Edinburgh College – Page 2 – The NEN

Winners of the first ever Scottish Chefs Nespresso Professional Student Coffee Challenge revealed

Ana Fernandez Santoz, Niamh Bortherston and Mairi Edwards from Edinburgh College, Milton Campus awarded prize by Michel Roux

Scottish Chefs, (Federation of Chefs Scotland) the organisation representing Scottish chefs, teamed up with Nespresso Professional for the first ever student coffee challenge.

The winning team from Edinburgh College, Milton Campus each received an invite to the Scottish Culinary Team dinner at Prestonfield House Hotel where they met Michel Roux, Patron of Scottish Chefs, and were presented with a signed book from him, plus a Nespresso M100 coffee machine for their college.

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 winning menu from Ana Fernandez Santoz, Niamh Bortherston and Mairi Edwards was made up of Tiramisu x Mont Blanc, Coffee Apple Choux au Craquelin, Smoked Mackerel and Beetroot Tart and Puff Vegetable Samosa.

The judging panel of Joe Queen, Chair of The Scottish Chefs Culinary Committee, Kevin MacGillivray, International World Chefs Accredited Judge, Derek Johnston, the first winner of BBC MasterChef The Professionals, and Donna Dowson, Head of Sales UK, Nespresso, noted the winning team’s overall balance between sweet & savoury and the variety of pastry skills displayed by the students.

The standout item was the Smoked mackerel with beetroot with judges saying the flavours were an excellent combination.

Donna Dowson, Head of Sales UK, Nespresso, said: “It was a privilege to support this competition, and help support the next generation of culinary superstars. It was inspiring to see the high standard on display and such imaginative menus to complement our coffee.

“When food is this delicious, being able to offer the best coffee is something we feel extremely passionate about, and we hope this is the first of many competitions to come.”

Joe Queen, Chair of the judges, said: “We are absolutely delighted to partner up with Nespresso on this new competition and help ignite their imagination of the students to develop new ideas and combinations to bring the Nespresso coffee into their creations.

“The judges were really impressed with the quality and flavours produced on the day form the winning team from Edinburgh college.”

Class of 2023 honoured at Edinburgh College Graduation

More than 600 students celebrated in style as they graduated as part of Edinburgh College’s class of 2023 at the McEwan Hall last week (2 November).

Students were joined by over 1,800 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, 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 time of year, providing an occasion to celebrate all of our students’ hard work and determination shown throughout their time at College.

“The class of 2023 have shown a great commitment and dedication to their studies which will stand them in good stead for whatever they decide to do next. Armed with a college education, I have no doubt that they will go on to achieve great things.

“On behalf of the College’s governing body, management team, tutors, and support staff, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all of them. I wish them the very best as they move forward in their further studies and chosen careers.

“Here’s to you, class of 2023!”

Edinburgh College shortlisted for six national awards

Edinburgh College has been shortlisted for six awards at the 2023 CDN College Awards – the annual celebration of talent, innovation and achievement across the sector.

Professional Cookery and Bakery lecturer Kellyanne Cockburn has been shortlisted for her work in creating the Mezz and Hub cafes at Milton Road and Granton campuses. These student-led cafes provide an outlet for goods produced by students to be sold while providing the student community with a low-cost lunch during the cost of living crisis.

Music and Sound Production Learning Assistant Sarah May has been shortlisted in the Professional Services Colleague of the Year for introducing the Music Box Sessions – a set of extra-curricular recording sessions that allow students to record a high-quality example of their work in the College’s purpose-built music teaching hub – The Music Box – before having it released to the public on social media.

In the Community Learning Category, the College has been shortlisted for providing support to a number of Ukrainian families associated with Scottish charity Dnipro Kids, as well as other Ukrainian refugees living across the city, through a variety of different projects which has helped them make Edinburgh their home.

In addition, the College has been shortlisted in the Skills Development category for the Aspire programme, which supports vulnerable and disengaged young people, and their families, in East Lothian. Through allowing S2 pupils to try a range of different taster sessions that combine industry-themed projects in areas of job growth, the programme helps young people to build an understanding of future career choices, whilst also developing the skills and knowledge they need for employment.

