Frequently Asked Questions

About our Immersion English Holiday Course

FAQs

What is ‘Language Immersion’ and does it Work?

This is answered in detail What is Language Immersion, and does it Work?

Language immersion is a theory of learning that says that when the target language is inescapably surrounding you, you learn and absorb it.

The term is broadly used nowadays to describe any language holiday in which you spend time talking and exploring in your target language. 

What Language Level are Your Holidays for?

Dip into English ad for beginner english course

Intermediate, Upper-intermediate and Advanced benefit most from this style of learning.

If you’re unsure of your language level, you can take a Levels Test.

And our free PDF helps you set your learning goals.

We don’t recommend immersion learning for beginners unless the course is designed for this level.

Our language school has a Beginner English holiday every April.

What are my Accommodation Options for my English Holiday Course?

Our Homestay Hosts are selected with care and make a very good choice – even for professionals.

Plus, remember that you are welcome in our building from 7 am to 10 pm. You are welcome to relax, eat breakfast lunch and dinner at Blue Noun.

Meet our  Homestay Hosts.

language school homestay in Scotland - livingroom

Should I Book English Immersion Holiday or the Professional Coaching Holiday

Most people will book the Immersion English Holiday. It’s a great choice – even for professionals.
We keep class size low so you have ample 1:1 English coaching time.

The Professional Coaching Holiday focuses on developing professional English skills for specific purposes, such as presentations.

 

Further Advice

You should book The Professional Coaching Holiday only if you need to work on a certain specific skill* which needs one-to-one time with a teacher, or have your own text/publication to work on.
 *such as Public Speaking, Presenting a Poster (Science and Industry), telephone English, or Chairing a Meeting.

What About COVID?

Certain social elements of our course may have to change at the last minute due to Covid, but the essential courses are the same.

We collaborate with authorities to implement optimal hygiene practices and maintain safe distances between our English language learners whenever possible.

We advise that everyone takes their own personal travel insurance to protect their holiday from disruption. 

 

Curry Night at Blue Noun English Language School

What About Food?

Find out what food and drink is included – and what’s not, English Language Holiday Food and Drink. 

share food | 7 Tips for Creative Block | Image of hands reaching across table of food

I Have a Food Allergy or Dietary Requirement?

We can accommodate most food allergies and dietary preferences; please inform us when booking.

We are more than happy to serve vegetarian or vegan food, and the language school serves animal-based produce if we know the animal welfare behind the product has been outstanding.

 Crieff Highland Gathering on immersion English Holiday Course

Can I Bring my Partner?

Yes.

Although they won’t be included in the immersion English holiday course teaching.

If you book accommodation for both of you, there will be opportunities to spend time together throughout the week. In addition, we’ll be happy to welcome them for lunch and for socialising. 

Really, we’d love to make them welcome here too. 

* Is your partner a strong speaker?

Decide if they will inhibit or help you.  

When Should I Visit Scotland?

Scotland is a great place to visit at any time of year. The most popular tourist season is July and August; however, March, April, September and October often have wonderful weather and the advantage of no midges!

Throughout April – September, there are more public events for tourists and locals alike to enjoy Scottish culture.

We integrate these into our Immersion English Holiday Course Schedule. 

Claire Teaching Jana at Blue Noun English Language School
Perthshire landscape immersion English Holiday Course

Do you only Teach Adult English Language holidays?

Yes, with the exception of family month, all our holidays to improve in English are for adults.

Book a Family Language Holiday if you would like to share an English-learning vacation together with your son/daughter. 

English language holiday dates
cakes at Perthshire market on immersion English Holiday Course
Hiking in Scotland with an English language holiday - girl laughing. For a typical day on a language holiday

Are Blue Noun Language Holidays fun?

Check out this blog post How Fun is Your Immersion English Holiday Course?

We’ll do everything reasonable to make your learning experience relaxing and enjoyable.

How can I Learn about HOW You Yeach?

You can read our Philosophy of Teaching. 

What’s a Typical Day on Your Language Holiday

Our holidays are built around your interests, so there are no typical days.

However, this blog post describes

Are You a Tour Guide?

No, I’m not. Here’s why.

I’m not interested in visiting places in a tour format, so I don’t share Scotland in a typical tour format.

With tours, you don’t leave a mark.
Scotland doesn’t get to know YOU.

My holidays are about true exchanges. Sharing culture, knowledge, stories…

Yes, it feels like a holiday.
But through it, you’ll feel like you belong speaking English.

 

How do I Book?

Book a Zoom Call to meet us and ask any questions. 

How do I Get to Crieff?

What does it cost?

What is Included in the Price?

You need to pay for your  English course package and accommodation (only £25 per night with our homestay hosts). 

There are no hidden costs. We don’t charge for transport to activities, or tickets. They’re included in your package. 

You may wish to pay for some evening meals in cafes/restaurants – but there is no obligation to do so, as we have great cooking facilities here at the language school hub. 

What English Language Skills are Covered in Your Immersion Language Course?

This varies depending on each person’s needs. Our ultimate goal is that you find enjoyment in speaking English AND develop the professional language skills you need. 

Throughout your immersion English holiday, you will practice across a range of simulated and professional contexts.

When Should I Arrive?

We can welcome you from 5 pm Friday – and your course will end Friday 4 pm the following week.

People often want to arrange an extra couple of nights with their homestay hosts.

Just let us know this when you book! 

 

Do I Get a Certificate?

jar of words, English language school blog

We’re not really into certificates in the traditional sense (anyone can print one).

You will get a keepsake to take away with you.

In 2024, we are teaming up with Perthshire artist Ceri White to give each of our guests a ‘pots of English’ pot.

Why Take an English Language Holiday in Scotland? 

Why not?

Of course, there are many beautiful places to travel to and learn English on an immersion English holiday course.

If you are craving city nightlife, this course is not for you.

By coming to a quiet part of Scotland you can benefit from beautiful scenery and historic sights without crowds and really get to know the town and its people through genuine cultural exchanges. 

We go into detail on this in a couple of blogs:

Why Choose Perthshire for a Language Holiday?

Perthshire’s landscape and culture make it a great base for no-classroom English language holidays:

However, do your research, and decide if you would like an:

The right answers are different for everyone!

Stirling castle immersion English Holiday Course

What About the Scottish Accent?

I get asked this a lot, so I’ll answer in detail.

No, you won’t pick up a Scottish accent (unless you want to move in with us for several years, our accent will not corrupt your hard-earned English).

Yes, you will understand me. I’m a trained, experienced ESL coach. I can pitch my spoken language to your level.

Learn more about learning English and the Scottish accent.

How Will I Find You?

If we have an arrangement to meet at the airport or train station, I’ll send you a photo of what I am wearing to keep it easy to find each other.

English teacher ruth

Why is Blue Noun Language School not Accredited by the British Council/Other?

Most accreditation programmes require a school to be trading for a year and a half before they are eligible for assessment, with hundreds of language hours taught.

Although we opened in 2019, the global pandemic has prevented us from gaining our accreditations. 

Our prices do reflect this.

Do You Teach Professional English Skills

Yes, but in non-traditional ways. 

What Does Professional English Training Look Like?

What Age are Your Holidays for?

Our language holidays in Scotland are for adults over 21, with our average age is around 40

In 2025 we are trialing having 2 weeks just for over 60s – here’s why:

Do I Need to be Good at Art to Enjoy Your English Language Holidays

Not at all. We share craft workshops that are fun for all.

If you are ‘good at art’ consider joining us in September when the targeted language is English for Creative Careers.

Learn 3 Reasons an Artist English Teacher can help ANYONE enjoy learning English.