Cultural programme

The experience of studying a language abroad goes far beyond the walls of the classroom. It is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture and history of a place. The cultural programme is carefully designed to introduce students to Edinburgh’s rich heritage and to give them the opportunity to develop their language in a natural, organic way.

The week starts with an orientation tour every Monday that is designed to provide you with the historical background of the city, as well as practical knowledge of where to buy bus passes, SIM cards and other essentials. Uniquely amongst Western cities, both Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites and, during their tour, students can see both areas spread out before them from the top of Calton Hill.

There are few cities in the world that can boast the educational legacy of Edinburgh. While studying here you can enjoy sharing a pint in the world’s oldest student union; explore thousands of years of Scottish history in the National Museum; and wander through rooms of paintings in the National Portrait Gallery.

For the more energetic, there is a wide variety of cultural events designed to increase the heart rate. Students who brave the climb up Arthur’s Seat, the dormant volcano that sits at the heart of the city, are rewarded with spectacular views; and no visit to Scotland is complete without taking part in a traditional Scottish ceilidh dance.

See example activities here.

Weekends

Edinburgh is the gateway to Scotland’s Highlands and Islands and at the weekends students are encouraged to explore further afield. Working with several local tour companies, we help you search for monsters up in Loch Ness, experience the history of the battlefields at Glencoe and Bannockburn, or sample whiskies in traditional island distilleries.