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Scotland's Colleges
Aberdeen College
Praise from Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Education made an excellent start to a year that saw Aberdeen College, its staff and students, notch up a series of national awards.
First came a Beacon Award for our partnership with Aberdeen Foyer, where we have been fulfilling the education and training needs of Aberdeen's young homeless and disadvantaged people since 1995.
For the second year in succession, the College was awarded the maximum 5 stars in the British Safety Council Safety Management Audit and later awarded a "Sword of Honour" - the only Scottish college to receive both accolades.
The College's marketing team gained national recognition in two categories in the prestigious Marketing Network FE First awards when it was awarded a First in the PR Campaign category and a Highly Recommended in the website category.
Once again, student success has been outstanding. Our hairdressers, pop musicians, events management students and video/moving image students all won Gold awards in the national FE Skills Challenge competitions.
The Student Hair & Beauty Festival held in November, was an innovative project organised by Aberdeen College. This was the first competition of its kind to be held in the north-east with over 150 students taking part from as far afield as Moray and Fife and over 400 spectators attending.
Students studying English as a Foreign Language ( EFL) held an International Day. Dressed in traditional costume and exhibiting local arts and crafts, they shared and compared information and experiences about their countries and traditions with their peers. This event brings home to many that Aberdeen College - known traditionally as the 'local' college, is in fact an international college attracting students from all over the world.
Angus College
Highlights of the Angus College year have included a royal opening, a host of national awards for both students and staff and continued collaborative working.
The Queen opened the College's new £7 million Community Access and Learning Centre at the start of the new academic year 2004-2005.
Both students and staff won a host of awards taking Angus College's national awards total to 33 in the past four years.
Successes included:
- Culinary Arts students returning from ScotHot 05, the national culinary championships, with a medal for every entrant;
- A welding student becoming the College's first woman and first adult to complete a modern apprenticeship in fabrication and welding;
- 62 special needs students gaining 82 successes in ASDAN (Award Scheme Development Accreditation Network) Towards Independence Modules, the highest in Scotland;
- A student named top in Scotland in her Higher Psychology exam;
- Creative Studies lecturer Charlie Cameron was awarded UK Community Supporter of the Year from City and Guilds; and
- Decorating course leader Mike Swan took over the Presidency of the Scottish Association of Painting Craft Teachers.
The College celebrated 10 years of Investors in People status, with staff representatives attending a prestigious celebratory gathering in Edinburgh.
Angus College is taking the lead in a partnership venture with Dundee and Perth Colleges to boost tourism in the area through investment in training and education. The 'Targeting Tourism' initiative which will establish Tourism Development Centres in all three colleges has already been awarded a Scottish Enterprise Tayside award for Innovation and Creativity and a Catering in Scotland Excellence award for Innovation and Training.
Angus College is also working in partnership with local businesses to prepare for the return of the Open Golf Championship in 2007 and with Yantai Vocational College in China to build on an agreement to facilitate student and staff exchanges.
Principal John Burt said: "The past year has been reflective of our long term aim to be one of the best community colleges in Scotland serving both the life long learning and economic needs of the community."
Anniesland College
2004 proved to be another busy year at Anniesland College with 8389 students enrolled during session 2003 - 2004.
In May the college won the New Learning Opportunities Award for Assisting People into Employment, ( UKESF Award). This national award was presented to the college in recognition of the innovation shown by the Canal Partnership Project, in helping local people to regenerate an area of Glasgow which had been left to decline. The project aimed to construct 6 new vessels for community use and to train 16 trainees at any one time, especially younger adults facing significant challenges, in marine construction, maintenance and helmsmanship, as well as transferable skills.
The Principal, Linda McTavish CBE and two of the trainees, Mark Cameron and Mark McVarish received the award at a ceremony at Canary Wharf in London from Alan Johnson MP.
In addition, this hugely successful project also won a prestigious Scottish Training Award in November 2004.
Elsewhere, students were active in a range of competitions at Scottish and National UK Level throughout the year. Anniesland was successful in the UKFE Skills Challenge, taking Gold in the Contemporary Dance Level 2 and also won Scottish categories in Multimedia. Students throughout the college also took part in the annual CRAFTEX competition at the Trades House in Glasgow.
Anniesland also received a national FE First Marketing award for Collaboration for the Dunbartonshire Learning in the Community project, a partnership between Anniesland, Clydebank and Cumbernauld Colleges, which focuses on increasing participation in learning in East and West Dunbartonshire.
The college also retained Investor in People status and was awarded a Silver Scottish Health at Work award.
The year was rounded off in style with the annual HN Graduation Ceremony at Glasgow University's Bute Hall in November.
Ayr College
Ayr College
Dam Park, Ayr, Ayrshire KA8 0EU
T 01292 265184
F 01292 263889
www.ayrcoll.ac.uk |  |
Ayr College has almost 60 years' experience delivering high quality education to meet the needs of the local community. It has a high academic reputation and an excellent course success rate. Staff are highly qualified and experienced in their field. The students experience is enhanced by the quality of teaching accommodation and facilities.
Ayr College students are successful and here is the proof:
Within the construction trades many of our students have won national competitions. Natalie Raeside beat off talented contestants from around the UK to win the Crown Trade Young Decorator of the Year. Alastair Wyllie was crowned the top apprentice carpenter and joiner in Scotland while Stefan Tate became the top apprentice electrician of 2005.
Student chefs at Ayr College are the best in the UK and that's official! Lesley McQuiston, Stuart Dainert and Anne-Marie Ryan whipped up a delicious four course meal to be crowned Brakes UK Student Chef Team 2005. They beat off tough competition from around the UK to win this prestigious award.
Performing Arts students working with Strathclyde Police have successfully run an award winning event called "The Big World". Using assets seized from drug dealers, money has been ploughed back in to educate secondary school children on how to avoid potentially dangerous situations on a night out. The event has been so well received it is now rolled out across Strathclyde.
Anne Pattis from Troon had a lot of on the job hospitality experience but it was not enough when it came to a lifelong ambition of owning and running her own business. Anne gained business management skills such as marketing, IT and accounting on her HNC Tourism course. She now owns "The Lemon Tree" restaurant in Almancil, Algarve and says "I've shown you're never too old to learn new things."
Banff & Buchan College of Further Education
Banff & Buchan College of Further Education
Henderson Road, Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire AB43 9GA
T 01346 586100
F 01346 515370
www.banff-buchan.ac.uk |  |
2004 has certainly proved to be another successful and activity packed year for Banff & Buchan College.
In "Business" our student was announced best candidate in the UK for NEBOSH for the year, and was invited to the prestigious NEBOSH Awards at the Safety & Health Expo 2004, NEC Birmingham.
In "Social Studies and Creative Arts" students showcased their work in an art exhibition called "Viewpoints". Students from all categories displayed their work and prizes were awarded to outstanding students. The exhibition is open to the public and has become a welcomed fixture in the community calendar.
In "Computing" staff have been hosting "Silver Surfer Events" providing the over 50's in our community with free taster sessions learning how to "surf" the net and use email.
In "Maritime" a major new initiative is well underway. The Modern Apprenticeship in sea fishing is drawing students from as far afield as Edinburgh. Ultimately the programme will upgrade and enhance the skills of people who work in the fishing industry and has changed the face of Maritime Training in the north-east.
In "Service Industries" students and staff hosted a hair seminar with world famous salon Toni & Guy, and students took part in a magazine style photo-shoot, with local photographer Philip Stewart learning how lighting works and gaining experience on styling models for professional photo-shoots.
In the Catering Department Banff & Buchan College hosted the Aberdeenshire heat of the prestigious Future Chef competition, where budding young chefs had to produce a mouth watering main course and dessert for two with a budget of just £5.00!
In "Engineering" we hosted the national Craft Skills Competition for the 5th consecutive year due to the outstanding facilities Banff & Buchan College have to offer. The engineering team joined forces with the University of Aberdeen to deliver an innovative new teaching course; BSc Technology with Education has received a hugely positive reaction and has been hailed as a constructive step towards sustaining a viable future for technology teaching in Scotland.
The Barony College
The Barony College
Parkgate, Dumfries, Dumfriesshire DG1 3NE
T 01387 860251
F 01387 860395
www.barony.ac.uk |  |
Barony College continues to build its reputation as the centre of first choice in Scotland for education and training in the Land Based and Animal Care sectors.
The 2004 - 05 session saw the introduction of a pilot for S3/4 school pupils, which was successful in offering a vocational alternative to the traditional schools' curriculum. Next year the pilot expands to include Rural Skills, Equine, Forestry, Horticulture, Fish Farming and Agriculture and 70 pupils are expected on campus.
The Scottish Forest Industries Technology Centre ( SFITC) has delivered Forest Machine training to 16 candidates who are now employed by contractors keen to recruit Forwarder and Harvester operators. The combination of computer based simulation, followed by practice using static rigs and training on working machines has accelerated the development of candidates. Programmes for Arboriculture (tree surgery), are being developed for 2005-06 in consultation with large companies to support their work force development.
The Animal Care Section successfully launched the first HND course in Scotland for Veterinary Nursing. The programme aims to assist the development of the skills required by Senior Veterinary Nurses in the profession. The recently launched Foundation Course in Livestock husbandry is being delivered to 70 trainees in the Pet retail Industry. This Distance Learning programme supports the training of shop floor operatives in the work place and the assessment is available on-line. An on-line course for Pet Owners is being developed in 2005-06 and will be made available to schools nationally to help to raise Animal Welfare standards.
Success in ESF funding is supporting the expansion of activities across all sectors. The expansion of work based training through employer engagement is being complemented by the development of flexible delivery modes through a complementary project.
