College Celebrates Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award at Edinburgh Castle Ceremony

Paul Little and Charendeep Singh from City of Glasgow College receive the Gold ERS Award from His Grace the Duke of Hamilton in the Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle.

City of Glasgow College has proudly received the Gold Award from the Ministry of Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) – the highest honour available to UK organisations that demonstrate outstanding support for the Armed Forces community.

The award was officially presented last week in a prestigious ceremony held in the Great Hall at Edinburgh Castle. His Grace the Duke of Hamilton presented the accolade to Principal and Chief Executive Paul Little CBE and Charandeep Singh BEM, Member of the Board of Management at City of Glasgow College, in recognition of the College’s exceptional commitment to Reservists, Service leavers, Veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and their families. 

This recognition follows a series of initiatives that highlight the College’s dedication to the Armed Forces community, including hosting Glasgow’s Armed Forces Day while George Square was undergoing refurbishment.

Paul Little CBE commented:

“Receiving the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award in the historic setting of Edinburgh Castle was a truly humbling experience. This honour reflects our deep and enduring commitment to the Armed Forces community – not just in principle, but through meaningful action. We value the skills, experience, and dedication that veterans, reservists, and cadet force volunteers bring to our College.”

City of Glasgow College continues to lead as a Forces-friendly employer, offering flexible working policies for Reservists, actively recruiting service leavers, and providing robust support for Armed Forces families. Its inclusive culture ensures that those who serve – or have served – can thrive in civilian education and employment.

The College’s Riverside Campus, a UK Maritime Centre of Excellence, trains over 40% of the UK’s Merchant Navy officers annually and serves as a career gateway for many ex-service personnel. The Sea Cadets are also hosted weekly, further strengthening the College’s ties to the Armed Forces.

The Gold Award presentation at Edinburgh Castle marks a proud milestone in the College’s ongoing journey of support and recognition for the Armed Forces community.