Government inspectors say West College Scotland is well-led and that students speak highly of their College experiences.  They also found that students benefit from supportive relationships with their lecturers. 

West College Scotland Principal, Audrey Cumberford, said: 

“This is wonderful news for us as a College.  Like all newly-merged, regional colleges we have faced a number of challenges.  My staff deserve enormous credit for maintaining and improving their excellent standards of teaching and support, despite so many challenges.  

“The period since merger has been marked by significant change and reform for colleges.  I hope this positive report from Education Scotland will act as a reminder of the hard work and fresh approaches which are being developed at West College Scotland and across the sector.” 

West College Scotland has been judged “effective” by HM Inspectors.  Among areas of positive practice, HM Inspectors found that: 

• in some subjects, the success rates for students on full-time programmes are in line with the best in the sector
• the learning environment and atmosphere during most teaching sessions is positive and purposeful
• the College works productively with employers to design and deliver programmes which meet industry needs well
• staff feel the merger process has been well handled by senior managers and that they are included and consulted. As a result, the Principal and senior managers are trusted by staff.

 Audrey continued: 

“I’m particularly pleased Education Scotland has highlighted, two areas of excellence:  the successful partnership of our Hair, Make-up and Beauty teams with the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games; and also the work our National Progression Award construction students did in ensuring the Great Tapestry of Scotland was able to be displayed in Paisley last summer. 

“The Inspectors also pointed to areas for development and we have already started to address these.” 

Keith McKellar, Chair of the Regional Board, said: 

“I thank Audrey and her staff for this outstanding achievement. 

“As Audrey has acknowledged, the last few years have not been easy for the sector so it is heartening to see the work of West College Scotland recognised in this way. 

“I know the extent of the challenges involved in merging three colleges into one.  To have managed that so successfully while still maintaining educational standards is a testament to the professionalism of all our teaching and support staff.”