In the Employer Connections category, the College’s Computing department and software development company 2iTesting have been shortlisted for a course they developed to enable students from underrepresented backgrounds to build their digital skills and find routes into the tech industry.

Finally, the College’s Creative Industries team has been named finalist in the Inclusive College for its Story Valley project. The shortlisted saw the College work with The City of Edinburgh Council, to welcome Story Valley partners from three other European UNESCO Cities of Literature – Leeuwarden, Ljubljana and Nottingham.

Story Valley allows students from Europe to learn about each other’s heritage (stories) in a fascinating way, while strengthening their language skills. Story Valley uses the power of these stories and creativity as an engine to preserve cultural heritage and enrich it with the stories of other cultures.

“Congratulations to all of our students and staff involved in these magnificent award nominations. To receive six shortlistings is truly outstanding and shows the depth of talent, creativity and innovation we have here at Edinburgh College. I am extremely proud and give huge thanks to our students and staff.”

Audrey Cumberford, Edinburgh College Principal

CLAYMORE: Table top war gaming event at Granton Campus

SATURDAY 5th AUGUST 10am – 4pm

This event has been running for more than 40 years!

During this time South East Scotland Wargames Club has donated more than £30,000 to various Charities including Radio Forth’s Help a Child Appeal, Poppy Scotland, SSAFA ( Our Current Charity) Scottish War Blinded at Lindburn, is used to do the following promote the hobby, encourage team participation, encourage the development of motor skills and counting,

There will be more than 20 display and participation games attending the show with over 30 traders as well.

The show enables members of the public who are not aware of table top wargaming to come along and have a try out – they do not need to buy anything: in essence the only things they need are a packed lunch and the entrance fee!

Edinburgh College staff strike over compulsory redundancies

Members of the Educational Institute of Scotland – Further Education Lecturers’ Association (EIS-FELA) at Edinburgh College yesterday took the first in a series of days of strike action in response to compulsory redundancies at the College.

The EIS-FELA Branch at Edinburgh College has had an active strike mandate in place for some weeks in pursuit of a dispute regarding compulsory redundancies, which has been successful in reducing the number of jobs under threat, through negotiation.

The EIS wrote to the College Principal last week urging further talks. Despite this, the College has rejected the appeal of one member of the lecturing staff against compulsory redundancy as of 30^th June.

EIS General Secretary, Andrea Bradley said, “The EIS-FELA Branch at Edinburgh College has been left with no option but to proceed with strike action today in the face of wilful intransigence by the management of the College.

“Given the size and scope of Edinburgh College as an organisation, the EIS would have anticipated meaningful discussions and offers of retraining or upskilling for the colleague who faces unemployment as of Friday.

“Despite retraining or upskilling being raised on several occasions by EIS representatives, and despite a so-called recruitment freeze having been abandoned, these discussions have not taken place, thereby limiting suitable alternatives to redundancy for the colleague who also happens to be an EIS Branch Rep.”

Ms Bradley continued: “It is difficult to fathom how such a large college, which delivers such an array of courses, would be unable to avoid this redundancy situation, especially as teaching hours seem to be available on college timetables for next term, based upon information received by the EIS.

“Spurious excuse after excuse has been made by the College as to why the work cannot be offered to the lecturer in question, appearing that the College cares more about targeting union reps and testing the water on compulsory redundancies of lecturers in the sector rather than ensuring the delivery of quality education and Fair Work for lecturing staff.

“The Scottish Government is culpable in this situation too. They have dealt major blows to Further Education in Scotland in the form of flat cash funding settlements and the recent withdrawal of £26 million of funding for FE.

“Lower than predicted student numbers, coupled with the cost-of-living crisis are also causing financial strain within the sector, yet the Scottish Government has sat back and watched these pressures mount towards the implementation of limited voluntary severance schemes and the very real threat of large numbers of compulsory redundancies in two colleges – City of Glasgow and Edinburgh.

