Curriculum

Art and Design offers opportunities to explore creative ideas. We encourage pupils to respond to the subject with confidence and imagination, developing specialist techniques in a range of media as well as broader transferable skills like problem solving, divergent thinking and aesthetic judgement. 

Pupils learn to analyse visually, communicate ideas effectively, show expression and imagination, evaluate and appreciate our visual world. Drawing is central to our subject. We offer a progressive course in practical art and design skills from P3 to S2. The pupils work on a range of projects from painting and printmaking to textile and architectural design. 

In S3 pupils can opt to study National 5 Art and Design, often progressing to study Higher in S5. In S6 we offer Higher Photography and Advanced Higher Art and Design where pupils can refine their drawing skills in additional life drawing classes. We also offer a range of specialist certificated interest classes such as ceramics, illustration and textiles. Our courses at all levels also include discursive critical analysis of Artists and Designers, traditional and contemporary. 

Beyond the classroom we offer clubs and workshops and have run many Art and Design trips, visiting galleries locally, nationally and internationally and developing cultural awareness in locations such as London, Paris, Rome and New York. We prepare our pupils for career prospects in a wide range of creative industries. Former pupils have gone on to study our subject at Art Schools far and near, recent destinations include Glasgow School of Art, Bath University, Central St Martins, London and ESMOD International Fashion Institute, Paris. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Art and Design 

• National 5 Art and Design (from S3) 

• Higher Art and Design (S5 or S6) 

• Higher Photography (S6) 

• Advanced Higher Art and Design (S6) 

• Certificated S6 Interest Classes including NPA Ceramics, NPA Illustration and NPa Textiles 

Head of Department: Mrs C McGirr 

Our departmental aim is to enable pupils to develop the intellectual and practical skills essential to understand Biology, and to appreciate its relevance to their everyday lives. 

The subject is presented in a lively and interesting manner which illustrates its importance and relevance to scientists and non-scientists alike. Pupils are encouraged to cultivate the skills and attitudes needed to understand and evaluate the contribution of biology to modern society. Our S1 and S2 pupils follow in-house courses leading onto National 5 in S3 and S4. CfE Higher Biology and CfE Higher Human Biology courses are offered to pupils in S5. Pupils who would like to take one of these courses as a Higher in S6 are also welcome. The CfE Advanced Higher course is only offered to pupils who have already achieved at Higher level in either Biology or Human Biology. 

Since the discovery of DNA, Biology as a subject has made more progress in our understanding of humanity than any other. We are delighted to be teaching in refurbished laboratories which were carefully designed to optimise the IT experience and to enable practical work to take place more efficiently. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Biology 

• National 5 Biology (S3 and S4) 

• Higher Biology (S5 or S6) 

• Higher Human Biology (S5 or S6) 

• Advanced Higher Biology 

Head of Department: Ms A McKenzie 

The Business Education Department is fortunate to be one of the few across the country to offer such an extensive range of courses. In S2 pupils are exposed to the dynamic and exciting world of business through our stimulating S2 course. Following on from this, pupils in S3 can opt for N5 Accounting, Business Management and Economics, with all 3 subjects allowing progression to Higher and Advanced Higher level. S6 pupils are also offered interest classes such as Young Enterprise and Growing Future Assets. Both provide participants with the opportunity to obtain extremely beneficial transferable skills that will be advantageous to any S6 pupil regardless of their post Heriot’s destination. 

Courses 

• S2 Business Education 

• National 5 Accounting, Business Management and Economics (from S3) 

• Higher Accounting, Business Management and Economics (S5 or S6) 

• Advanced Higher Accounting, Business Management and Economics (S6) 

• S6 interest classes including START, Young Enterprise and Growing Future Assets 

Head of Department: Mr C Hutchison 

Chemistry is the study of matter and the changes it can undergo. Understanding the basic properties of matter and learning how to predict and explain how they change when they react to form new substances is what chemistry and chemists are all about. 

Chemistry, often called the central science because of its importance in connecting with other sciences including biology, physics, medicine, engineering and material science, is not limited to beakers and laboratories. It is all around us, from areas as diverse as food and drink, archaeology, biotechnology and environmental protection. A basic knowledge of chemistry will help all pupils understand their material world. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Chemistry 

• National 5 Chemistry (S3 and S4) 

• Higher Chemistry (S5 or S6) 

• Advanced Higher Chemistry (S6) 

Head of Department: Mrs F Donaldson

Citizenship is studied by all pupils in S1 to S5. They have one period a week to participate in lessons with a focus on discussion and decision making. 

