Edinburgh College – Page 2 – The NEN

New partnership to support innovation and entrepreneurship

Edinburgh Napier University, Queen Margaret University and Edinburgh College announce collaboration

A new effort to support innovation and enterprise across the south-east of Scotland has been announced by Edinburgh Napier University (ENU), Queen Margaret University and Edinburgh College, as part of Scotland’s National Innovation Week.

The three institutions have agreed a collaborative partnership with the aim of developing the region’s innovation, enterprise and skills through improved connectivity with academic expertise and support.

The focus of the partnership will be to support innovation and entrepreneurship in line with nationwide plans to boost Scotland’s economic development.

The agreement will enhance work towards ambitions laid out in the Edinburgh and South East Scotland Regional Innovation Action Plan, the Scottish Government’s National Innovation Strategy and its Entrepreneurial Campus Blueprint, by strengthening entrepreneurial skills and networks across Scotland.

There will also be increased collaboration around knowledge exchange and innovation projects, which aim to bring academic expertise to businesses and organisations that could benefit from it.

This new agreement follows the recent expansion of ENU’s enterprise hub Bright Red Triangle (BRT), to offer specialist support to Queen Margaret University and Edinburgh College students and alumni. Since its formation in 2005, BRT has supported more than 1,000 start-ups and freelancers from the ENU community from its Start Up Studio in Edinburgh.

Some of the early collaborative work as part of the partnership will include:

Entrepreneurial support to our collective community of over 60,000 students, building on the successful BRT partnership launched in October 2024
Regional upskilling and innovation to support SME and public sector bodies
Delivery against the Entrepreneurial Campus Blueprint
Pilot of a Knowledge Exchange Concordat across the partner institutions

Professor Gary Hutchison, Assistant Principal (External Engagement) at Edinburgh Napier University said: “We are delighted to commit to this new partnership between our institutions – building on our shared enterprise services by developing an integrated innovation pathway to support the region’s companies and public sector agencies.

“Edinburgh Napier University has a strong track record of supporting entrepreneurs to take their innovative ideas to the next level.

“This collaboration will build on the expertise of all three institutions, with an overall aim of contributing to Scotland’s economic development, while benefiting our students, communities and industry partners.”

Professor Richard Butt, Deputy Principal of Queen Margaret University, said: “We are delighted to be part of this exciting partnership which will elevate the role of skills development as a pathway to innovation – whether that be through support for student, graduate and staff enterprise or research and knowledge exchange collaborations across our HE and FE colleagues, local businesses and organisations.

“The new partnership also allows us to focus on delivering impact in community wealth building, to support the generation, circulation and retention of wealth in our local economy.

“We look forward to working with our Edinburgh Napier University and Edinburgh College colleagues to enhance our collaborative approaches and improve our economic impact locally, regionally and nationally.”

Mike Jeffrey, Vice Principal Corporate Development at Edinburgh College, said: “This new partnership presents an exciting opportunity for Edinburgh College to strengthen our existing support for entrepreneurship and innovation across our student body, alumni network, and wider industry connections.

“In today’s fast-paced economy, it is essential to equip students with entrepreneurial capabilities alongside technical and vocational expertise.

“r4At Edinburgh College, we work with a broad network of organisations to ensure our students are not only prepared to excel in their chosen professions but are also empowered to become the innovators who will shape the future.

“Through collaborating with our university partners to share knowledge, resource and expertise, we look forward to further embedding a culture of knowledge exchange throughout our college community.”

Reforming post-school funding

Stage 1 vote backed by MSPs

Legislation to simplify the funding system for learners at college, university and apprentices in Scotland has been given in-principle backing by MSPs.

They voted by 62 to 39 to endorse the general principles of the Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance) (Scotland) Bill, ensuring it passes Stage 1 and proceeds to Stage 2 in the Scottish Parliament.

If passed, the Bill will see responsibility for funding national training programmes and apprenticeships move to the Scottish Funding Council (SFC) from Skills Development Scotland (SDS). This will consolidate responsibility for provision of tertiary education and training within a redesigned SFC.

