About the Family History Course

Discover how to trace your Scottish heritage with confidence. This Family History Course introduces participants to the key genealogical records available on Scotland’s People, explains their historical context and demonstrates how to use them effectively to research your ancestors.

What you'll gain

An understanding of Scotland's most important genealogical records.
Practical experience using records to trace family connections.
Full access to the Scotland's People website during the course.
Expert support from knowledgeable family history researchers.

Learning Curriculum

Week One: Statutory Registers (1855-Present)
Week Two: Census Returns (1841-1921)
Week Three: Old Parish Registers (1553-1854)
Week Four: Additional Records

Who is this course for?

This course is suitable for beginners and anyone looking to build their family history research skills. For the best learning experience, we recommend that you research an ancestor born after 1855.

Please note that this course only covers records available on Scotland’s People. We do not hold records for events that occurred outside of Scotland.

Price

The course costs £150 total per person for all four sessions. You cannot book individual sessions.

Dates, Time and Location

The course is delivered over four consecutive Thursdays.
The course is delivered in-person at National Records of Scotland, HM General Register House, 2 Princes Street, Edinburgh EH1 3YY.
October-November Course Dates: 29th October, 05 November, 12th November, 19th November 2026. 09:00 to 16:00.

For full details and how to book, please visit the Scotland's People website: https://www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk/news-and-articles/new-family-history-...