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.

How to Book

Booking is now open and will close on Friday 16 October 2026 at 4pm. Bookings may close early if all spaces are allocated so please apply early to avoid disappointment.

1. Complete our Contact Us form at www.scotlandspeople.gov.uk, selecting ‘Shop’ as the category and entering ‘Family History Course (October-November)’ in the subject field . 
2. In the message box, outline your interest and submit the completed form.
3. At this stage, your booking is provisional.
4. We will respond within three working days of receiving your provisional booking and will send you a FHC1 form requesting your details and payment.
5. Once we have received your completed FHC1 form and payment, we will send you an email confirming your place on the course.

Refund Policy

We are committed to providing a high-quality learning experience. As capacity and resources are allocated at the point of booking, all registrations are final. Except where required by law, or where we cancel the course, no refunds will be issued under any circumstances, including in cases of non-attendance or withdrawal. If we cancel the course, you will be entitled to a full refund. Please ensure you are able to attend before completing your booking. By completing your booking, you confirm your acceptance of these terms.