The Bill would also strengthen the SFC’s governance powers to allow for more effective oversight of colleges and higher education institutions, including a greater focus on their financial sustainability and the needs of learners.

Higher and Further Education Minister Ben Macpherson said: “At its core, this Bill would better enable funding to go where it matters most, supporting the skills, services and innovation that our economy and learners need to thrive.

“The Bill has been publicly backed by key sector organisations including the Scottish Training Federation, Federation of Small Businesses, Universities Scotland and Colleges Scotland.

“This legislation intends to help build a more coherent, collaborative, flexible system where colleges, universities and training providers all play a collaborative role in delivering high-quality education and training.”

The Scottish Government’s response to the Education, Children and Young People Committee report into the Bill shows a revised highest cost estimate of £21.6 million, a reduction of almost £12 million.

Financial sustainability reports launched

The Scottish Funding Council (SFC) has today (26 September 2025) published two reports that provide an aggregate picture of the financial health of Scotland’s colleges and universities.

Based on their annual accounts for academic years 2022-23 and 2023-24 and latest forecasts up to 2027-28 for colleges and 2026-27 for universities, the reports provide detailed information at sector level on the operating position, cash balances, sources of income, expenditure, liquidity, cash flow, borrowing and capital expenditure.

Both colleges and universities continue to operate in an extremely tight fiscal environment, with downward trends in cash balances showing both sectors under pressure.

While neither sector is homogenous, and the forecasts represent a snapshot in time, both colleges and universities face similar risks to their financial health, including:

Increasing staff costs.
Further flat cash settlements or unanticipated public spending cuts.
An uncertain macro-economic outlook, including rising inflation and persistently high interest rates.
Continuing high energy costs.
Infrastructure pressures, exacerbated by the impact of RAAC, impacting on the delivery of high-quality learning, teaching and research.
The requirement to invest in the achievement of public sector net zero targets.
The impact of UK government policies on maintaining international fee income.

The reports also outline the mitigating actions that colleges and universities are taking to adapt to challenges and uncertainties, including staff restructuring, vacancy management, freezing of non-essential spend, reviewing course portfolios, curriculum rationalisation and consolidation, moves to online and blended learning, delaying capital spend and reviewing estates strategies.

Commenting on the reports, SFC Chair, Professor Cara Aitchison, said: “While these reports represent a snapshot in time, the trends we’re seeing indicate the serious implications of the tight fiscal environment in which colleges and universities are operating and the need for action to address the challenges they face.

“We are encouraged by the proactive steps being taken by institutions as they adapt and build in resilience for this changing environment, recognising that this may include difficult decisions to secure long term financial sustainability which is a requirement of our Financial Memorandum.

“We continue to engage closely with Scottish Ministers on the case for investment in colleges and universities which are the drivers for economic growth, addressing child poverty, supporting the transition to net zero and delivering excellent public services.

“We are also increasing levels of engagement and monitoring activity for those institutions facing the highest risks to their financial health and are working with them to understand and assess plans to bring them back to a sustainable position.”

Principal of Edinburgh College, Audrey Cumberford said: “This report confirms what’s been known for a long time – that the financial situation facing colleges is dire.

“The status quo isn’t an option and urgent action needs to be taken before we see colleges fall further into financial trouble.

“Colleges have the potential to do so much more. By unlocking our potential, restructuring our funding streams and reforming our apprenticeship system we could deliver a brighter future for the whole sector.”

Explore your future at Edinburgh College’s Clearing drop-in session

THURSDAY 7th AUGUST at SIGHTHILL CAMPUS

To give prospective students the opportunity to speak to lecturers about their application and course options for the 2025/26 session, Edinburgh College is hosting an Exam Results Drop In event at its Sighthill Campus this Thursday (7th August).

From 10.30am to 2pm, prospective students will be able to speak to lecturers about their course 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, Construction and Engineering, 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.

The Edinburgh College course clearing phone line will also be open for applicants and prospective students to call from 9am to 4pm between Tuesday 5 and Friday 15 August to discuss their applications and courses ahead of the new term.

The course clearing line number is 0131 297 8300.

