Lomond School First in UK to Accept Bitcoin for Payments
Helensburgh institution pioneers digital finance in education
In a groundbreaking move for both the education and cryptocurrency sectors, Lomond School in Helensburgh, Scotland has become the first school in the United Kingdom to accept Bitcoin as a method of tuition payment. Starting from Autumn 2025, parents will be able to pay school fees using the digital currency—a shift that underscores the school’s commitment to innovation and adaptability.
“This initiative reflects our culture of bold thinking and risk-taking,” said Claire Chisholm, Principal of Lomond School, during her announcement at the national Cheatcode Bitcoin Conference.
Modernizing Tradition with Blockchain Innovation
Founded as a forward-thinking educational institution, Lomond School has a legacy of pioneering change. Historically, it was Scotland’s first co-educational boarding school and among the first to adopt the International Baccalaureate curriculum. The school serves students aged 3 to 18 years, and now steps into the future by embracing cryptocurrency payments.
To implement this system securely and in compliance with UK regulations, Lomond School has partnered with:
- Musqet – A Bitcoin payments provider
- CoinCorner – A FCA-regulated virtual asset service and fiat wallet
These collaborations ensure safe, transparent, and legal crypto transactions. Initially, all Bitcoin payments will be converted directly into British Pound Sterling (GBP) to mitigate volatility and financial risk.
A Vision for the Future: Bitcoin Reserves and Global Inclusion
While the school will begin with direct GBP conversions, it also has plans to build a Bitcoin reserve in the future. This strategy will be activated once there is broader crypto acceptance in the UK and further regulatory clarity.
“For international families, paying with Bitcoin removes exchange rate uncertainty,” said Chisholm. “And it provides a modern, inclusive option for a growing global parent base.”
The decision also comes after requests from both local and international families, especially those with strong interest in blockchain technologies.
Leadership and Legacy
Principal Claire Chisholm highlighted the school’s innovative roots by referencing one of its most famous alumni, John Logie Baird, the inventor of the television.
“We’ve always championed inquiry, critical thinking, and bold ideas. This is another step forward in that tradition,” she affirmed.
