31 Correspondence courses

Writing Clear Business Communication This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. Effective writing seldom, if ever, 'magically materializes' on the spot. In reality, it is most often the product of planning, writing, and rewriting. This is why writing is called a process; it must go through a series of steps before it is clear and complete. This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. However, the ability to communicate in the written word, for whatever purpose, is an important part of our working and personal lives and can have a direct impact on our ability to persuade, gain commitment or agreement and enhance understanding. Good writing sounds like talking on paper, which is why this program is focused on getting the message across and achieving the desired results using the 'keep it simple and direct' approach. What you Will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Write effective e-mails, letters, memos, and reports Clearly articulate the message Achieve desired results from correspondence Organize content for maximum impact Format for enhanced understanding Choose the appropriate communication medium for each document Revise documents to increase clarity and impact Foundations Concepts Business writing as a form of professional communication How business writing compares to other forms of writing Characteristics of good business writing Challenges with business writing The Project Environment Business writing in the project environment The concept of art, science, and optics of business writing Art Economy Precision Action Music Personality Science Purpose, simple, compound, and complex sentence structures Techniques to engage the reader Point of view: tone, attitude, and humor Organization: opening, body, and closing Support and coherence Optics Visual optics Sound optics Feel optics Effective optics Efficient optics Email Formal vs. informal emails Suggestions for improving email communication Instant and text messaging Reports Common types of reports created Formatting of reports Guidelines for meeting minutes Contracts Types of contracts Common agreements Procurement documents Templates, Forms, and Checklists Templates Forms Checklists Other Formatting Good Documentation Practices Good documentation practices Data integrity in business communication

Writing Clear Business Communication: In-House Training This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. Effective writing seldom, if ever, 'magically materializes' on the spot. In reality, it is most often the product of planning, writing, and rewriting. This is why writing is called a process; it must go through a series of steps before it is clear and complete. This program is about learning about the writing process and covers the full spectrum of documents used when corresponding in the workplace. The ability to write effectively comes naturally to some people, but for the vast majority, it is a task often approached with a mixture of trepidation and dread. However, the ability to communicate in the written word, for whatever purpose, is an important part of our working and personal lives and can have a direct impact on our ability to persuade, gain commitment or agreement and enhance understanding. Good writing sounds like talking on paper, which is why this program is focused on getting the message across and achieving the desired results using the 'keep it simple and direct' approach. What you Will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Write effective e-mails, letters, memos, and reports Clearly articulate the message Achieve desired results from correspondence Organize content for maximum impact Format for enhanced understanding Choose the appropriate communication medium for each document Revise documents to increase clarity and impact Foundations Concepts Business writing as a form of professional communication How business writing compares to other forms of writing Characteristics of good business writing Challenges with business writing The Project Environment Business writing in the project environment The concept of art, science, and optics of business writing Art Economy Precision Action Music Personality Science Purpose, simple, compound, and complex sentence structures Techniques to engage the reader Point of view: tone, attitude, and humor Organization: opening, body, and closing Support and coherence Optics Visual optics Sound optics Feel optics Effective optics Efficient optics Email Formal vs. informal emails Suggestions for improving email communication Instant and text messaging Reports Common types of reports created Formatting of reports Guidelines for meeting minutes Contracts Types of contracts Common agreements Procurement documents Templates, Forms, and Checklists Templates Forms Checklists Other Formatting Good Documentation Practices Good documentation practices Data integrity in business communication

