Dollar Academy
Dollar Academy
Dollar, Scotland
Nestled at the foot of the picturesque Ochil Hills, between Edinburgh and Glasgow, lies Dollar Academy, a boarding school that blends academic excellence with a stunning natural setting. From the moment you arrive, you sense a unique mix of tradition, nature and down-to-earth spirit that defines the school’s character.
Founded in 1818, Dollar Academy today offers boys and girls aged 5 to 18 a solid and well-rounded education and a truly Scottish sense of community.
The Details
The Academics
Academically, Dollar Academy offers one of the broadest subject ranges in Scotland, with over 34 qualification and elective options in the Senior School and more than 120 co-curricular activities. The school follows the Scottish curriculum – a system that is broader in scope than the English A levels and offers greater flexibility for specialisation. It combines academic depth with diversity and is recognised worldwide, particularly by universities in the UK, Europe, and North America.
Languages Taught
French, German, Italian, Spanish, Mandarin and Latin
The Boarding
Boarding is an integral part of school life, with three houses that create a warm, family-like atmosphere where both community and individuality are valued. The houses provide space for connection as well as privacy, helping pupils to feel at home quickly, while a dedicated pastoral team ensures that every child is seen and supported.
Strengths & Weaknesses
The Strengths
Among the school’s greatest strengths are music, art, and sport. A prize-winning pipe band, a wide range of ensembles, and a vibrant culture of creativity are just as much a part of school life as sport itself. Dollar ranks among Scotland’s leading sports schools – with rugby, hockey, golf (in partnership with Gleneagles), and newer disciplines like triathlon reflecting a holistic approach to performance and wellbeing.
Equally impressive is the Future Institute of Dollar Academy (FIDA), an initiative that promotes innovative learning models and global access to education – a true example of how tradition and forward-thinking come together at Dollar. The new, state-of-the-art FIDA building, scheduled to open in 2027, will serve as a creative hub for research, innovation, and learning.
The Weaknesses
With around 100 boarders, Dollar Academy’s boarding community is relatively small compared to many other UK schools. While this creates a close-knit and family-like atmosphere, it also means that boarding life may feel a little less dynamic than at larger schools.
Dollar Academy is one of those schools that instantly wins you over – not just because of its stunning setting at the foot of the Ochil Hills, but also thanks to its open, forward-thinking spirit.
Just 25 minutes from the school lies the world-famous Gleneagles Golf Resort, home to three championship courses. Thanks to a unique partnership between Dollar Academy and Gleneagles, pupils can take part in professional training programmes – or, for those less into golf, simply enjoy an afternoon tea while watching the players in action.
Take a look at similar schools
Glenalmond College
Loretto School
Strathallan School
30 Years experience in the UK boarding school placements
For over 30 years, we have been guiding families in choosing the right British boarding school. This makes us one of the first and only agencies to specialise exclusively in this field. Our experience makes all the difference. Find out why that matters here.
Want to discuss any of the schools?
Please never hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. One of our consultants will be more than happy to talk to you and your child.