On Tuesday, 19 August, City of Glasgow College proudly celebrated the graduation of students from the Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start programme - a cohort-based workforce development training programme that prepares individuals for careers in cloud computing, delivered in partnership with Primed Talent, a specialist organisation that works with employers to develop and place job-ready candidates into high-demand roles.

This collaboration with AWS demonstrates a shared commitment to providing innovative, industry-aligned education that meets the demands of Scotland’s fast-evolving tech sector, supporting the development of digital skills in Glasgow and across Scotland. The programme prepares individuals for careers in cloud computing and connects them to potential employers, helping to address the growing demand for skilled cloud professionals. A technology background is not required to apply, and the programme is free to the learner.

Graduates were joined by employers, industry experts and special guests, including Minister for Public Finance, Ivan McKee, who delivered the keynote address.

“With 15,600 job openings for tech professionals every year in Scotland, a skilled digital workforce is a key deliverable of the Scottish Government’s Public Service Reform Strategy. Helping people to reskill and acquire digital skills will help Scotland to transition to a digital economy.

“Programmes like AWS re/Start are vital to create new pipelines of talent across the Glasgow City Region. I congratulate the learners on their achievements and look forward to hearing about their new careers in cloud,” said Mr McKee.

Depute Principal & Chief Operating Officer Roy Gardner also addressed the graduates, celebrating their determination and the college’s role in bridging Scotland’s digital skills gap.

“City of Glasgow College is proud to work with industry leaders like AWS to deliver programmes that not only equip learners with sought-after skills but also connect them directly with employers. This is about rapid upskilling and reskilling - providing people from all backgrounds with the opportunity to transform their careers, access high-value jobs, and help build Scotland’s future workforce.”

The AWS re/Start programme is a cohort-based workforce development training programme that prepares individuals for careers in cloud computing and connects them to potential employers. Through coursework and hands-on labs, using real world scenarios, learners can gain the technical skills they need for entry to mid-level cloud roles with a curriculum covering Linux, Python, Networking, Security and AWS core services. 

John Davies, Managing Director UK, Germany & International Organisations Worldwide Public Sector at Amazon Web Services said: “We are delighted to have delivered the AWS re/Start programme in Glasgow and support a new cohort of learners to kickstart a career in the cloud. By addressing the growing need for digitally skilled talent, we are preparing the workforce of the future and enabling organisations across Scotland – and beyond – to digitally transform and to take full advantage of the cloud.”

The ceremony was a celebration of the strong partnership between City of Glasgow College and businesses in the Glasgow City Region - working together to create opportunities for the many, not just the few, and empowering people from all backgrounds to thrive in the modern economy. The success of this programme underlines the college’s position as a leading provider of digital training in Scotland, committed to shaping the country’s future technology workforce.

City of Glasgow College is proud to announce that HNC Bakery student Jamie Howie has been crowned overall winner of the prestigious Renshaw Cup.

Jamie demonstrated outstanding creativity, skill, and dedication at the three-day national competition, which returned this year after a 21-year break. Hosted at British Bakels’ Liverpool site, home of the Renshaw brand, the event brought together some of the UK’s most promising college bakers.

Jamie’s success is a remarkable milestone for him personally, and also for the College and Scotland’s baking community.

Jamie said: “It’s such an honour to represent City of Glasgow College at the Renshaw Cup. Being the only Scottish student at the event made winning even more special.”

The competition featured technical challenges, expert-led tutorials, and factory tours, giving students unique insights into the commercial baking industry. Judges praised Jamie for his craftsmanship, flair, and professionalism, with his final bake singled out as a highlight.

First launched in 1952, the Renshaw Cup has a long history of supporting young talent, with many past winners going on to successful careers in the baking industry.

Aileen O’Meara, Curriculum Head for Culinary Arts & Bakery, said:

“We are incredibly proud of Jamie and all that he has achieved at the Renshaw Cup. His success is a testament to his hard work, creativity, and professionalism, and it also highlights the strength of our bakery teaching here at City of Glasgow College.