This Business English tutoring course is designed to help adult learners improve their English language skills within a professional context. Participants will focus on developing their communication skills, vocabulary, and cultural understanding necessary for success in the business world. Through practical exercises, role-plays, and industry-specific materials, learners will enhance their ability to effectively communicate in English within various business situations.  Course Duration: 12 weeks (48 sessions) Course Objectives: By the end of this course, participants will: 1. Communicate confidently and effectively in English within a business setting. 2. Expand business-related vocabulary and improve language accuracy. 3. Develop listening skills to understand business conversations and presentations. 4. Enhance reading comprehension skills for business-related texts. 5. Write accurately and coherently for business correspondence. Course Outline: Week 1: Introduction to Business English - Introduction to course objectives, expectations, and methodology - Assessment of participants' current language proficiency and individual learning goals - Overview of key business English skills and areas of focus Week 2: Business Communication Skills - Developing effective oral communication skills for business settings - Role-plays and discussions related to common business scenarios - Enhancing fluency, clarity, and confidence in expressing ideas and opinions Week 3: Business Vocabulary Expansion - Expanding business-related vocabulary and terminology - Exercises and activities to reinforce and practice key business terms - Incorporating industry-specific jargon into oral and written communication Week 4: Business Writing Skills - Improving writing skills for business correspondence - Practice exercises for emails, reports, memos, and other business documents - Enhancing clarity, coherence, and professional tone in written communication Week 5: Listening and Comprehension in Business Contexts - Developing listening skills to understand business conversations, presentations, and meetings - Authentic listening materials related to various business topics - Strategies for note-taking, understanding accents, and extracting key information Week 6: Reading and Comprehension for Business - Developing reading skills for business-related texts - Strategies for skimming, scanning, and understanding complex business documents - Identifying main ideas, supporting details, and summarising key information Week 7: Business Presentation Skills - Developing effective presentation skills for business contexts - Techniques for organising content, engaging the audience, and delivering impactful presentations - Practice sessions with feedback and guidance Week 8: Business Negotiation Skills - Enhancing negotiation skills for business interactions - Role-plays and practical exercises for successful negotiations - Polishing language and strategies for effective business communication Week 9: Business Etiquette and Cultural Understanding - Understanding business etiquette and cultural nuances in professional settings - Developing intercultural communication skills for international business contexts - Practicing effective communication in diverse and multicultural environments Week 10: Business Networking and Socialising - Developing language skills for networking and socialising in business contexts - Role-plays and exercises for effective communication at conferences, events, etc. - Polishing conversational skills, small talk, and building professional relationships Week 11: Business Grammar and Language Accuracy - Reviewing and reinforcing essential grammar rules and structures in a business context - Identification and correction of common errors in business writing and speaking - Exercises and activities to improve language accuracy Week 12: Review and Final Evaluation - Reviewing course content and addressing individual needs - Comprehensive review exercises for all language skills in a business context - Final evaluation and feedback session Note: This syllabus serves as a guideline and can be customised based on the specific needs, interests, and proficiency levels of the participants. The course may also include guest speakers or industry-specific case studies to provide further immersion and practical application of language skills.

Ever ever wished someone would just swoop right on in, sprinkle some magic on your photos or maybe just tell you exactly what to do and how to do it? On this half day, exclusive, in-person workshop, personal brand photographer Susan Heaton Photography will do just that! And it comes complete with an invaluable aftercare support package. Susan has been photographing small businesses in and around Edinburgh for 20 years! I love what I do! I have a wonderful network of business owners and I love sharing my tips and tricks to help them take their own photos - either to tide them over between brand shoots or to help them until they have the budget to get a professional in!” On the Stand Out Shots workshop you’ll learn how to use your phone using very little else (except perhaps a tripod) to take stand-out, professional-looking photos for your business, for social media, blog posts, profile images, website, marketing material and more. Susan will share tips, tricks and secrets she has gathered from 20 years of photographing small businesses in Edinburgh, to help you to take photos that stand out, and you will have invaluable post workshop access to a WhatsApp group for support with implementing what you have learnt. You will: learn how to make the most of the settings on your phone and what they all mean develop skills that will last a lifetime find out how to find the best light available get tips on how to arrange and style your photos practice top posing tips and find the ones that work best for you gain confidence and get rid of the awkward! network and connect with fellow workshoppers If you're self-employed and need some shots of you in action, or run a product-based business, this is the perfect workshop for you and will help you attract customers. But this workshop is not just for business owners, it's for anyone wanting to improve the way they take photos with their phone. What's included: half day workshop fuelled by light refreshments from local suppliers full after-care package so that you can always go back to Susan with questions in-person workshop is only available at The Arienas Collective Earth conscious credentials We are mindful of the effect we have on the environment, and do our best to minimise our impact. Your workshop correspondence and notes are sent to you electronically. Favourite feedback We love to hear what you think about our workshops. Here's a favourite review for Stand Out Shots: If you are wondering whether this course is for you, then it definitely is! I knew I had a great phone but absolutely zero knowledge of its capability or even how to use it! Susan's delivery is friendly, calm, patient and insightful and her experience is invaluable. Just learning the basics of my phone, and more about photo composition, lighting and editing tips has already paid dividends for my marketing posts. More information The Arienas Collective workshops, courses and events are run from a welcoming and supportive environment within a Georgian mews home in Edinburgh’s City Centre New Town. We invite you to join us, leave any day-to-day worries behind and immerse yourself in being creative. Spaces on our workshops and courses are limited so that our creative team of artists and makers can offer you the hands-on help and support you need to make the most of your time with us. Our taster and introductory workshops focus on teaching creative skills and methods you can continue practising at home, using affordable materials and equipment. Where more expensive equipment is required we will mention this in the workshop description. All the equipment and materials you need are included in the price, unless stated otherwise. Light refreshments from local suppliers are provided. On full day workshops you are welcome to bring your own lunch to eat inside or out. There is also a wide range of independent sit-in or takeaway delis, cafés, and restaurants, plus a range of supermarkets all within a 5-10 minute walk. Accessibility The workshop space is on the first-floor of our Georgian mews home and unfortunately we do not have lift access. Blue badge holders can park outside our front door on the single yellow line by arrangement. Allergies The workshop space is in our open plan living space and is not nut free. Please let us know about any skin or food allergies before booking. We offer a dairy-free milk and gluten free snack alternative. Minimum number no refund policy To ensure we can always pay our creatives a fair fee, we require a minimum number of bookings for each workshop and for this reason bookings are non-refundable. Should we have to cancel due to low numbers, we will offer you the option to swap to an alternative date or workshop, or to request a refund. We do our very best to avoid cancellations. Since we often get late bookings, we keep our workshops on sale for as long as possible. We realise that some of you travel from afar, so if you book a space and have not yet received an email confirming your workshop is going ahead and need to make plans for your trip, please get in touch before booking any travel or accommodation so we can update you on booking numbers. Or check in before booking. Private workshop bookings Most of our workshops are also available to book for: private get-togethers with family and friends; themed wedding and birthday celebrations; corporate team building and well-being purposes; and in-store retail events for your customers. If you’d like to know more please Email Lynn. Age restrictions Our workshops are planned with adults in mind. Many are suitable for teenagers, but some may require under 16s to be accompanied for insurance purposes. Please check with us before booking.

