Dollar Academy
Founded in 1818, Dollar Academy is thought to be the oldest co-educational day and boarding school in the world, and has an outstanding reputation as one of the country’s best performing schools. Enjoyment of learning lies at the heart of this school, which aims to promote an environment where pupils gain real satisfaction from a commitment to study and benefit from excellent resources and first-class teaching. The culture at Dollar is one that fosters ambition and achievement: Dollar is a place where young people work hard and like to be stretched.
Firmly grounded in the strengths of a broad Scottish education, pupils at Dollar study the Scottish curriculum and work towards Highers and Advanced Highers. Exam results speak for themselves, with an excellent 86 per cent A-B pass rate at Higher and 96 per cent of leavers going on to university, the majority accepted to study their first choice. The most popular destinations are Scottish universities with around 30 per cent of leavers heading to the universities of St Andrews, Glasgow and Edinburgh each year.
At Dollar, activities beyond the classroom are seen as highly significant in the development of young people. The school prides itself on its extensive range of sporting and cultural activities, allowing pupils to develop the self-confidence, social skills and character that contribute to success and happiness in later life.
Music and art are flourishing and Dollar is also well-known for its world championship-winning pipe band. Over 160 pupils practise the band instruments and tuition is available at all levels, with the opportunity to participate in national competitions and perform around the world. The sight and sound of the pipes are synonymous with Dollar Academy; during the summer term, each day begins with the massed pipes and drums practising on the school lawns.
Dollar Academy is a popular option for Scottish families and entry can be arranged at any stage in a child’s education. Boarding scholarships and fee-assisted places are available for hardworking and ambitious children.