To win against such strong competition is an outstanding accomplishment, and we are delighted to see Jamie recognised at a national level. We also wish him every success as he takes the next step in his education at the prestigious National Bakery School, London South Bank University.”

This victory highlights City of Glasgow College’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of culinary talent and underscores the exceptional standards of training and teaching within our bakery courses.

City of Glasgow College is proud to welcome Lauren Dunsmore, a talented young athlete from Cumbernauld, who has recently represented Team GB at the European Youth Olympic Festival (EYOF) in Skopje, North Macedonia.

Lauren, aged 17, was one of just seven Taekwondo athletes selected to compete for Team GB at the prestigious multi-sport event, which brings together Europe’s most promising young competitors. Competing in the -44kg category, Lauren reached the quarterfinals, narrowly missing a bronze medal and finishing in an impressive fourth place.

Reflecting on the experience, Lauren said:

“I had the privilege of experiencing a major event with Great Britain athletes across multiple sports. I believe that the whole experience will help me push forward in my dreams of being a successful ranked Taekwondo player. The whole experience will be one I will never forget. My passion is Taekwondo, and I love my sport, and that is why I have chosen the course of Sports Therapy. I would love to have a successful time as a Taekwondo athlete and have my education in sports aided along the way with the knowledge I learn from my college courses.”

Lauren is about to begin her HND Sports Therapy studies at City of Glasgow College, following in the footsteps of her coach Robert Robertson, who is also a former student of the College. With a clear ambition to combine her sporting career with academic success, she hopes her studies will complement her training and future aspirations in elite sport.

Her coach, Robert Robertson of RAW Taekwondo Scotland, said:

“Lauren has worked tirelessly for this moment. Her selection to Team GB is a huge achievement not just for her, but for the sport in Scotland. She’s a great ambassador for what young athletes from our communities can achieve.”

Lauren’s success at the EYOF marks another milestone in the growing contribution of Scottish athletes to Team GB’s Olympic journey, and she is already being tipped as a strong contender for the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar 2026.

We are delighted to have Lauren join our College community and look forward to supporting her both in the classroom and in her future sporting achievements.

City of Glasgow College has marked a significant milestone in becoming a Regional College following the dissolution of the Glasgow Colleges Regional Board. This development signals a new era of autonomy and opportunity for Scotland’s largest provider of further and higher education.

The change, approved by the Scottish Parliament, sees City of Glasgow College, alongside Glasgow Clyde and Kelvin Colleges, move to a new funding and governance model. Each institution will now receive direct funding from the Scottish Funding Council and assume full responsibility for curriculum planning and delivery. Strategic coordination across the city will be supported by the newly established Glasgow Colleges Leadership Group, comprising the Principals and Chairs of each college.

City of Glasgow College, built to serve up to 40,000 students each year, will continue to operate across its award-winning twin-site super campus, maintaining a strong focus on delivering high-quality professional and technological education.

As part of the transition, Dave Anderson will retire from his role as Chair. His successor, Chris Deery, has now been announced as the new Chair of the College Board of Management.

Reflecting on the moment, Dr Paul Little CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of City of Glasgow College, said:

“This is an important day in the evolution of our College. Becoming a Regional College affirms the confidence placed in us to lead with autonomy, agility, and ambition. It enables us to respond even more directly to the needs of our students, staff, industry partners, and communities across Glasgow and beyond.

“On behalf of the entire College community, I extend my sincere thanks to Dave Anderson for his outstanding service and exceptional leadership and wish him a healthy and active retirement. We now look forward to working closely with our new Chair as we shape the next chapter of our journey and continue to deliver world-class education.”

“It has been a privilege to steer City of Glasgow College through this key transition,” said retiring Chair Dave Anderson. “Working alongside Principal Dr Paul Little CBE, our dedicated Board, exceptional staff, and engaged student representatives has been deeply rewarding. With a record student satisfaction at 93% and over 97% of graduates reporting positive destinations, the College is well-positioned to continue to deliver for our students and industry partners.”

City of Glasgow College remains committed to providing opportunities for the many, not just the few and to playing a central role in Scotland’s economic renewal.

