s next. By Emily Borrill In September 2025, Edinburgh Council announced it was looking into ways to implement a meaningful, citywide ban on smartphones in schools. The Council is now asking parents, teachers, and pupils to share their views (consultation can be found here ) and help shape a policy that is both effective and enfo

This January, George Heriot’s School launches its Strategic Ambition 2025-2030 to advance the School’s sector-leading status (awarded by Education Scotland), integrating its highly successful educational offer with leading edge academic and social research. Heriot’s strategic ambition 2025-2030 is structured across four pillars: Education, Sustainability, a Force for Good and Business; these will guide the School’s development and position at the forefront of Scottish educati

ESPC offers an exclusive, verified School Catchment search tool that lets families find and browse homes exactly within the catchment of their chosen school, making property hunting and school planning easier and less stressful.

Two ways to discover Loretto School Musselburgh for Pre-Schoolers: join a Stay and Play session or attend Open Days. Book via the link or admissions@loretto.com.

Athena Language Camps offer week-long language adventures for teens (13–17) in Spain or France, blending lessons with culture, outdoor activities, and real-world immersion.

Experience the magic of Matilda! This Broadway Junior adaptation, featuring Classes 3-11, brings Roald Dahl's story to life. Performances at 7:30 PM (evening) and 2:30 PM (matinee). Rated U - suitable for ages 4+. Join the revolt! Edinburgh Steiner School

Tired of the usual soft play? Discover 6 classy indoor play venues in Edinburgh perfect for kids! Find family-friendly spaces with great atmosphere, delicious food & party options.

Looking for kid-friendly restaurants in Edinburgh? Discover the top 10+ places to eat with kids, offering delicious food, a relaxed atmosphere, and fun activities to keep the little ones entertained. From pizza to brunch spots, find your perfect family meal!

Discover Clifton Hall School's Nursery! Explore a nurturing environment for children aged 3-5 at our Stay & Play session. Explore our garden, playrooms, and Forest Kindergarten. Arrange a personalised visit today.

Families in North Edinburgh have received a welcome boost this January. A local swim school has announced a new initiative designed to get children into the pool, regardless of their financial background. SwimEasy, a well-known provider in the region, has launched a special bursary scheme for 2026. The magazine understands that there are currently just 9 spaces remaining for eligible children. Removing the Financial Barrier Learning to swim is a vital life skill, but for ma

Cargilfield School and Nursery Open Days • Open Morning: Friday, January 16th, 2026, 9:00 am - 12:30 pm. Experience a regular school morning with tours, meetings, and a look at lessons and activities. • Nursery Play & Explore Mornings: Friday, January 30th & Friday, March 6th, 2026, 9:30 am - 11:00 am. Relaxed sessions for prospective nursery parents to meet the team and explore the spaces. Both events require booking through a provided form.

Discover why adolescents thrive with "Research Through Experience." This innovative educational approach, rooted in neuroscience, transforms learning by connecting teens with meaningful work and challenges, leading to deeper understanding and engagement.

On Friday, 27 February 2026, Erskine Stewart Melville will host 'Tea, Talk & Tour,' an intimate event designed to provide families with a unique opportunity to experience the school and gain insights into its community. This event is specifically tailored for families seeking a relaxed environment to engage in conversations, ask questions, and discover what life is like at Erskine Stewart Melville. Attendees will be welcomed into the Principal's Study for refreshments and di

St George's Little Dragons Nursery offers a childcentered, play-based preschool experience in Edinburgh. The nursery provides flexible hours, specialist teaching, and focuses on each child's individual progress, preparing them for school in a supportive environment. The nursery also emphasises strong parent partnerships. Registration is now open for the P1 Play Assessment on January 9, 2026.

Explore seven scholarship opportunities at Fettes College for 2026. Discover funding and academic excellence. Apply now for a transformative education.

At St George’s, girls thrive in a nurturing, confidence-building environment that offers early leadership opportunities and strong support throughout every stage. The S1 entrance assessments are scheduled for Friday, 16 January, and Tuesday, 20 January 2026. For a clear, simple overview of what to expect, readers can take a look at the article linked here 👉 The article includes information on assessment formats, criteria beyond test results, the school's welcoming process

From art to music classes, these are the editors' picks of just some of the great, high-quality classes on offer in Edinburgh to enrich your child's experience and to embrace new activities in 2026. The list below is not exhaustive. We have limited ourselves to just a few establishments known for the quality of their coaching. Angela Watson School of Dance DANCE Angela Watson School of Dance (Est. 2002) runs Nursery Ballet classes for children aged 3+, and classes in Ballet

Winter in Edinburgh may be cold and wet but we all know how important it is for young children to spend time outdoors. Now all early years setting spend part of the day outside and forest nurseries spend a large part of the day is outside. Research tells us playing outside, even in the cold, offers children huge benefits, boosting their immune systems, improving physical skills (balance, strength, coordination) through varied terrain. It enhances cognitive growth via unique s