Gordonstoun named Finalist in the Regional Independent School of the Year: North Category
Thursday 10 September 2026
We are delighted to announce that, as part of the Independent Schools of the Year 2026 awards, Gordonstoun has been selected as a Finalist in the Regional Independent School of the Year: North category.
Our location informs the way we learn, serve and grow.
Nestled between the mountains and the Moray Firth, Gordonstoun's unique location shapes an education unlike any other. Across its woodland campus and the wild landscapes beyond, students learn through experience, developing resilience, leadership and confidence in some of the UK's most inspiring natural environments.
This setting underpins Gordonstoun's renowned outdoor and adventure learning programme, where sailing, skiing, mountaineering and mountain biking are part of everyday school life. In 2025-26, the opening of the Gordonstoun Adventure Campus in the Cairngorms further strengthened the School's leadership in experiential education, providing students, local schools and youth groups with access to structured adventure and challenge in the heart of the Highlands.
As one of the region's major employers, Gordonstoun also plays an important role in supporting the local economy and developing skills in the North of Scotland. This year saw the introduction of new land-based courses including Deer Management, Chainsaw Operation, Tractor Driving and Sheep Shearing, reflecting both the rural setting and the School's commitment to relevant, practical learning.
Students continued to achieve success on a national stage, winning the Scottish and UK Robotics Championships, the Round Square Adventure Race, and national football and equestrian titles. The School also achieved several significant milestones, including becoming Scotland's first independent All-Steinway School, gaining Research Mark Plus status from the Chartered College of Teaching, and receiving the Gold Carnegie Boarding School Mental Health Award.
Service remains at the heart of the Gordonstoun experience. Every student joins one of eight community or rescue services, contributing to local life through projects ranging from outdoor learning in primary schools to supporting care-home residents through Cycling Without Age Scotland. This year, Gordonstoun's Coastguard Service reached a national milestone when students became the first in the UK authorised to attend HM Coastguard callouts.
Whether navigating the Cairngorms, sailing coastal waters or serving their community, Gordonstoun students leave with far more than qualifications. Shaped by the opportunities and challenges of the North, they leave as resilient, compassionate and capable young people, ready to make a positive difference wherever life takes them.
Curious about Gordonstoun?
To find out more about who and where we are, how to visit our woodland campus and the uniquely broad range of opportunities available to our students, please contact Admissions or join us on our next Virtual Taste of Gordonstoun Webinar.
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