Borders College
Borders College was delighted at the large number of female school pupils from both Galashiels Academy and Hawick High School, who attended the Construction for Girls Day hosted by the Technology Department at the Galashiels campus, during the last week of May.
The opportunity to try out their skills in Plumbing, Bricklaying, Joinery and Painting and Decorating was taken up by around 50 second and third year pupils from the schools involved.
Delighted by the interest shown, Len Hammersley, Assistant Principal at Borders College said, " While chatting to some of the students I was very impressed by their maturity and open-mindedness in trying out what it might be like to work in the Building Trade. Pupils showed good behaviour and a keenness to learn which impressed the college lecturers. I hope the girls now realise that you don't need to be a strong 'muscle-man' to work in construction, as there are in fact many opportunities open to them in the industry. For example, our full time painting and decorating lecturer is a young woman who trained at Borders College during which time she won the Scottish Colleges Student of the Year award. She then went on to run her own business before returning to lecture with us".
So, girls, the opportunities are there. Thank you for coming along and participating so enthusiastically, we hope you enjoyed yourselves as much as we enjoyed having you and that we have provided you with an insight into a potential career opportunity for the future.
Cardonald College
Cardonald College
690 Mosspark Drive, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G52 3AY
T 0141 272 3333
F 0141 272 3444
www.cardonald.ac.uk |  |
Cardonald College has had a successful and exciting year with a number of significant awards and the challenge of planning for an improved campus.
The College's innovative approach to curriculum ranged from offering core skills to employees in the local Remploy factory; from providing work-based training for small companies in the textiles industry across Scotland, to leading a national consortium developing the use of Microsoft vendor qualifications within Scottish Qualifications Authority ( SQA) delivery. These were just some of the examples of good practice that gained Cardonald SQA's "Centre of the Year" Bronze Award.
Another proud moment was in December 2004, when the Scottish Further Education Unit ( SFEU) presented the College with a "Special Achievement Award", in recognition of the Real to Reel Short Film Festival organised by staff and students.
More recently, Cardonald students undertaking HND studies in Practical Journalism made headlines by winning The Herald's 'Best College Publication' award for their production of the Cardonald Courier.
Many of Cardonald's successes are based on collaboration. For example:
- The Building Glasgow's People project (with Cardonald as lead partner) involves 6 colleges and 9 Local Development Companies, supported by the European Social Fund, in providing opportunities for people in Social Inclusion Partnership areas to get access to job opportunities in the construction industry.
- Continuing work with local NHS Hospital Trusts and universities enables nursing auxiliaries to study for an HNC and then progress to 2nd year nurse training at university.
- Strong links with successful design companies provide sponsorship and placements for students in fields such as Graphic Design and Jewellery.
Major campus improvements have also been in the pipeline in 2004-05 with the launch of a £21 million Campus Development Project. The excellent facilities that will result from this investment will place Cardonald College in an even stronger position to fulfil its mission, to 'help you achieve your potential through a valuable and enjoyable learning experience'.
Central College of Commerce
Central College of Commerce
300 Cathedral Street, Glasgow, G1 2TA
T 0141 552 3941
F 0141 553 2368
www.centralcollege.ac.uk |  |
Central College of Commerce is central to the commercial success of Glasgow in more ways than one. Located in the heart of Glasgow city centre, the college constantly strives to match the ambitions and skills of our students with the requirements of the city's vibrant business community. That is why a Central College student is a successful one.
The college offers a wide spectrum of full-time and part-time courses at NQ, HNC and HND level as well as offering SVQ's and many professional qualifications.
Formal links have also been developed with many Universities including, Glasgow, Caledonian, Strathclyde and Paisley, creating articulation routes of progression for those students who wish to continue their studies to degree level.
The college prides itself on its international reputation. Ka Man Hung, a former student at Central College of Commerce, came from Hong Kong to study HND Digital Art & Design.
Says Ka Man, "When I arrived in Scotland, I spoke very little English and needed to take NQ classes in English.
The staff at Central College were very supportive and provided me with advice and assistance whenever it was needed."
Ka Man won the silver award for the SQA International Student of the Year, an achievement of which she is extremely proud.
Another success story John McKay became the first student at Central College to complete the Advanced European Computing Driving Licence ( ECDL), at the landmark age of 60.
Says John, "At my age the prospect of coming back to a learning environment was a terrifying one! I was referred to Central College by my outreach centre. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at Central College as the tutor support and other students have been fantastic."
Business success story Geraldine Boyle opened her own company, Okelani Beauty, after completing an HNC in Retail Management. Business is booming and Geraldine now employs three staff, including a beauty student who is just about to graduate from Central College.
For further information please contact:
Carrie Wallace, axis media group
Telephone: 0141 248 4860.
Mobile: 07812 558 562
Or
Roy Gardner, Marketing Manager, Central College of Commerce
Telephone: 0141 271 2107
Clackmannan College of Further Education
Clackmannan College of Further Education
Branshill Road, Alloa, Clackmannanshire FK10 3BT
T 01259 215121
F 01259 218708
www.clacks.ac.uk |  |
This has been quite a year for Clackmannan College: the formation of a very vibrant Students' Association; the formal opening of the Learning Zone; another SQA award - and agreement to the formation of Forth Valley College.
In formal terms, the College achieved the majority of the targets in its Strategic and Operational Plans and met its w SUMs target. The introduction of the new Student Support Team played a key role, and helped in the formation and establishment of an active Students' Association.
Collaboration with Falkirk College provided an opportunity for staff to work together - especially the new Access, Student Support, Inclusion and Information Staff Team ( ASSIIST) - which led to the swift adoption of up to date policies. As part of the College Quality Enhancement Project, a major revision of quality systems took place and this overtook all outstanding recommendations in the College Review process.
The Portfolio Review continued to keep courses relevant to local needs. Partnership agreements with schools, including links with parents, have been signed, new courses adopted, and strong working relationships forged.
In January, 2005 George Reid MSP, Presiding Officer of the Parliament, formally opened the Learning Zone, our new state of the art learning resource centre. Physical access to the Café has been improved. Classes in rented premises in Stirling were relocated to the Stirling Centre in collaboration with Falkirk College.
The Construction Team won an SQA Bronze Award for a joint project with Stirling Council - this is becoming a tradition for the team, having previously won SQA Gold Awards for two years in a row. The Art and Design department also held another successful art exhibition which took place in Sterling Mills, Tillicoultry and attracted lots of local interest.
Outcomes of an extensive consultation process reinforced the Board's view that in order to build on the strengths of Clackmannan and Falkirk Colleges it was felt creation of a merged Forth Valley College, with a significant college base in each of the three communities - Clackmannanshire, Stirling and Falkirk - would provide (and sustain) more opportunities for students, staff and local communities.
Clydebank College
Clydebank College
Kilbowie Road, Clydebank, Dunbartonshire G81 2AA
T 0141 952 7771
F 0141 952 1574
www.clydebank.ac.uk |  |
Clydebank College is at the heart of our local community. With over 9,600 students from 55 nationalities enrolling each year, Clydebank College is a thriving centre of excellence in education and vocational training, and certainly a popular place to work and study.
Through an impressive calendar of events Clydebank's students have taken part in a number of exciting projects in the past year, from fashion shows to car rallies.
May 2004 proved glamorous for Clydebank College's HND Make-Up Artistry students. Eight students were selected to assist at the Edinburgh College of Art's prestigious Graduate Fashion Event, which takes place annually giving some of Scotland's top designers a chance to reveal their latest creations. The event was a huge hit, with all three nights selling out to a fashion conscious audience. Clydebank's talented students went on to win top prizes as the only Scottish College entry in the National Student Make-Up Competition in October 2004. The girl's scooped 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes for their Halloween and Circus make-up designs.
November - Six lucky students from the Auto-Engineering Department accelerated into the college history books as the first students to take part in the world famous London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. The students took part in the annual event in the comfort of a 1902 De Dion Bouton that they helped restore. The proud Clydebank team flew their checkered flag as Scotland's college representatives.
December - The highlight of the year came just in time for Christmas, with the announcement that Clydebank College had been given the go ahead to build a brand new campus at Queens Quays in Clydebank, as part of the riverside development. The striking three-storey building is set to house modern engineering and construction workshops, highly equipped science labs, advanced sporting facilities, a commercial hairdressing salon and a 130m 2 Conference Suite. The new campus will open for business in August 2007. A total of £31 million has been allocated to facilitate building costs.
Coatbridge College
Coatbridge College
Kildonan Street, Coatbridge, Lanarkshire ML5 3LS
T 01236 436 000
www.coatbridge.ac.uk |  |
Coatbridge College is genuinely proud to be Scotland's first Further Education College and proud to be first in many fields as it continues to embrace progress and innovation.
First in Dentistry
It is an exciting time for dental nurse training at Coatbridge College. We are ably supporting the government's aspiration to increase the number of Dentists throughout Scotland and the quality of service. We are supporting practitioners to meet the demands of registration with the General Dental Council, and offer a career pathway for Professionals Complementary to Dentistry ( PCD).
Jennifer Lowe, Lecturer in Dental, said: "It is our ambition to make Coatbridge College the centre of excellence in Scotland for dental nurse training. Our commitment towards this has been reflected in our achievement of a national Best Practice Award, granted to us after an intense audit by Scottish Quality Management System ( SQMS)".
First in Hairdressing
Coatbridge College students showed they were a cut above the rest at the annual Association of Hairdressing Teachers finals in Manchester.
Competition was fierce with the winning students from seven regional finals across the United Kingdom taking part.
The College landed a gold in the 'Ladies and Evening Style' and a bronze in the 'Fantasy Make-up' categories.
