Tag: Edinburgh College

Edinburgh College wins national cooking challenge

Winners of Annual Scottish Chefs Nespresso Professional Student Coffee Challenge revealed

Scottish Chefs, Scotland’s official National Organisation for all chefs in Scotland and member of The World Association of Chefs Societies, has once again teamed up with Nespresso Professional for the student coffee challenge to help find the next generation of culinary stars.

The winning team from Edinburgh College, Milton Campus each received an invite to Scottish Chefs 30th anniversary celebration lunch where they met Andy Cuthbert, World Chefs newly elected President, and were presented with a Nespresso M100 coffee machine for their college.

This year, Scottish Chefs will also release a special anniversary cookbook as it celebrates its 30th year, where the winning recipes will also be included.

Teams were made up of three students, all in full time catering and hospitality college courses, and were given two hours to produce an afternoon tea selection alongside Nespresso coffee.

The judging panel of Joe Queen, Chair of The Scottish Chefs Culinary Committee, Kevin MacGillivray Chief Executive of Scottish Chefs & International World Chefs Accredited Judge, Derek Johnston, the first winner of BBC’s Masterchef: The Professionals and Gary Shanks, Nespresso Account Manager for the East of Scotland were looking for a well-presented table and a front-of-house server demonstrating effective communication and interaction skills with guests.

For the chefs, they sought a display of both modern and traditional cooking methods that showcased a variety of skills, as well as adherence to hygienic working practices.

The winning menu from Jenny MacLeod, Eileen Ingle and Emilia Lawandowska was made up of Leek, Mushroom & Gruyere Tart, Coffee Chicken Pie, Apple & Coffee Meringue Tart and Coffee & Chocolate Choux au Caquelon.

The judges commented on how each element of their afternoon tea was well cooked and was full of flavour which highlighted the coffee and various technical skills which ultimately made the team from Edinburgh College, Milton Campus victorious.

Gary Shanks, Nespresso Account Manager for the East of Scotland, said: “It was a privilege to once again support this competition, and help support the next generation of culinary superstars.

“It was inspiring to see the skills and imagination on display to create incredible menus to complement our coffee. When food is this delicious, being able to offer the best coffee is something we feel extremely passionate about.

“Congratulations to the winners from Edinburgh College, the standard was so high, so they should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”

Joe Queen, Chair of The Scottish Chefs Culinary Committee, said: “It was very encouraging to see the interest from colleges throughout Scotland that participated. The support that the young chefs and servers received from their respective college lecturers was fantastic.

And then from the students came the imagination, the innovation and the team work to help produce brilliant Afternoon Teas. Scottish Chefs now hope now that this competition can go from strength to strength and help build up an array of talented youngsters. 

Well done to Edinburgh Milton College campus who also were very worthy winners last year, there must be something in the Edinburgh air! We all look forward to next year.” 

The Scottish Chefs 30th anniversary celebration lunch took place at Murrayfield recognising 30 years of promoting excellence in all areas of the hospitality industry in Scotland. Mairi Gougeon MSP and Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs, Land Reform and Islands joined as guest speaker.

Edinburgh College Class of 2024 students celebrate graduations

More than 700 students celebrated in style as they graduated as part of Edinburgh College’s class of 2024 at the McEwan Hall last week (8 November).

Students were joined by over 1,600 proud family members and friends who watched as their loved ones crossed the McEwan Hall stage to receive their certificates of achievement.

Graduates from across the College’s curriculum areas were honoured during three ceremonies throughout the day, graduating in subjects across each of the College’s faculties: Health, Wellbeing and Social Science; Tourism, Hospitality and Business; Engineering and Construction; and Creative Industries.

Across the three ceremonies, the College’s best-performing students were also commended by Principal Audrey Cumberford, receiving awards for academic excellence.

Prizes were also awarded on behalf of the Edinburgh College Board of Management to students who have exceeded expectations throughout their College journey.

In addition, James Thomson OBE was presented with an Honorary Edinburgh College Ambassador Award in recognition of James Thomson’s significant contribution to Edinburgh College over many years, through his support of our hospitality students, sponsorship of international exchanges, and the creation of the James Thomson Award for Customer Excellence.

Around 14 members of College teaching staff were also presented with professional development awards during the ceremonies – celebrating the wealth of CPD opportunities available to staff to support them in their role of educating more than 28,000 students each year.

Edinburgh College Principal Audrey Cumberford said: “Graduation is a special occasion—one that celebrates the dedication, resilience, and growth that each student has shown throughout their college journey.

“The Class of 2024 has demonstrated incredible focus and perseverance, setting themselves up for success in whatever path they choose to pursue next. With the skills and knowledge they’ve gained during their time at Edinburgh College, there’s no doubt that they are poised to achieve great things.

