Strathallan School: A campus with sprawling impact

At Strathallan School, every aspect of learning is tailored to your individual journey. The school’s unique, triple-path curriculum is one of the broadest available in Scotland, which, set against the stunning backdrop of a 153-acre campus fully equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, creates the perfect environment for every individual to thrive.

With 25 million pounds invested into the campus over the last two decades, Strathallan is striking in its juxtaposition of historic buildings against more contemporary facilities. Located in rural Perthshire, the school grounds are picturesque and verdant — green spaces with fresh air and the capacity to spark fresher ideas.

The grounds aren’t just picturesque, they are ecologically diverse havens, with over 53 acres of land are dedicated to rewilding efforts. It is a thriving habitat for rabbits, deer, swans and other wildlife. Recently, 10 rescued hedgehogs were released into the space by the Scottish SPCA. Efforts like this earned Strathallan the Eco-Schools Green Flag, which recognises the environmental efforts of pupils over the last two years, and has them shortlisted for the new Sustainability in Boarding Award by the Boarding Schools' Association.

From age 5, Strathallan’s pupils have a safe, green and fully equipped campus to explore and call home, with plenty of fresh air and outdoor adventures to be had on a daily basis.

Strathallan understands the importance of the arts, and their facilities reflect this acuity. For those who create visual art, the Art Department has its own purpose-built building with specially designed studios, including a computer suite, a ceramic studio with kilns, a printmaking studio and a dark room.

Amelia S, crowned the Perthshire Schools Young Photographer of the Year by the Rotary Club of Perth Kinnoull, is a product of this dedicated department. “It’s fantastic to see Strathallan pupils continue to showcase their skills and get recognised for their talent,” says Francis Glancy, Head of Art.

Speciality studios for both visual and performing artists

For performing artists, Strathallan has a 120-seat theatre and specialist dance and drama studio as well, the perfect space for the senior school musical. This year’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors; The Musical” was described as “a colourful and thrilling experience” by Mrs Irene McFarlane, teacher of the London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art awards.

Music equipment is just as extensive — enough for the 25 student music groups of different styles that rehearse every week. Everyone from beginners to seasoned performers, gets a chance to perform. The school’s dedicated Department of Traditional Music and Culture is home to not one but three Pipe Bands, who travel to perform and compete all over the world, and have shared the stage with Scottish legends from Skerryvore to the Red Hot Chilli Pipers.

Sport is a big part of life at Strathallan, and the school is proud to say that each and every student has the chance to represent the school in sports. At least 10% of them play at a national or international level. This year, the netball team went on tour to Dubai, playing against different teams and exploring the cultural diversity of the city. In November, three of the school’s canoeists took part in the 2023 Canoe Slalom, returning as winners with three Scottish Championships titles.

Strathallan’s young athletes excel in part due to the exceptional facilities available, from ice baths to infrared healing pods and a purpose-built Clay Pigeon Shooting facility (it is the only school in Scotland to have one onsite). Here, you’ll find expert coaches who have national and international experience making the most of these spaces and equipment to bring out the best in their athletes. Meanwhile, partnerships with elite sports clubs and professional bodies, such as Scottish Rugby and Scottish Hockey, provide even more opportunities for students to achieve at the highest levels.

State-of-the-art sports facilities

The school has a close-knit community with boarding houses that make students feel right at home. Day and boarding students are integrated and most of the teaching staff also live on-site. No matter if a boarder is from Scotland or Scandinavia, all boarders are nurtured, supported and included. Lessons on Saturday mornings, a games programme on Saturday afternoons, and Chapel and outings on Sundays bring them even closer.

While there are many rooms and common areas to choose from, many boarders gravitate to an independently owned coffee shop called the Art Café. Created with a “camp-fire” feel in mind, this safe space is a big hit among students and hosts music jam sessions and even poetry nights.

Work, play, and something in between

“My best memory studying at Strathallan has been going to Blend (a small coffee shop on campus) to study with my friends, and every once in a while, we take a break to gossip or have a chat,”

says student Yasmin Karlsson Juan.

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