Are you a working professional in Switzerland looking to improve your English skills? You may be eligible for paid training leave or employer-sponsored funding to support a short English course abroad.

Whether you work in banking, healthcare, aviation, education or IT, English is a key skill in today’s international workplaces. And what better way to learn than in an immersive, English-speaking country like Scotland?

This blog will show you how Swiss professionals can access training leave or funding to join a short course at ECS Scotland, a specialist English language school for adults in the heart of Edinburgh.

Why choose ECS Scotland?

ECS Scotland offers a friendly and professional study experience tailored to adult learners. Our courses combine expert teaching with a relaxed, real-world approach to language.

We provide:

• Small group General English courses – improve your fluency and accuracy in everyday English
• Communication at Work courses – focused on the needs of international professionals
• Personalised 1:1 lessons – taught by experienced, qualified teachers
• A supportive, adult-only environment – designed for motivated learners aged 30+

Can Swiss professionals take paid leave to study English abroad?

In many sectors, yes. Swiss employees can benefit from paid training leave under collective employment agreements (CEAs), often granting up to 3 days per year for vocational or language training. In other cases, support is discretionary — but often available, especially when the training benefits your current role.

Here are some examples:

• Hospitality: 3 days of paid training leave per year under the GastroSuisse agreement
• Construction & industry: Similar provisions available under regional CEAs
• Banking & finance: Many employers offer funding or leave for English training
• Health, aviation and education: Training leave is often supported when tied to international collaboration

How to apply for leave or funding

If you’re interested in joining a short English course abroad, follow these four steps:

• Choose your course - Decide whether General English or Communication at Work is right for your goals.
• Speak with your HR or training manager - Ask about eligibility for training leave or use of a professional development budget.
• Prepare your written request - Include course dates, aims and how it supports your job. We can provide a formal letter to help.
• Apply in advance - We recommend applying at least 4–6 weeks before your course starts, especially if leave approval is needed from your employer.

Meet one of our students and read about his experience

“I’m an engineer from Zurich and my team works with clients in the UK and Ireland. I took a week of training leave and joined the Communication at Work course at ECS Scotland. It was exactly what I needed – intensive but friendly – and I came back to my job more confident in English meetings and emails.”

— Max, ECS Scotland student from Switzerland

Why study English in Edinburgh?

Choosing Scotland means more than just a classroom. It means stepping into the language every day — in cafés, museums, conversations, and the culture around you.

• A UNESCO World Heritage city with a rich history and welcoming locals
• Walkable, safe and easy to explore — perfect for solo travellers
• A calm but stimulating learning environment, ideal for learners over 30
• Daily chances to practise real-life English in authentic situations

Whether you’re revisiting your English before starting a new job or preparing for international work and travel, Edinburgh offers a balance of professional focus and cultural inspiration.

Ready to learn English in Scotland?

If you’re a Swiss professional seeking a short, effective English course abroad, ECS Scotland is here to support you. Our team can provide confirmation letters, personal advice and flexible start dates to help fit your training plans.