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The Best Primary Schools In Edinburgh

Jul 14, 2025
The Best Primary Schools in Edinburgh

As the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a vibrant city to live in, boasting a rich history. Home to one of the world’s top universities and a range of high-quality institutions, Edinburgh has plenty of excellent primary schools to choose from.

Whether you live in the city centre, further west in Kirkliston or the seaside suburb of Prestonpans, we’ve picked 7 of the best Edinburgh primary schools for you to consider.

South Morningside Primary School

South of the city centre, towards Fairmilehead, South Morningside Primary School serves the vibrant Morningside community. Recognised as a Gold Rights Respecting School, it educates boys and girls aged 3 to 12, offering nursery provision and primary education. The school endeavours to have strong partnerships with parents, and teachers are committed to creating a safe and nurturing learning environment.

Dean Park Primary School

Located in Balerno, Dean Park Primary School provides education for children from nursery through primary years, with a current roll of 491 students. Split over two sites, the school’s excellent facilities, including a nurture room, library and art therapist room, have recently been refurbished. The school also has extensive grounds, providing spacious outdoor learning and play areas.

Stockbridge Primary School

Stockbridge Primary School has a strong reputation as a school that regularly ranks among the best Edinburgh primary schools. As a small school, with approximately 250 pupils aged between 3 and 12, teachers are committed to focusing on each child. Housed in a listed Victorian building, the school offers excellent facilities, including a sensory room, an assembly hall, a gym, and ample outdoor space.

Tollcross Primary School

Centrally located just a few hundred metres from the iconic Edinburgh Castle, Tollcross Primary School is rated among the top schools for children in the city. Serving the Tollcross and Fountainbridge communities for over 100 years, the school takes great pride in its rich history. Educating boys and girls aged 5 to 12, the school is committed to delivering exceptional education in a vibrant learning environment.

Buckstone Primary School

Buckstone Primary School welcomes approximately 440 children from nursery age through to P7 within Edinburgh’s Buckstone Estate community. The non-denominational school features primary facilities and an integrated nursery class, providing a seamless transition from early years to primary education. With the founding principle that ‘RRS leads to success’, the school cultivates Ready, Respectful and Safe learners in a modern environment.

Sciennes Primary School

Sciennes Primary School is one of the largest primary schools in Scotland, serving approximately 665 pupils. Established in 1892, the school boasts a rich history and resides in a beautiful Victorian building. It offers an excellent range of facilities, including a swimming pool, an outdoor classroom and a dance studio. With 15% of pupils being bilingual and approximately 20% coming from outside the catchment area, the school embraces its diverse community.

Parsons Green Primary School

Located on the outskirts of Holyrood Park and near the seaside suburb of Portobello, Parsons Green Primary School is a non-denominational school that features both primary facilities and an integrated nursery class. The school offers a comprehensive education within a supportive learning environment to approximately 300 children aged 4 to 11. Following recent Education Scotland inspections in March 2024, the school received positive feedback, demonstrating its commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.


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