Citizenship aims to equip all students to learn how to deal with the challenges of our school and, later on, society, to lead lives and make decisions, both in and out of school, that are personally satisfying and socially constructive, to interact effectively with their natural and social environment, and to make the transition to adult and working life. 

The units in all Citizenship courses are designed to encourage individual work, paired work and group work and are supported by colleagues across different areas of the school, for example the School Nurses, Careers Team and Support for Learning department. We also work with outside agencies such as Police Scotland, Alcoholics Anonymous and the Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation who assist with the delivery of courses. 

Examples of units studied in S1 to S5 include: Drugs, Alcohol, First Aid, Personal Safety, Financial Education, Enterprise, Political Awareness, Mental Health and Wellbeing, Sexual Health and Relationships, Study Skills and Organ Donation. 

Courses 

• Citizenship, one period a week for all pupils in S1 to S5 (non-certificated) 

Head of Department: Mrs G Hay

Classics refers to the study of the languages, literatures, material culture and history of the societies of the ancient world, together with their influence on later periods and cultures right up to the present day. It is one of the most varied and interdisciplinary of subject areas and includes literature, history, philosophy, art and archaeology. 

Classics is introduced through interest classes in Junior School and Latin is taken by all S1 and S2 pupils, who may then follow the levels through National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher. Translating the language and appreciating the wide range of prose and verse literature forms our central focus, yet we never lose focus on the broader Classical society, which, taught with fun and imagination, enhances a rich and fascinating cultural experience and enlightens modern practices. 

Higher Classical Studies, an option in S5 or S6, investigates Athens and Rome through the lens of history, literature and archaeology with tutorial-style learning. The rich topics of the course, from the birth and value of Democracy to the pressures of power and the conflicts of status provide a platform for vigorous discussions. 

Classical Greek is offered as an interest course from S1 upwards leading to study at certificate level in S6. The language of Herodotus, Sophocles and Plato resounds for us and gives a good platform for modern Greek. 

Co-curricular options abound in the department: pupils in P6, P7 and S1 can choose to relax in cosy Classics lunch clubs while absorbing the most exciting of ancient tales from mythology and epic and a Classics film club analyses modern perceptions of the Classical world. Engagement in National competitions for mythology, translating and linguistics often brings laurels home to Heriot’s. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Latin 

• National 5 Latin (S3 and S4) 

• Higher Latin (S5 or S6) 

• Advanced Higher Latin (S6) 

• Higher Classical Studies (S5 or S6) 

• Classical Greek GCSE  (S6) 

Head of Department: Dr D Underwood (Acting)

Computers play an important role in our society, at work, in the home and in leisure time. The Computing Science Department aims to equip pupils with the computational thinking skills they require to become confident digital citizens. 

Specialist Computing Science teaching begins in P6, introducing coding and core ICT skills. This continues in S1 and S2, with an emphasis on computational thinking through more advanced study of Computing Science as a discrete subject. At National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher, pupils study principles of Computing Science through programming, computer systems, web and database development. 

The department also runs popular extra-curricular clubs such as games development and creative computing. Pupils also regularly participate and achieve success in various awards and competitions. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Computing Science 

• National 5 Computing Science (S3 and S4) 

• Higher Computing Science (S5 or S6) 

• Advanced Higher Computing Science (S6) 

Head of Department: Mr R Young 

The courses offered reflect the evolutionary nature of design and technology which is an important factor of modern day life. Pupils have the opportunity to express their individuality and are encouraged from an early stage to work independently. A wide variety of teaching methods are used to nurture creativity and promote thinking “outside the box”. S1 and S2 is a broad course where pupils are given an introduction to as many aspects of design and technology as we can squeeze in. Pupils can then choose to study Graphic Communication and/or Design and Manufacture which are both offered from National 5 to Advanced Higher level. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Design and Technology 

• National 5 Graphic Communication and Design and Manufacture (S3 and S4) 

• Higher Graphic Communication and Higher Design and Manufacture (S5 or S6) 

• Advanced Higher Graphic Communication and Design and Manufacture (S6) 

Head of Department: Mrs E Watson-Massey 

The courses within the Drama Department will allow the pupils to explore language, movement and theatre as a means of expression. 

