At ECS Scotland, every week looks a little different

Alongside our General English and Experience Edinburgh courses, this week we welcomed returning students for short 1:1 programmes — tailor-made sessions focused on presentation practice, pronunciation and building confidence in specific situations.

That’s one of the joys of being a small, family-run school: every learner’s goals are personal and our teachers adapt lessons to help each student progress at their own pace.

🎨 Creative learning in the heart of the city

Edinburgh’s art scene is never still and this week saw a striking new arrival in Princes Street Gardens.

The bronze sculpture Master of the Universe by Eduardo Paolozzi has been relocated from the grounds of Modern Two to the city centre, now facing towards Leith — the artist’s own birthplace.

Our students and teachers visited to see the piece in its new home and to talk about how art connects with language. Observation, description, colour and form — these are not only visual ideas but also linguistic ones.

Art continues to inspire learning here at ECS Scotland, too. One of our staff members has begun a new art course in charcoal and pastel as part of ongoing creative development, exploring new ways to bring visual storytelling into English learning.

And looking ahead, we’re excited to share that a new English with Art and Literature course is in development for 2026 — perfect for those who love language, culture and creativity.

🌺 Language and remembrance

Just a few minutes from the school, the Garden of Remembrance beside the Scott Monument has once again filled with thousands of red poppies.

Each poppy symbolises remembrance for people who lost their lives in conflicts — a long-standing tradition in the UK and a moment of reflection for many.

In early November, the garden becomes a peaceful public space where individuals and organisations lay wreaths and small wooden crosses to honour the fallen.

For our international students, it’s often a chance to learn new vocabulary and to discuss how language, memory and history intertwine across cultures.

🥃 Tasting and talking at the Port of Leith Distillery

Midweek, our Social Programme for students included a special visit to the Port of Leith Distillery — one of the city’s most impressive new landmarks by the waterfront.

The tour offered a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at how whisky is made, from grain to glass. Students practised listening for detail, asked the guide spontaneous questions and expanded their vocabulary for flavours and processes.

After sampling whisky, sherry, port and the new make spirit, the group stayed on for a relaxed meal together — the perfect opportunity for more conversation, cultural exchange and laughter.

It was a reminder that language learning happens everywhere: in classrooms, on tours and around tables where good food and stories are shared.

🎃 Seasonal touches and warm connections

Back at the school, pumpkins, cobwebs and skeletons began to appear in the coffee room as Halloween approached. Students shared stories of autumn traditions from their own countries and warm cups of tea kept hands — and conversations — flowing.

As October draws to a close, Edinburgh feels cosy and calm again. The days may be shorter but there’s still light in every classroom, art gallery and conversation.