“EIS-FELA, supported by the EIS itself, will not stand by and allow the livelihoods of our members to be threatened in this way. Strike action will continue post-summer unless an acceptable resolution can be reached.

“In the case of Edinburgh College, this should not be anything like the problem that the College has chosen to make it.”

Edinburgh College Open Day

SATURDAY 27th MAY at SIGHTHILL CAMPUS from 10am – 1pm

Edinburgh College will welcome prospective students to its Sighthill Campus this May to showcase its facilities to those considering starting a course in August 2023.

The open day will allow prospective students to find out about the various courses they can apply for, as well as see first-hand what it’s like to study at Scotland’s capital College.

Sighthill Campus will be open from 10am-1pm on Saturday 27 May for anyone considering applying for a full-time, part-time, or evening course. Those in attendance will also have the chance to find out more about the many National 5 and Higher courses on offer.

The College offers courses and professional training across a wide range of subjects within the Creative Industries, Construction and Engineering, Health, Wellbeing and Social Sciences, and Tourism, Hospitality and Business faculties.

Prospective students, parents, guardians, business owners and those in employment are invited to visit Sighthill Campus to find out more about course options, how to apply to study at the College, to get advice on additional support, and to learn more about funding options.

Learners at any stage of their professional or education journey will be able to find out about the College’s beginner-level courses, pathways to university, short courses, and continuous professional development courses.

Guided tours of campus facilities will also take place during the event, with staff available to answer any questions that come to mind along the way.

Edinburgh College Principal, Audrey Cumberford, said: “We’re delighted to be opening our Sighthill Campus to prospective students this May so that they can experience what life is like at Edinburgh College.

“It’s an excellent opportunity to find out more about the many fantastic courses we have on offer at our campuses across the capital, as well as discover the different ways that Edinburgh College can help you realise the future you want to achieve. If you’ve been thinking about studying with us, please do come along.”

For more information and to book a place at the May Open Day, visit: https://www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/open-days-may-2023

Come along to our Open Day at Sighthill Campus from 10am on Saturday 27 May, where we will be showcasing our full-time, part-time and evening courses starting this August.

Find out more: http://ow.ly/rvpb50OrToL

Edinburgh College students entertain crowds in New York as part of Tartan Week celebrations

A group of Edinburgh College students travelled across the globe to perform at one of the World’s biggest celebrations of Scottish heritage and culture last month.

The students, from the College’s HND Musical Theatre and BA (Hons) Acting and Performance courses, were invited across the Atlantic to take part in the annual Tartan Week celebrations in New York.

The group of 36 students took part in the Tartan Day parade through the streets of the city, sang in Bryant Park in association with the American Scottish Foundation, danced to the Laurettes, and performed a ten-minute programme featuring a number of traditional Scottish verse and songs.

New York City’s Tartan Week takes place annually to celebrate Scottish heritage and culture which culminates with the Tartan Day Parade, featuring over 3,000 bagpipers, Highland dancers, clan organisations, and more, proudly marching up Sixth Avenue amongst tens of thousands of spectators.

HND Musical Theatre student, Charlotte Watt, said: “The opportunities that being in New York gave me were fantastic. I was able to see shows on Broadway – both some new and some previously adored. I learned about the history of Broadway and New York’s performing scene, which I didn’t know about before.

“The whole trip was a wonderful chance to get to know students from the other course better, and it was so lovely to spend some time with our lecturers out with college. I was presented with performing experience that I will forever be able to put in writing for CV’s or Resumes such as performing in Bryant Park, as well as walking and singing in the Tartan Parade.”

HND Musical Theatre student, Hannah Turnbull, said: “This was a once in a lifetime kind of trip, I got the opportunity to sing a solo in Bryant park for tartan week and see multiple amazing musicals on Broadway.

“I would’ve never gotten this opportunity anywhere else and it was the best week.”

During the trip, the students also went to see two Broadway shows and learned from the best as they took part in a vocal workshop with Evan Zavada, who is Key 1/ Assistant Conductor for the national tour of ‘Wicked the Musical.’