The double medal haul follows the Scottish heats, where students walked off with the prestigious Rose Bowl trophy for Best College in the country. College students performed superbly while representing their College and Scotland against some of the most talented students in the UK. Their achievements are a testimony to the dedication and support of College staff.
First for Spa Therapies
Coatbridge College will offer Scotland's first ever PDA Diploma in Spa Therapies. The qualification will be delivered in partnership with the Beardmore Spa in Clydebank. This qualification has been validated by the British International Spa Association ( BISA) in conjunction with the Scottish Qualifications Authority ( SQA).
The College is delighted to have been involved in the development of the first qualification for people working within the Spa industry. This has been our vision and now it has finally come to fruition.
Cumbernauld College
Cumbernauld College
Tryst Road, Cumbernauld, Lanarkshire G67 1HU
T 01236 731811
F 01236 784535
www.cumbernauld.ac.uk |  |
During 2004, Cumbernauld College received the go-ahead for the start of a £10m development and refurbishment programme. This will offer improved teaching and learning facilities, new student areas and social space, improved access to new technology and a business development suite with conference and training facilities for local business. With work now fully underway, staff and students are looking forward to the opening of the new development in August 2006.
In addition to increasing provision in North Lanarkshire, the College continued to expand further and higher education in East Dunbartonshire. In partnership with Heriot Watt University, the BA Management was launched at the Kirkintilloch Campus with students achieving pass rates of over 90% in the first year. A BSc in Information Technology has also been introduced for 2005.
The year had started on an equally positive note with an excellent HMIe inspection report followed by the College Nursery receiving the highest grading in each of the four categories inspected.
Catering and Hospitality staff and students scored a major success with the Training Restaurant winning best College Restaurant in Scotland and Northern Ireland in "Restaurant Magazine's" College Restaurant of the Year competition. In May, the 500th ECDL student was "licenced to compute" and later in the year, the College was awarded runner up in the FE First Marketing Awards collaboration category, in partnership with Anniesland and Clydebank Colleges.
European activity continued to flourish with funding being secured through Leonardo da Vinci for a two year programme for 48 students to undertake work placements in Italy, France or Spain. Students have already visited Bron and Clairefontaine in France and chef training and hospitality students will travel to Italy. Reciprocal exchange visits have already taken place.
Students and staff continue to participate in a plethora of charitable activities including raising £1500 for Breast Cancer Care from a highly successful Christmas Fashion Show, and £3,000 from a sponsored walk for Strathcarron Hospice.
Dumfries and Galloway College
Dumfries and Galloway College
Heathhall, Dumfries, Dumfriesshire DG1 3QZ
T 01387 261261
F 01387 250006
www.dumgal.ac.uk |  |
Dumfries and Galloway College operates from a number of sites across the region, delivering a wide range of learning opportunities from access through to degree level (in partnership with Universities of Paisley; Glasgow and Bell College of Higher and Further Education) in a variety of subject areas.
Due to the sparsity of population and large geographic area that the College serves (2,500 square miles) it has developed a flexible and innovative approach to curriculum design and delivery and works with a number of partners from the public, private and voluntary sectors to ensure different client groups needs are met.
First students welcomed as new Decommissioning programme gets underway
A new programme of courses designed for the £50 billion decommissioning industry have begun at Dumfries and Galloway College.
The courses were devised partly in response to the forthcoming closure and required de-fuelling of the Chapelcross nuclear facility near Annan and also in recognition of the strategic aim of creating a UK centre of excellence for decommissioning within Dumfries and Galloway. They were set up through a strategic Partnership between DAGCOL, North Highland College and Scottish Enterprise Dumfries and Galloway.
Tesco Cuckoo Bridge Initiative
37 trainees successfully completed the bespoke training programme designed by DAGCOL to equip local unemployed people with the skills required to work within the new Tesco Cuckoo Bridge store. As part of the Partnership Regeneration Initiative jobs were guaranteed to unemployed people who successfully completed a First Impression Interview and the subsequent training programme. Local organisations involved in the Partnership included: SEDG; Dumfries and Galloway Council; North West Resource Centre; DAGCOL; Careers Scotland; JobCentre + and USDAW - Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers.
School/College Link Programme
A pioneering new venture offering wider choice to pupils in S3 and S4 was launched in September 2004, which builds on the existing partnership between Dumfries and Galloway College, the Education Department and the 16 regional secondary schools where S5 and S6 pupils undertook a range of courses that involved attendance at the College, video-conferencing and email communication. The initiative has gone from strength to strength over the past 3 years resulting in approximately 500 pupils currently enrolling on college courses.
Dundee College
 |  |
HNC acting and performance students Kathryn Marley and Linda Funde share the role of Puck in a production of A Midsummer Night's Dream at The Space. | HND textile and fashion student Hayley Scanlon acts as a model at the highly successful students' Fashion Show. |
Dundee College
Kingsway Campus, Old Glamis Road, Dundee, Angus DD3 8LE
T 01382 834834
F 01832 858117
www.dundeecoll.ac.uk |  |
Dundee College enjoyed yet another great year, seeing strategies which were implemented in the past beginning to bear fruit, while developing innovative new programmes for the future.
From cultural and creative industries to catering and hospitality, Dundee College is at the forefront of delivering top quality training and education designed to impact positively on the local economy.
Cross college co-operation was to the fore as 'Targeting Tourism' a joint initiative by Tayside's three colleges - Angus, Dundee and Perth - prepared to deliver cutting edge training to help the local tourism trade increase its share of this lucrative market.
On the way to achieving this Dundee College forged links with Dundee and Angus Hotels and Restaurants Association, with the aim of creating student work placements and set about a £2.8million refurbishment of the college kitchens and training restaurant.
"Targeting Tourism", went on to scoop two highly prestigious awards: the Catering Industry Scotland ( CIS) Excellence Award and the Scottish Enterprise Tayside Business Award for Innovation and Creativity.
The 'Space', Dundee College's dance, theatre and conference centre established itself as a major venue for the arts in Scotland. The Scottish Arts Council conference, 'New Voices Hidden Histories' took place at the venue which also attracted the world-renowned Stephen Petronio Company of New York, Scottish Ballet, and the Xfactor Dance Company.
European funding support helped Dundee College widen access with science, business and literacy being areas boosted by projects such as WISE- UP Women into Employment, Forward into Science and Engineering and the Learning Curve.
Just a few examples of the huge number of successes enjoyed by students, staff and all Dundee College stakeholders, giving rise to the publication of a superb HMIE Report in 2005.
Edinburgh's Telford College
Edinburgh's Telford College
Crewe Toll, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH4 2NZ
T 0131 332 2491
F 0131 343 1218
www.ed-coll.ac.uk |  |
Edinburgh's Telford College has had some notable successes throughout the past year. Over 20,000 students enrolled, with ever-increasing provision through part time, open learning and virtual learning making the College more accessible than ever.
In May, the Deputy First Minister launched the School-College Partnership Strategy and took the opportunity to meet school pupils taking part in the Determined to Succeed pilot programme. Principal Ray Harris invited the Minister to return and visit the College at its new campus. Work on the West Granton site has continued throughout the year and the College will move over Christmas 2005. Preparing for the move, as well as exploring the opportunities the new building will present for innovative learning and teaching, is a major project.
Meanwhile, standards of achievement at Telford have remained as high as ever, with a number of students winning national competitions. Lauren Peffers, a Deaflympics gold medal athlete; Caroline Munro, who gained the highest score nationwide in the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons level 3 certificate; and Mark Nevin, winner of the Young Painter of the Year Competition - these are just a few of the talented students we've been proud to support this year. As well as applying themselves to their studies, students have been busy with a number of charitable initiatives which raised money for causes ranging from a local cancer care centre, to the tsunami appeal.
Staff members have also been recognised for their achievements, for example: Gillean Hoehnke who was awarded an MBE for services to further education, and John Laing who travelled to the USA to receive a prestigious award for his work in preservation trades education. The outstanding end of year dance show, arts exhibitions and prize giving ceremonies were a fitting climax to the accomplishments of our learners and the dedication of our staff.
Elmwood College
Elmwood College recently won a top award from the Institute of Leadership and Management, competing against 2000 ILM centres in the UK and abroad.
The college has proudly received the ILM's 2004 Centre of Excellence Award, which is given to accredited centres which have demonstrated a significant and innovative achievement in leadership and management training.
The award was presented at Fife College by its Principal, Joyce Johnston, who is also Scottish chairman of the Institute of Leadership and Management. Part of the City and Guilds Group, ILM's network of accredited centres is a combination of private trainers, colleges, universities and companies running in-house training programmes.
Elmwood's nomination was based on several areas, including developments based firmly on client and candidate needs, innovation in delivery, a consistent high standard of performance and proven benefits to candidates and their sponsors.
A delighted Rick Bond, commercial development manager at Elmwood, said it was a "real team effort," with the award being the result of all the hard work, ideas and enthusiasm of everyone involved. "It was also down to the quality of the candidates, who have shown great interest and motivation."
Two significant projects that had a major impact were management development for Cupar-based solicitors and estate agents Pagan Osborne, and a management programme for the golf industry. Both were successful to a large extent because of the innovative approach taken at the college to support the candidates.
Jennifer Lowry, Pagan Osborne Human Resources Manager, said that, as a legal firm, it could be difficult to accommodate training. "Elmwood devised a programme for the firm which combined taught elements with the production of a work-based portfolio.
"The key to their success is that they worked hard to get to know the firm and took the time to understand our terminology and issues."