Edinburgh College Principal Audrey Cumberford said: “Clearing is a crucial time for applicants and prospective students who are still exploring their options for the next step in their educational journey.

“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.

“I strongly encourage you to come along to our clearing event or reach out to our teams through our dedicated clearing line to find out how you can Experience Edinburgh College.”

Edinburgh College achieves ‘Platinum Study Centre’ Status from CIPD

Edinburgh College has been awarded ‘Platinum Study Centre’ status by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) in recognition of its consistent delivery of high-quality HR qualifications.

The accolade represents the highest level of recognition granted by CIPD, the professional body for HR and people development. The Platinum status acknowledges the college’s excellence in assessment and marking standards, robust administrative operations, and consistently high levels of learner satisfaction.

Carole Paterson, Head of School and Programme Director for CIPD, CMI, ILM and CIM qualifications at Edinburgh College said: “We are honoured to receive the highest recognition from CIPD.

“This Platinum status is testament to the dedication and expertise of our teaching team, who have been delivering exceptional professional education for over two decades.

“Our CIPD programmes not only provide accredited qualifications but also equip our learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s dynamic workplace.

“We are proud to support HR professionals at every stage of their career and look forward to continuing this work with the added distinction of Platinum status.”

Jenny Churchill, CIPD and CMI lecturer at Edinburgh College also commented: “Our college offers a flexible, fully online delivery model that includes weekly tutor-led sessions, and peer learning through a virtual platform.

“Learners engage and draw on relevant case studies, HRM literature, theories, and statistics, to inform their professional practice. Guest speakers, an alumni mentor scheme and a Mock Employment Tribunal are an integral part of our course programmes.

“For Level 7, we provide a face-to-face induction and two on-campus workshops, all of which are streamed for virtual participation, ensuring an accessible and inclusive learning experience.”

With over 160,000 members globally – and a growing community using its research, insights and learning – the CIPD gives trusted advice and offers independent thought leadership.

It’s a leading voice in the call for good work that creates value for everyone.

Edinburgh College also offers a range of business, leadership and management training courses to support those looking to progress their career.

For more information or to apply for a course starting this September, visit:

www.edinburghcollege.ac.uk.

Edinburgh College becomes College of Sanctuary

Edinburgh College has been awarded College of Sanctuary status in recognition of the support it provides to refugees and asylum seekers in accessing educational opportunities.

The College of Sanctuary status – awarded by the City of Sanctuary UK network – recognises and aims to enhance the work of colleges in providing support and opportunities for refugees, asylum seekers, and those seeking sanctuary in the UK.

To gain the award, a group of staff from across the College united to audit and enhance the range of support provided to students seeking sanctuary currently enrolled at the College.

This involved expanding training for staff on sanctuary-seeking issues, improving signposting to support services, broadening engagement with local refugee and asylum seeker support organisations, and enhancing opportunities for students of all backgrounds to become involved in college life.

In addition, the College partnered with ECSA (Edinburgh College Students’ Association) to provide a remunerated work placement opportunity for a student seeking sanctuary to lead on incorporating the student voice into the heart of the project.

Through this work, Student Engagement Assistant, Zahra Maleki, interviewed a number of students to learn more about their journey to the UK, College experience, the support that they receive, and plans for the future, to help the College gain a deeper understanding of the lives of these students and the challenges they face.

The award, and the activities undertaken as part of it, build upon the significant progress Edinburgh College has made in recent years and establishes a benchmark for future efforts to ensure students who are seeking sanctuary feel welcome and supported to thrive during their time at College.

Audrey Cumberford, Edinburgh College Principal, said: “I’m delighted that the College has been formally recognised as a College of Sanctuary. This award is recognition not just of the work undertaken this year, but recognition of the enormous work done by our staff in this area over a number of years, and, in some cases, decades.

“As Scotland’s capital city, Edinburgh is a diverse and welcoming place. Our college embodies that. We have people from over 135 countries across the world choosing to come to study here. In everything we do, we aim to ensure Edinburgh College is a place where people are given an opportunity to build a better future for themselves, irrespective of where they have come from in the past.”

