‘Love from the Heart’ – is the motto of George Watson’s College. Everyone who works or studies there strives to live by this rule every day. It speaks to an institution where pupils not only receive an academic education but also learn the importance of good character. High-quality teaching and a welcoming atmosphere have made the college popular not just in Edinburgh, but throughout Scotland. The school is even known beyond the UK, as its community of former pupils has a presence in over 10 countries worldwide. So, when was George Watson’s College founded, and what makes it so special for its pupils today? Learn more at edinburgh-future.
From Hospital to School
When you first hear the name, a question immediately springs to mind: was the school founded by the famous Dr Watson? Unfortunately not, but the school’s origin story is fascinating in its own right. George Watson, after whom the college is named, had no direct connection to the education system. He was a successful accountant and merchant who later became a banker and investor. Upon his death, he left a will bequeathing funds for the construction of a hospital. His wishes were carried out, and the hospital opened on Lauriston Place in Edinburgh in 1741. A few years later, a boarding school for boys was established at the hospital. In 1870, this was transformed into a day school for boys and moved to a separate building on Archibald Place.
A significant development occurred in 1871 with the opening of George Watson’s College for Ladies on George Square. This institution made a huge contribution to the education of girls and young women at the time. The ladies’ college celebrated over a century of successful graduates before merging with the boys’ school in the 1970s. This created the co-educational school that exists today on its Colinton Road campus.
George Watson could never have imagined that his name would adorn not only a hospital but also schools that would eventually merge to become one of Scotland’s top colleges. He would undoubtedly be proud that his legacy has helped thousands of people lead healthier and more educated lives.
The College’s Aims and Ethos
In 2021-2022, George Watson’s College celebrated its 150th anniversary. For all these years, its primary goal has been to provide a world-class education and to foster a lifelong love of learning. The creative approach of the college’s teachers, as well as the excellent facilities for children’s all-round development, play a key role in achieving this goal.
George Watson’s College is an independent all-through school for children aged 3 to 18. From the preschool years, children are helped to unlock their inner potential and to see the learning process not as a system of good and bad marks, but as an opportunity to discover new things and improve themselves.
The physical and emotional well-being of pupils is also a key priority. A huge number of sports clubs and activities help each child find a sport they truly enjoy and are suited to. From the age of three, children have swimming lessons in the pool, as well as taking part in various team games. During PE lessons, older pupils can choose from several different physical activities. Outside of lessons, they can join any sports club and even pursue a sport to a professional level.
Great attention is also paid to inclusive programmes. The college provides all the necessary conditions for pupils with additional support needs to learn and develop physically, with one-to-one sessions available if required. Thanks to the kindness and empathy of the teaching staff, the classrooms have a welcoming atmosphere where every pupil feels valued and important. Visiting the school, it’s clear that they truly put into practice what is written on their official website: ‘it is the people who make our school what it is, and who enable us to be as successful as we are’.
Interesting Facts
- The Watsonian Club, which includes various sports and cultural sections, has a global reach with branches in many countries. Its members, who call themselves ‘Watsonians’, consider themselves part of a worldwide family.
- The college is considered one of the oldest and most respected independent schools in Scotland.
- ‘Project 180’ is a programme that gives students the opportunity to engage with issues of ecology and social justice.
- According to some studies, the college ranks first in Scotland and 29th in the UK for producing the highest number of leading professionals among its alumni.
- Alumnus Adrian Bowyer is a famous engineer who created the RepRap project, a revolutionary open-source initiative in 3D printing.
- Another famous alumnus is George Neville Watson, a renowned mathematician specialising in complex analysis. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society and was awarded the Sylvester and De Morgan Medals for his achievements.