Tag: learning

QMU’s Chartered Management Institute Accreditation will empower next generation of business leaders

Queen Margaret University’s suite of undergraduate Business Management degrees has gained Chartered Management Institute (CMI) Level 5 Dual Accreditation, helping students develop the skills, and professional recognition to succeed in exciting graduate roles, and the confidence to secure future leadership opportunities.  

This new partnership with the CMI – the UK’s only chartered body for management and leadership – will provide QMU students with an outstanding opportunity to gain a dual qualification, combining academic study with an internationally recognised professional credential. 

Through this accreditation, QMU students studying one of the undergraduate Business Management courses will not only earn their degree, but will also achieve a CMI Level 5 qualification in Management and Leadership at no additional cost, giving them a competitive edge in the job market. 

QMU’s new CMI Dual Accreditation offers: 

  • A dual qualification: Students will earn both a QMU Business Management degree and a respected CMI Level 5 professional qualification, boosting employability and career readiness. 
  • Chartered status: Graduates can progress towards Foundation Chartered Manager (fCMgr) or the prestigious Chartered Manager (CMgr) status – the highest professional accolade in management. 
  • Exclusive CMI membership: Students receive complimentary CMI membership throughout their studies, gaining access to professional development resources, career tools, networking opportunities, and leadership events. 

Thomas Peschken-Holt, Head of the Queen Margaret Business School, said: “Accreditation from CMI is a powerful addition to our Business Management offering.

“It aligns perfectly with QMU’s focus on employability and real-world learning, ensuring our graduates not only understand management theory, but also demonstrate professional competence and leadership in practice. 

“We look forward to continuing to enhance the curriculum and learner experience.” 

The CMI supports over 230,000 members worldwide and collaborates with more than 1,000 businesses and education providers. With over 75 years of expertise and a Royal Charter, CMI equips people at every career stage to develop the confidence and skills to lead effectively. 

Research from the Chartered Management Institute (CMI) highlights the strong impact of CMI accreditation on student outcomes and employability. According to CMI, 87% of students say that CMI dual accreditation makes them more employable, and graduates with CMI Dual Accreditation see average salary increases of around 8%. In addition, nine out of ten university partners agree that CMI accreditation improves overall student satisfaction, demonstrating the value of this recognition for both learners and institutions. 

This partnership with the CMI confirms the University’s commitment to preparing students for successful, impactful careers in the business industry. 

QMU’s final-year Business Management students have already been briefed on the CMI accreditation during on-campus sessions and are enthusiastic about accessing CMI support materials, participating in industry events, and expanding their professional networks.

Further follow-up sessions will be held later this semester, with CMI inductions for third-year students scheduled to roll out later this year. 

Scottish STEM charity marks record year

Over 50,000 people reached nationwide

  • Scottish STEM charity, TechFest, celebrates a landmark year of achievement, having reached more than 50,000 people across the UK in 2025 through its education, engagement and outreach programmes. 
  • Throughout the year, TechFest delivered its year-round programme of activities and events, engaging participants of all ages and continuing its mission to make STEM fun, inclusive and accessible for all. 
  • By working in partnership with schools, local communities, education institutions and STEM volunteers, the organisation has inspired learners of all ages to explore wide range of STEM careers and build new skills and confidence while supporting educators and families nationwide. 
  • Dr Martha Gavan, Managing Director at TechFest, said: “Reaching more than 50,000 people in a single year shows huge progress, and I’m incredibly proud of what our team has achieved. Those are not just numbers but a powerful reflection of the hard work and commitment that goes into everything we do, and of how impactful STEM can be when it’s made engaging, inclusive and fun.”

Scottish STEM charity, TechFest, is celebrating a landmark year of achievement, having reached more than 50,000 people in 2025 across the UK through its education, engagement and outreach programmes. 

Over the past year, TechFest has continued to deliver on its mission to make Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fun, engaging and accessible for all, getting 52,559 participants across its year-round programme of activities and events, and successfully reaching 30 out of 32 Scottish educational authorities. 

