Extracurricular

Sports Life

Students engage with traditional Scottish sports like rugby and hockey in autumn, followed by lacrosse in spring and cricket with tennis during summer months, alongside football and athletics. Many go on to represent Scotland nationally and internationally. Beyond these conventional offerings, pupils can access distinctive options such as the golf school, which operates with professional coaching on a dedicated 9-hole course. Other unusual opportunities include:

• Equestrian sports with lessons at the local stables and full livery facilities (up to 10 ponies)
• Sailing on Loch Earn with a fleet of various boat classes
• Mountaineering on Scotland’s famous Munros peaks
• Kayaking across the region’s scenic lochs

Creative Directions

The drama department prepares students for GCSE and A Level examinations while staging major productions in the college’s 200-seat theatre, complemented by the LAMDA programme where 98% achieve Distinction grades. Music students perform in Scottish cathedrals and join national youth orchestras, though the Pipe Band remains a particular source of pride. Established in 1878 and wearing the historic Murray of Atholl tartan—a mark of special distinction—this ensemble teaches around 60 students bagpipes and drums under world-class instructors.

Adventures and Expeditions

The college’s Highland setting enables extensive outdoor programming, where students develop resilience by conquering mountain peaks and navigating lochs with experienced guides, while many join the Combined Cadet Force to build leadership skills. Perhaps most memorable is the annual Fifth Form charity challenge: pupils plan and complete a 100-mile route back to school from various Scottish locations, raising substantial funds for charitable organizations while cultivating motivation, creativity, and teamwork.

International Experience at Glenalmond College

Glenalmond College maintains partnerships worldwide, including a 25-year exchange with Brooks School in the USA that immerses students in American education while visiting Boston and New York, alongside programmes with Kingswood College in South Africa and St. Andrews College in New Zealand. Language immersion trips to France and Spain involve homestays, while the English department organizes theatre visits to see the Royal Shakespeare Company. Senior pupils can also apply for Travel Awards of up to £500 to undertake independent projects across Europe, Africa, Asia, or Latin America.