Gordonstoun, a full-boarding school on Scotland’s northeast coast, is renowned for its pioneering approach to holistic education. Founded by Kurt Hahn, the school focuses on preparing its pupils for life, not just exams. They believe that learning is as likely to occur sailing the west coast in the school’s yacht, through community services, such as being part of the local fire brigade, or taking part in expeditions, as it is in the classroom. The Gordonstoun Diploma emphasises this broad curriculum, and values academics alongside a more holistic approach that includes the arts, sports, citizenship, and outdoor education. This balanced approach fosters both personal growth, intellectual and physical development and prepares Gordonstoun pupils to tackle the vagaries of life with a sense of resilience and an appreciation of social responsibility.