We are thrilled to announce that we have been selected as finalists in the prestigious Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Awards for 2024! This year, we are proud to be shortlisted in two significant categories: Commitment to the Community and the Beyond Scotland Award, the latter of which we had the honour of winning in 2023.

​Being recognised once again for our dedication to making a positive impact both locally and beyond underscores our continued efforts and passion for serving our community and expanding our reach internationally. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us on this journey.

Springtime in Scotland is a sight to behold for several reasons:

1. Floral Blooms: After the cold winter months, spring brings a burst of color as flowers begin to bloom across the Scottish landscape. From vibrant wildflowers carpeting the countryside to delicate blossoms adorning trees in parks and gardens, Scotland becomes a riot of colors, creating stunning vistas wherever you go.
   
2. Lush Greenery: Spring rejuvenates the lush greenery of Scotland's countryside, turning rolling hills, verdant valleys, and expansive meadows into picturesque landscapes. The arrival of new leaves on trees and shrubs adds to the vibrancy, creating a fresh and inviting atmosphere.
   
3. Milder Weather: Spring brings milder temperatures to Scotland, making it an ideal time to explore the outdoors. With longer daylight hours and pleasant weather, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, picnicking, and wildlife spotting without the extremes of summer heat or winter cold.
   
4. Baby Animals: Spring marks the arrival of newborn lambs, calves, and other baby animals in Scotland's rural areas. Witnessing these adorable creatures frolicking in the fields adds to the charm of the countryside and provides delightful opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
   
5. Renewed Energy: There's a palpable sense of renewal and optimism in the air during springtime in Scotland. After the quietude of winter, communities come alive with events, festivals, and outdoor activities, creating a lively and festive atmosphere that is infectious and invigorating.
   
6. Scenic Beauty: Scotland's natural beauty is showcased in all its glory during spring, with picturesque vistas, dramatic landscapes, and breathtaking vistas around every corner. From rugged coastlines and misty mountains to serene lochs and cascading waterfalls, Scotland's scenery captivates the senses and inspires awe.
   

Overall, springtime in Scotland is a magical season characterised by beauty, vitality, and a sense of new beginnings. Whether you're exploring historic cities, hiking in the Highlands, or simply taking a leisurely stroll through the countryside, Scotland's springtime charm is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Edinburgh, Scotland's capital, is a city brimming with history, culture, and architectural wonders. A visit to Edinburgh offers a blend of ancient and modern attractions. Here's a suggested sightseeing itinerary for a 3 day visit; 
Day 1: Historic and Cultural Exploration

1. Edinburgh Castle: Start your journey with a visit to this iconic fortress which dominates the skyline of Edinburgh from its position atop Castle Rock. Explore the castle's rich history, the Crown Jewels, and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
   
2. Royal Mile: After the castle, take a stroll down the Royal Mile, the historic spine of the Old Town, which stretches from the Castle to Holyrood Palace. The street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks.
   
3. St Giles' Cathedral: A significant religious site with stunning architecture, this cathedral is also located on the Royal Mile.
   
4. Museum of Edinburgh: Delve deeper into the city's history at this free museum.
   
5. Evening Ghost Tours: Edinburgh is famous for its ghost stories. As the sun sets, join one of the many ghost tours that explore the city's haunted past.
   

Day 2: Arts, Parks, and Modern Attractions

1. Scottish National Gallery: Located near Princes Street Gardens, this gallery houses an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures.
   
2. Princes Street Gardens: A lovely park in the heart of the city, perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic. Don't forget to check out the Scott Monument, dedicated to Sir Walter Scott.
   
3. Holyrood Palace: The official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. When the Queen is not in residence, visitors can explore the historic apartments.
   
4. Arthur's Seat: Located in Holyrood Park, this is an ancient volcano and the main peak in the hills which form most of Edinburgh. A hike up gives a wonderful view of the city.
   

Day 3: Exploring Further

1. Royal Yacht Britannia: Located in Leith, this is the former royal yacht of the British monarch. It's a floating museum offering a unique glimpse into royal life.
   
2. Edinburgh Zoo: Home to the UK's only giant pandas and koalas, as well as hundreds of other incredible species.
   
3. Botanic Gardens: Explore the world of plants in this historic garden.
   

Tips:

• Consider getting the Edinburgh Pass if you plan on visiting many of the city's attractions. It can offer savings and includes entry to several sites.
• Wear comfortable shoes! Edinburgh's cobbled streets and hilly terrain can be challenging.
• If visiting in August, the world-famous Edinburgh Festival Fringe is a must. It's the world's largest arts festival and showcases a diverse range of music, theatre dance, and comedy.

No matter your interests, Edinburgh has something to offer. Whether you're into history, the arts, nature, or all of the above, you're sure to have a memorable experience in this Scottish gem.