Gün Orgun, City of Sanctuary Coordinator for Scotland and Northern Ireland, who headed the appraisal panel for Edinburgh College, said: “It was great to visit Edinburgh College and speak to staff and students involved in their College of Sanctuary project.

“Our visit underscored all the great provision outlined in Edinburgh College’s application and the depth of staff commitment across the College, including senior management, was great to see. The panel noted a number of impressive areas of practice and comments from students demonstrated a strong sense of belonging within the College.

“Receiving this award is not an easy task, requiring a significant effort and going above and beyond statutory requirements – and Edinburgh College provided several great practice examples of what being a College of Sanctuary is all about.

“We look forward to seeing Edinburgh College’s provision in this area develop in the years ahead.”

Edinburgh College Modern Languages department wins national education award

Edinburgh College’s Modern Languages department proved they’re fluent in success after picking up a national education award at a ceremony in Glasgow recently.

The team won the Partnership with Schools Award at the Herald Higher Education (HE) Awards in recognition of their work in collaborating with schools the length and breadth of the country to deliver National Qualifications in Modern Languages to young people through an innovative online model.

The department’s inspiring work has helped increase opportunities for school pupils to continue learning French, German, Italian and Spanish at Higher and Advanced Higher levels, thereby bridging the gap between school and university and allowing students from any school in Scotland to potentially go on to study languages at university level.

This project initially started with a number of local schools and has since gone from strength to strength. In the academic year 2024/25, the College worked with 180 pupils – up from 62 in 2014/2015 – in 95 schools across Scotland, across over 20 local authorities, including many remote areas where in-person language hubs are not possible.

Feedback from learners shows that the online delivery has been enormously appreciated and instrumental in improving pupils’ range and sophistication in the language they have chosen to learn.

Pupils report that their work ethic, organisational and IT skills have also improved, which has resulted in an increased feeling of confidence inside and outside of their digital classroom.

Edinburgh College Head of School for Community-based ESOL and Modern Languages, Kay Penman said: “I am so proud of the whole team. This award reflects their hard work, innovative online delivery model and commitment to their students as well as the sector-leading SQA results achieved in the exams.

“I also want to highlight the outstanding efforts of Caroline Cordier, our Curriculum Team Manager, whose commitment to providing access to language learning to school pupils across Scotland has really driven this project to where it is today.

“Thanks to our provision, hundreds of pupils in almost a hundred schools have been able to continue learning languages.”

Edinburgh College Principal Audrey Cumberford said: “Congratulations to our Modern Languages department on this fantastic award success!

“This is well-deserved recognition of their hard work in building partnerships with schools across Scotland to deliver a vital online service for many young people who want to continue learning a language.”

The Herald HE Awards took place on Thursday 29 May at the Radisson Blu hotel in Glasgow.

What’s at Stake – a new exhibition by Contemporary Art Practice students

Edinburgh College’s HND Contemporary Art Practice (CAP) students invite you to their upcoming graduate exhibition What’s at Stake at Mote 102.

Join the CAP year 2 students for their opening event on 29th May as they celebrate an exciting new exhibition, marking the end of their time at Edinburgh College. The launch will take place between 6pm – 8pm, and all are welcome to attend.

The opening event at artist space and gallery Mote 102 (102 Ferry Road, EH6 4PG) will allow guests to see a preview of the work, as well as meet the next wave of contemporary artists over drinks and nibbles.

The exhibition will then run from 30th May – 1st June, daily from 11am to 5pm, where viewers will get the opportunity to appreciate the work before it moves to the group’s second exhibition space at City Art Centre on the 11th June.

CAP lecturer Alan Holligan said: “What’s at Stake is a testament to the dedication and vision of our graduating artists.

“This exhibition not only showcases the depth of their creative exploration but marks a bold step into the wider art world. We’re immensely proud of their achievements and excited for what lies ahead.”

What’s at Stake will feature contemporary artwork on a variety of themes, including 2D, 3D, and installation/video, so come along and join the CAP graduates in celebrating the end of two incredible years. It’s going to be quite a party!