Falkirk College of Further and Higher Education
Falkirk College of Further and Higher Education
Grangemouth Road, Falkirk, Stirlingshire FK2 9AD
T 01324 403000
F 01324 403222
www.falkirkcollege.ac.uk |  |
Session 2004-05 has been a momentous one for Further Education in Forth Valley, with the merger of Falkirk and Clackmannan Colleges taking place on 1st August 2005. SFEFC will be providing a substantial sum to support the process.
Falkirk College was able to build on the success of the superb HMIE Report, published in June 2004, which set the College firmly at the top of the Sector with top grades in all categories. In session 04/05 we increased levels of attainment and retention for our learners, extended blended learning approaches to students in all key college disciplines and significantly improved ICT resources and infrastructure for students and staff. Yet again, we exceeded our w SUMs target and continued to demonstrate the need for wider FE opportunities to meet the growing population in Forth Valley.
The College worked to meet the needs of growing sectors of the economy. This is exemplified in the significant increase in the number of modern apprentices in all areas of care and construction and in the work we undertake for the oil, gas and biotechnology sectors of the economy. The College contributes extensively to access and progression, with the successful Schools' Progression Awards in Building Crafts and Culinary Excellence, an extensive Higher / Intermediate programme and several more specialist programmes for school pupils.
The College works closely with community partners in developing educational opportunities in local areas and has attracted 2,500 learners into its Community Access programme. Programmes vary from Step Into Learning to the HNCs in Computing and Working with Communities. Partnership arrangements with Denny WASP and Bridge Crescent Community Flat are an excellent example of College and community participation.
The College continues to improve its financial performance and is classified by SFEFC as financially secure. Last session's investment in business development has paid real dividends by delivering the highest number of international contracts and Modern Apprentices programmes, and the highest level of commercial income from major organisations like Scottish Power, BP and Innovene.
Fife College of Further and Higher Education
Fife College of Further and Higher Education
St. Brycedale Avenue, Kirkcaldy, Fife KY1 1EX
T 01592 268591
F 01592 640225
www.fife.ac.uk |  |
2004 was a historic year for Fife College in Kirkcaldy. The year's first major event was the completion of a £16 million redevelopment of the College's St. Brycedale campus, providing new state-of-the art facilities which will benefit students, staff, industry and the community for many years to come.
The programme of work was completed in the summer of 2004 with funding from European Regional Development Fund, the Scottish Further Education Funding Council and Scottish Arts Council Lottery Funding.
The College's links with neighbouring Glenrothes College also continued to strengthen with the creation of its second joint venture, the Institute of Business and Management (ib+m) launched in May 2004 by the Chancellor, Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP.
The venture is proving a big hit with regional and national organisations including the Scottish Fire Service and Fife Constabulary who have joined forces with ib+m to provide management training to their staff.
The launch of the joint Institute of Hair and Beauty followed in November 2004 with a hair and beauty extravaganza.
First Minister, Jack McConnell helped to improve the expertise of Catering and Tourism students back in February 2004 when he invited them to Bute House to cook dinner for himself, his wife and 14 guests.
Throughout the year Fife College continued to broaden its extensive international links and welcomed many visitors to the college including senior government officials from Turkey.
One of the most significant events to happen during the year was the announcement in May 2004 by the Boards of Management of Glenrothes College and Fife College, to take the existing collaboration between the colleges forward to a full merger.
This resulted in the merger of the two colleges on 1st August 2005 to form The Adam Smith College, Fife, Scotland's third largest College.
Glasgow College of Nautical Studies
Glasgow College of Nautical Studies
21 Thistle Street, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G5 9XB
T 0141 565 2525
F 0141 565 2599
www.glasgow-nautical.ac.uk |  |
Ian Lennox, Assistant Principal at Glasgow College of Nautical Studies, and Dr Kumar of the British Institute of Engineering at Deraduly near Delhi
The Assistant Principal at GCNS, Ian Lennox, visited India on his annual tour of our three partner colleges:
- The British Institute of Engineering - Dehradun (Near Delhi)
- The Bombay Science & Research Education Institute - Mumbai
- The Academy of Maritime Education and Training ( AMET) - Chennai
The visit schedule was very busy with
considerable progress being made to strengthen the non-marine partnership with British Institute of Engineering, and stabilise the new marine partnership with Bombay Science & Research Education Institute, which recruited its first group of 39 students in September 2003.
The final stage of the 2004 visit was a
meeting with AMET at their new campus some 40 km outside Chennai. GCNS and AMET have worked in partnership since 1993 and during this period have trained approximately 500 trainees for the World's Merchant Navy Fleets.
It is worth recognising that no partnership will succeed without considerable dedication and effort of Senior Staff from both partners and in the case of AMET, the high level of success is mainly due to the considerable effort and dedication shown by Capt. K. Vivekanand, Director of AMET.
It is perhaps not surprising then, that at the Scottish Qualifications Authority ( SQA) Annual Awards, the college was awarded the Gold Award for "International Centre of the Year" 2004.
Glasgow Metropolitan College
Glasgow Metropolitan College
60 North Hanover Street, Glasgow G1 2BP
T 0141 566 6222
F 0141 566 6226
www.glasgowmet.ac.uk |  |
There can't be a much bigger event for a college than it's own launch!
Such is the case for Glasgow Metropolitan College which was officially and formally launched on 7th February 2005. The new college was created by the merger of Glasgow College of Building & Printing and Glasgow College of Food Technology. Glasgow Met is Scotland's first new college in more than ten years and the first merger of its kind in Scottish further education history. The merger has made Glasgow Metropolitan College one of the biggest colleges in Scotland with a combined student enrolment of more than 20,000.
The launch of Glasgow Met was carried out by Jim Wallace, who at the time was Deputy First Minister and the Minister for Lifelong Learning and Enterprise. As well as speeches, the launch included a lighting show on the North Hanover street campus building and an exhibition of student work. From sugar craft to graphic design, jewellery to vegetable carvings, the exhibition showcased the skills and expertise of both college students as they came together in the new college.
Students had also created two key 'pieces' to commemorate the launch of the new college. Decorative Glass student Skye Miller, (who's design won an in-house competition), designed and created a decorative glass back lit panel depicting various areas of the combined curriculum, while Modelmaking students designed and produced a model 'illustrating' the merger between the two main campus buildings of each respective college.
Jim Wallace's visit in February had followed the First Minister, Jack McConnell's, visit to launch the Fresh Talent Initiative in early January.
In the midst of all the merger activities, students have continued to enter and do well in a wide range of competitions.
A HND2 Professional Photography & Digital Imaging student won 1st prize for her photograph in Tetley Tea's student competition 'Focus on the Positive'. Tetley held the competition in association with Fujifilm Professional and Holiday Inn Resorts to help them increase their library of high quality branded images for their 'Out of Home' range of teas. The students were given a real life working brief which stipulated that the image must portray the Tetley strapline of "Positively Tetley"! Claire was awarded a cheque for £250, a Fujifilm S3 Camera worth over £1800 and a Holiday Inn Weekend Break for two anywhere in the UK.
Glenrothes College
For Glenrothes College in Fife, 2004 was a landmark year.
The College's links with neighbouring Fife College continued to strengthen with the creation of its second joint venture, the Institute of Business and Management (ib+m) launched in May 2004 by the Chancellor, Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP.
The venture is proving a big hit with regional and national organisations including the Scottish Fire Service and Fife Constabulary.
Student work took to the cat-walk in June where over 100 outfits, designed by the College's Fashion and Design students, were modelled.
August saw the completion of state-of-the-art facilities at the College's Centre For Creative Industries, including new computer suites, life-drawing room, pottery workshop, jewellery workshop and television studio. Phase two of the redevelopment, which includes new radio and recording studios, opened in Summer 2005.
In November the College was delighted to hear that it had been successful in a bid for European funding worth £3.4 million. The money will be used to help address the notion of a work-life balance.
Glitz and glamour also came to the college in November with the annual college awards taking on 'A Night At The Movies' theme. Director of Channel 4's Nations and Regions, Stuart Cosgrove, was principal guest and keynote speaker.
Throughout the year Glenrothes College continued to broaden its extensive international links welcoming many international visitors to the college including senior government officials from the Turkish Government.
One of the most significant events to happen during the year was the announcement in May 2004 by the Boards of Management of Glenrothes College and Fife College to take the existing collaboration between the colleges forward to a full merger.
This resulted in the merger of the two colleges on 1st August 2005 to form The Adam Smith College, Fife, Scotland's third largest College.
Inverness College
Inverness College
3 Longman Road, Longman South, Inverness IV1 1SA
T 01463 273000
F 01463 711977
www.inverness.uhi.ac.uk |  |
Former Deputy Minister for Enterprise, Transport & Lifelong Learning, Lewis Macdonald at the launch of National Construction week, hosted by Inverness College
Inverness College is the largest College in the Highlands and Islands with over 9,000 students. 2004 was an exciting year for Inverness College and saw us continue to develop as a major partner in creating the UHI Millennium Institute, and saw significant growth in Construction and Health & Social Studies.
Other highlights included:
- Our Vocational Pathways Programme winning a national award from the Sector Skills Alliance in recognition of being the most innovative Scottish learning approach. The Vocational Pathways Programme allows school pupils from across the Highlands to attend College to gain vocational qualifications.
- A successful research programme breeding wild salmon for restocking the River Carron. Staff from our Centre for Rural Resource Management - Seafield Centre have been successfully breeding and reintroducing wild salmon to this Scottish river.
- Hosting the launch of National Construction Week, attended by the Deputy Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning.
- Becoming the first ever Trades Union Learning Centre for the Highlands and Islands.
- A 20% increase in lecturing staff achieving TQFE.