Learning English as a second language can bring many benefits, both personal and professional. Here are a few reasons why someone might choose to learn English:

1. Global Communication: English is widely spoken and used as a common language for international communication. Knowing English can allow you to communicate with people from all over the world and expand your personal and professional networks.
   
2. Career Opportunities: Many multinational companies require English proficiency for their employees, and having strong English skills can help you stand out in the job market and increase your career prospects.
   
3. Access to Information: English is the language in which most of the world's scientific and academic information is published. By learning English, you can access a wealth of knowledge and resources in your field.
   
4. Travel: Knowing English can make traveling easier, as it is widely spoken in many tourist destinations. You'll be able to communicate with locals, read signs, and navigate unfamiliar places with greater ease.
   
5. Personal Development: Learning a new language is a rewarding experience that can help boost your confidence, cognitive abilities, and cultural understanding.
   

These are just a few of the many reasons why someone might choose to learn English as a second language. Whether it's for personal or professional reasons, the benefits of learning English can be significant and long-lasting.

Scotland is a country located in the northern part of the United Kingdom. It is known for its stunning landscapes, which include rolling hills, misty mountains, and rugged coastlines. Scotland is also famous for its rich history, including its role in the Wars of Scottish Independence and its association with legendary figures such as William Wallace and Robert the Bruce.
The country is also famous for its cultural heritage, including its traditional music, dance, and cuisine. Scotland is home to many unique and diverse cities, including the capital city of Edinburgh, known for its historical and cultural attractions, as well as its vibrant nightlife.
Scotland is also famous for its natural beauty, including Loch Ness, which is said to be home to the legendary monster Nessie, and the Scottish Highlands, which offer breathtaking views of rugged landscapes and wildlife. Overall, Scotland is a country steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, and is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world.

​We can't wait to see you soon!

Hey! Hey you! Yes, you! I see you…
 
Do you see me? I can see you. How hard it is though and how much we are all feeling the same and how much we want some kind of normal back, but just with added hand sanitiser. It has been a tough 2 years. I remember when in March 2020 we were booking in students, excited and giddy (and that’s just us!) for summer 2020 and overnight it stopped.
 
‘It won’t last’ many of us thought in the early days of the Pandemic. It did last though and it is lasting and when we look back on this we will ask ‘what did you do in the Pandemic?’ because whatever it was, it wasn’t what you thought it would be.
 
We thought that summer 2020 would be like every other summer, filled with laughter, dreams and long evenings of summer funshine* (there’s a new word for you). we thought that summer sports would run into pizza nights in the outdoor classroom, and we thought that friendships would be made across the globe, as they are every summer, well at least for us.
 
But things changed. But you know what? If they changed once they will change again, they will change back to a time when we can be together, when all we have to worry about is whether we should do sports then the disco or disco then sports. And when that day comes, we will be here. You will be here and we will be together. Laughing in the funshine*
 
*Funshine. Abstract Noun. The happy feeling you get when you are enjoying yourself outdoors, in the fresh air, with friends.

Learning a foreign language is simply amazing. it challenges how you think, how you speak and how you write. You can see clear meaning everywhere and you can express that yourself. I would only ever argue to not learn a language if you don't have curiosity. If you want to sit in your native language safe zone and never venture out to bright and breezy pastures new, then yes, try something else. 

But if you do have that curiosity, if you do want an insight to another culture and you do think about why we say the things we do in our first language, then absolutely open that book, turn on YouTube or buy a Google some phrases! 

You will not look back and you will not regret it. You'll never be bad at it as it is a journey that we are all on, throughout our own language learning. Every time you hear a foreign accent in your own language, be brave enough to think that behind that accent is another language, maybe more than one and that this person has had the courage to build upon that foundation. They have the courage to say, I'm not finished learning yet. 

Do you have that courage? 

BLISS Learning

I am really excited to be part of the #wowchallenge
 
Starting my own business was daunting, exciting and didn’t feel real. Somewhere at the back of my mind I thought that I would be back look at the jobs ads soon enough. After 20 years’ teaching English in Italy and the UK, gaining my diploma in TESOL and travelling the world to promote international summer schools, while building my own consultancy, I still had my doubts and thought I would probably fall, but I knew I needed to get on with the challenge and start my own school.
 
I had 2 wow moments, but the first one was the first time a student booked my summer camp. Out of all the other options they chose BLISS! The messages that I was sending out had been received! They had been interpreted and they had had a positive impact. This was huge! You know when you hear about small business owners doing a happy dance when they make a sale, I can tell you this is absolutely true. I called my family and friends, and I finally came off cloud nine when I realised things had gotten real.
 
The determination I felt to have more than one lone student in my summer camp made me WhatsApp, present, call, Skype and talk my way to one booking after another and while the camp shaped up, in a modest fashion, with each and every summer camp student booking celebrated the same way as the first.

#wow.lexfiscal #wow_lexefiscal #sayitwithasnapshot #WoWchallenge