“On behalf of the College’s leadership, faculty, and support teams, I offer my deepest congratulations to each and every one of you. I wish you nothing but success as you continue your studies, start new careers, and chase your dreams.

“Here’s to the Class of 2024—you’ve earned this!”

Granton Campus Coffee Morning

WEDNESDAY 2nd OCTOBER 10.30am – 11.30am

Students! The College’s Professional Cookery and Hospitality department are hosting a coffee morning in the Apprentice Restaurant at Granton Campus on Wednesday 2 October.

You are invited to come along from 10.30am-11.30am to grab a coffee and a cake for just £2.50.

Edinburgh College lecturers speak out

As of Thursday 15th August, members of the EIS-FELA trade union at Edinburgh College who are  taking part in Action Short of a Strike will be docked (deemed) 100% of their pay.

College  lecturers across Scotland are taking part in a protracted dispute over pay and job security, and  have had no consolidated pay rise since 2021 despite rampant inflation. 

In a recent email to all staff, Edinburgh College Principal Audrey Cumberford conceded that  staff should be “due a pay award that reflects the issue of pay erosion over a number of years,  and reflects the value of what you do”.

She further accepts that the current pay dispute is  inextricably linked to the lack of Scottish Government funding of the sector, and that colleges  have been left behind compared to other public sector organisations when it comes to cost-of living payrises. 

EIS Branch Secretary Dan Holland said: “It is welcome that Edinburgh College leaders now  publicly recognise what EIS members have been saying from the outset: that the Scottish  Government are providing the barrier for a cost-of-living pay rise in the college.

“However, by  choosing to punish staff for participating in Action Short of a Strike and deduct all their salary, this has now escalated the matter locally which will only serve to harm industrial relations. 

“Following a local strike last year which damaged these relations, the local EIS branch has  worked extremely hard with local management to repair this trust.

“This unconscionable act of  deducting all our salary for refusing to complete less than 1% of our job is effectively locking staff out of coming to work, as the Principal clearly stated that any work carried out would be  consider voluntary and go unpaid.

“The local branch implores the Principal to withdraw this  punitive approach to evidence her commitment to the agreed cultural reset.” 

Last year, the Edinburgh College EIS Branch passed a unanimous vote of no-confidence in  Audrey Cumberford following an acrimonious redundancy process and complaints of bullying  within the college.

Edinburgh College’s own Hive survey, commissioned at the cost of  approximately £20k, further highlighted that there are significant cultural issues within the college.

Ironically, an all-staff day tomorrow – Monday 19th August – will be themed around improving the culture of the college will see many EIS members unable to attend due to this de facto lockout without pay.

Edinburgh College Clearing Event offers next steps for prospective students

To give prospective students the opportunity to speak to lecturers about their application and course options for the 2024/25 session, Edinburgh College is hosting a course clearing exam results drop-in session at its Sighthill Campus on Friday 9 August.

From 10.30m to 3pm, prospective students of all ages will be able to speak to course teams about their options following the release of exam results, and will get the chance to secure a place on a course for the upcoming academic session.

Those who have changed their mind about their original course choice, or who have not yet made an application for college but would like to study this year are also encouraged to attend.

Edinburgh College offers courses across a wide range of subject areas within the Creative Industries, Engineering and Construction, Health, Wellbeing and Social Sciences, and Tourism, Hospitality and Business faculties.

Courses are delivered in a variety of study modes, including full-time and part-time study, and cater to the diverse needs of today’s student.

As well as this, Student Services will be on hand at the event to provide advice on funding options and access to learning support for those who are seeking further information about their study options for the coming year.

Those who cannot attend Friday’s drop-in session can call the College’s clearing phoneline between 10am and 4pm from Monday 5 August until Tuesday 13 August. Staff will be taking calls to give advice based on students’ specific situations and helping begin course applications. The clearing phone number is: 0131 297 8300.

Audrey Cumberford, Edinburgh College Principal, said: “Clearing day is a very important time for applicants and prospective students who are still considering their next steps.

“We would encourage anyone who is unsure about their existing application or is thinking about starting a new course in 2024/25 to get advice from our teams at our clearing event.

“At Edinburgh College, our fantastic range of courses are not only delivered by expert teaching staff, but are also designed to provide students with the skills they need to either continue their learner journey or achieve their chosen career.

“Come along and start your future at our clearing event.”

Colleges across Scotland open their doors for Big College Open Week

Colleges across Scotland are opening their doors from 21 to 28 March to mark the second national Big College Open Week – aka #BigCOW.

A host of exciting activities are taking place in colleges across Scotland during the week. Organised by the College Development Network (CDN) Marketing and Communications Network, the purpose of the week is to demonstrate all that colleges offer – including the wide range of learning pathways and options open to students.

