The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) – 11+ Practice Papers with Video Explanations
The Mary Erskine School (MES) is a prestigious independent girls’ school in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is part of The Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools (ESMS), a family of schools that includes Stewart’s Melville College (for boys) and a co-educational junior school. MES is widely recognised for its academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and outstanding extracurricular opportunities.
1. History & Background
- Founded in 1694, The Mary Erskine School is one of the oldest girls’ schools in the UK.
- It was established by Mary Erskine, a successful Edinburgh businesswoman and philanthropist, to provide education for girls—a groundbreaking initiative at the time.
- Originally called The Merchant Maiden Hospital, it was renamed The Mary Erskine School in 1944 to honour its founder.
- In 1972, MES partnered with Stewart’s Melville College, creating a diamond model of education where girls and boys are taught separately but share extracurricular and social activities.
- The school is now one of Scotland’s most respected independent schools, with a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, music, drama, and sports.
2. Pupil Numbers
- Total student population: Approximately 750 girls, from ages 12 to 18.
- Senior School (S1–S5, equivalent to Years 7–11 in England) – Around 600 students.
- Sixth Form (S6, equivalent to Year 12–13 in England) – Around 150 students.
- Junior pupils (P1–P7, ages 5–11) attend the ESMS Junior School, which feeds into MES and Stewart’s Melville College.
- Selective admissions process, requiring students to sit entrance exams at various entry points.
3. Academic Reputation & Results
The Mary Erskine School is one of Scotland’s top-performing independent schools, consistently achieving outstanding exam results and university placements.
📈 Exam Performance & National Rankings
- Scottish Highers & Advanced Highers Results:
- Over 90% of grades were A–B.
- A high percentage of students progress to Russell Group universities, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Edinburgh.
- GCSE Equivalent (National 5s) Results:
- Over 85% of grades were A–A equivalent (Grades 9–7).
- Regularly ranked among the top Scottish independent schools for exam performance.
- MES students are well-prepared for Scottish Highers, Advanced Highers, and International Baccalaureate options.
🏆 Awards & Achievements
- Consistently ranked as one of Scotland’s top-performing girls’ schools.
- Sunday Times Scottish Independent School of the Year (multiple times).
- STEM Excellence – MES students excel in Scottish Maths Challenges, Science Olympiads, and Engineering Competitions.
- Music & Performing Arts – Award-winning participation in national orchestras, choirs, and drama festivals.
- Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme – Many students achieve Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards.
- National-level sports achievements in hockey, athletics, and netball.
🏫 The Mary Erskine School – Contact Information
School Name: The Mary Erskine School (MES)
Type: Independent Day and Boarding School for Girls (Ages 11–18)
Part of: Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools (ESMS)
📍 Address:
The Mary Erskine School
Ravelston
Edinburgh
EH4 3NT
Scotland
United Kingdom
☎️ Telephone:
+44 (0)131 347 5700
📧 Email:
🌐 Website:
(MES is part of the ESMS group, which includes The Mary Erskine School for girls, Stewart’s Melville College for boys, and a Junior School.)
📱 Social Media:
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Instagram: @esms_edinburgh
-
Twitter/X: @ESMS_Edinburgh
📝 Exam Board: School’s own test
You can view the school’s location on the map below:
How to Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations to Achieve High Scores for The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) in the 11+ Entrance Exam
The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) uses its own 11+ entrance test for admission to Year 7. To secure a place, students must perform well in the exam, which assesses English, Mathematics, and Reasoning skills.
Why Use ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations?
✔ Designed for Independent School Entrance Exams – Covers question types that may appear in the The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) entrance test.
✔ Video Explanations for Every Question – Helps students understand mistakes and improve problem-solving skills.
✔ Identifies Strengths & Weaknesses – Tailored practice to improve weaker areas.
✔ Boosts Confidence & Exam Performance – Familiarisation with exam-style questions reduces anxiety.
How to Use ExamTutor for The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) 11+ Exam Preparation
1. Understand the Exam Format
📌The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) 11+ entrance test typically includes:
- English – Reading comprehension, creative writing, and grammar.
- Mathematics – Problem-solving, arithmetic, and numerical reasoning.
- Reasoning (Verbal & Non-Verbal) – Logical thinking, pattern recognition, and spatial awareness.
✔ Start by introducing your child to each section and understanding what is tested.
2. Create a Structured Study Plan
✔ Allocate dedicated study time for each subject every week.
✔ Use ExamTutor practice papers to track progress.
✔ Practice under timed conditions to improve speed and accuracy.
3. Boost Confidence with Video Explanations
Some 11+ question types can be challenging for students. Our expert-led video explanations:
🎥 Break down complex questions step by step
🎥 Teach proven problem-solving techniques
🎥 Show shortcuts and strategies to save time in the exam
🎥 Help students reinforce learning and build confidence
How to Use Video Explanations Effectively:
✅ Review incorrect answers with video solutions – Identify and correct mistakes early.
✅ Take notes on key strategies – Record important problem-solving techniques for future reference.
✅ Rewatch explanations for difficult topics – Reinforce learning by revisiting challenging areas.
4. Develop Exam Strategies & Time Management
✔ Teach skimming and scanning techniques for comprehension questions.
✔ Use mental maths tricks to speed up calculations.
✔ Practice logical reasoning techniques to improve accuracy in reasoning questions.
5. Take Practice Exams & Review Performance
✔ Schedule practice exams close to the real test date.
