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Relationship
The Royal Company of Merchants of the City of Edinburgh is proud to support two of Edinburgh’s most well-respected independent schools: Erskine Stewart's Melville Schools and George Watson’s College. The relationship that The Royal Company of Merchants shares with these schools is long-established and active, guided by a commitment to delivering a top-class education that prepares young people for life.
We are more than historical patrons. Our Members engage directly with pupils and staff, sharing knowledge and experience through skills development and careers support. We help schools connect learning with life beyond the classroom.
Our role in education is not only to reflect tradition but to be inclusive, relevant and help our schools meet the needs of today’s Edinburgh.
Merchant Company Education Board
The Merchant Company Education Board (MCEB) is a registered Scottish charity responsible for the governance and strategic direction of ESM and George Watson’s College.
Chaired by the Master of the Royal Company and supported by Company Members and the CEO as Secretary, the Board ensures that the schools stay true to their founding values while thriving in a changing world.
Originally established to support disadvantaged children, these schools now serve diverse communities across the city. Their high academic standards are matched by a strong emphasis on values, character and opportunity.
Our Schools
Erskine Stewart's Melville Schools
Erskine Stewart's Melville Schools has a long and distinguished heritage dating back over 300 years, beginning with Mary Erskine’s generous donation to the Merchant Company in 1694 to establish a school for girls. Daniel Stewart and Melville College followed in the 19th century.
The three schools formally united in the 1970s to form Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools and by the turn of the 21st century had become the largest family of independent schools in Europe.
In 2026, the schools will merge to become fully co-educational as Erskine Stewart Melville. ESM will continue to honour the memory of its three founders by supporting children on lower incomes through our bursary provision and by empowering our students through innovative approaches and transformative experiences.
Our Schools
George Watson's College
George Watson’s College was founded in 1741 through a bequest by merchant and financier George Watson, whose vision was to provide quality education for children from all backgrounds. That founding purpose remains central to the school’s identity.
In 1871, Watson’s Ladies’ College extended this vision to girls. In 1974, the two schools came together at Colinton Road to form the co-educational George Watson’s College we know today.
The school values academic achievement but sees education as broader than results. Pupils are encouraged to think independently, act with kindness and take responsibility in their communities.
George Watson’s continues to reflect its founder’s belief that education can transform lives and uplift society.