SHEILA AHMAD EXPLAINS HER DECISION TO LAUNCH A 21ST-CENTURY ‘FINISHING SCHOOL’ IN EDINBURGH’S NEW TOWN.
EVERY YOUNG PERSON CAN BENEFIT FROM IMPROVING THEIR SOCIAL SKILLS AND CONFIDENCE
Q. AREN’T FINISHING SCHOOLS A BIT OUTDATED?
My school isn’t exclusively for girls. Put simply, my aim is to help young people (aged 10+) develop essential life skills in a fun, sociable setting.
In our fast-paced, interconnected society, the ability to navigate social and professional settings with confidence and grace is invaluable. My finishing school isn’t about adhering to outdated norms; it’s about equipping children with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in the modern world.
We blend traditional etiquette with contemporary insights, ensuring that our students emerge not only polished and poised but also empowered to thrive in today’s diverse and dynamic society.
Q. HOW WILL MY CHILD BENEFIT FROM YOUR SCHOOL?
The focus of each class will be: Good manners, confidence, etiquette (how to behave in a new or formal social setting) and mindfulness (establishing a sense of oneself in relation to others).
Q. WHAT’S INVOLVED IN A TYPICAL AFTER-SCHOOL CLASS?
A dynamic blend of learning, problem-solving activities and fun games with prizes. Role-play that simulates real- world scenarios. Honing social skills and confidence with the use of public speaking. Opportunities to practise good dining etiquette at an afternoon tea. Elegant handwriting and signature practice with a fountain pen and much more. Reflection will be used to explore the personal growth behind each session.
Q. WHY CAN’T WE JUST PRACTISE THESE SKILLS AT HOME?
Young people generally learn well in an exciting, new environment with new people. It can also be tricky for parents to get the necessary objectivity required to teach social skills. But goal-orientated tasks and healthy competition encourage great listening!
Q. HOW MUCH WILL CLASSES COST?
£45 per 2-hour session. Group classes can be booked in 6-week blocks.1:1 classes also available on request.
“ Reflection will be used to explore the personal growth behind each session.
Q. WHEN AND WHERE DO CLASSES START?
These after-school classes start Tuesday 24th September 2024 at The Royal Society of Edinburgh, George Street. A historic and prestigious venue providing a rich learning environment for our students. Each student will experience afternoon tea at the Dome for one of the lessons.
Q. TELL US ABOUT YOU!
I’m a working mum (4 kids) with 25+ years’ experience in property and tourism.
Outside work, I’m usually with family and friends, out walking, travelling, or at the gym! I also love eating out and trying new places around Edinburgh. Current favourites are Patina Bakery (West Edinburgh) and Burr & Co. (George Street) for the best coffee.
Q. WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST CHALLENGE AS A PARENT?
Social media. We do embrace technology as a family. But we prioritise spending time together. ■