Through work and partnerships with schools, local communities, education institutions and ambassadors, the organisation has inspired learners of all ages to explore STEM subjects, develop new skills and build confidence in their abilities, while also supporting educators and families across the country. 

Dr Martha Gavan, Managing Director at TechFest, said: “Reaching more than 50,000 people in a single year shows great progress, and I’m incredibly proud of what our team has achieved.

“Those are not just numbers but a powerful reflection of the hard work and commitment that goes into everything we do, and of how impactful STEM can be when it’s made engaging, inclusive and fun. 

“As we look ahead to 2026, I am hugely excited about what the future holds for TechFest, for STEM education, for Scotland and the UK as a whole. We have a real opportunity to build on this momentum, expand our impact and help empower the next generation to see STEM as something that’s truly for them.” 

This exceptional level of reach has been driven by the success of several flagship programmes. TechFest’s Primary Outreach, a catalogue of STEM school workshops taken across Scotland to help engage pupils in a fun and dynamic way, has proven particularly impactful, reaching more than 15 thousand people.  

As well as that, 24 Days of STEM, a festive programme engaging people of all ages with interactive STEM challenges every day until Christmas has also continued to grow in scale, achieving a record number of participants. 

The charity’s achievements reflect the dedication and expertise of its staff, volunteers, ambassadors, partners and supporters, whose collective efforts have enabled STEM opportunities to reach communities in every part of the UK. 

This milestone year also coincides with a new chapter for TechFest, following the appointment of Martha as Managing Director. With more than seven years’ experience at the organisation, including four as Deputy Managing Director, Martha has played a key role in expanding TechFest’s reach. 

As Managing Director, she will build on this momentum, championing engaging and inspiring STEM activities that support young people and contribute to Scotland’s growing STEM-rich knowledge economy. 

She added: “With strong foundations, a clear sense of purpose and growing national reach, the organisation enters the coming year well positioned to continue making a lasting difference and ensuring STEM remains exciting, relevant and accessible for generations to come.”   

TechFest’s mission is made possible through the vital support of funders, sponsors and partners who share its commitment and passion to inspiring the next STEM generation.  

Its impressive reach and impact this year have been achieved through strong partnerships with organisations across industry, education and the public sector. 

The charity welcomes new industry partners who are keen to support and inspire the future workforce, and encourages anyone interested in learning more to get in touch with Martha to explore opportunities to get involved. 

New Childhood Practice Hub opens at Edinburgh College Sighthill Campus

Edinburgh College’s Sighthill Campus has welcomed the opening of a brand-new hub for childcare students.

The new immersive teaching space, which is designed to simulate all the sights, sounds and smells of a real-world nursery, will let prospective practitioners get some all-important hands-on experience, while also allowing for their classroom studies, helping prepare students to enter the workforce after they complete their courses.

As well as prospective practitioners, the space is used for professional development courses, with the College offering qualifications ranging from SCQF Level 4 through to SCQF Level 9.

The space, which came about as a result of increased demand for Childhood Practice courses, features lots of open space and outdoor inspired design touches, to improve focus and mental wellbeing. There are doors painted with forest scenes, alongside sky tiles on the ceiling.

There’s a kitchen which can be used to practice food hygiene, as well as make cups of tea, while dedicated quiet areas will allow students to sit down and take a break when needed. The different learning spaces let practitioners explore how play takes place in a nursery setting.

Doors open up into a garden to simulate free flow indoor/outdoor learning and teaching, lining up with current professional standards in the early learning and childcare sector.

Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with the spaciousness and amount of natural light pouring in seen as a big bonus, making it a warm, welcoming and interactive environment in which to learn.

Rooms will also be utilised for yoga classes and other events, with students from across the College able to book it out. 

Jacqueline Vural, the Head of School for Childhood Practice, is excited to see the hub being put to use: “Developing this space at Sighthill Campus is ensuring that Edinburgh College is at the forefront of providing high quality learning and teaching in childhood practice, responding to demand from the public and private sectors for highly qualified staff. 

