We contacted Cargilfield School to learn more about their recent recognition as one of the UK's top schools for cricket in The Cricketer's 2024 Schools Guide. Here's what they shared with us:
As the only prep school in Scotland to make The Cricketer 2024 Top 50 School Guide, we at Cargilfield take great pride in our small yet mighty community of 307 boys and girls. Cricket has always held a special place in the hearts and lives of our pupils, and our dedication to the sport is reflected in the many matches and opportunities we provide.
During the Summer Term, our pupils have the chance to participate in up to 70 matches, with boys, girls, and mixed teams representing our school. With top-of-the-range facilities including four all-weather outdoor enclosed nets, two grass cricket squares, two astroturfs, and two indoor nets in the Sports Hall, we offer a range of opportunities for pupils to hone their skills and love for the game.
Our dedication to inclusivity and fostering a love of cricket in all pupils is evident in our dedicated girls' cricket programme, spanning from U13 down to U9. All girls over the age of 11 are given the option to play hardball cricket, with our 1stXI Girl's team participating in CricketScotland School's Cup competitions and weekly hardball matches against senior school U15 girls' teams. Mixed cricket matches are played at the U9 level, and all girls engage in cricket activities three times a week throughout the summer term.
Beyond the school grounds, we maintain strong links with cricket clubs in Edinburgh and offer coaching for both boys and girls every week throughout the winter, led by current Scotland batsman, George Munsey. Our all-year-round cricket programme provides pupils with access to exceptional indoor and outdoor facilities and coaching opportunities that are unmatched in the region.
Founded in 1873, Cargilfield is Scotland’s first and oldest Prep School, and as we celebrate our 150th anniversary in 2023, we remain dedicated to the spirit of community and excellence that has always defined us. With a strong commitment to cricket, the development of lifelong skills and a love for the game, our boys and girls leave Cargilfield well-prepared for their next steps and with a passion for the sport that will stay with them for years to come.
Cargilfield School, 45 Gamekeeper's Road, Edinburgh EH4 6HU