learning – Page 3 – The NEN – North Edinburgh News

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.

Today: Telling the Time at Corstorphine Library

COME ONE!!! COME ALL!!!

When: On Wednesday, 15th October 25 at 2 pm

Who: Explore Learning

What: FUN FUN FUN with Telling the time

Suitable for ages 5-7

No need to book, just come for 2 pm to the Library. We look forward to seeing everybody!

TechFest continues its mission of inspiring Primary Schools across Scotland

TechFest, Scotland’s leading STEM charity, is continuing its Primary Outreach Workshop programme, including the TechFest Dome, one of its most immersive STEM experiences.

The charity invites primary school pupils across Scotland to join its interactive workshops that aim to make STEM fun and engaging through hands-on activities and demonstrations.

These initiatives support TechFest’s mission to aim to ignite imaginations and inspire a lifelong passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics among young learners.

Jenny Taylor, Festival Manager at TechFest, said: “We believe every child deserves the chance to discover just how exciting and full of possibilities STEM can be.

When children get to ask questions, get hands-on experiences and see science and technology come alive around them, it is these moments that inspire the next generation of Scottish scientists, engineers, inventors and problem-solvers, who will tackle the big challenges and shape a better future for us all.”

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TechFest, the leading Scottish STEM charity, is continuing its Primary Outreach Workshop Programme, alongside The Dome, TechFest’s mobile planetarium, which is one of TechFest’s most immersive and popular STEM experiences.

Coinciding with the start of the new academic year, TechFest gives the chance for primary school pupils across Scotland to explore a wide range of STEM opportunities, all designed to ignite imaginations and foster a lifelong love of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Through the Primary Outreach programme, TechFest offers a diverse selection of interactive workshops that bring STEM subjects to life in classrooms across the country. Each session is designed to engage pupils via hands-on activities and problem-solving challenges. These activities allow young learners to experience STEM in a fun, accessible and inspiring way.

The workshops explore a range of topics from how magnets and circuits work, to discovering gravity and forces, solving maths puzzles, exploring renewable energy and understanding how our bodies function.

Complementing the workshop initiatives is the TechFest Dome, sponsored by the Apache Corporation, an immersive experience delivered inside TechFest’s state-of-the-art inflatable dome, which transforms school halls into a captivating window to the universe.

Jenny Taylor, Festival Manager at TechFest, said: “We’re delighted to relaunch our Primary Outreach programme and bring back the Dome for another year, as part of our mission to make STEM learning more exciting, engaging and accessible for children across Scotland.

“We believe every child deserves the chance to discover just how exciting and full of possibilities STEM can be.

“When children get to ask questions, get hands-on experiences and see science and technology come alive around them, it is these moments that inspire the next generation of Scottish scientists, engineers, inventors and problem-solvers, who will tackle the big challenges and shape a better future for us all.”

Using Digitarium Zeta projection technology, the TechFest Dome brings astronomy and space science to life for pupils of all ages.

Younger pupils can discover where the Sun goes at night and how it moves across the sky through the seasons, while older pupils enjoy a guided tour of the constellations and planets, learning how the night sky changes and uncovering myths like the story of Perseus and Ursa Major.

These initiatives align with TechFest’s mission to enhance accessibility by developing programmes rooted in STEM, making the subjects fun and engaging while establishing meaningful connections with industry and education, inspiring young people pursue a future in STEM.

For more information about the Primary Outreach and The TechFest Dome, please visit the links.

Education Scotland recognises ‘outstanding’ curriculum at Fettes College

Fettes students “benefit from a broad and balanced curriculum that is outstanding” says Education Scotland’s recent inspection of Fettes College. The unscheduled inspection was instructed by Scottish Ministers in February, and the findings were published yesterday (2nd September).

Inspectors awarded Fettes excellent ratings in both ‘Curriculum’ and ‘Raising attainment and achievement’, alongside very good ratings in ‘Learning, teaching and assessment’ and ‘Ensuring wellbeing, equality and inclusion’.

