Edinburgh Hopefuls: Primary school advice, please!

[NeedCrisps]

Hi all, we found a buyer for our house in England after our previous buyer pulled out at the last minute, so we’re in house hunting mode again. We are planning a visit to Edinburgh in the near future to have a good look around without tourist goggles on.

My son is 5, he’s a bright and happy child but seems to struggle a little when it comes to engaging with other children. We are looking for a primary school (State) which is gentle and nurturing rather than one which focuses on academic excellence. We are hoping to find a school which has a strong focus on inclusiveness and pastoral care.

Where we will buy will very much depend on the school (budget of £550-650K). Which primary schools would you consider to be most suitable, please? It would be great if it wasn’t too far out but it’s not a dealbreaker.

Preston Street Primary is in quite a bustling area. Lots of shops and cafes on the main road through Newington. Some cater to students, since you're close to Edinburgh Uni. You're also close to the Commonwealth Pool, which has good kids swimming in normal times.
The bit of the meadows on that side has an amazing massive playground and tennis courts. And you're close to Arthur's seat.
Also not far is the National Museum of Scotland and a lot of Fringe venues.

On the downside the school is next to a very busy road and also the road through Newington is busy. During Fringe time it might feel a bit overrun. There's student halls there as well. Not sure how it's like at night, but for me it would be too busy for a parents with little kids place.

Also the people who advocated for Boroughmuir and Gillespie's when we moved to Edinburgh are a very academic bunch and not originally from Edinburgh so as others have said maybe they're not really what you want.

Another out of left field - eg not a huge number of HE destinations but small and incredibly good pastoral/ASN care - Drummond Community High School. One of the most central schools and Bellevue/Canonmills is a great area.

@Callisto1, thanks for giving me such a comprehensive description. It all sounds great, except for the student aspect. And yes, I agree with your opinion on Boroughmuir and Gillespie’s. When I was younger I was seen as one of those students who never applied themselves until I did my undergrad degree at a less fashionable college in my hometown. It was small and very caring, and I really came into my own and ended up making close friends and doing very well academically (that part just sort of clicked into place). That’s what I’m hoping for with my son.

@weebarra, this sounds lovely. Small and gentle is what I’m hoping for.

I had a proper look at the Preston Street catchment and the southern bit closer to the cemetery looks like it might tick your boxes. It has houses with private gardens. But could be too pricey.
The grange to the west is full of pretty houses and you might get part of one on your budget. But it's expensive and you're definitely paying over the odds for the "fancier" location.