Studying in Scotland
Scottish education carries a strong tradition for academic excellence, individual learning and extra-curricular diversity that is recognised globally.
Every year, thousands of boarding pupils come to Scotland from over 50 nations, including the UK, Germany, Spain, France, China and Hong Kong, to benefit from the high-quality education, outstanding outdoor environment and stable, enduring traditions Scotland has to offer.
Here are just a few of the key things you may find it useful to know about studying in Scotland.
Photo: St Mary's Music School is located in the beautiful city of Edinburgh.
The Weather
Scotland is known for its stunning scenery and was voted the most beautiful country in the world by Lonely Planet. Our temperate maritime climate plays a large part in this. Edinburgh, like most of Scotland, has cold and humid winters and mild summers athough on occasion we get really hot or really cold weather.
The weather actually gives our pupils excellent outdoor education possibilities and wherever possible we encourage them to make use of the gardens and outdoor space.
Spring
You can expect average maximum temperatures to range from approximately 7°C (45°F) to 13 °C (55°F) during the months of March, April and May. This season sees daffodils, bluebells, cherry blossom and rhododendrons bursting into bloom.
Summer
June, July and August are normally the warmest months in Scotland, with average maximum temperatures ranging from approximately 15°C (59°F) to 17°C (63 °F). Scotland's high latitude means that we enjoy lovely long summer days and often an extended twilight.
Autumn
In the Autumn (or Fall), Scotland is likely to experience temperatures ranging from around 8°C (46°F) to 14°C (57°F) from September to November. The colours of autumn are eye-catching and vibrant, as the trees change from green to fiery reds, oranges and yellows.
Winter
December, January and February are generally the coldest months in Scotland, with the average maximum temperature usually around 5°C (41°F). The average number of days with snow falling in Scotland ranges from 15 to 20 days. However, the peaks and mountains of the Highlands experience around 100 days of falling snow.
Edinburgh's an amazing city. There's so much going on all year-round and it's small enough that you can walk everywhere. I love going to the weekly concerts at Usher Hall and our biology trips to the Botanic Gardens.
Sofia S5
The Accent
We know that some people are concerned about being able to understand a Scottish accent but the accent in Edinburgh is very gentle and our pupils find it very easy to understand. If you are in doubt listen to one of Scotland's most well known musicians, Nicola Benedetti, and see if you can understand her.
The Location
Edinburgh is easily accessible from all major transport hubs. There is an international airport with good connections and the flight to London is just one hour. Our schools is located just a couple of minutes walk from the tram at Haymarket with a direct airport link which takes just 40 minutes.
The Exam Systems
Pupils at St Mary’s Music School study Scottish Qualifications known as National Fives, Scottish Highers and Scottish Advanced Highers however we also study IGCSE Music and A Level Music. Scottish qualifications are recognised the world over including by top universities and conservatoires.