Private English lessons, also known as one-to-one tuition, offer a focused and flexible way to improve your English. At ECS Scotland, private lessons mean working with your own personal teacher — at your pace, on your goals, in your style.
This can be especially helpful if you:
- Have a specific reason for learning English
- Want to progress quickly
- Feel more comfortable working privately
- Need full focus on your strengths, challenges or work-related tasks
🎓 What happens in a one-to-one English lesson?
In a private lesson, it’s just you and your teacher. Together, you decide what to work on — from general English skills to highly specific goals like:
- • Preparing for a conference
- • Writing reports or emails for work
- • Practising for job interviews or presentations
- • Working on pronunciation, grammar or writing issues
- • Building spoken confidence at your own pace
Your teacher gives you 100% attention. You can ask questions without worrying about time or other students — and you get detailed correction and feedback throughout.
“It was so useful to focus on exactly what I needed for my work. I didn’t waste any time — I felt progress after the first lesson.”
Francesca, from Italy.
👥 What’s the difference between private lessons and private mini-groups?
You can also take lessons in a private mini-group with 2–5 colleagues, friends or family members. You’ll share a teacher, choose your own focus areas and learn together at a comfortable pace.
Private groups are great for:
- Colleagues preparing for a project or international meeting
- Families studying together while travelling
- Friends who want to learn together in a relaxed, customised setting
🏛️ Can private English lessons happen outside the classroom?
Yes! You can take one-to-one or private group lessons outdoors or on location — exploring museums, galleries or local attractions while learning English in real time.
We call this real English in real places — and it’s a great way to practise vocabulary, build fluency and connect with Edinburgh at the same time.
🔄 What private lessons can’t offer
Private lessons are focused and flexible — but you won’t get the chance to practise with other students during class.
That’s why many learners choose our popular Combination Course, which includes:
- Group lessons in the morning (small, interactive classes)
- One-to-one lessons in the afternoon (personalised focus)
This way, you build confidence in group communication and get dedicated support for your individual needs.
✅ Summary: Is one-to-one right for you?
Private English lessons might suit you if you:
- Want fast, focused progress
- Prefer a quiet, 1:1 learning environment
- Have specific work, academic or confidence goals
- Need scheduling flexibility during your visit to Edinburgh