- One of our Acting & Performance students landing a supporting role in "Dr Who".
- Electrical Apprentice winning a Gold Medal for the Best First-stage Apprentice in Scotland.
Session 2004-05 also saw progression of the Colleges' plans to move to a new state of the art campus in 2009, which will offer the finest further and higher education facilities the Highlands has seen with amongst many other things, a proposal for a student union and on campus student accommodation.
James Watt College of Further and Higher Education
James Watt College of Further & Higher Education
Finnart Street, Greenock, Renfrewshire PA16 8HF.
T 01475 724433
F 01475 888079
www.jameswatt.ac.uk |  |
As one of the largest and leading-edge educational establishments in Scotland, James Watt College of Further & Higher Education continued its ongoing programme of sustained growth and development in academic year 2004-05.
The student population has grown to 28,000, with increasing numbers of international students. Students have been attracted particularly by strong progression links with a full range of Scottish universities. Such links are further complemented by pioneering new initiatives to deliver degree programmes in specific areas of the curriculum.
The key area of knowledge transfer continued to provide an important focus for the College in 2004-05. Activity in this area promotes involvement in economic regeneration, as well as opening up further income opportunities. The College won two national awards for an innovative initiative aimed at getting young people into employment in 2004. The pioneering Routes to Work Programme was the winner of the SFEU 'Creativity in Learning' award and also won a Silver Award for the 'Scottish Enterprise Award for Vocational Training'. The project, which is funded by the college, ESF and the Better Neighbourhood Services Fund, was developed in 2002 in response to high youth unemployment in Inverclyde, and targeted young people from local SIP areas.
Such successes in 2004-05 have provided a strong platform for continued development in the forthcoming academic year. In particular, the College is utilising its strength and clarity of purpose to position itself to maximise its role in economic and social regeneration in its primary operating areas, Inverclyde and North Ayrshire.
The College is moving beyond existing patterns of inclusion and knowledge transfer and in to a re-defined format of vocational and tertiary education.
The College continues also to have prominence in the international sphere. Consolidation in the markets of the Far East has been accompanied by involvement in initiatives in North Africa and the Mediterranean rim largely in response to encouragement and sponsorship by Scottish Development International.
Jewel and Esk Valley College
Jewel and Esk Valley College
Milton Road Centre, 24 Milton Road East, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH15 2PP
T 0131 660 1010
F 0131 657 2276
www.jevc.ac.uk |  |
Jewel and Esk Valley College provided training for 8523 students, 95% entered employment and 2% progressed to university. Our "trades" sections continued to expand with growth in numbers in hair and beauty, plumbing, joinery and auto repair. A highlight was when mother, daughter and son-in-law all studied and achieved HND Business Administration and all three have progressed to study for a BA in Business Studies at Napier University. Thirteen members of the College lecturing staff studied for and achieved their TQFE, boosting the College qualified teacher level above 95% for the first time; another ten are lined up for September 2005. Their experiences and learning were shared at the Academic Best Practice event, held as part of the College's annual staff development fortnight.
The highlight of the academic year continues to be when the College hosts 1200 people at the prestigious Edinburgh International Conference Centre, to celebrate the Graduation of the Higher National students. This event more than any other reinforces the ability of Scotland's colleges to change lives through learning.
The College delivered learning in 37 locations from Dunbar to Penicuik and over 120 students achieved their qualifications at our flagship partnership in Prestonpans, East Lothian. Nearly 600 school pupils attended the College, including 110 winter leavers, 94 of which obtained apprenticeships or continued study at College. The College was awarded £21m capital grant towards a £36m building project to replace and modernise its existing 1950's and 1970's estate.
The College financial situation continues to improve with a robust structural surplus, strong balance sheet and acceptable cash reserves.
Amongst a clutch of awards, the College gained Investors in People status, received a RoSPA Gold Award for Health and Safety, an SFEU Marketing award and the Principal was the runner up in the IoD Public Sector Director of the Year Award.
Jewel and Esk Valley College makes learning an enriching and lifelong experience in the communities it serves.
John Wheatley College
John Wheatley College
Shettleston Campus, 1346 Shettleston Road, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G32 9AT
T 0141 781 1526
www.jwheatley.ac.uk |  |
Academic year 2004-05 was another successful one for the College in supporting the regeneration of the communities which it serves. The College hosted visits by a number of MSPs including Jim Wallace, the then Deputy First Minister, and Margaret Curran in role as the local member for the Greater Easterhouse area.
The report which was published following the HMIE Review in February 2005 highlighted a number of sector leading examples of good practice in partnership working, encouraging learner reflection and promoting inclusion. The grades awarded by the Review Team reflected the high standard of provision which the College offers to the communities which it serves. In addition the College was cited in the HMIE Report Implementing Inclusiveness in Scottish Further Education as an exemplary model of inclusive learning.
The work of the College and its learners was recognised by a range of external bodies. Robert Blyth received the Gold Award as SQA Candidate of the Year for the FE sector in 2004. Furthermore the College's work with the Greater Easterhouse Social Inclusion Partnership and local community organisations in establishing the Greater Easterhouse Learning Network received the SQA Gold Award for Partnership Working in that year. This project was also highly commended in the Scottish Enterprise Dynamic Place awards. Students also received external recognition for their vocational skills. For example a catering student, Evelyn Mudamburi, achieving a merit award at the prestigious Ecosse Culinaire (Scot Hot) competition , while Susan Wilson, Photography student, was a Gold award winner at the Glasgow Trades House Craftex competition. A collaborative project with Glasgow City Council and Langside College designed to enable local people to obtain the skills for employment in social care settings received the Care Accolade award from the Scottish Council for Care Services.
The College's plans for a new East End campus were accepted by SFEFC. This state of the art building will utilise sustainable development technologies and make a significant contribution to the regeneration of some of Glasgow's, and Scotland's, most deprived communities.
Kilmarnock College
Kilmarnock College
Holehouse Road, Kilmarnock, Ayrshire KA3 7AT
T 01563 523501
F 01563 538182
www.kilmarnock.ac.uk |  |
Kilmarnock College has a strategic objective of improving student employability. The college has established a Student Employability Centre which provides students with dedicated facilities. The Centre provides continuous support even after the completion of studies, manned by a Student Employability Officer and student volunteers. Surgeries are held with JobcentrePlus, Prince's Trust, Youth Business Trust, local nurse and the Benefits Agency. Students can access computers, printer and photocopier to produce CV's and job applications. Job boards advertising local employment opportunities are displayed.
Gateways to Work programmes are focused on the needs of specific companies and sectors that operate locally and nationally. Last year HOWCO invested in lean manufacture and required new technology disciplines.
The college designed a fast-track apprenticeship training programme which involved full-time attendance on a National Certificate Engineering Practice with a Scottish Vocational Qualification in Performing Engineering Operations Level 2. A work experience programme was also devised. They are now being tracked through Modern Apprenticeship. The Group Managing Director wants to apply this programme to the entire Group throughout the UK.
In 2004 the college identified a global shortage of heavy plant engineers to work on opencast sites in Ayrshire and Lanarkshire. In dialogue with Scottish Coal and East Ayrshire Employment Initiative the college designed, developed and recruited from the coalfield area, (a SIP area), 15 trainees for a one year full-time programme in heavy plant engineering. Those who successfully complete the programme will be recruited as Modern Apprentices. Such is the interest in this model that the FirstBus Group in Glasgow are recruiting 15 trainees in August 2005 as potential bus engineers. The high standards set by the college in these areas, led to our students winning first and second places in the Institute of Road Transport Engineer of the Year Competition 2005.
Langside College
Langside College
50 Prospecthill Road, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G42 9LB
T 0141 649 4991
www.langside.ac.uk |  |
The Vocational Access programme addresses the needs of secondary school pupils at risk of entering the NEET (not in education, employment or training) group, by providing them with a curriculum with a vocational context, either childcare or motor vehicle, and a strong emphasis on developing personal and social skills. Various secondary schools and social work departments refer students.
The programme is marketed as an alternative curriculum with employment opportunities or routes to further training on successful completion.
Run on a full-time basis from August to June and with support from European Structural Funds students are provided with assistance with travel and lunch expenses as well as financial support for outings and workplace visits.
Some students had been due to leave school; others were too young to leave. Some were disengaged learners; others experienced behavioural issues. Whatever their reason, the Vocational Access programme offered the students the opportunity to continue their education in a supportive and enthusiastic college environment enabling a fresh start to be made.
The programme incorporates a work experience element giving real life preparation for the world of work allowing the students to put into practice college based learning and to evaluate the contribution their input made to the placement provider organisation.
This partnership between the college, schools, social work & employers within and outwith the local community allows the students to associate the programme with their own personal development in confidence, maturity, feelings of self worth and their opportunities for employment.
On completion of the programme students progress in many directions. Some enrol onto more advanced further education courses and others have secured employment. Those who successfully completed were proud to be presented with permanent records of their achievements in the company of parents and friends at the Award Ceremony, pictured in the photograph below.
Lauder College
Through positive connections with communities, employers and stakeholders Lauder College creates innovative lifelong learning opportunities and contributes to key national priorities. In partnership with local high schools we supported our annual successful transition programme for June Start students (winter leavers) and offered "Determined to Succeed" and enterprise opportunities for S3 pupils. As one of Scottish Enterprise's leading training partners, we supported Modern Apprentices and VQ students in key economic sectors such as construction, engineering, care, and customer services.
Positive connections extended to China, when members of staff visited Beijing to train Chinese University lecturers, who are offering Scottish HND Qualifications to their students through the pioneering work of the Scottish Qualifications Authority.