In addition, the students enjoyed some downtime where they explored parts of the city, visiting the recently opened Museum of Broadway in Times Square and eating breakfast in Central Park.

Finally, on the last day the group went to 1950s-themed restaurant Ellen’s Stardust Diner, home of the world-famous singing waitstaff, where they followed in the footsteps of many aspiring singers before them by taking to the stage and performing for the customers.

Performing Arts lecturer, Zelie Jennings, said: “We are so privileged to offer this opportunity for our students. Performing in Bryant Park and being part of Tartan week 2023 was an honour.

“We were fortunate to see many Broadway shows between us all and a highlight for me was seeing how the students were taught and inspired by the wonderful Evan Zavada. Certainly not an experience we will forget.”

Edinburgh College to host SkillBuild regional heat

The largest and longest-running construction skills competition in the UK returns, as Edinburgh College prepares to host students and apprentices from across Scotland for the SkillBuild 2023 regional heat in the country’s capital.

SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and showcases some of the brightest talent, as highly skilled learners and apprentices go head-to-head to be crowned winner of their chosen trade.

On Thursday 1 June 2023, Edinburgh College’s Granton Campus will host the following competitions: Bricklaying; Carpentry; Joinery; Painting and Decorating; Plastering; Roof Slating and Tiling; Stonemasonry; and Wall and Floor Tiling.

Competitors will be tested on their technical abilities, time management, problem solving and skills working under pressure. However, the competitions also bring many benefits to participants – including being proven to improve technical and employability skills, as well as advancing career options.

There are 15 regional qualifiers taking place across the UK from 27 April through to the end of June. Following the regional qualifiers, the top eight scoring competitors from each trade category will be invited to take part in the UK national final – an event which Edinburgh College was the sole Scottish host alongside counterparts across the UK in 2022.

This year’s national final will take place at the Marshall Arena in Milton Keynes on 21, 22 and 23 November 2023.

CITB’s recent Construction Skills Network (CSN) report states that almost 225,000 extra workers will be required to meet UK construction demand by 2027.

It also highlights that construction is expected to remain a sector where there is demand for workers, despite the current economic uncertainty. Covering 10 different trades, SkillBuild is a fantastic opportunity to alter perceptions and promote the diverse range of roles available.

Gracie Brill, a SkillBuild 2022 finalist from Edinburgh College, (above) said: “I first heard about SkillBuild through someone at my workplace and decided to enter as I thought it sounded like an interesting and fun challenge.

“I tend to overanalyse and spend too long perfecting things, so it was great to be able to push myself in a different way through engaging in a timed challenge.

“For anyone thinking about entering, I’d say go for it! Honestly, I don’t think the outcome matters, it’s just a really fun and different sort of challenge. I totally didn’t think I’d made it through my regional heat but was still so glad I’d participated!”

Scott Warden, Edinburgh College Assistant Principal, said: “We’re looking forward to hosting SkillBuild at our Granton Campus in June.

“It is a fantastic event which brings together the most skilled students and apprentices from across the country, and we’re looking forward to seeing all the competitors in action.

“The event is also a great opportunity for our students and young people in the region to find out more about careers within Construction.”

Tim Balcon, CITB Chief Executive, said: “I always look forward to the SkillBuild regional heats, as it’s the first glimpse we get into the fantastic variety of young talent coming through to industry.

“SkillBuild is a wonderful initiative which aims to attract a diverse range of recruits, and with the current skills gap, it places even greater importance on the competition and its ability to promote construction careers to a wider audience.

“SkillBuild not only helps young people to grow personally, increasing their confidence and social skills, but it’s also proven to assist them professionally by developing their technical and employability skills.

“While a challenging experience, if you’re serious about a career in construction, SkillBuild is an excellent opportunity. I wish all competitors the very best of luck for the heats this year!”

To find out more about SkillBuild and the regional qualifiers, visit Go Construct.

Sunshine guaranteed at North Edinburgh Community Festival!

