The New Statistical Account of 1845 states that there were three private schools in Laurieston at that time. The Falkirk almanac of 1836 names John Hardie and Sinclair as teachers in Laurieston. Hardie taught at the Zetland School but the location of Sinclair’s school is not known. William Bryce may have been a contemporary and is mentioned in James Robertson’s reminiscences. His school, according to Robertson, had a tile floor and “was a great contrast to our grand public schools of today, although many a good scholar left.”
Calstock School, Laurieston
This was a private school for younger children (primary school age) established c1928 by Miss J A Wilson and named after her home town in Cornwall. The residence was called “Cosydene” and prospered. As the number of pupils increased two sectional huts were acquired. Annual concerts were held in the Hut, Laurieston, and displays of the pupils’ artwork were also mounted. Miss Wilson acted as principal and retired in 1950. The school was taken over by Miss A Kinnaird who transferred it to Arnotbank, 6 Camelon Road, Falkirk. The two huts were moved there so that they could be used as a gymnasium and playground.
Falkirk Local History Society 