Incoming Chair Chris Deery added:

“City of Glasgow College is an institution of scale, ambition, and impact. I am honoured to be joining the Board at such a pivotal time. As the College embarks on this new chapter as a Regional College, I look forward to working alongside the Board, the Principal, and the wider College community to build on its strong reputation, deepen partnerships, and ensure learners continue to thrive in a rapidly-evolving world.”

Chris Deery brings over 35 years of global experience with organisations including Shell, Cargill, Schlumberger, Motorola, and Diageo. He has held senior roles in finance, strategy, and transformation, leading international teams and driving large-scale change.

Throughout his career, Chris has focused on making a difference — improving performance, developing people, and turning complexity into practical progress.

Alongside his corporate work, he has makes time to contribute locally — coaching young athletes, mentoring future leaders, and supporting community sport and wellbeing projects across Scotland.

The College has celebrated the latest graduates from its Television Sound Operations CPD course, an intensive ten-day programme designed to equip trainees for work as professional Sound Assistants in the television industry.

Delivered by freelance TV Sound Supervisor Jim Hunter and supported by the college’s TV Studio Technician Andy Thornton, the course gives students experience with professional broadcast equipment, thanks to industry partners BBC Studioworks (Kelvin Hall), Riedel, QTV, FE Live, DPA Microphones and CVP.

Course Leader Jim Hunter emphasised: “There is a historical skills gap in TV sound. We need trained and knowledgeable Sound Assistants to keep the craft alive and ensure progression within the industry. This course aims to fill some of that gap in Scotland.”

James Wilson, Curriculum Head, added: “Our industry partners ensure students work with the same high-end equipment used in top multicamera productions. Jim delivers an intense and rewarding CPD experience.”

Students cover sound engineering fundamentals, equipment operation, studio and outside broadcast practices, industry jargon, real-world problem solving, and career progression advice. Many previous graduates have gone on to secure work on productions across Scotland and the UK, with eligible students supported by Screen Scotland funding.

Freelance Sound Assistant Sophie Grosvenor, a 2024 graduate, said the course gave her “great confidence” and an “invaluable understanding of industry expectations.”

The next course begins Spring 2026. Details will be announced on the City of Glasgow College website.

City of Glasgow College is celebrating an outstanding achievement by its Events Management and Hospitality students, who have raised more than £15,200 for charities during the 2024/25 academic year.

As part of a major real-world learning project, students from HND Year 1 and Year 2 Events Management, along with BA International Hospitality, Tourism and Events Management students, worked in groups to design, plan, promote, deliver, and evaluate their own live events. The brief was clear, these events had to be commercially viable, professionally delivered, and aimed at making a social impact.

Before any ideas were approved, each team pitched to a panel of industry professionals and lecturers in a ‘Dragons’ Den’-style session, facing detailed questions on operations, marketing, and budgeting. Only the strongest and most well-planned concepts made it to the delivery stage.

The result was a diverse and lively programme across some of Glasgow’s most iconic venues, including Oran Mor, Drygate Brewery, Sloans, Committee Room No. 9, Boteco do Brasil, and Whitevale Bowling Club. Highlights included a glamorous ‘Paint & Sip’ night, themed quizzes, karaoke parties, salsa and cocktail evenings, murder mystery nights, drag bingo, and a comedy hypnotist show.

Standout successes included “Games Night” at the Corset Club, run by the team Fayre Game, which raised £1,301.51 for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, and the “Comedy Hypnotist Night” hosted by Hypno Hustlers, which brought in £2,259.90 in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust and the Schiehallion Ward.

Other events raised funds for SAMH, Alzheimer Scotland, Macmillan Cancer Support, Lymphoma Action, St. Andrew’s Hospice, Women’s Aid, Epilepsy Action, The Beatson, and more. Every penny of profit, after expenses, was donated—backed by formal profit and loss statements prepared by the students themselves.

In total, these student-led events raised £15,203.98, with over £8,300 contributed by the HND Year 2 cohort alone.

Curriculum Head Donna McGroarty praised their achievement:

“Our students have shown incredible creativity, professionalism, and community spirit. They’ve raised an amazing sum for good causes while developing the skills and confidence to thrive in their future careers.”