A landmark event in the history of the Lauder Group was the successful inaugural year of the Andrew Carnegie Business School, named in honour of our founding benefactor and in celebration of his spirit of enterprise. Our Business School now offers degree, postgraduate and professional institute programmes locally in Fife, through partnership with Napier University and Heriot Watt University. The Andrew Carnegie Business School also promotes business competitiveness by providing customised management training for our corporate clients in Fife and in Goa and the Czech Republic. Our 2005 Carnegie Memorial Enterprise Debate gave students, school pupils and local business people the opportunity to participate in a Question Time session featuring a panel of entrepreneurs and business leaders.
During 2004 over 2400 people progressed to sustainable employment or self-employment from our Employment and Enterprise centres in Fife, Forth Valley, the Lothians and the Scottish Borders. Our newest purpose built Centre at Methil Dock celebrated its first anniversary by showcasing over 50 successful small business start-ups, supported under Training for Work and New Deal and through our partnership with Lloyds TSB Scotland.
Students at our Dunfermline campus enjoyed the splendid new facilities of Advantech and Media Space and our Science Suite, which were opened by HRH The Princess Royal. Media Space showcased the work of students in creative arts, digital media and drama at Exhibition 2004.
Lauder College staff celebrated the award of Scottish Employer of the Year, in recognition our progressive approach to lifestyle balance and wellbeing for staff.
Lews Castle College
Lews Castle College
Stornoway, Isle of Lewis HS2 0XR
T 01851 770000
F 01851 770001
www.lews.uhi.ac.uk |  |
During 2004 a number of important projects were completed. We completed a new learning centre on Barra, after ten years of operating from the back of a portacabin. We built and opened the excellent new music studios at the Benbecula Campus, and we have now begun a programme of changes to the Stornoway campus.
Partnerships were essential, and successful in 2004. They include the development of a PGDE (Primary) for Gaelic teachers, with the University of Strathclyde, with the first graduates due to take up employment in the islands in August 2005. With colleagues in the Hebridean Renewable Energy Partnership we initiated a programme for training and research in the hydrogen economy, and installation of photo-voltaic and solar hot water systems.
The college's partnership with the local authority for school/college provision saw extensive development in this year, with new courses in Stornoway and on Benbecula, and a high proportion of all secondary school pupils of all abilities attending the college on a regular basis.
Growth in construction training, a new Masters in Rural Development, courses in Community Learning and Development, and a course offering access to Merchant Navy Deck Officer and Engineer Cadetships were developed and or delivered in 2004, and the first cohort of students from our new NC in Sport and Leisure completed their course, with many going on to further study.
The college's developing partnership with NHS Western Isles led to the appointment of a UHI Professor of Remote & Rural Medicine, based at the college's campus in Stornoway. We are now working on a three year development plan for this increasingly important aspect of medicine and health care.
Moray College
Moray College
Elgin, Morayshire IV30 1JJ
T 01343 576000
F 01343 576001
www.moray.ac.uk |  |
Moray College aspires to be an inclusive community college that is recognised as being a leading provider of lifelong learning opportunities that are accessible, flexible and of the highest quality. It is a college of the community, in the community. In addition to its main campus in Elgin, and its Technology Centre in New Elgin, Moray College has a network of Learning Centres, which are located in Buckie, Keith, Forres and Nairn.
During the year a total of fifty students successfully completed a 20 week part-time course specifically designed to provide lone parents with skills in childcare, and to enable them to become registered childminders. The course was delivered at the college's learning centres in Keith, Buckie and Forres, as well as at the main campus in Elgin. Delivery of the course was made possible by nearly £200,000 of funding from the Government's New Deal Innovation Fund.
In February 13 students who had previously achieved HN qualifications in Complementary Therapies, became the first Moray College students to receive qualified practitioner certificates from the Association of Reflexologists ( AOR). As the only Scottish college with AOR accreditation, Moray College is able to provide students with the opportunity to become established practitioners.
In March an annual programme of schools information days was successfully launched, with over 400 senior pupils from Moray's eight secondary schools, Banff Academy and the Gordon Schools (Huntly) attending two information days at the college. The days were organised to provide an opportunity for pupils to visit the college to learn about the vocational facilities on offer and broaden their awareness of the educational and career choices open to them after school.
The BA Fine Art students' degree show, presented in the college's new purpose built gallery, was another of the year's major success stories. The week long show held in mid-June exhibited a variety of visual media from oils and tapestry to video and photographic spatial art. The quality of work on show was of an extremely high standard - a reflection of the motivation and dedication of both students and staff.
The week long 11th Moray Science Festival again proved a successful tool for the communication of sciences. A varied programme of events brought together speakers from Scotland, Slovenia and Russia. Events took place at Moray College and also in the wider community of Moray at Dufftown, Forres and Burghead. During the week the festival was visited by over 2000 pupils from local primary schools.
Motherwell College
Motherwell College
Dalzell Drive, Motherwell, Lanarkshire ML1 2DD
T 01698 232323
F 01698 232527
www.motherwell.ac.uk |  |
Motherwell College is at the heart of one of Europe's largest regeneration projects. In 2008, the College proposes to move to its flagship new campus at Ravenscraig, in the centre of an exciting, innovative new community.
The purpose-built campus will be a jewel in the crown of the new development that enriches everyone's lives. It will enhance the College's reputation as an innovative further and higher education college and be a major asset for the local community. Encompassing the latest in teaching and learning technology, the new campus will offer students, staff and visitors an outstanding learning experience.
Motherwell College's curriculum is constantly being refined to satisfy economic, social and individual needs. The new building will have excellent "Green" credentials. Natural ventilation and lighting will be maximised and the site will be energy efficient. The site will also be fully accessible throughout.
Work on the Ravenscraig site has already started and construction on the new campus is planned for 2006. The site for the bespoke building is at the heart of the new community and close to Motherwell and Wishaw town centres.
The College currently generates millions of pounds worth of business with local, national and international employers and this vibrant new campus will further stimulate that inward investment.
The College has been developing its international links and now welcomes students from over 40 countries across the globe. The new campus will also have bespoke accommodation for international students. With many transnational business partners, China, Estonia and Libya are currently the main focus of activity.
Tallinn, Estonia is now a base for the College, which is promoting commercial initiatives in line with the Prime Minister's and Education UK Scotland agendas.
Libya's oil industry has enjoyed a long-term relationship with the College. The College has appointed an international business associate to support accessing the Chinese market. He was recruited as an MBA graduate from The University of Glasgow via Scottish Network International ( SNI).
Newbattle Abbey College
Gifted to the nation in 1937 by the 11th Marquis of Lothian, Newbattle Abbey College is Scotland's only adult residential college. The College operates from a Class A historic listed building situated in 125 acres of a designated countryside park near Dalkeith, Midlothian.
2004 was an important year for the College. In August, it became incorporated as a company limited by guarantee with charitable status, and appointed a new Board of Directors.
A Master Planning and Business Planning exercise for the next 15 years commenced and the College began a re-branding exercise to promote itself as a modern and vibrant centre for adult learning.
In 2004 the Newbattle Abbey Award in Arts and Social Sciences was approved and accredited by the SQA and accepted by SWAP as an Access course. The Award caters for people who have low or no qualifications and prepares them for further study at a higher level or a change of direction in their working or personal lives.
The College also established an Intensive English Language course for International students, seeking entry to higher education study at UK Colleges and Universities.
In 2004, retention and achievement rates improved and a good outcome was achieved in an integrated review by HM Inspectorate of Education. SFEFC, which fund the programme, said: "The College is clearly doing a good job in meeting the needs of its students and helping them to succeed in their studies."
A graduation ceremony for all students was held in September in the magnificent Drawing Room of the main house. In addition to celebrating the achievements of all students, two students were presented with silver and bronze medals for winning entries in a national Creative Writing competition.
'Late but in earnest', the College motto, truly reflects the College's vision statement of 'Empowering adult learners'. At Newbattle Abbey College we make that an everyday reality.
North Glasgow College
North Glasgow College
110 Flemington Street, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G21 4BX
T 0141 558 9001
F 0141 558 9905
www.north-gla.ac.uk |  |
North Glasgow College are all set to host the national SKILLBUILD 2005 competition, 12th - 14th October 2005; the first time the event has been held in Scotland since the competition began 24 years ago in 1981.
It is a great opportunity for young people to consider the construction industry as a worthwhile career.
The competition identifies the best young trainee in the United Kingdom within each trade discipline. Regional and National competitions are organised by SKILLBUILD in conjunction with Major and Key Sponsors.
The main objective is to raise the profile of construction skills in the United Kingdom and to demonstrate the high level of skills training which is undertaken in Colleges of Further Education and independent training organisations.
The competition also provides a framework within which young people have the opportunity to progress and display their skills in a competitive environment, providing a benchmark of excellence to which all can aspire.
In addition to providing an excellent opportunity for all school pupils to witness the highest quality of craftsmanship in competition across a wide range of construction skills, this year's event will have an opportunity for visitors to participate in the 'Have-A -Go' competitions in Bricklaying, Cabinet Making, Carpentry, Joinery, Painting & Decorating, Plastering, Roofing & Thatching and Stonemasonry.
Learndirect Branding
North Glasgow College had a double celebration in 2005 by achieving learndirect branding at the Multimedia Resource Centre and the Barmulloch Learning Centre. As part of the learndirect dynamic learner-focused Scottish network, both Centres are hoping to increase the range of flexible programmes on offer to local residents and students.
SFEU Award Winner
North Glasgow College won first prize in the Creativity in Learning section at the SFEU Awards ceremony in November.