Inspectors rightly demand the highest standards, and their report highlights the distinctive strengths of a Fettes education, noting:

Staff have “successfully created a curriculum that supports children and young people to flourish in their academic and personal interests.” and “ensure the curriculum is strongly underpinned by an aspirational vision with a clear focus on academic excellence, building character and supporting personal wellbeing.”
Staff “foster very nurturing and mutually respectful relationships” and are “highly responsive to the wellbeing needs of children and young people”.
Students are “highly motivated to succeed”, producing work “of an exceptionally high standard” and making “excellent progress” in their learning.
Extensive opportunities for students to achieve beyond the classroom, helping them to “know themselves well” and aspire to reach their full potential.
A culture where students, staff and families “celebrate their own and others’ cultural diversity” and observe religious and cultural events together “in an inclusive, respectful way”.
Staff ‘recognise the need to ensure fairness and equality and to identify and mitigate against discrimination and bias in all aspects of the school’s work’.

This is testament to the exceptional work of the team at Fettes, which showed inspectors the values at the heart of the school community — academic ambition, character development, personal wellbeing, and a deeply inclusive culture where every individual is valued.

Head of Fettes College, Helen Harrison, said, “I am immensely proud of everyone at Fettes College – Senior and Prep – and extend my thanks to them all for their commitment and contribution to this fantastic achievement.

“We had a team of inspectors in our school for two weeks and they looked at everything. Their findings, published today about the learning and experience that happens in our classrooms and around our school sets us amongst those at the top of education in Scotland.”

The results of the inspection were published on 2nd September 2025 on the Education Scotland website: https://education.gov.scot/.

English classes at Fresh Start

We currently have spaces in our Intermediate English class for those who would like to sign up! (Nat 4 level, ESOL level A2-B1)

Classes run on Tuesdays, 9.30am-12.30pm.

All enquiries, please contact admin@freshstartweb.org.uk

It’s never too late to learn!

NEW PROGRAMME OF ADULT EDUCATION COURSES

The new term’s programme of adult education courses on offer across Edinburgh has been released.

The city has successfully run this programme for over 115 years, providing a variety of daytime, evening and weekend courses from Art, Archaeology and Craft to Languages, Tai Chi and Yoga.

There is something for everyone to try and enjoy and is an excellent opportunity to discover a new interest and learn skills for life.

Courses are offered online, outdoors and in many venues across the city.

The programme ensures that education is accessible, affordable and inclusive to all and would encourage anyone interested to sign up. Have fun learning!

Web_Version___Sep_2025___Term_1 Download

https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/…/adult-education…

Charities attend Amazon support workshop in Dunfermline

Two charities in Fife were welcomed to Amazon’s fulfilment centre in Dunfermline to gain fresh ideas and practical support to help develop their logistics and operations.

The event, organised by Pilotlight, brought together Fife Gingerbread and Big House Multibank with the team at Amazon in Dunfermline. Pilotlight is an organisation that connects business experts with charities to help deliver greater social impact.

More than 30 Amazon employees from Dunfermline took part in a day of collaborative problem-solving sessions. The charities shared some of the challenges they’re currently facing and Amazon employees worked in teams to come up with practical, strategic solutions, drawing on their professional skills and experience.

Kirsten Harrower, an Amazon employee who took part in the event, said: “It was an amazing experience to apply our skills in support of two incredible charities that do so much for our community.

“It felt great to be part of something that can make a real difference.”

Jamie Strain, General Manager from Amazon in Dunfermline, added: “We’re proud to support Fife Gingerbread and Big House Multibank and events like this are a great way to use the skills of our team to give back.

“We’re committed to playing a positive role in the communities where we live and work.”

Linsey Proctor, from Fife Gingerbread, said: “We’re grateful to the Amazon team for giving their time and energy and for continuing to strengthen their relationship with us.

“The ideas shared will help us shape our future plans and move forward with confidence.”

Community donations and employee volunteering are just two of the ways Amazon supports the communities where it operates.

Amazon co-founded The Big House Multibank in Fife with former UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown to support families in need. The Multibank network has now donated more than 8 million surplus goods to over 600,000 families across Scotland, Wales, Greater Manchester, London, Tees Valley and Birmingham.

Amazon has supported more than one million students across the UK with free STEM education programmes through Amazon Future Engineer and helps community organisations transport meals and other essentials to families in need through its pro bono logistics programme, Amazon Local Good.

Amazon partners with Comic Relief and is the official home of the charity’s iconic Red Nose. Together with its employees, customers, and partners, Amazon has raised over £4.8 million to fund projects that support people across the UK, and around the world.