“It’ll mean students can experience first-hand, immersive activities that replicate what it’s like to work in a childcare setting. It will give them confidence and motivation to go into their placements and gain the skills they need to move into employment after college.”

This year alone the College has received over 900 enrolments on Childhood Practice courses – this includes around 300 full-time students.

The space was officially opened on Thursday (15 January 2026) by Dr. Suzanne Zeedyk, a renowned developmental psychologist and Honorary Fellow at the University of Dundee.

Find out more about Childhood Practice courses on the Edinburgh College website.

Scottish Building Society & Edinburgh Rugby celebrate 1,000 children tackling maths

‘Tackle Maths’ a joint programme between Scottish Building Society and Edinburgh Rugby has now been delivered to over 1,000 children, helping to develop maths skills and get more pupils active.

Launched just over two years, the programme helps pupils aged between eight and 12 gain practical maths skills by using rugby and real-life examples to show how the subject factors into all elements of everyday life.

The milestone was reached as students from Broughton Primary School in Leith attended Hive Stadium to take part.

Seeing students apply maths outside of the classroom, from measuring the length of a rugby pitch, to working out the capacity of a stadium and estimating the height of the posts, the programme is designed to encourage pupils to think about maths lessons in a different way.

As well as gaining practical guidance, Tackle Maths sessions see students explore the world of rugby also, being treated to tours of Hive Stadium, Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, the Scotland Team dressing room and the Scottish Rugby shop as part of the programme.

Paul Denton, chief executive, Scottish Building Society said: “When we started Tackle Maths our aim was to help at least 175 children get to grips with maths.

“Just over two years later it is incredible to have massively surpassed this, providing a thousand children across the country with a practical learning environment which shows why maths is important to their everyday lives.

“As a mutual organisation giving back to communities is incredibly important to us and this programme is a fantastic way of inspiring kids to think differently about learning.”

Douglas Struth, managing director, Edinburgh Rugby said: “Edinburgh Rugby is at its heart a community rugby club. That’s why working in partnership with Scottish Building Society to deliver this programme makes perfect sense.

“This programme is all about getting kids out of the classroom and learning in a practical manner. Having helped 1,000 children across the country to get excited about maths, we’re pleased to say it’s worked to great effect and look forward to supporting many more in the future.”

Melanie Bertram, a teacher from Broughton Primary said: “For many children, learning comes easier when they’re able to apply lessons in a real-life situation and a fun environment.

“Tackle Maths is perfect in this regard, giving them an experience which showcases how important maths is.

“A huge thank you to Edinburgh Rugby and Scottish Building Society for working with us to launch a brilliant and educational initiative.”

For more information, visit: https://www.scottishbs.co.uk/

Former Edinburgh College Photography Student wins prestigious National Prize

A former Edinburgh College photography student has been recognised for his outstanding work after winning the Gold Award at the prestigious Association of Photographers Emerging Talent Awards 2025 – with a little bit of help from his granny.

23-year-old Jack Currie graduated from the College in November 2024 after completing the BA (Hons) course in Professional Photography, before moving on to a career as a freelance advertising photographer.

Jack’s work is often inspired by quirky concepts, and it was his picture, “Gangster Granny”, featuring his late grandmother Margaret, that saw him scoop the top prize at the AOP’s annual awards.

Part of a series of digitally altered photographs showing his gran engaging in a range of “dangerous activities”, the striking image, which has already gained considerable attention and has been covered in the likes of The Guardian and Digital Camera World, sees Margaret on a skateboard grinding down a rail.

Jack, who used Photoshop and body doubles to bring the concept to life, says the reality of winning the award is still setting in: “Winning the AOP Emerging Talent Award was something I once only dreamed of. From applying, to being shortlisted, to becoming a finalist, all the way to the awards night itself, I genuinely didn’t think I was going to win.

