Rosehill High School named

It will be known as Rosehill High School, joining East Lothian’s six other secondary provisions in the county.

Rosehill High School is part of the Wallyford Learning Campus. The name was chosen from a shortlist developed by Head Teacher Gail Preston following early consultation with community historians, parents and learners. Pupil voice groups were convened in the two catchment primary schools and Musselburgh Grammar School where children and young people could learn more about the names and their context. Finally the options were then shared with staff, parents and pupils who will be attending the school from August. 260 responses were received to the consultation leading to Rosehill High School being selected.

Reflection of our aspirations

The name has been chosen to reflect the local area and one of its notable residents, as well as the ambitions for its learners, as Rosehill High School Head Teacher Gail Preston explains: “The story behind the name Rosehill began with a discussion on the likely birthplace of local author Margaret Oliphant, but has now developed to become a reflection of our aspirations for the school.

“The idea of the rose links with the biophilic design of the campus and its references to the natural world. It also reflects the vision we have for our young people: a learning environment in which, with care and attention, they can grow, thrive, and become the best versions of themselves. And, as one of our young people pointed out – the school is literally on a hill!”

The Brae

The site as a whole will continue to be referred to as the Wallyford Learning Campus as it brings together a range of facilities for the wider community. Different parts of the building will be able to start to develop their own identity, picking up on the theme of the beautiful East Lothian environment. The school’s Severe and Complex Needs provision will be referred to as The Brae, linking to the idea of the hilltop position of the accommodation, and the wonderful views afforded across the site. Rosehill High School is due to welcome learners in August 2023 with community facilities opening shortly thereafter.

Alister Hadden, former Chair of Wallyford Community Council, Vice Chair of Musselburgh Area Partnership and Chair of the Musselburgh Museum and Heritage Group was consulted in early discussions for his insight into the area’s history.

Further consultation with learners, families and staff to finalise House Names that complement and reflect the school’s name will now be completed. Work will also begin to design an appropriate school crest.

School's identity and values

Cabinet member for Education and Children’s and Family Services Councillor Fiona Dugdale said: “Having the name confirmed marks an important step forward ahead of the opening of our newest secondary school – Rosehill High School – in August. I’m really pleased that it reflects part of Wallyford’s history which is perhaps less well-known within the wider area.

“Ms Preston has been working closely with learners and their families, and also with the growing staff team, to develop the school’s identity and values. Having the name confirmed is a huge part of establishing a school community that people can be proud to be part of and I’d like to thank her and all those who have been involved in getting to this stage.

“I am delighted to welcome Rosehill High School to join our family of East Lothian secondary schools. I look forward to visiting it and the wider Wallyford Learning Campus once opened.”

Margaret Oliphant (b. 1828, d. 1897) was a 19th Century writer from Wallyford. The community library based within Wallyford Primary School was named after her when it opened in 2019.