The first week of December arrived with bright skies, cool mornings and the soft glow of Christmas settling across Edinburgh. Here’s what’s been happening at 17 Young Street as we step into the final month of the year.
❄️ Winter mornings and small seasonal joys
Clear blue skies and cool air set the mood for early December. Short afternoons, early sunsets and that unmistakable winter glow made the city feel calm and bright, even in the cold.
Inside the school, the atmosphere was warm and steady.
We welcomed our final English with Yoga & Wellbeing group of the year — always a gentle, grounding way to learn English in winter. Yoga, breathwork and small-group speaking practice gave the week a peaceful rhythm.
Our 1:1 students were busy too — from presentation practice to interview coaching and grammar refinement. Quiet progress, steady conversations and lots of real English.
🎄 Festive Edinburgh: glowing nights and immersive moments
Edinburgh’s Christmas season is now fully up and running.
Several students spent an evening at Castle of Light with glowing installations, moving lights and hot marshmallows cooked on an open fire. A lovely way to combine English, culture and winter magic.
ECS Scotland also visited the Beyond Van Gogh exhibition — a swirl of colour, movement and immersive art. A great inspiration for anyone visiting Edinburgh over the next few weeks.
Around the city, there are many Christmas trees lit up — from the Mound to the West End — adding that soft golden sparkle that makes December feel brighter.
🐬 Sunday surprise: a dolphin in the Firth of Forth
On Sunday, one of the ECS team spotted a dolphin swimming near the bridges during a sailing trip.
A reminder that even in winter, Scotland’s wildlife appears when you least expect it — seals, birds, dolphins and the ever-changing colours of the Forth. Students are always amazed by how close nature is to the city.
☕ Food, firesides and homemade treats
This week brought comfort in all its forms:
- a cosy pub social beside a glowing fire
- hot chocolates
- homemade cakes brought in by students (a huge coffee-break hit!)
Simple things — but they make these winter days feel brighter and more connected.
🎶 What’s on in Edinburgh
If you’re in Edinburgh this week, here are a few lovely seasonal options:
• Castle of Light – Edinburgh Castle illuminated with immersive projections
• Beyond Van Gogh – bold, immersive digital art
• Edinburgh Christmas Market – food, crafts, gifts and winter atmosphere
• St Giles’ at Six – weekly classical concerts in St Giles’ Cathedral
• The Snow Queen (Scottish Ballet)
• Sparkling light trails and Christmas trees across the city
All wonderful ways to enjoy Edinburgh — and practise English in natural, relaxed situations.
🧘 Looking ahead
This week marked the final Yoga & Wellbeing course of the year — a quiet, reflective end before December becomes lively with seasonal commitments.
If you’re thinking about a winter study break — a chance to learn, relax and enjoy Edinburgh’s festive season — we’d be delighted to welcome you.