“I used my own granny for the photo, and she sadly passed away only the week before we won the award. She was thrilled to hear I was a finalist and had every confidence we would win. I guess she was right.”

Jack’s career has followed an impressive trajectory since his graduation, working with companies including Nike, Lidl, Timberland and Birkenstock. He now splits his time working between London and Edinburgh and recently did a photo-shoot with Piers Morgan for a front-page splash on the Telegraph Magazine.

He’s encouraging other budding photographers to consider studying at Edinburgh College, saying it’s the perfect place to learn the craft: “My experience was genuinely amazing. I applied for three places when looking into photography courses, and Edinburgh College by far had the best facilities.

“For me, it didn’t feel like studying; it felt like perfecting my craft, practising, getting critiqued and building my portfolio. With all the lecturers being ex photographers, their insight into how the industry works was huge. Hearing how they did it and seeing what they achieved was a massive motivation boost.

“While still studying, I worked with clients like Schuh, Size?, and Graham’s Dairy. In my second year I flew to New York to collect awards for work I had shot for college briefs.

“And just before I graduated, I signed with a London based agent who still represents me today. There is no way I would have taken the steps I did without the guidance of the lecturers. Their support and their critique shaped me into the photographer I am today.”

Jon Lee, Jack’s former lecturer and course leader for photography at Edinburgh College, isn’t surprised to see his old student picking up the prize: “I’d like to congratulate Jack on his recent award, it’s well-deserved recognition for someone we always knew would go on to experience great success.

“We wish him all the best for his future career, and I’m sure everyone at the College will be keeping a close eye on his work”.

Despite winning such a notable award, Jack has no plans to slow down anytime soon, and has dreams of seeing his work featured in Times Square and Piccadilly Circus. You can keep up to date with Jack on his website.

Queen Margaret University launches three-year nursing degree to fast-track students into healthcare

Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh has announced the launch of a new three-year full-time BSc Nursing programme, offering students a faster route into the nursing workforce at a time of growing demand for qualified healthcare professionals.

For several years, QMU has offered courses which are studied over 4 years – a BSc Honours and a Master of Nursing – but this new 3 year degree expands QMU’s current provision, providing students aspiring to become qualified nurses with more routes to registration. 

QMU’s new BSc Nursing provides an accelerated pathway to registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), enabling graduates to enter the workforce a year earlier, while still benefiting from the University’s renowned high-quality teaching and person-centred approach to nurse education. Eligible students will also benefit from the £10,000 annual bursary for the full three-year duration of the course, alongside tuition fees covered by the Scottish Government.

Fast-track into nursing

The new BSc Nursing (three-year fulltime) offers:

  • Accelerated registration with the NMC, allowing graduates to join the workforce sooner.
  • Shared learning opportunities with students across QMU’s Division of Nursing and Paramedic Science, including those on the BSc Nursing (Hons), Master of Nursing, and BSc Nursing (Earn as you Learn) programmes.
  • Financial support, with eligible students receiving the £10,000 annual bursary for each of the three years, alongside tuition fees covered by the Scottish Government.
  • A condensed timetable with shorter summer breaks, ensuring students remain on track to graduate within three years.

Students will benefit from QMU’s strong partnerships with NHS Health Boards and other healthcare providers, gaining hands-on experience in a wide range of clinical settings.

The programme emphasises person-centred care, leadership development, and interprofessional learning, preparing graduates to deliver safe, compassionate, and effective healthcare.

On successful completion of the degree, graduates will have the option to enter the nursing workforce with the NHS or private sector. Subject to approval, this course will commence on 14th September 2026. 

Meeting the needs of healthcare

Ruth Magowan, Head of the Division of Nursing at QMU, commented: “This new accelerated programme reflects QMU’s commitment to innovation and flexibility in healthcare education.

“By offering students the chance to qualify in three years instead of four, we are helping to strengthen the nursing workforce while ensuring our graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and compassion needed to deliver excellent person-centred care.