Learn how to make your own jewellery using silver clay in this half day beginner class in Edinburgh City Centre

This General English tutoring course is designed for adult learners who want to improve their overall English language proficiency. Participants will focus on developing their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in a variety of everyday contexts. Through interactive activities, discussions, and authentic materials, learners will gain confidence and fluency in using English for both social and practical purposes. Course Duration: 12 weeks (48 sessions) Course Objectives: By the end of this course, participants will: 1. Communicate confidently and effectively in English in various everyday situations. 2. Expand vocabulary and improve language accuracy. 3. Develop listening skills to understand different accents and speech patterns. 4. Enhance reading comprehension skills for various types of texts. 5. Write accurately and coherently for different purposes. Course Outline: Week 1: Introduction to General English - Introduction to course objectives, expectations, and methodology - Assessment of participants' current language proficiency and individual learning goals - Overview of key language skills and areas of focus Week 2: Speaking and Conversation Skills - Developing oral communication skills for everyday conversations - Role-plays and discussions on common topics and situations - Enhancing fluency, pronunciation, and vocabulary in spoken English Week 3: Vocabulary Expansion - Expanding general vocabulary and idiomatic expressions - Exercises and activities to reinforce and practice new words and phrases - Incorporating vocabulary into oral and written communication Week 4: Grammar and Language Accuracy - Reviewing and reinforcing essential grammar rules and structures - Identification and correction of common errors in speaking and writing - Exercises and activities to improve language accuracy Week 5: Listening and Comprehension Skills - Developing listening skills to understand different accents and speech patterns - Authentic listening materials such as dialogues, podcasts, and videos - Strategies for understanding main ideas, details, and specific information Week 6: Reading and Comprehension Skills - Developing reading skills for different types of texts (articles, short stories, etc.) - Strategies for skimming, scanning, and understanding written information - Identifying main ideas, supporting details, and inferring meaning from context Week 7: Writing Skills: Emails and Messages - Improving writing skills for everyday correspondence (emails, messages, etc.) - Practice exercises for clarity, coherence, and appropriate tone - Polishing grammar, vocabulary, and sentence structure in written communication Week 8: Writing Skills: Informal and Formal Writing - Developing writing skills for informal and formal purposes (letters, essays, etc.) - Techniques for organising ideas, supporting arguments, and expressing opinions - Practice exercises for clarity, coherence, and appropriate style in written communication Week 9: Pronunciation and Intonation - Developing clear and accurate pronunciation skills - Focus on individual sounds, stress, rhythm, and intonation patterns - Practice exercises and activities for improved spoken English Week 10: Everyday Practical English - Enhancing language skills for everyday practical situations (shopping, dining, etc.) - Role-plays and interactive exercises for real-life communication - Polishing conversational skills, expressions, and cultural understanding Week 11: Cultural Understanding and Communication - Understanding cultural nuances in English-speaking countries - Developing intercultural communication skills for effective interactions - Practising respectful and inclusive language in diverse environments Week 12: Review and Final Evaluation - Reviewing course content and addressing individual needs - Comprehensive review exercises for all language skills - Final evaluation and feedback session Note: This syllabus is a guideline and can be customised based on the specific needs, interests, and proficiency levels of the participants. The course may also include additional topics or activities to cater to learners' specific goals or areas of interest.

