Two charged over historic abuse at Edinburgh private school

Two men in their sixties have been charged in connection with allegations of historic abuse at one of Scotland’s top private schools.

Police Scotland confirmed the abuse charges date back to the 1960s and involve alleged abuse at Merchiston Castle School in Edinburgh.

Detective Inspector Morag Bruce said: “Police in Edinburgh are carrying out inquiries into claims of historic abuse at Merchiston Castle School, which date back to the 1960s.

“As a result of this ongoing investigation, two men, aged 62 and 69, have been charged and will appear at court at a later date.”

Andrew Hunter, headmaster of Merchiston Castle School, told the Sunday Herald yesterday: “We have been offering every possible assistance to Police Scotland as it investigates these historical allegations.

“The appropriate school records have been made available to the investigating officers and we are committed to co-operating fully in support of their inquiries.

“The welfare and safety of our pupils is the central, over-riding priority at Merchiston and our safeguarding and child protection policies are robust, comprehensive and fully compliant with current Scottish legislation.”

Merchiston Castle, in the Colinton area of the Edinburgh, is one of the UK’s leading independent schools charging up to £28,500 per year for boarding pupils.