Dollar Academy Named Top Private School in Europe

Author: Dollar Academy

Dollar Academy Campus

Clackmannanshire-based Dollar Academy has proudly been named Top Private School in Europe by Education Insider. This recognition builds on other recent accolades, including Sunday Times Independent School of the Year 2024 and Best UK Independent Private Day & Boarding School 2025 by LUXlife.

These honours are the result of rigorous processes including subscriber nominations, senior executive evaluations, and full editorial board reviews. Together, they underscore Dollar Academy’s ongoing commitment to academic excellence, innovative teaching, and the holistic development of every pupil.

Founded in 1818, Dollar Academy is one of Scotland’s most distinguished independent schools, offering both day and boarding options. With a proud history, the school encourages young people to push boundaries, exceed expectations, and shape their own futures. Most recently, the Academy launched The Futures Institute at Dollar Academy (FIDA) - a free, open-access initiative that equips young people to tackle global challenges through creative, real-world learning aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. With innovative courses, new qualifications such as the International Sustainability Diploma, and a sustainability-focused Futures Institute building underway, FIDA exemplifies Dollar Academy’s commitment to equity, innovation, and forward-thinking education.

 

Ian Munro, Rector of Dollar Academy, said:

"We are deeply honoured to be named European School of the Year. This award is a tribute not only to the dedication of our staff and pupils, but also to the wider Dollar community whose support underpins everything we do. At Dollar, we are passionate about delivering an education that goes beyond the classroom, combining academic excellence with creativity, innovation, and care for the wellbeing of every individual.

“Education should prepare young people not just to succeed personally, but to contribute positively to society and the world. To have that ethos recognised on a European stage is both humbling and inspiring, and it strengthens our resolve to continue striving for the highest standards while staying true to the values that define us."

About Dollar Academy

Founded over 200 years ago, Dollar Academy is the world’s oldest co-educational day and boarding school, dedicated to nurturing the potential of its pupils. Located in Dollar, Clackmannanshire, the school is home to around 1,300 pupils aged 5–18. Recognised as one of Europe’s leading independent schools, Dollar enjoys a strong reputation with the world’s top universities. The school offers Scotland’s widest range of academic subjects alongside around 120 co-curricular activities, ensuring that every child can explore their passions and develop new skills.

Mr Ian Munro & Darwin

About Ian Munro

Mr Ian Munro became the fourteenth Rector of Dollar Academy in 2019. He previously held leadership positions at George Heriot’s (his alma mater), Gordonstoun, and Shiplake College, and was the youngest serving Rector of an HMC school globally during his tenure at Kelvinside Academy, earning a reputation for innovation and imaginative educational development.

Ian holds a BSc in Zoology and a PGCE from the University of Edinburgh, an MEd from the University of Cambridge, and has studied at theHarvard Graduate School of Education. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology, an Associate Assessor for Education Scotland, and serves on the advisory boards of the NuVu Innovation School and The Grimshaw Foundation. Additionally, he sits on the Board of Scottish Rowing, overseeing high-performance programmes.