Learn how to create a sketchbook journal with the Edinburgh Sketcher at The Arienas Collective

Learn the basics of calligraphy using the foundational hand with local artist Panna Chauhan at The Arienas Collective and create a framed abstract piece to take home.

A NEW one-day watercolour painting workshop for beginners run by local artist and printmaker Lou Davis in our Edinburgh City Centre workshop space. Join artist Lou Davis for a whole day learning to paint in beautiful fluid watercolours. Lou uses watercolour to create simple and approachable patterned and abstract pieces that allow you to get acquainted with this medium in a way that helps you focus, shut out the outside world and simply create. In this workshop, you’ll learn everything you need to get started painting beautiful and relaxing projects using watercolour. We’ll cover a number of projects throughout the day, that will take you through the basics of watercolour from colour mixing and making different brush strokes, learning about paper types and water control, through to mixed media techniques: adding textures, working with masking fluid and embellishing your pieces with pens and metallic paints. This workshop is perfect if you’re new to watercolour and offers a really beautiful way to explore the medium, it’s also good if you’re experienced in watercolour and are interested in using your painting and drawing time to relax and de-stress. All materials for this workshop will be provided, and the price includes morning and afternoon refreshments from local suppliers. You are welcome to bring your own lunch, or there are several cafés and takeaway options nearby. Earth conscious credentials We are mindful of the effect we have on the environment, and do our best to minimise our impact. You will take the lovely watercolours you have created home with you on the day, and workshop correspondence and notes are sent to you electronically. Favourite feedback We love to hear what you think about our workshops. Here's a favourite review for previous watercolour painting workshop with Lou. A totally peaceful and mindful three hours spent being guided and inspired by Lou…Just going with the flow. Enjoying the process. And being quite surprised by the results. Lynn is a wonderful host at The Arienas Collective…Thanks Lynn and Lou for a mindful morning. [Judith] More information The Arienas Collective workshops, courses and events are run from a welcoming and supportive environment within a Georgian mews home in Edinburgh’s City Centre New Town. We invite you to join us, leave any day-to-day worries behind and immerse yourself in being creative. Spaces on our workshops and courses are limited so that our creative team of artists and makers can offer you the hands-on help and support you need to make the most of your time with us. Our taster and introductory workshops focus on teaching creative skills and methods you can continue practising at home, using affordable materials and equipment. Where more expensive equipment is required we will mention this in the workshop description. All the equipment and materials you need are included in the price, unless stated otherwise. Light refreshments from local suppliers are provided. On full day workshops you are welcome to bring your own lunch to eat inside or out. There is also a wide range of independent sit-in or takeaway delis, cafés, and restaurants, plus a range of supermarkets all within a 5-10 minute walk. Accessibility The workshop space is on the first-floor of our Georgian mews home and unfortunately we do not have lift access. Blue badge holders can park outside our front door on the single yellow line by arrangement. Allergies The workshop space is in our open plan living space and is not nut free. Please let us know about any skin or food allergies before booking. We offer a dairy-free milk and gluten free snack alternative. Minimum number no refund policy To ensure we can always pay our creatives a fair fee, we require a minimum number of bookings for each workshop and for this reason bookings are non-refundable. Should we have to cancel due to low numbers, we will offer you the option to swap to an alternative date or workshop, or to request a refund. We do our very best to avoid cancellations. Since we often get late bookings, we keep our workshops on sale for as long as possible. We realise that some of you travel from afar, so if you book a space and have not yet received an email confirming your workshop is going ahead and need to make plans for your trip, please get in touch before booking any travel or accommodation so we can update you on booking numbers. Or check in before booking. Private workshop bookings Most of our workshops are also available to book for: private get-togethers with family and friends; themed wedding and birthday celebrations; corporate team building and well-being purposes; and in-store retail events for your customers. If you’d like to know more please Email Lynn. Age restrictions Our workshops are planned with adults in mind. Many are suitable for teenagers, but some may require under 16s to be accompanied for insurance purposes. Please check with us before booking.

Macrame class with local artist Lucy Wayman hosted by The Arienas Collective creative workshop space in Edinburgh City Centre.