Choosing to study at college is the best way to start, change or develop a new career right on your doorstep. By coming together, Scotland’s colleges will show how they are the right choice for anyone – young and not so young – who wants to start or change their careers, and for businesses looking to develop their workforce.

During the week colleges will be offering taster sessions, tours, the chance to meet course tutors and members of Students’ Associations, who will be on hand to talk about clubs, societies and support. There are taster days and open evenings, and you can ‘learn to student like a pro’ with short talks on careers, the library and admissions.

At Edinburgh College, a number of curriculum areas are showcasing their courses and facilities during open events which also allow perspective students to meet lecturers and ask any questions they may have.

The following events are taking place:

  • Performing Arts Studio Scotland (PASS): Monday 25 March, 2-3.30pm at Granton Campus. Information on course areas including: Acting, Costume, Dance, Make up Artistry, Musical Theatre, Technical Theatre.
  • Enterprise and Commerce:  Wednesday 27 March, 6-7pm. This is an online event – a joining link will be emailed to attendees 24 hours before the event starts.
  • Childhood Practice: Wednesday 27 March, 6-7pm at Sighthill Campus. Online joining is available on request in the form below.
  • Social Services: Wednesday 27 March, 6-7pm at Sighthill Campus.
  • Photography: Thursday 28 March, 1-3pm at Sighthill Campus.

To book a space, complete this form: https://forms.office.com/e/EUAeGvZ8h7

Audrey Cumberford, Edinburgh College Principal, said: “We are delighted to be taking part in this year’s Big College Open Week, which is an important campaign for Scotland’s colleges to showcase our first-class courses and facilities.

“We look forward to welcoming prospective students on to our campuses to find out more about study options we have available here at Scotland’s Capital College.”

Marie Hendry, Chief Executive, CDN, said: “We are really excited for this year’s Big College Open Week. It’s all part of the Choose College campaign and aims to highlight the incredible opportunities colleges offer.

“The week will showcase the support and expertise that has helped countless pupils, school leavers, career changers, career developers, employers, graduates and apprentices to take the next steps in their journey.

“We want to get the message out to parents, grandparents, guardians, teachers, mature students and school pupils that college is so much more than a course – it offers pathways, experiences and qualifications that lead to real careers and future success.”

Explore what is happening at your local college: https://www.cdn.ac.uk/choose-college/big-college-open-week/

New exhibition at hubCAP Gallery

CHRIS BYRNE’s MACHINE RUMOURS

A new hubCAP Gallery exhibition from Chris Byrne, entitled Machine Rumours, will celebrate the 1,000,061st birthday of Art Administration – and the week-long celebration will kick off with a birthday party on Monday 19th February. 

The opening event (5pm – 9pm) complete with birthday cake, drinks, and nibbles, will be followed by an artist talk and week-long exhibition, all taking place at The Gatehouse (located on the grounds of Edinburgh College, Granton). Full schedule of events below. 

In 1963, French Fluxus artist Robert Filliou suggested that 1,000,000 years ago, there was no art. But one day, on the 17th of January to be precise, Art was born. According to Filliou, it happened when someone dropped a dry sponge into a bucket of water.

In 2007, Canadian artist, curator, and art administrator Brian L. MacNevin declared that a little over a month after Art’s Birthday, over a million years ago, the object (a sponge in a bucket of water) from the Birth of Art was discovered, labeled artwork, acquisitioned, evaluated, documented, conserved/cared for, placed on exhibit, and pedagogically interpreted.

Henceforth 19th February became Art Administration’s birthday.

Edinburgh-based artist, educator, and curator Chris Byrne will celebrate the occasion of Art Administration’s Birthday with a presentation of new work developed and produced in response to the birth of art some 1,000,061 years ago.

Chris said: “For some time now I’ve been interested in how ideas are manifested through art. Not just the ideas themselves, but also the processes by which they become part of an artwork, and the modes of addressing the viewer.

“There is always an element of craft skill inherent in making any artwork, but art cannot be reduced to a display of virtuosity. Much of my work over the past decade has attempted to move away from the craft paradigm (complete escape is not possible) without crossing into the territory of anti-art. It’s more about which elements constitute an artwork, and how these are arranged for the spectator.

“The installation presented at hubCAP gallery centres around a sound recording made on Art’s Birthday 2024. The work seeks to integrate this artefact into the context of a celebration for Art Administration’s Birthday, and creating an exhibition within the gallery space. The objects, technical means and rhetorical gestures chosen are intended to echo some of the multi-layered origins and histories of ideas and practices referred to in the work.” 

