Rothesay Academy was founded in 1870. It is a Secondary School with approximately 450 pupils between the ages of twelve and eighteen from the three associated primary schools on the Island of Bute. 

The main teaching areas of the school are situated in two buildings, one of which was built in 1958. This building houses the hall, dining room, administration area, library as well as English, Maths, Modern Languages, Art and Design and part of the Science Department. The other building which was built in 1938 houses Home Economics, Business Studies, Computing, Social Subjects, Music, Physical Education, a Biology Laboratory and the Special Educational Needs Suite. The Technical Department and Study and Support Centre exist as a separate unit and there is also a separate Biology Lab. The Games Hall is situated at the north end of the campus. A vertical guidance system operates within the Academy and the school is divided into three Houses.

Learning Support has a high profile within the Academy. Expertise is supplied by the Area Network Support Team headed by the Network Team Co-ordinator.

At Rothesay Academy pupils are encouraged to become involved in the extra curricular life of the school. Music plays a major part of the school life. The Academy has become renowned for its school shows which are run biannually. Sport also plays a significant part with athletics, rugby and shinty being well supported.

School uniform within the Academy is encouraged in accordance with Council policy. The school maintains good links with members of the local community through education for work initiatives, projects and visits