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| Merchiston Castle School |
The Hamilton School of English was established in Edinburgh in 1983 with the aim of creating a safe, secure and happy environment in which young people could receive high standards of English tuition in a relaxed holiday atmosphere.
We host our summer courses at Merchiston Castle School, one of the most prestigious public schools in Scotland. With its modern classrooms, wonderful sports facilities, spacious green lawns and its unique position on the edge of the city itself, Merchiston is the ideal location in which to achieve a balance between serious language study and holiday activities.
A friendly, family atmosphere is encouraged where the learning is fun and even homework is enjoyable. Classes are small, with a maximum of 12 pupils per teacher. We aim for a good mix of nationalities on each course.
Mrs Darling, the Principal of the school, is a parent herself and so understands both the anxieties of parents and the needs of young people away from home.
School activities are well-supervised, and Mrs Darling or another member of staff is available 24 hours a day to give help or guidance if necessary. Mrs Darling is assisted by an Accommodation and Welfare Officer who stays in close contact with host families and students throughout the summer, ensuring that good relations are simply a matter of course.
Courses run for 2, 3 and 4 weeks in July and August. Fees are inclusive and cover all costs of enrolment, tuition, accommodation, meals, activities, excursions and airport transfers.
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| A typical study session with international friends |
A placement test on the first day of the course helps us to determine the most appropriate class and level for each pupil. Classes are taught by experienced, qualified English teachers, all of whom are themselves native English speakers. Teachers prepare an end-of-course Report for each student detailing the standard of proficiency achieved, with suggestions for further study.
The morning is structured to include just over 180 minutes of formal English instruction. Further language practice comes with one and a half hours of supervised project time on two afternoons each week. These valuable sessions give students the opportunity to creatively apply English through drama, magazine work, discussions or video.
Lunch is provided at the school, and afterwards there is a choice of sport -- tennis, swimming, football, basketball, volleyball and occasionally hill-walking or mini-golf. Optional to sport are activities including craft sessions, language games, or visits to places of interest in Edinburgh: museums, galleries, etc. At the Hamilton School, pupils learn as much outside as inside the classroom.
In addition we organise coach or train trips further afield including a day trip to the Highlands of Scotland which could include a visit to a Highland Games, a boat trip on a Scottish loch or visit to a place of historical importance such as the birthplace of Mary, Queen of Scots.
The Hamilton School of English is accredited by the British Council and therefore undergoes a regular and thorough inspection to see that high standards in teaching, welfare, accommodation and administration are being maintained.
Furthermore, we are members of EnglishUK, the professional association of British Council accredited schools, whose collective guidance and advice keeps us up-to-date with the latest best-practice ideas.
Finally, all Hamilton School host families agree to uphold the principles of our own Homestay Code of Practice. Families work with Mrs Darling and her staff in order to offer the best accommodation for your teenage son or daughter.
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| Mrs Inga Sutton, Mrs Julie Darling, Principal and Mrs Lesley Pugsley, Accommodation Officer |