Colleges open for business

College places in a wide range of courses to suit all levels and preferred modes of study are still available right across Scotland, ahead of the new term starting.

While there has been an increase in the number of young Scots being accepted into university, there are also a number of other options for young people to move forward in education or help them take their first steps into the jobs market.

As well as colleges offering hundreds of varied courses with clear career outcomes, the Scottish Government has funded 1,000 places specifically to help students to progress from further to higher education.
Cabinet Secretary for Education Michael Russell said:

“The most recent UCAS figures have been welcome news for Scotland, with two per cent more young Scots accepted to university compared to this time last year, including thousands who have taken up a place through the clearing process. Other young Scots will be pursuing their education and careers through other routes.

“Colleges deliver a wide range of top quality vocational courses and provide pathways to more advanced learning and work. In the coming weeks, thousands of young people will start a full time further education course at one of Scotland’s colleges. In recent years, the Scottish Government has sought to get the very best from our college sector and important reforms will see it become highly efficient with strong links with employers, universities and schools. Additionally, as part of a £10 million package to increase participation in higher education we have funded 1,000 additional places specifically to help college students move to university.

“We can be very proud of Scottish education. Our excellent exams results and record numbers of school leavers staying in positive destinations such as university, college, or employment are real marks of success. And we have guaranteed every 16 to 19 year old the offer of a place in education or training. Students wishing to continue with their education have plenty of options and, for many, a college course will make a huge difference to their lives and the start of their future success.”