Founded in 1878, the School is situated in a pleasant residential area, easily accessible by public transport. The original building has received many additions, the most recent feature being a handsome new Library. The playing fields are within walking distance, and there is a centre for outdoor activities in the Cairngorms.
The school has a strong academic record, with over 90% of leavers proceeding to Tertiary education. All boys sit the Scottish Standard Grade and Higher examinations, while in the Sixth Year, GCE A-level and CSYS courses are offered.
Extra-curricular activities feature largely in the life of the school. There are regular dramatic productions, art and music flourish, and the many societies cater for a wide range of interests. Sporting achievements have been considerable, and although rugby and cricket are the main games, there are opportunities for a very wide range of others. There are regular trips abroad, and there is also a Combined Cadet Force, which all boys join for a minimum of two years.
Although the school is large enough to compete at the top level in all activities, it is also small enough for each boy to be treated an an individual. The emphasis is on participation and involvement, so that all may develop their own interests and abilities to the full. There is an insistence on certain traditional values, such as standards of work and behaviour, and the wearing of uniform, but in a friendly atmosphere, discipline is less imposed than self-motivated.
The Lower School shares the site and facilities of the Upper School.