Pupils will undertake practical activities to develop communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills and the ability to work positively with others and discuss their own and others’ work. Within their learning experiences pupils will be exploring the quality and nature of relationships and will be encouraged to explore their own and others’ assumptions, attitudes and values. 

As learners develop practical skills in performing, they will reflect on how their use of self-expression, language and movement can develop their drama ideas. They will develop problem solving and critical thinking skills as they explore drama genre, structure and conventions. They will also investigate production skills to design, create and enhance their performance and the performances of others. 

Experiences in Drama encourage originality, build confidence and feelings of self-worth and offers the opportunity to enter imaginatively into other worlds, to consider issues and to explore emotions. 

The department also run two senior school productions, a Drama club, regular theatre excursions and House Drama competitions each year and pupils can audition for acting roles or sign up for a production team responsibility. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Drama 

• National 5 Drama 

• Higher Drama 

• Advanced Higher Drama 

Head of Department: Ms M Berry

English is at the heart of children’s learning: it is through language that they gain much of their knowledge and acquire many of their skills. Language enables children both to communicate with others effectively for a variety of purposes, and to examine their own and others’ experiences, feelings and ideas. Due to the fact that language is central to children’s intellectual, emotional and social development, it has an essential role across the curriculum and helps pupils’ learning to be coherent and progressive. 

The Department aims to enable pupils to develop skills of communicating and understanding, and to deploy language for specific purposes and for particular audiences. We seek to establish a love of reading in its broadest sense that will develop pupils’ knowledge of, and engagement with, the world around them, and to ensure that the individual needs of pupils are met, so that all pupils, at all stages, realise their full potential in English. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 English 

• National 5 English 

• Higher English 

• Advanced Higher English 

Head of Department: Mr R Gray 

Geography is the study of the Earth’s landscapes, people, places and environments. It is all about the wonderful world in which we live and the people we share it with. 

At Heriot’s we have an excellent team of qualified, enthusiastic geographers who deliver courses in Geography to pupils from S1 to S6. We use a wide variety of teaching styles to cater for individual learning needs and to help develop positive attitudes towards our planet and its resources. 

Class work is complemented by the use of ICT, GIS, multimedia, role play and debate. Pupils are encouraged to question and to progress their thinking skills and will have an opportunity to develop their creative and artistic flair. Active learning in the form of field trips is central to the course: our trips involve a number of Human and Physical Geography studies, both one day and residential, in the UK and abroad. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Geography 

• National 5 Geography 

• Higher Geography 

• Advanced Higher Geography 

Head of Department: Mrs A Hughes 

Both History and Modern Studies are taught to National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher levels. Politics is taught at Higher level in S6. 

The HMSP department aims to make sure that students enjoy a rich and varied experience of learning about the past and about the world as it is today. To this end, HMSP teachers deploy a variety of teaching methods so that classes will be interesting, illuminating, thought-provoking and fun. We hope that exposure to History and/or Modern Studies and/or Politics will contribute to the development of students as independent and critical thinkers who can fulfil their academic potential, whose knowledge and skills are expanded and who understand the importance of working with others as well as individually. 

We also hope that History and/or Modern Studies and/or Politics will help foster among students the tolerance, humanity and healthy scepticism that are the heart of what it means to be a good citizen in a liberal democratic society. And, just as important, we hope that students develop a love of History and/or Modern Studies and/or Politics as subjects. 

Courses 

• National 5 History 

• National 5 Modern Studies 

• Higher History 

• Higher Modern Studies 

• Higher Politics (S6) 

• Advanced Higher History 

• Advanced Higher Modern Studies 

Head of Department: Ms M McGhee

The various courses of study in Mathematics offered by the Department all have the following aims: to contribute to the pupils’ personal development and overall education, to enable pupils to develop to the limit of their capability the mathematical skills and understanding required for both their present and future needs, and to develop an appreciation and enjoyment of Mathematics. 

These aims are realised through courses which involve the pupils learning in a variety of ways. Pupils work together as well as independently, take part in problem solving and investigative activities, carry out practical work, and use calculators and laptop computers. 

