At ECS Scotland, we believe learning English should be immersive, engaging and creative. That’s why we offer our English with Sketching course. Which is a unique programme that combines language practice with the relaxing, mindful act of sketching.
You don’t need to be “good at drawing.” You just need to be curious.
Why Does Sketching Work for Language Learning?
Sketching helps learners focus on the world around them. The shape of a building, the shadows of a tree, the movement of people. When you sketch, you slow down. You notice. When you learn English in that same moment, your vocabulary becomes linked to something real, not just a textbook.
Here’s how it works:
- 🗣️ You describe what you see: “There’s a tall monument with iron railings and curved lines.”
- 📚 You use real, relevant vocabulary: words like “arched,” “reflected,” “misty,” “stone.”
- ✏️ You connect words to images: your sketchbook becomes a visual diary of your learning.
- 💬 You gain confidence speaking: by reviewing your sketches over lunch with your teacher and classmates, you learn to talk about your ideas naturally.
A week of sketching and speaking in Edinburgh
Each morning, you’ll start with English lessons in the classroom. By focusing on speaking and listening. Then, after coffee break, it’s time to head out into Edinburgh with one of our English teachers. Their role is to take you to pre chosen places. They will sketch with you and guide English speaking discussions.
Our themed sketching walks take you to four beautiful and very different areas of the city. These could be, for example:
- Dean Village & West End – for grand Georgian architecture and iconic statues
- Leith Shore – with its boats, bridges and maritime mood
- Botanic Gardens & Water of Leith – a mix of nature, textures and quiet reflection
- Calton Hill & Holyrood – iconic city views, historic ruins and dramatic contrasts
Each location offers space to sit and sketch, time to notice and language prompts designed to help you speak more. You’ll build vocabulary, practise describing scenes and explore Edinburgh like a local.
After sketching? A relaxed lunch with your English teacher and an informal English review. The perfect way to connect what you’ve seen with what you’re learning.
You don’t need to be an artist
This course is about looking, noticing and communicating. Some of our students haven’t drawn since school. Others bring full sketchbooks and watercolours. Everyone is welcome.
Whether your lines are straight, wobbly or wildly expressive they all tell a story. In the end telling stories is what language is all about.
📍 Curious about learning English in a more creative, mindful way?
Join us in Edinburgh for a week of walking, sketching and English practice. A refreshing change from the usual classroom learning routine.
📍 Interested in learning English in a more creative way?
Join us in Edinburgh for a week of sketching, walking and English practice you’ll never forget.
