Earlier this year, ESMS unveiled an exciting new vision for the future of the school —one that aims to reshape the educational experience provided, ensuring students have everything they need to flourish in an ever-evolving world. With this roadmap in place, they are thrilled to announce a significant step forward: in August 2026, they will unite as one fully co-educational school.
The new school will include ESMS Nursery and Junior School, The Mary Erskine School, and Stewart’s Melville College, and will be called Erskine Stewart Melville starting in the 2026/27 academic year.
This decision is driven by three objectives: to enhance the educational opportunities offered to students, to establish a more inclusive community that reflects the modern world, and to create a financially efficient structure that is fit for the future. The priority will always be the students and the fantastic experiences they gain through an education at the school.
To ensure a seamless transition for students and staff, the new school will be introduced in two years. Beginning in August 2026, Erskine Stewart Melville Nursery and Junior School will be located at the Ravelston site, while Erskine Stewart Melville Senior School will reside on the Queensferry Road site.
Anthony Simpson, Principal of Erskine Stewart Melville, states:
“This is an exciting new chapter for the school. As we look to the future, this new simplified structure will enable us to broaden the curriculum and create a more inclusive environment that reflects the modern world. Our current schools are fantastic, inspiring excellent exam results every year and offering an extensive range of co-curricular activities. As we move to a fully co-educational model, our primary focus will remain unchanged—to provide a world-class education that equips our students with the skills and mindset they need to thrive.”
The diamond structure has served students well since its introduction 25 years ago, but they have never been a school that stands still. Now, it is time to look to the future. The new model will significantly enhance education with a broader curriculum, an enhanced wellbeing program, and even more opportunities for personal development.
The new school name, Erskine Stewart Melville, honours the original founders of the school, and its new logo incorporates heraldry from each of the schools.