CAP year 2 student Bronwen Winter Phoenix said: “I’m so excited to see everyone’s art on display at Mote 102 – we’ve all worked really hard, and we’ve got some great work we can’t wait to show you!”

Mote 102 is a not-for-profit, curated, changing artist space in a former chemist shop in Leith. The gallery hosts local artists, makers and gardeners with an eye to the wider world.

Exhibitions, events, residencies and the pop-up shop Made by Hand are in occupation on a rolling programme throughout the year.

Accessibility Information:

Venue Access:

Single step access at the front of the venue will have a temporary ramp at the opening event and upon request during general opening times

Internally the rear of the venue is accessible via 2 steps which will have a temporary ramp for wheelchair users during the opening event and upon request during general opening times.

Toilet Facilities:

There are no public toilet facilities in the venue.

Parking: A mix of paid and free on street parking are availble in the surrounding area:

Public Transport:

7, 14, 21 busses stop on Ferry Road withing 20m of the venue

10 bus stops on Great Junction Street approx 200m from Venue

11 bus stop on Newhaven Road approx 200m from the venue

Edinburgh College’s Photography Graduates Unveil Their Vision

EXPOSED 25: Witness the Future of Photography

Edinburgh College’s Photography Graduates Unveil Their Vision.

Prepare to be captivated. Prepare to be challenged. Prepare to be EXPOSED.

This June, Edinburgh College’s graduating photography class invites you to witness the culmination of years of dedication, passion, and artistic exploration. EXPOSED 25 is a vibrant testament to the raw talent and innovative perspectives emerging from the heart of Scotland’s creative capital.

EXPOSED 25 is more than just a display of technical skill; it’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the power of visual storytelling. Each photograph represents a unique journey, a personal vision, and a bold step into the professional world.

Join us for a night of art, inspiration, and celebration.

Event Details:

Location: Out of the Blue Drill Hall, 36 Dalmeny Street, Edinburgh, EH6 8RG
Dates: 3rd June – 12th
10am – 5pm, closed Sunday
Admission: Free

Don’t miss this opportunity to be EXPOSED to the next generation of photographic visionaries.

Follow us on Insta @edinburghcollegephotography for updates and sneak peeks!

#EXPOSED25

#EdinburghCollegePhotography

#EmergingArtists

#ScottishPhotography

#EdinburghArt

#PhotographyExhibition

@EdinburghCollege

@ECCreativeIndustries

@ECGLOW

@TheSkinnyMag

What’s at Stake – a new exhibition by Contemporary Art Practice students

Edinburgh College’s HND Contemporary Art Practice (CAP) students invite you to their upcoming graduate exhibition What’s at Stake at Mote 102.

The exhibition will then run from 30th May – 2nd June, daily from 11am to 5pm, where viewers will get the opportunity to appreciate the work before it moves to the group’s second exhibition space at City Art Centre on the 11th June.

CAP lecturer Alan Holligan said: “What’s at Stake is a testament to the dedication and vision of our graduating artists. This exhibition not only showcases the depth of their creative exploration but marks a bold step into the wider art world.

“We’re immensely proud of their achievements and excited for what lies ahead.”

Mote 102 is a not-for-profit, curated, changing artist space in a former chemist shop in Leith, Edinburgh. The gallery hosts local artists, makers and gardeners with an eye to the wider world.

Exhibitions, events, residencies and the pop-up shop Made by Hand are in occupation on a rolling programme throughout the year.

ACCESSIBILITY: Mote 102 is an accessible venue, with ramp available for the pavement entrance step.

Edinburgh College: Part-time courses starting in August

Apply for a part time course starting in August 2025!

If you are looking to advance your career, explore a passion, or take the next step after school, experience Edinburgh College.

Our part time courses starting in August 2025 are now open for application, giving you the flexibility to balance your studies with work and other commitments.

Edinburgh College’s state-of-the-art facilities, expert lecturers, and strong industry connections offer hands-on experience and skills for your future success.

Apply for a part time course starting in August 2025 on our website:

https://ow.ly/CUHU50Vak5b

#experienceedinburghcollege

#edinburghcollege