Newbattle Abbey College

Ann Southwood, College Principal

Welcome to the Newbattle Abbey College website which I trust will give you a flavour of the life and work of our College.

As ‘Scotland’s Life Changing College’ we offer adults with few or no qualifications the opportunity to experience a high quality transformative learning experience within a historic heritage site. You can study full or part time, both of which include a residential experience. Our motto is ‘Sero Sed Serio’ (late but in earnest), and describes our students who are 20 years of age or over, returning to education after diverse life experiences.

Taking the first steps back into education can be daunting but at Newbattle we are aware of that and try to provide the right sort of support. Our learners benefit from high quality teaching in small class groups from tutors who are committed to help you build up your confidence and who will encourage you to enjoy the learning experience.

The College is set in 125 acres of beautiful parkland just outside Edinburgh and the historic 16th century building and peaceful surroundings make it a unique place to learn and study, to take stock and embark on new opportunities. When the 11th Marquis of Lothian generously gave this former Cistercian monastery to the people of Scotland, he wanted those who had never had an education to benefit. 70 years later, the College still operates with the same principles.

In addition to our core curriculum we also offer, and continue to develop, a variety of short courses including Contemporary Storytelling, Beekeeping, CSI Newbattle and Woodland Workshops. The College is also used as an events and meetings venue.

Our bimonthly College Newsletter is an excellent way to keep up to date with developments at Newbattle and I would encourage you to register for this.

May I take this opportunity to wish you an enjoyable summer and I look forward to hearing from you over the coming months.

Ann Southwood
Principal