Every opportunity is taken to show the relevance of Mathematics and to present the subject in as interesting a way as possible. Pupils are encouraged to enter both Scottish and UK ‘Mathematical Challenges’ and the annual ‘World Maths Day’ Competition and Maths Week Scotland. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Mathematics 

• National 5 Mathematics 

• Higher Mathematics 

• Higher Applications of Mathematics 

• Advanced Higher Mathematics 

• Advanced Higher Mathematics of Mechanics 

• Advanced Higher Statistics 

Head of Department: Mr R Kearsey

Following an introductory Cultural Awareness course in P4 and P5, pupils begin learning French, German, Mandarin or Spanish from P6 and can continue studying this language through to National 5. Pupils have an opportunity to start learning a second Modern Language (Mandarin, Italian or Spanish) in S3, also leading to presentation for National 5, and are strongly encouraged to continue their language studies further up the School, with French, German, Italian, Mandarin and Spanish taught to both Higher and Advanced Higher. Regular exchange programmes are held with our partner schools in Continental Europe and China. 

Courses 

• First Modern Language from P6 to National 5: French, German, Mandarin or Spanish 

• Second Modern Language from S3 to National 5: Mandarin, Italian or Spanish 

• Higher French, German, Italian, Mandarin and Spanish 

• Advanced Higher French, German, Italian, Mandarin and Spanish 

Head of Department: Mrs E Bottaro 

The Department offers certificate courses at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher level. These curricula are enhanced by the teaching of advanced theory, general musicianship, harmony, history of music, and musical analysis. Specialist Bespoke Programmes are also available in these areas. In addition to varied and stimulating S1 and S2 curricula, the Department also provides specialist teaching in the Junior School from Nursery to P7, with the emphasis on a rewarding, hands-on programme of practical experience for pupils of all ages and abilities. Additionally, many musical productions are rehearsed and performed, beginning with the Early Years’ Nativities. 

An extensive programme of extra-curricular activities is offered covering a range of musical styles: the principal ensembles comprising a full symphony orchestra, two string orchestras, three concert bands, seven choirs, brass ensemble, flute ensemble and saxophone ensemble, as well as several smaller choirs and ensembles. Approximately 700 pupils are involved in extra-curricular music from P3 to S6. Regular concerts are given in and around the city, including the Usher Hall, Queen’s Hall, St Cuthbert’s Parish Church and St Giles’ Cathedral. A team of over twenty Visiting Music Teachers offers one-to-one instrumental tuition on all orchestral instruments, as well as piano, singing, guitar and clarsach. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Music 

• National 5 Music 

• Higher Music 

• Advanced Higher Music 

• Specialist Bespoke Programmes in advanced theory, general musicianship, harmony, history of music and musical analysis 

• One-to-one instrumental tuition from Visiting Music Teachers 

Head of Department: Mr G Maclagan, Director of Music

Philosophy and Religion will be a new subject for many pupils joining the school in S1. Bringing together aspects of philosophy, ethics, religious studies, critical thinking, psychology, and sociology, the department has developed a unique course that serves as both a history of human thought (secular and religious) and a forum for the discussion of modern moral and philosophical problems. It also provides training for the skills needed for nuanced critical thought. Philosophy and Religion lessons are characterized by respect and inclusivity. Religious and secular ideas are explored from an academically rigorous standpoint, with pupils gaining the skills necessary to develop, explain, and defend their own viewpoints while living in a multicultural society that encompasses a vast spectrum of beliefs and ideas. 

Topics include examining the aim of human life, exploring moral theories, and debating key ethical issues within our society today, such as the death penalty, war, and artificial intelligence. This wide-ranging S1 and S2 curriculum provides a foundation for pupils to continue studying our National 5 and Higher courses in Philosophy, alongside our National 5, Higher, and Advanced Higher courses in Religious, Moral, and Philosophical Studies (RMPS). 

At examination level, Philosophy covers fascinating topics, such as exploring the epistemological works of Descartes and Hume and developing an understanding of ethical theories like Utilitarianism. Whereas in the RMPS course, students study a world religion, delve into ethical issues, and engage with systematic philosophy. The course encourages the development of critical skills in questioning and inquiry, inspiring intellectual curiosity. Students investigate profound topics such as the origins of the universe, the existence of God, and the problem of evil and suffering. Through the study of religious beliefs and practices, as well as debates around ethical and moral dilemmas, RMPS challenges students to think deeply and engage in meaningful debate. 

