Merchistonian Newsletter
February 2026
February has brought a welcome hint of spring to the campus, with brighter mornings and lighter afternoons lifting spirits across the grounds Even from afar, we hope you can picture Merchiston looking at its very best as the seasons begin to turn It has also been a month of significant sporting success, with pupils and fellow Merchistonians making headlines and doing the School proud From competitive fixtures on home soil to achievements on much bigger stages, there has been plenty for our community to celebrate As ever, it is a pleasure to share these moments with you and to reflect on the continued strength of the Merchiston spirit.
New Golf Performance Centre opens
Merchiston officially opened its new Golf Performance Centre on Tuesday 10 February, in a launch event attended by key figures from the school community, including governors, parents, and members of the school’s Golf Academy.
The event featured a special visit from former pupil and DP World Tour golfer Cameron Adam (MCS 2015-21), who returned to the school to mark the occasion. Adam toured the facility and met current pupils, highlighting the ongoing connection between past and present members of the Merchiston Golf programme.
Head of Merchiston Castle School Huw Jones said:
“It was a pleasure to welcome Cameron and our parents to the launch The event was about celebrating a significant milestone for the school and giving those involved in our Golf Academy a chance to see the facility first-hand ”
The centre includes indoor practice areas and advanced Foresight simulator technology, allowing pupils to train year-round, regardless of weather conditions The technology also enables a data-driven approach to practice, providing detailed feedback on each swing and helping pupils refine their technique within the academy setting.
Fraser Hutchison, Director of Golf at Merchiston, reflected on the launch:
“The day gave us a chance to showcase the facility to those most involved in our golf programme It was a great opportunity to bring everyone together and see the reaction to the centre.”
Parents and staff expressed enthusiasm for the new facility, highlighting how it enhances the experience for pupils in the Golf Academy and supports the school’s broader sporting provision.
Silver Success for Merchistonians at the Winter Olympics
We were cheering hard for Grant Hardie (MCS 2005-2010) and Hammy McMillan (MCS 2004-2010) in our earlier “good luck” feature, and we are thrilled to celebrate their amazing achievement: a silver medal with Team GB’s men’s curling at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina.
The final against Canada was an incredibly close contest, with every end tightly fought. Hardie and McMillan showed true composure and skill on the biggest stage, helping to guide the team to a well-deserved podium finish.
This achievement adds to their already remarkable international careers and is a proud moment for the Merchiston community Their dedication, teamwork, and determination will undoubtedly inspire pupils and alumni alike, showing what can be achieved through passion and perseverance
Scottish Wanderers Trophy Retained
In other curling news… It has been another fantastic season for the Merchistonian Curling Club, who have proudly retained
The Scottish Wanderers Trophy after a thrilling final against Kelvinside Accies
That makes it three years in a row for the Merchistonians – a legacy!
The final was fiercely contested, with both sides trading strong ends before Merchiston edged ahead to secure the win. Congratulations to everyone involved in another superb victory.
Meet Merchiston in Hong Kong
A reminder that our Director of Admissions and our Head, Mr Jones, will be travelling to Hong Kong next week to attend a recruitment event. While there, they are very much looking forward to reconnecting with our Merchiston community, particularly Alumni based in the region
If you are in Hong Kong and would like to join them for a drink on Wednesday 4 March at 7 00pm, we would be delighted to see you Please RSVP using the following link: https://www trybooking com/uk/FYZ V
Thank you to everyone who has already confirmed their attendance. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Obituaries
We were very saddened to hear of the passing of the following Merchistonians:
Mr Andrew W Marshall 1976-2026
At Merchiston: 1988-1994
[left 1994; VI NG
Here a copy of the statement by Mr Jones, Head and Mr Cook, Chairman: We are deeply saddened by the death of Andrew Marshall, a former pupil (MCS 1988-94) and dedicated governor of Merchiston. He was a generous supporter of the School, whose contribution over many years is deeply valued. He gave his time, expertise and support with real commitment, and his loss will be felt across the Merchistonian community. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.