
Welcome from the Headteacher
“We believe in providing an excellent and innovative education for our young people which best prepares them for their destination of choice post school.”
Welcome / Fàilte
James Gillespie’s High School, founded in 1803, sits in the heart of beautiful Edinburgh and our catchment-area includes many of its glories – Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Edinburgh University, the National Gallery and even the Scottish Parliament.
For almost fifty years we have been a successful, culturally diverse comprehensive, educating pupils from aged 11 to 18 years of age. Our students describe us a great school, visitors regularly comment on their ease and friendliness and we have very many distinguished former pupils.
Gaelic Medium Education
At JGHS, we provide a broad and engaging education through the medium of Gaelic.
In addition to excellent teaching and learning, we aim to be the leading centre in the country for providing up-to-date, relevant and well-resourced courses with a focus on breadth of topics covered and depth of language acquisition.

Our Vision
Our vision as a school is to create a nurturing environment in which all feel welcome and part of a larger family. All members of the school community will feel appreciated and enabled to forge friendships based on values they will embrace for life.
We seek to ensure that James Gillespie’s High School provides a foundation for a lifetime of learning, embracing the diversity within our wider community, so that every individual can excel in their own unique way.
Our Curriculum
Our vision is to provide a curriculum which enables all learners at James Gillespie’s High School to achieve their maximum potential and to develop skills for life, learning and work.
Our eleven Faculties work collaboratively to drive forward our school curriculum by supporting opportunities for all learners to be successful, providing curriculum pathways which best suit their needs and preparing young people for positive destinations beyond school.