“QMU has a longstanding reputation for excellence in nursing education, preparing students for rewarding careers in healthcare. With strong links to clinical practice, a focus on person-centred care, and a supportive learning environment, QMU graduates are highly sought after across Scotland and beyond.

“We are delighted to support the Scottish Government’s ambition to bolster the country’s healthcare workforce by playing a pivotal role in strengthening Scotland’s nursing profession.”

Students celebrate in style at Edinburgh College Graduation

More than 600 students were celebrated as part of Edinburgh College’s Class of 2025 graduation ceremony at McEwan Hall on Thursday 6 November.

Students were joined by over 1,500 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, as well as Professional Learning and Qualifications. 

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, Marshall Dallas was presented with an Honorary Edinburgh College Ambassador Award in recognition of his direct involvement with the College and sustained impact on the student experience. 

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 that celebrates the hard work, resilience, and growth that each student has shown throughout their college journey.

“The skills and knowledge they’ve gained during their time at Edinburgh College will serve as a strong foundation for whatever comes next and I have no doubt that they will go on to do great things.

“On behalf of the College’s leadership, faculty, and support teams, I extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of our students. Whether they’re continuing their studies, stepping into a new career, or chasing bold dreams, we wish them every success. Here’s to the Class of 2025!”

Edinburgh school tackles gender gap in computing science with event open to girls across the city

With girls and women remaining underrepresented in computing at school and in the industry, Toni Scullion, teacher, campaigner and founder of non-profit charity dressCode, is working with St George’s School in Edinburgh to inspire more girls to see a future for themselves in the tech industry.  

The all-girls school is hosting its third annual Fearless Women in Computing event on Tuesday 11 November, an event which is open to all schoolgirls across Edinburgh. The event, which last year attracted 600 girls from 13 schools from four council areas, aims to encourage more girls to pursue computing science in school and in their professional lives.  

The day-long event will feature immersive experiences, workshops and stalls in collaboration with more than 20 companies, including The National Robotarium, IBM and The Quantum Software Lab at the University of Edinburgh.

There will be several guest talks on topics, including AI and women in tech, careers in finance and tech and seeing yourself in computing.  Skyscanner will sponsor transport for girls from state schools to attend, with priority given to providing the opportunity to pupils from areas of high deprivation.  

Scotland needs 13,000 new digital professionals yearly but produces only 5,000, with women making up just 23% of the digital technologies workforce in Scotland, revealing the clear need for more gender diversity within the industry.  

The gap begins at school – girls studying Computing Science in Scotland has dropped from almost 10,000 in 2001 to under 2,500 today, giving Computing Science the largest gender gap of any traditional STEM subject.  

Toni said: “I founded dressCode after noticing the inequality in Computing Science when I first became a teacher, and while we have made positive progress, there is still a need for urgent action.

“Girls almost always outperform boys in Computing Science through school and university, but as it stands only 23% take the subject at National 5, a percentage that only drops at each level to Advanced Higher.  

“The Fearless Women in Computing event is a fantastic initiative. It’s amazing to hear the sounds of high fives and exclamations from the girls when they solve a problem or make something happen.

“Positive experiences are what people remember and this event is incredible for the pupils; you know that these are moments that will stick with them and form their future choices. 

“Unfortunately there is no equity of access to Computing Science in Scotland, so not every pupil is fortunate enough to experience Computing Science and decide if it is something they enjoy; the door isn’t just closed, there is no door.

“If we don’t act now, we won’t see equality in our lifetimes – this event isn’t just a step in the right direction, it’s a critical action to ensure girls are the architects of a future designed for all.” 

dressCode was founded in 2017 to bridge the gender gap in Computing Science by engaging, inspiring, and raising awareness about the diverse opportunities available in the tech industry. 

Carol Chandler-Thompson, Head at St George’s, said: “Women make up only 22% of the AI workforce, meaning they are being left out of the most influential, high-paying jobs of the future.

“We know how important it is to show girls from early in their schooling that there is space for them in AI and technology industries, which is why we made Computing Science a core subject from P5 to S2.

