Scotland’s first Orthodox Christian primary school has opened in Edinburgh, offering pupils a traditional, faith-based education rooted in classical learning.
St. Andrew’s Orthodox Church School, based at Craigmillar Park Church in Newington, welcomed its first pupils in September after receiving approval from Scottish education officials earlier this year. The school was founded by parents from the Lothians with support from St. Andrew’s Orthodox Church and the Orthodox Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain, reports the Scotsman.
The new independent school combines a strong Orthodox Christian ethos with a “classical” curriculum inspired by the methods of Ancient Greece. Pupils study traditional subjects such as mathematics, science, languages (including Latin), and history, which ranges from ancient civilizations to Scottish heritage.
“Our little school started in our parish community,”
said Dr. Fotini Hamplova, Director of Academics and a mother-of-five from Penicuik.
“We wanted to provide the best possible education for our children, and we are thrilled that this dream has become a reality.”
Originally from Cyprus, Dr. Hamplova holds a PhD in Socratic Education from the University of Edinburgh. She explained that the school’s program is “rigorous and content-heavy,” with a strong focus on knowledge, play, and daily physical activity. The school does not assign homework, allowing families more time together at home, and it offers PE classes every day.
St Andrew’s is also a low-technology school. Computers are used only for computer science lessons, and smartphones aren’t permitted. The school believes this approach helps children develop concentration, social skills, and a love for learning.
“Our aim is to offer a top-tier education with affordable fees in a joyful environment,” Dr. Hamplova said. “We include plenty of free play and encourage friendships, all within a Christian ethos.”
Open to children of all backgrounds, the school holds daily prayers and celebrates Christian traditions. Its guiding verse is John 15:11:
“These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.”
The Orthodox Community of St. Andrew in Edinburgh has served local Orthodox Christians since 1948 and is part of the Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain. Services are held mainly in English, with prayers also offered in Greek, Slavonic, and Romanian.
St. Andrew’s Orthodox Church School will host its first open day on Saturday, November 1.
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