The week’s events will run as follows: 

Birthday Procession: Leaving from HND CAP Studio (B202) Edinburgh College going to Gatehouse.   

  • Date: Monday 19th Feb 
  • Time: 5pm 

Exhibition Preview & Birthday Celebration:

  • Date: Monday, 19th February
  • Time: 5 – 9 pm

Exhibition Hours:

  • Dates: Tuesday, 20th – Sunday, 25th February
  • Time: 12 – 4 pm daily

Artist’s Talk:

  • Date: Tuesday, 20th February
  • Time: 1 pm

About the Artist:

Chris Byrne engages with visual culture as an artist, curator, educator, and writer. Originally trained as a sculptor, Chris has long-standing interests in the moving image, networked and collaborative art practices, internet art, sound, and performance.  He has organised numerous projects, exhibitions, performances, and residencies with artists across Scotland and internationally. Chris lectures in Context & Theory at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, Dundee. He currently leads the research dissertation component of undergraduate Design courses across DJCAD and teaches communication theory for Communication Design students.

About hubCAP Gallery:

hubCAP Gallery is an exhibitions and events organisation led by a rotating team of student artists from the HND Contemporary Art Practice (CAP) course at Edinburgh College. Founded in 2019 as part of the HND CAP Professional Practice and Exhibition program, hubCAP provides a platform for artists through a varied program of exhibitions, events, and publications. The self-funded organisation aims to foster dialogue, learning, and engagement with college, local, and wider communities.

Visit our website for more details: https://hubcapgallery.com

Edinburgh College ready to welcome prospective students at Open Days

Edinburgh College is ready to welcome those considering starting a course in August 2024 to its four open days this January and February.

At the open days, prospective students will be able to find out about the various courses they can apply for, meet lecturers, explore the College’s facilities, as well as experience first-hand what it’s like to study at Edinburgh College.

Midlothian Campus will be open from 4.30pm-7pm on Tuesday 30 January, Granton Campus will be open from 10am-1pm on Saturday 3 February, Milton Road Campus will be open from 4.30pm -7pm on Tuesday 6 February, and Sighthill Campus will be open from 4.30pm-7pm on Thursday 8 February.

Prospective students, parents, guardians, business owners and those in employment are invited to attend the open days to not only find out about course options, but also find out more about applications, funding options and accommodation.

The College offers a wide range of subjects within Creative Industries, Construction and Engineering, Health, Wellbeing and Social Science, and Tourism, Hospitality and Business.

With beginner-level courses, pathways to university, short courses and continuous development courses, learners at any stage of their career or education journey will be able to find out about their possible next steps at these events.

Guided tours of campus facilities will also take place, with staff and representatives from Edinburgh College Students’ Association on hand to answer any questions.

Edinburgh College Principal, Audrey Cumberford, said: “We’re delighted to soon be welcoming prospective students onto our campuses.

“Open days are such an excellent opportunity to find out more about the fantastic range of courses we offer, as well as the different paths an Edinburgh College education can take you down.

“Plus, you get the crucial experience of finding out what life is like with us here in the capital. So, I really encourage anyone who’s thinking about studying with us to come along.”

For more information and to book a place at one of the open days, visit the Edinburgh College website.

Applications for courses starting in August 2024 are now open.

New Year, new skills? Places still available on courses at Edinburgh College

There’s still time to try something new this new year as places are available on a wide range of January-start courses at Scotland’s Capital College.

Edinburgh College’s January courses start later this month – meaning potential applicants still have time to book their place and take the next step in their education and career journey.

Places are available in subject areas including: Music; Computing; Cookery and Hospitality; Travel and Tourism; Business; Science; Health and Care; and Sport and Fitness.

In addition to full-time courses, a variety of flexible study options – including evening and part-time – are available to suit the needs of those with family commitments or those in employment.

Courses are delivered by expert lecturers across the College’s four campuses: Granton; Midlothian; Milton Road; and Sighthill – all of which house state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.

As well as high-quality learning, students also have access to extensive support services including: funding, learning support and wellbeing during their time at the College.

Audrey Cumberford, Edinburgh College Principal, said: “We’re looking forward to launching our January-start courses for 2024. It is always an exciting time for us to welcome new students to our Edinburgh College community.

“Our courses are delivered by expert teaching staff and are designed to provide students with the skills they need to either continue their learner journey or achieve their chosen career. We look forward to supporting our next wave of students to take their next step.”

Community Carols at Granton Campus

TONIGHT from 6 – 7.30pm

🎄 Need help getting into the festive spirit?

Head along to The Hub at Granton Campus tonight (Wednesday 13 December), from 6 – 7.30pm, for a festive evening of carol singing, choir singing and live music performances.

Find out more: https://ow.ly/hXCP50QfQBK