The College extends its thanks to venue partners, guest panellists, industry supporters, and the hundreds of attendees who helped make this year’s fundraising such a success.

City of Glasgow College proudly hosted a special ceremony on Monday, 4 August 2025, to mark the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SA3EE, a leading organisation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia dedicated to supporting people with disabilities into employment.

This landmark agreement brings together two organisations committed to inclusive education and sustainable employability. The MoU establishes a collaborative framework for developing innovative curricula and training programmes that prioritise neuroinclusion, supported education, and equitable access to opportunities.

City of Glasgow College and SA3EE will work closely to exchange knowledge and expertise in disability-inclusive teaching and employment practices. The partnership also aims to raise awareness and promote understanding of neurodiversity and disability inclusion, not only within Saudi Arabia but across the wider Gulf region and beyond.

The partnership reflects a growing international focus on accessible education and employment pathways, aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which promotes the empowerment and full participation of people with disabilities in all sectors of society.

Commenting, Mr Roy Gardner, Depute Principal & Chief Operating Officer of City of Glasgow College, said:

“We are delighted to partner with SA3EE, an organisation that shares our commitment to inclusive education and opportunity for all.

At City of Glasgow College, we believe every learner should be supported to reach their full potential. This international collaboration not only highlights our pioneering work in this area, it also enables us to share expertise and strengthen inclusive pathways into education and employment, locally and globally.”

Dr Molly Taylor, Supported Education Programmes Lecturer of City of Glasgow College, said:

“This MoU represents a shared commitment to inclusive education, lifelong learning, and equity of opportunity. At City of Glasgow College, our motto ‘Let Learning Flourish’ means creating the conditions for every learner to thrive, regardless of background or ability.

As Saudi Arabia undergoes historic transformation through Vision 2030 and beyond, we are proud to partner with SA3EE to help shape inclusive programmes that nurture potential, open pathways, and reflect our shared belief in the power of education to build a brighter future for all.”

Mr Marzouq bin Amriyah, CEO of SA3EE, added:

“It is a great honour to be here today at City of Glasgow College, representing SA3EE alongside my colleagues who have travelled to mark the signing of this important agreement.

We believe this partnership will play a vital role in empowering persons with disabilities and creating new academic and professional opportunities for them.

This agreement reflects our commitment to building effective international collaborations that strengthen our capabilities and advance our vision of achieving meaningful and lasting inclusion for persons with disabilities – both in society and in the labour market.

Our efforts align with the aspirations of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz – may Allah protect them – in placing people first and ensuring equal opportunities for all, especially those with disabilities.

We extend our deepest gratitude to City of Glasgow College for their generous partnership and unwavering support for inclusion, equality, and shared learning. We look forward to a long and successful journey together.”

City of Glasgow College has been awarded the Gold Award by the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) – the highest accolade available to any UK organisation that demonstrates exceptional support for the Armed Forces community.

This prestigious award recognises employers who go above and beyond in their commitment to Reservists, Service leavers, Veterans, Cadet Force Adult Volunteers, and their families.

In further evidence of its commitment, the College successfully hosted Glasgow’s recent Armed Forces Day while George Square was unavailable during refurbishment works.

Paul Little CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of City of Glasgow College, welcomed  the recognition saying:

“We are proud to receive the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme Gold Award. This honour recognises our unwavering support for the Armed Forces community – not just in words, but through practical support, effective partnerships, and care for all people involved. From veterans and reservists to cadet force volunteers and their families, we deeply value their enhanced skills, experience, and dedication they bring to our College.”

City of Glasgow College’s commitment to being a Forces-friendly employer includes flexible working policies for Reservists, active recruitment of service leavers, and strong support for Armed Forces families. The College’s inclusive culture and practical support mechanisms ensure that those who serve – or have served – can thrive in a civilian education and employment environment.

Our award-winning Riverside Campus – a UK Maritime Centre of Excellence – trains over 40% of the UK’s Merchant Navy officers annually, offering a career pathway that attracts many ex-service personnel.  The College also hosts the Sea Cadets every week.