“This summer 80% of our Higher Computing students achieved an A grade– it’s clear that when girls are encouraged to take Computing Science, they thrive.  

“Our Fearless Women in Computing event brings together schools, companies and innovators from across Scotland to create a hands-on, inspiring experience for girls across Edinburgh.

“We have seen first-hand the impact these events can have – hearing the stories of women in the industry, seeing the recent advances in robotics and AI, even “hacking Google” – the day is an eye-opener to the world of computing, and we would encourage as many schools as possible to come along.” 

100% of girls study Computing Science from P5 to S2 at St George’s, with a focus on building confidence and encouraging participation among pupils.

The school offers community lessons on Friday afternoons, so any girl from an Edinburgh state school can attend and benefit from the facilities and expertise available.  

The Fearless Women in Computing event is on 11 November from 9:30am – 3pm at St George’s School, Edinburgh.

It is open to any Edinburgh school girl from P6 to S6.  

Cutting-edge Digital and Graphic Design degree launches at Queen Margaret University

Queen Margaret University (QMU), Edinburgh has launched an innovative BA (Hons) Digital and Graphic Design course, which is set to welcome its first cohort of undergraduate students in September 2026.

Created in consultation with leading design companies, the course will ensure that QMU graduates have the contemporary skills, experience and attributes that employers value most. 

This exciting new course has been designed to meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the creative industries and other industry organisations, blending artistic expression with advanced digital technologies.

Students will gain hands-on experience in visual communication, branding, web design, motion graphics, and strategic storytelling, preparing them for exciting dynamic careers in design studios, advertising agencies, media companies and freelance practice. 

Dr Dave Wood, Programme Leader for the new BA (Hons) Digital and Graphic Design, brings decades of experience in design education and industry to the role. He explained: “There has never been a more exciting time to work in digital and graphic design, particularly when the development of AI is allowing designers to take their creative work to a whole new level.

“It’s a growing and exhilarating area to work in, and with all sectors requiring graphic and design specialists, graduates can follow their passion by developing their careers in their chosen field – whether that be in business, healthcare, public sector, education, the creative industries or the charitable sector – in the UK or internationally. 

“Our industry colleagues across Scotland and the UK have been incredibly supportive about the development of this course. We’ve worked hard to build a curriculum that responds to the evolving needs of the creative sector, with input from leading design companies across Scotland and the UK.

“We are excited about empowering students to become confident, thoughtful designers who can shape the visual culture of tomorrow.” 

The course will be a creative, fun and exhilarating experience for students who will have the chance to develop their skills in visual storytelling, visual strategy and innovation, which will allow them to create their own unique design voice.  

The programme will be delivered by the Division of Media, Communication and Performing Arts and draws on QMU’s strong reputation in media and creative industries. Students will benefit from real-world projects, industry-standard software, and opportunities to collaborate with professionals through industry workshops, guest lectures, and work-based learning. 

There will be lots of practical experience so that graduates will be able to hit the ground running when they enter the world of work. This includes the opportunity to work on live briefs and the chance to build a professional portfolio during the four years of study at QMU.

And with a strong emphasis on industry engagement and career readiness, the course includes networking opportunities and insights from experienced designers and creative agencies, ensuring that graduates understand and are equipped for roles such as UX/UI designer, motion graphics artist, digital brand strategist, and more. 

Dr Wood added: “Designers don’t just make things look good – they shape how we communicate, interact, and understand the world.

“This course encourages students to think critically and creatively, using design as a tool for meaningful change and to bring stories to life!” 

Prospective students are invited to attend QMU’s upcoming Undergraduate Open Day on 25 October 2025, where they can meet staff, explore facilities, and learn more about the course. It’s also a great opportunity for students to learn about the different industries and roles that might be available to them following graduation. 

Applications for the BA (Hons) Digital and Graphic Design are now open via UCAS for 2026 entry. For more information, visit QMU’s course page.