✔ Analyse results and focus on weak areas.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s tutor-led video explanations for targeted revision.
6. Boost Confidence & Reduce Exam Stress
✔ Maintain a positive and encouraging learning environment.
✔ Encourage regular breaks and revision balance.
✔ Use mindfulness techniques to stay calm before the exam.
Final Tips for Success
✔ Start preparation early – At least 6-12 months before the exam.
✔ Use ExamTutor’s practice tests regularly – Build confidence with real exam-style questions.
✔ Practice writing skills – Creative writing is often a key component in independent school exams.
✔ Stay consistent – Small daily practice sessions are more effective than last-minute cramming.
✔ Attend an open day or taster session at The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) – Familiarity with the school environment can boost confidence.
By using ExamTutor 11 Plus Practice Papers with Video Explanations, your child will gain strong exam skills, improve accuracy, and build confidence—increasing their chances of success in the The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) 11+ Entrance Exam.
📌 Start practicing today to help your child achieve a top score and secure a place at The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES)! 🚀
The Mary Erskine School, Edinburgh (MES) – Year 7 Admissions Criteria & How to Apply
The Mary Erskine School (MES) is a prestigious independent day school for girls, located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is part of the Erskine Stewart’s Melville Schools (ESMS) family and is known for its academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and wide-ranging extracurricular opportunities. The school consistently achieves outstanding academic results and provides an inspiring environment for students to develop confidence, independence, and leadership skills.
Admission to Year 7 (Primary 7 in Scotland) at MES is selective and based on performance in an entrance assessment, an interview, and a reference from the student’s current school.
Year 7 (P7) Admissions Criteria
To secure a place at The Mary Erskine School for Year 7 (Primary 7), students must successfully complete the following stages:
1. Entrance Assessment
All applicants must sit an entrance assessment, which evaluates:
📌 English – Reading comprehension, grammar, and creative writing.
📌 Mathematics – Arithmetic, problem-solving, and numerical reasoning.
📌 Reasoning – A mix of verbal and non-verbal reasoning to assess logical thinking, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills.
✔ The entrance assessment is designed to gauge academic potential rather than just prior knowledge.
2. Interview
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an informal interview with senior staff, which assesses:
✔ Intellectual curiosity and enthusiasm for learning
✔ Ability to think critically and solve problems
✔ Communication skills and confidence
✔ Extracurricular interests and personal achievements
📌 The interview is a friendly discussion, giving students an opportunity to express themselves and demonstrate their suitability for MES.
3. School Reference
A confidential reference will be requested from the applicant’s current school, covering:
✔ Academic ability and potential
✔ Attitude to learning and behaviour
✔ Participation in extracurricular activities
How to Apply for Year 7 Admission
Since MES is an independent school, parents must apply directly to the school.
Step 1: Register for the Entrance Assessment
📅 Registration Deadline: December (Year 6/P6)
- Parents must complete the online application form via the Mary Erskine School website.
- A non-refundable registration fee is required.
Step 2: Attend Open Events (Optional but Recommended)
- MES holds Open Days and Taster Sessions, allowing prospective students and parents to:
🔹 Tour the school and its facilities
🔹 Meet staff and current students
🔹 Learn about academic and extracurricular opportunities
Step 3: Sit the Entrance Assessment
📅 Exam Date: January (Year 6/P6)
- The assessment is conducted at The Mary Erskine School.
- Results are used to shortlist candidates for interviews.
Step 4: Attend an Interview
📅 January – February (Year 6/P6)
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview with senior staff.
Step 5: Receive an Offer
📅 February (Year 6/P6)
- Successful applicants receive a formal offer letter.
- Parents must accept the offer and pay a deposit to secure their child’s place.
Step 6: Transition & Induction
📅 Summer Term (before September start)
- Induction Days are held to help students adjust before joining the school.
Key Dates to Remember
📌 Registration Deadline: December (Year 6/P6)
📌 Entrance Assessment: January (Year 6/P6)
📌 Interviews: January – February (Year 6/P6)
📌 Offers Sent: February (Year 6/P6)
📌 Acceptance Deadline: March (Year 6/P6)
📌 Year 7 (P7) Induction: Summer Term before September entry
(Exact dates may vary each year, so always check the MES website for updates.)
Scholarships & Bursaries
MES offers academic scholarships, music scholarships, and means-tested bursaries to support outstanding students.
✔ Scholarships: Awarded based on exceptional performance in the entrance assessment and interview.
✔ Bursaries: Available for families requiring financial assistance, covering up to 100% of fees.
📌 Bursary applications must be submitted alongside the main application.
Final Tips for a Successful Application
✔ Prepare for the entrance assessment early – Use past papers and reasoning exercises to improve performance.
✔ Encourage reading and writing practice – Strong literacy skills are essential for the English section.
✔ Practice problem-solving skills – Maths and reasoning questions require logical thinking and accuracy.
✔ Develop interview confidence – Encourage your child to express their thoughts clearly and show enthusiasm for learning.
✔ Attend Open Days – Get familiar with the school and ask questions.
✔ Consider applying for bursaries if needed – Early application is recommended.
Admission to The Mary Erskine School Year 7 (P7) is competitive, but with strong academic preparation, confidence in interviews, and enthusiasm for learning, your child can maximise their chances of success.
For the most up-to-date information and to apply, visit:
🔗 The Mary Erskine School Website 🚀