The official awards ceremony will take place in October 2025, forming part of a national celebration of this year’s Gold Award recipients.

HND Professional Cookery and Hospitality students from City of Glasgow College demonstrated their skills at a prestigious dinner service recently held in the Scottish Parliament’s Members’ Restaurant.

Seven students — four from Professional Cookery and three from Hospitality — delivered an unforgettable evening by designing, preparing, and serving a refined three-course menu for an audience that included leaders from some of Scotland’s top hospitality organisations. The event was the result of a months-long collaboration led by Curriculum Head Kirsty Mill, supported by lecturers Frazer McGarry, Robbie Phillips, and Hayley McCook.

The bespoke menu, crafted entirely by the cookery students, celebrated seasonal Scottish produce and innovation. Guests began with oat and treacle soda bread and malted butter, followed by a starter of sea trout with dill buttermilk and spring greens. The main course featured lamb loin with barley risotto, cauliflower purée, pickled florets, and fresh herb crumb. Dessert offered a sophisticated pairing of mulled cheddar custard with brioche toast, pickled walnut, and pear, alongside a strawberry, yoghurt, and spelt dish.

In total, the students served 30 covers in one of the country’s most high-profile dining venues — a challenging and valuable opportunity to refine their practical skills, professionalism, and confidence in a commercial environment.

The College hosted a dedicated table at the event, welcoming key partners who have supported student learning throughout the year. Among them were Elaine Watson, Back of House Manager at Gleneagles Hotel; Peter Cairns, HR Manager at AC Marriott; Stephen Montgomery, Director of the Scottish Hospitality Group; and Leon Thompson, Executive Director of UK Hospitality. Their attendance celebrated the strong partnership between education and industry that underpins the College’s approach.

Following the event, the College received a personal note of commendation from Fiona Cherry, one of the invited guests. Writing on behalf of her group of seven, she praised the overall quality of the evening and singled out the service delivered by Hospitality student Maurizio Crolla:

“Maurizio was attentive, without being intrusive, confident and observant. In short, his attention to detail is to be praised — a view expressed by all seven of us. We were unanimous in commending the food and the exemplary service.”

She also expressed appreciation for the full team, highlighting the professionalism and high standards maintained throughout the evening.

The Scottish Parliament dinner stands as another example of City of Glasgow College’s commitment to immersive, hands-on learning and employer engagement — preparing students for success in the modern hospitality industry.

City of Glasgow College was proud to host Glasgow’s Armed Forces Day 2025 at our Riverside Campus on Saturday, 28 June—a powerful day of remembrance, recognition, and community connection.

With George Square unavailable due to redevelopment, the College stepped up to welcome the city’s flagship civic event, led by Glasgow's First Citizen, Lord Provost Cllr Jacqueline McLaren, held in partnership with the Glasgow 850 celebrations. The day brought together veterans, serving personnel, members of the public—and our own students and cadets—for an uplifting afternoon that honoured the dedication and service of our Armed Forces. 

The event featured a lively programme of activities, including family-friendly attractions, Armed Forces information stands, and stirring musical performances from the West of Scotland Military Wives Choir and Swing Sensations big band.

Honorary Royal Navy Captain Paul Little, Principal and Chief Executive of City of Glasgow College, and Deputy Lieutenant for City of Glasgow, said:

“Hosting Armed Forces Day 2025 was a tremendous honour for our College—not just as a civic partner, but as an educational institution. It was a day full of pride, community spirit, and learning, and one we were delighted to be part of.”

Students played an active role throughout the day, gaining valuable hands-on experience in event support, media production, hospitality and public engagement. We are especially proud of Louis Dalziel, who filmed and edited a video capturing the highlights of the event, with additional filming support from Aiden Earley.

This memorable occasion offered a unique opportunity for our students to connect with Glasgow’s wider community and to learn by doing—contributing meaningfully to a civic celebration of national significance.

City of Glasgow College is committed to supporting events that bring people together, celebrate service and sacrifice, and provide real-world learning opportunities for our students.