LAUNCH PROMISES MORE STALLS, MORE MUSIC, MORE FOOD and.. SUNSHINE!

Next month’s North Edinburgh’s Community Festival will be even bigger than last years event, organisers announced at Tuesdays launch at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre.

Around 6000 people attended last year’s gala event, and with at least SEVENTY marquees (up from 50 last year) and and not one but TWO music stages there promises to be even more for the local community to do, see and enjoy on 13 May.

Highlights include:

Disney-themed LIFT Parade from Muirhouse Millennium Centre to West Pilton Park to launch the Festival.

More than 70 local organisations and charities with Community Stalls

Two music stages: the open air Park Stage and the Green Room stage in West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre

The music line-up features a wealth of local talent. Performers include local youth orchestra Tinderbox, Granton Youth’s Mixtape Music Club and a session from ever-popular Fischy Music.

There’s a musical medley from the Edinburgh College Musical Theatre Group, performances from local choirs including Ama-zing Harmonies, AUGB Ukranian choir, Craigroyston High School Choir and a high-energy performance is guaranteed from local punk rockers Yer Local Bams. Low Tide, Rai Williams, Laurent and Abigail Kerner will also be performing live on the day in a musical feast.

Family events and activities will include Bookbug with Muirhouse Library and a Storytelling session with Edinburgh International Book Festival’s Citizen writers.

Fancy some sport? You’ll be spoilt for choice as Access Parkour, Spartans Community Football Academy and Inverleith Rugby Club will all be there. And there will be children’s Zumba classes.

North Edinburgh Arts will be organising arts and craft activities and Screen Education Edinburgh will offer film workshops. There’s an Army obstacle course, too.

There will also be learning and upskilling opportunities provided by local organisations including Edinburgh College will be offering course taster sessions.

All in all, there really should be something for everyone. And with sunshine (almost) guaranteed, it promises to be a great day.

Local activist Willie Black, a member of the Festival planning committee, introduced Tuesday’s launch. “We are very excited about this year’s Festival and it promises to be a really great event, a community celebration for everyone to enjoy.

“We have a wealth of diverse talent in this community and we want to share that talent far and wide. We’re looking forward to offering a warm North Edinburgh welcome to thousands of visitors next month, and the hope is that the Festival will be a great success and that it can become an annual event.”

North Edinburgh Community Festival is on Saturday 13 May from 12 – 5.30pm. Free event. All welcome.

IMAGES FROM LAUNCH EVENT:

Edinburgh College set to open its doors to prospective students during February Open Days

Edinburgh College is set to open its doors for four open days this February to showcase its facilities to those considering applying for a full-time course in August 2023.

The College, which has campuses across the capital region, is hosting open days across all four of its campuses to allow prospective students to find out about the courses they can apply for, and to also see first-hand what it’s like to study at Edinburgh College.

Sighthill Campus will be open from 4pm-7pm on Tuesday 7 February, Milton Road Campus will be open from 4pm-7pm on Thursday 9 February, Midlothian Campus will be open from 4pm-7pm on Tuesday 21 February and Granton Campus will be open from 10am-1pm on Saturday 25 February.

Prospective students, parents, guardians, business owners and those in employment are invited to head to College campuses to find out more about course options, funding options and accommodation, and to also meet representatives from Edinburgh College Students’ Association (ECSA).

Learners at any stage of their career or education journey will be able to find out more about the College’s beginner-level courses, pathways to university, short courses, and continuous professional development courses.

Guided tours of campus facilities will also take place during the events, with staff on hand to answer any questions and to provide demonstrations along the way.

Edinburgh College Principal, Audrey Cumberford, said: “We’re looking forward to welcoming prospective students onto our campuses and giving them the chance to find out what it’s like studying at the College.

“Whether you’re a school leaver, looking to boost your current qualifications, or wanting to learn a new skill, the open days are a fantastic opportunity to find out more about the courses we have on offer. I encourage anyone who’s thinking about studying with us to come along.”

For more information and to book a place at the February Open Days, visit:

https://www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk/news-and-events/events/open-days-february-2023