Our History

Wester Hailes High School has served south-west Edinburgh since 1978, when it opened as Wester Hailes Education Centre. Built during the rapid development of the surrounding housing estate, the school was designed as more than a place for secondary education. It brought learning, recreation and community services together on one site, reflecting efforts to create a strong centre for the growing neighbourhood.

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The school is non-denominational and has educated generations of young people from Wester Hailes and nearby areas. Its shared facilities, including a swimming pool, fitness centre and youth programmes, have also made it an important community resource.

 

Over the decades, the school has faced challenges associated with poverty and educational inequality. However, inspections have recognised strengths such as school spirit, good behaviour and teamwork, alongside improvements in teaching and achievement.

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More recently, the school adopted the name Wester Hailes High School and began a major redevelopment. The first phase refurbished teaching and community facilities and created an all-weather sports pitch. The second phase involves replacing older teaching blocks with a four-storey building. Together, these improvements are creating a modern community campus designed for up to 800 pupils, continuing the school’s long-standing role at the heart of Wester Hailes.