Newbattle Abbey College is the only adult education college in Scotland where students have the chance to stay on a residential basis. It runs courses specifically designed for adults looking for a second chance to learn – its motto is ‘Sero Sed Serio’, which means ‘late but in earnest’.

It is located in a stunning 16th Century mansion house, with 125 acres of beautiful parkland and ancient woodland, just a few miles from the city of Edinburgh.

Courses and subjects

Courses are offered at Access (SWAP), NC and HNC level in subjects including Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Celtic Studies, Rural Skills and Preparing for Learning and Work.

Facilities and services

The residential facilities at the college include a private furnished room and laundry facilities. The majority of rooms are en-suite. All meals are provided but there is a shared kitchen available. WiFi is available throughout the residence. There is a student common room that has a TV, a snooker table, and table tennis facilities. The main building has communal areas that can be used for social activities. Within the grounds is a community garden. Learning facilities include a well stocked library with study areas and two IT suites with internet access. Counselling, learning support and financial advice are available to all students. Each student at Newbattle College has a Personal Guidance Tutor whose responsibility it is to make sure students have academic and pastoral support.

Specialisms

The college provides adults with few or no qualifications the opportunity to learn in a supportive environment. They also run courses on Beekeeping for Beginners, offering practical hands on experience around looking after bees. 

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