From 45 applications, the college's Tackling Drugs Misuse project was viewed by the judges as an 'excellent application, showing a real sense of national significance'.
The North Highland College
The North Highland College
Ormlie Road, Thurso, Caithness KW14 7EE
T 01847 889000
F 01847 889001
www.nhcscotland.com |  |
An innovative new course has offered students in rural areas the chance to study Horse Management through a combination of best practice in distance learning and a creative and flexible approach to student support.
Background
The North Highland College has offered an acclaimed NC in Stable Management in a flexible format for the past 5 years. This mainly practical course was supported by course notes and delivered fortnightly through rural outreach centres.
The New HNC
In order to allow students the opportunity to continue their studies, the course team developed and offered for the first time in 2004-05, a blended learning course to allow people unable to attend a full time course the chance to achieve a higher qualification. All students and their respective tutors spend a weekend at the Equestrian Centre of the North Highland College in Thurso.
The on-line projects unit within the College put the theoretical aspects of the course on-line to allow the students to work in a self-directed way. The use of animations supports greater visual learning and concentrates on making the theoretical aspects of the course highly interactive. Tutor support and class contact at the outreach centres on a fortnightly basis. These sessions enable new practical skills to be taught and allow students to interact and form support networks, something that is particularly important for people in remote, rural areas.
A Succesful Year
At present there are 100 students enrolled and indications are this is likely to increase by 50% in the new academic year. Access to the HN course is usually via the NC, but there are students with other relevant qualifications joining by direct entry.
As a result of the course, businesses have been established and support networks have been created for a large range of students in rural areas.
Oatridge Agricultural College
Oatridge Agricultural College
Ecclesmachen, Broxburn, West Lothian EH52 6NH
T 01506 854387
F 01506 853373
www.oatridge.ac.uk |  |
As Principal of one of Scotland's smaller, specialist Colleges, (writes David James), I often feel that I am luckier than colleagues who oversee huge institutions with many thousands of students. At Oatridge we are of a scale that allows me to keep in close touch with many of the people who come to us to learn the skills they seek, and that the landbased industries need. It means that I often hear about the personal triumphs of those who may never be among our top prizewinners or high flyers.
Of course, we have our "stars", those who lift the College cups and sponsors' medals, and we are proud of them. But when some of our students come from difficult backgrounds and others reach us with few, if any qualifications, we are especially pleased that the vast majority go on to further study or find useful, often fulfilling jobs. This is our idea of "social inclusion" in action.
Take Chester Jarron. This 17 year old admits that during his schooldays in Bonnyrigg he was heading for serious trouble: truanting, drinking, vandalising and in with a bad crowd. He took up riding as a hobby to break the cycle, then found his way to us. Recently he achieved his Certificate in Horse Management with Distinction and we feel he is on his way to achieving his ambition, to work in a top rank stable and ultimately compete as a showjumper.
Chester's classmate Eva Grounsell, from Edinburgh, lives with autism and probably has to work five times harder than most to achieve her goals. She admits she hated school, but we were extremely touched when she recently told a national newspaper that, thanks to our approach at Oatridge, she had made friends and did not feel in the least awkward, when she could not do things as quickly as others.
Jim Heggie, who is 18 and from Perthshire, is another of our students who has overcome the odds to fulfil his ambition. Jim has severe dyslexia. He had a scribe at school, but when he came to us to undertake his Modern Apprenticeship in Mixed Farming, he chose to do so with the minimum support because, he told us, he had to know that he could manage for himself in the wider world. We are sure he will.
Orkney College
Orkney College
East Road, Kirkwall, Orkney KW15 1LX
T 01856 569000
F 01856 569004
www.orkney.uhi.ac.uk |  |
Orkney College is a small vibrant college operating in an island community (population approx.19,500), which is both rural and predominantly agricultural. As an island community, the population of Orkney is reliant upon the College to provide a wide range of educational opportunities, full/part-time at all levels. The curriculum is solidly based on the needs and strengths of the community but also aimed at attracting people to come and live, work and study in the Islands.
Despite its small size, Orkney College plays a very active part in the development of UHI Millennium Institute. Through this partnership, the College offers extensive learning opportunities from FE, for school leavers and individuals returning to learning, through to Honours degrees and research.
Significant FE highlights of 2004-05:
- Students from St Colm's Day Centre who attend the College and run our highly popular Copper Kettle Café won a Grampian TV award at the Scottish Adult Learning Partnership Awards in May 2005.
- Almost 20% of Orkney residents live on smaller islands within the group and for these the development of an effective, sustainable, outreach service by the College is critical. During 2004-05 Orkney College has taken to the surrounding seas with 'Port to Port - The Ferry Project'. Supported by Orkney Ferries, Northlink Ferries and Pentland Ferries, the College has introduced learning opportunities to sea travellers. With those living in and visiting Orkney making approximately 300,000 journeys a year, the potential for spending time at sea learning is enormous. The College is now looking to extend the initiative further in partnership with others in the Highlands and Islands.
Partnership working in our community is key to sustainability. Working with local schools, Orkney College has introduced Progression Awards in Hospitality and Carpentry/Joinery for S3/S4 pupils. This has strengthened links with the schools, attracted youngsters to learn about key local employment/career opportunities and assisted with the transition for young people from school to college. Other partnership working includes adult literacy, supported by collaboration with Orkney Community Education; and we make a major contribution to the local Childcare Partnership.
Perth College
Perth College
Crieff Road, Perth, Perthshire PH1 2NX
T 01738 877000
www.perth.ac.uk |  |
In its role as the community college for Perth & Kinross, Perth College has strengthened links with a range of other organisations throughout the area. Working with Angus College, Perth & Kinross Association of Voluntary Services and Angus Association of Voluntary Organisations, the College has been offering a range of free training programmes for voluntary workers, part-funded by an ESF project. In an exciting initiative with local secondary schools, senior pupils throughout Perth & Kinross can now complete vocational subjects at College as part of their school curriculum in subjects including hospitality, creative media, construction and horticulture.
Working in partnership with Perth & Kinross Council and the Scottish Arts Council, the recently launched "Wannab" project is helping young musicians to make the most of their talents in the College's state-of-the-art music and media centre. They are being given expert tuition and the chance to play and record their own music in professional-standard facilities.
The Targeting Tourism project, a joint initiative between Tayside's three colleges funded by the Scottish Further Education Funding Council, has gained a Catering in Scotland Excellence award for Innovation and Training. Perth, Angus and Dundee Colleges are working together to boost tourism in the area through investment in training and education and have also been successful in gaining the Scottish Enterprise Tayside Business Award for Innovation and Creativity and a Perthshire Chamber of Commerce Star award nomination.
Work on the Campus Link project, a flagship building for Perth College's Crieff Road campus, is scheduled for completion late in 2005, following a successful fundraising campaign by the College's Development Trust. The Campus Link will provide a student centre, international centre and unique research centre for mountain studies. Perth College is also now offering two Masters-level courses on behalf of UHI Millennium Institute, the MSc Managing Sustainable Mountain Development and the MSc in Interpretation Management.
Reid Kerr College
Reid Kerr College
Renfrew Road, Paisley, Renfrewshire PA3 4DR
T 0800 052 7343
www.reidkerr.ac.uk |  |
Reid Kerr students Claire Adam and James McLaughlan, finalists in the BBC's "Strictly Dance Fever", pictured here with host, Graham Norton
Reid Kerr College came out on top at the recent prestigious National Training Awards. The College won a National Training Award for the development and delivery of REDS (Renfrewshire Enabling Disability) programme.
Disabled people in Renfrewshire have been provided with unique opportunities to take part in sports and other physical activities thanks to the joint REDS project developed by Reid Kerr College and Renfrewshire Council's Sports Development Unit.
SQA Awards
In addition, Reid Kerr was named as the Centre of the Year at the recent SQA Annual Awards. The College received the Gold award in this category.
The College was also presented with a Silver Award in the International Centre of the Year Category. This award recognised the College's work with the hundreds of international students that Reid Kerr trains and supports both at home and abroad.
Reid Kerr student Elvira Morrison won a Bronze Award in the Candidate of the Year. With ambitions of opening her own Nail Bar in her home town of Stornoway, Elvira travelled hundreds of miles each week to polish up her career prospects and complete her course at the College.
Strictly Dance Fever
Other Reid Kerr students in the news this year included International Dance Champions Claire Adam and James McLaughlan, who sent temperatures rising when they appeared in the BBC's top show, Strictly Dance Fever.
Both students have been studying for a HND Dance at Reid Kerr and are no strangers to competition having showcased their talents, winning medals and recognition internationally.
Over eleven weeks, the Strictly Dance Fever competitors learned a brand new dance style every week and the couples were whittled down to the final three with Claire & James making the grand final. With over a million votes cast the result was very close, with Claire & James coming in third.
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig
Sabhal Mòr Ostaig continues to make progress across a wide range of important educational and related developments, recognising that a narrow, restricted educational focus will not serve to solve the problems of the Highlands and Islands, and do little to revitalise the Gaelic language and culture. SMO adopted an integrated approach, ensuring its educational work supported, and was supported by, cultural activities. In order to focus on the holistic needs of the national/ international community of Gaelic learners, SMO established businesses and research activities, which have contributed greatly to the learning infrastructure and the local economy, an approach highly commended in the College's 2002 'Queens Anniversary Prize'.
The Centre's commitment to excellence was recognised in the HMIE Report- FE Provision, which assessed:
- Educational Leadership and Direction
Very Good - Access and Inclusion
Very Good - Teaching and Learning
Very Good - Staff
Very Good.
The QAA Report assessed:
- Quality of Teaching and Learning
Commendable and Exemplary - Quality of Learning Resource
Commendable - Quality of Student Progression
Commendable.