In addition, the department offers Higher Psychology and Sociology. Psychology is the scientific study of the mind, brain, and behaviour. This course takes an exciting look into sleep and dreams and their impact on behaviour, while also examining how social behaviour can be influenced by conformity and obedience. Sociology provides a detailed study of human society, engaging with central ideas such as Functionalism, Marxism, and Feminism, and considering how culture and identity shape the wider society. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Philosophy and Religion 

• National 5 Philosophy 

• National 5 Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies 

• Higher Philosophy 

• Higher Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies 

• Higher Psychology 

• Higher Sociology 

• Advanced Higher Religious, Moral and Philosophical Studies 

Head of Department: Mrs L Crichton 

The PE Department encourages the development of body and mind through physical activity as well as exploring the attitudes and values associated with team activities and games. This is achieved through the PE curriculum and the wide range of extra-curricular activities on offer at Heriot’s, which are supported by the department’s highly committed staff. 

Sport at George Heriot’s is not purely about competition on the sports field, but also about maximum participation and educating pupils on the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Generous playing fields and an Astroturf at Goldenacre provide an ideal environment for rugby, hockey, cricket, tennis and athletics, while indoor facilities include a state-of-the-art sports centre, including fitness suite, dance studio and games hall. There is also a strength and conditioning room and the original gymnasium. 

PE is taught throughout the Junior and Senior School as an integral part of the timetable from P1 to S5. It is optional in S6. From Nursery onwards classes are taught in a variety of co-educational group activities which include swimming (from P2), racket sports, fitness/health and well-being, dance and gymnastics, as well as all the major games. Curricular games periods begin in P5 and are compulsory through to S5, though most pupils continue with a Games option throughout their school career. At all stages, pupils are fully encouraged to participate in a range of physical activities. 

PE is also available as a certificate subject at National 5, Higher and Advanced Higher in an examination syllabus which covers both theoretical and practical aspects. This is a great opportunity for pupils to gain academic achievement from a subject they are passionate about. 

Courses 

• Core Physical Education, compulsory from P1 to S5 and optional in S6 

• Curricular Games, compulsory from P5 to S5 and optional in S6 

• National 5 Physical Education 

• Higher Physical Education 

• Advanced Higher Physical Education 

Head of Department: Mr G Hills, Director of PE and Sport 

Deputy Director of PE (Curriculum): Mr C Ferguson 

Deputy Director of Sport (Games): Miss A Arthur 

Most Physics is taught on the top floor of the Lauriston Building but we like to think that the climb is worthwhile. We teach our subject in a down-to-earth, investigative manner which demonstrates the vital role which Physics has played in shaping modern society. We place considerable emphasis upon experimental work and we use an extensive range of apparatus, hardware and software to demonstrate the vital underlying principles. 

In S1 and S2, we cover a wide spectrum of topics, aimed at laying sound foundations for the certificate work ahead. Our S3 and S4 students follow the SQA Physics course, National 5. This course covers the topics of Dynamics, Radiation, Electricity, Properties of Matter, Space and Waves. In S5 and S6, we guide our older students through Higher and Advanced Higher Physics with considerable success. 

In addition to our courses, we encourage our pupils to enter national competitions such as the range of competitions offered by the British Physics Olympiad and offer weekly helplines for those pupils requiring additional support in their studies. 

Courses 

• S1 and S2 Physics 

• National 5 Physics (S3 and S4) 

• Higher Physics 

• Advanced Higher Physics 

Head of Department: Mrs R Mayo 

Support for Learning is a whole school department committed to raising the standard of attainment of pupils with additional support needs, while supporting and promoting inclusion for all. The ten experienced and well-qualified teachers work with pupils of all ages, from Nursery to Sixth Year. 

The Department has rooms in the Castle Building and the Grassmarket campus. Pupils are supported in a variety of ways: direct tuition, cooperative teaching, study skills advice and drop-in support sessions. Alternatively, advice may be given to class or subject teachers and to parents as to the best way to provide support for specific pupils. The Support for Learning staff also take an active role in all areas of school life. 

Courses 

• Direct tuition 

• Cooperative teaching 

• Study skills advice 

• Drop-in support sessions 

• Advice for class and subject teachers and for parents 

Head of Department: Mrs H Staines 

Support for Learning Coordinator: Mrs H Fennell 

Educational Psychologist: Mrs J Jackson