In addition to programmes in Gaelic and Related Studies, SMO has developed other key areas, in publishing, marketing, multiple media and design, Gaelic Broadcasting and applied research into Gaelic and related issues.
Canan Ltd, a college owned company, a recent winner of 'Highlands and Islands Business Awards' was also, in partnership with Napier University, winner of the Dept. of Trade and Industry National Award for, 'the best Knowledge Transfer Partnership in Scotland', for excellence in research and product development in on-line learning.
SMO's department of Lifelong Learning received two CILT international awards, and the 'Routledge Prize' for Adult Learning for 'An Cùrsa Inntrigidh' (Access to Gaelic course).
The College has developed key institutional partnerships in research and postgraduate studies and will soon begin the next phase of development, 'Fas', a Centre for the Creative and Cultural Industries.
Shetland College of Further Education
Shetland College of Further Education
Gremista, Lerwick, Shetland ZE1 OPX
T 01595 771000
F 0595 771001
www.shetland.uhi.ac.uk |  |
Two years ago the Scottish Further Education Funding Council greatly increased the allocation of student numbers to Shetland College. Last year, the College met that challenging target and this year, has considerably exceeded the target due to the considerable efforts of College staff. Projections for student numbers next academic year suggest the College will again exceed its target, illustrating the increasing involvement in developing FE and HE education in Shetland.
As well as the success in increasing student enrolments, the College has also been successful in gaining ESF funding for four projects. These are:
1. A community learning project to provide short taster courses to attract new people into learning, development of new courses in literacy and numeracy, basic IT and information skills, family learning, health promotion, committee skills training and tutoring skills for community support tutors.
2. A project developed in collaboration with Shetland Islands Council, (Education, Community Learning and Development and Integrated Children's Services) and Careers Scotland, to develop a pilot project to provide training for twelve 16-18 year olds at risk of economic and social exclusion in Shetland.
3. A knowledge, information and technology ( KIT) project in response to a KIT survey undertaken by Shetland Enterprise, and
4. A renewable energy project designed to set up a new, innovative SVQ at levels 3 and 4, and an HNC qualification in the management of small scale renewable energy including wind, solar heating, photovoltaics, air and water based heat pumps for delivery through the UHI network.
All of the projects are being successfully implemented.
There has also been continuing success in Art, Design and Textiles which, as well as involvement in a research project on small island businesses, has continued the development of its design and product testing for the local knitwear industry.
South Lanarkshire College
South Lanarkshire College currently operates from 3 separate campuses; 2 within East Kilbride and a specialist Construction campus in Cambuslang. It is the only further education college located in South Lanarkshire and serves both a wide rural community as well as East Kilbride, the fifth largest conurbation in Scotland.
Last year the College enrolled 5,500 students and achieved 41,000 WSUMs. Significant increase demand was experienced within the area of Construction. Care, Beauty Therapy, Hairdressing and School Link programmes have also seen significant demand. The CITB and South Lanarkshire Council remain key customers for the College.
Significant growth has taken place in the range of full cost courses with growth being particularly strong in Gas and OSAT. A range of full cost courses have also been developed for North Lanarkshire Council. The College now recruits growing numbers of international students and delivers a dedicated programme for employees of Saudi Aramco. Students were also recruited from Bahrain, China, Azerbaijan and North America. The College hosted a visit from Canadian Hospitality students and is currently developing a reciprocal exchange programme. A wide range of European activity also took place through the Leonardo Programme, which supported students from Belgium, Germany and Finland.
The College is in a strong financial situation and continues with the key development of its estates programme. This will see the College relocate to a new single site campus in June 2007, located within the Scottish Enterprise Technology Park in East Kilbride. Support for the project has been received from both the Scottish Further Education Funding Council and Strathclyde European Partnership. The College will also contribute significant levels of capital for the project, which will provide South Lanarkshire with a 21st Century campus to meet the needs of learners.
Stevenson College Edinburgh
Stevenson College Edinburgh
Bankhead Avenue, Edinburgh, Midlothian EH11 4DE
T 0131 535 4700
F 0131 535 4708
www.stevenson.ac.uk |  |
Artist's representation of Stevenson College's plans to build a cutting edge music and performing arts centre, at their Sighthill campus in Edinburgh
Stevenson College Edinburgh has continued to produce a high calibre of students, the accomplishments and determination of whom have received industry recognition. Motor vehicle Modern Apprentice Kris Hutton overcame cancer and a car accident whilst completing his studies. Kris won the title of "apprentice who has overcome the odds to succeed in their chosen field" in the MA Awards 2004. (photo below)
Advanced Diploma Photography student, Malin Widstrand was commended in the fashion category of the Olmec Digital Photographer of the Year.
Students raised funds for the victims of the Tsunami by holding a "haggis and noodles" party, a unique combination of Burns Night and Chinese New Year. The college formed links with a school in Sri Lanka and funds raised were sent to the school.
Degree Foundation Popular Music students developed links with the community by recording and mixing a CD with local Dumbryden School pupils. The song they wrote celebrated the life of their school and world famous jazz saxophonist and former pupil, Tommy Smith, accompanied.
The Creative Arts department took the spotlight in April when it hosted the International Guitar Festival. Eight workshops were held over the weekend enabling amateur guitarists from all over Scotland to learn from professionals such as Guthrie Govan.
As part of its commitment to meeting the ever-changing needs of the local community, Stevenson submitted plans to build a £3.5 million cutting edge music and performing arts centre at the College's Sighthill campus. The College has been awarded £4.4 million by the Scottish Further Education Council to support the project and the refurbishment and re-modelling of the existing buildings.
Finally, the College continued to welcome key influencers including the Deputy Minister for Enterprise, Transport and Lifelong Learning, Allan Wilson, who met with students and discussed curriculum developments and the College's estate plans.
These are just a few of the successes Stevenson has achieved which stem from our commitment to maximising opportunities and the potential of our students, staff and local community.
Stow College
Stow College
43 Shamrock Street, Glasgow, Lanarkshire G4 9LD
T 0141 332 1786
www.stow.ac.uk |  |
Pupils from Heathery Knowe Primary School in East Kilbride visited Stow College in February 2005, as part of the Scottish Executive's 'Determined to Succeed' initiative.
The pupils received interactive presentations and undertook projects involving the College's Engineering, Science and Computing departments.
College links with Glasgow Chinese Community
The Glasgow Chinese School is an organisation set up to ensure that children of Chinese parents in the Glasgow area, can receive proper training and awareness of Chinese culture.
To extend this training, Stow College was approached by the Glasgow Chinese School, and the Stow College Chinese School was born. Between 400-600 Chinese students now attend Stow College classes every Saturday morning.
The College organised a graduation event in February 2005 to celebrate the achievement of the successful students.
More schools tune into 'Enterprise Thru Music'
Radio interviews, overseeing recording studio sessions, TV appearances and showbiz parties. School was never like this but for pupils at Ross Hall Academy and St Mungo's Academy in Glasgow, it was all part of their 'Enterprise Thru Music' project.
Run in conjunction with Stow College, 'Enterprise Thru Music' combines serious learning with serious fun and excitement.
The climax of the projects involved high profile release events of the school pupils' own CD albums in March 2005.
The projects were supported by Glasgow City Council, Careers Scotland and the British Phonographic Industry.
'Enterprise Thru Music' is being developed as a fully fledged training resource and it is hoped many schools throughout Scotland will want to run similar partnership projects with Stow.
Unique agreement with Glasgow Science Centre
In May 2005 Stow College signed a unique Memorandum of Agreement with Glasgow Science Centre, to further enhance the learning experience of students at Stow.
The agreement was signed by Kirk Ramsay, Chief Executive of Glasgow Science Centre (left in picture) and Robert McGrory, Chief Executive and Principal of Stow College, and is an example of Stow's continuing commitment to science as a major part of its curriculum offer.
West Lothian College
West Lothian College
Almondvale Crescent, Livingston, West Lothian EH54 7EP
T 01506 418181
F 01506 409980
www.west-lothian.ac.uk |  |
It has been another successful and dynamic year at West Lothian College.
Staff and students have racked up an impressive collection of awards, many of which were judged on a national level. Ranging from winning a 'Partnership of the Year' award for articulation agreements with Heriot-Watt University at the SQA Annual Awards in November, to receiving a 'commendation' for the Management Development and Succession Programme at Scotland's Colleges Annual Awards in December, the College has truly excelled. February saw the College scoop not only 'Gold' and 'Silver' prizes at the SFEU Marketing Awards, but also the inaugural 'Grand Prix' award for the 'most outstanding' winner.
Students have also been carving a niche and many have found time to showcase their talents and help demonstrate the accessibility of the College to the local community. The annual summer 'Gala Extravaganza' attracted crowds from across the county, whilst students from the Hospitality, Hair and Beauty programmes visited local Primary Schools to help nurture community ties. One young sport student was chosen to train with the GB Olympic 'skeleton' team, whilst, closer to home, several hairdressing and beauty students were literally 'head-hunted' by hair-care giants, 'L'Oreal'.
Partnerships have played an important role in College life as the College works to strengthen Scotland's 'Care' workforce. The Care Learning Centre, a joint initiative with West Lothian Council's Social Policy Services, is working to improve recruitment and retention of staff in the health and care sectors by providing a 'one-stop-shop' for access to learning and development resources, with the overall aim of building a "Care Centre of Excellence" for learning and development.
The College continues to work closely with the local business community - from hosting demonstration days for local employers, to arranging a musical performance at the local Almondvale Centre, and leg waxing for Livingston FC!
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