West College Scotland won two prizes and three 'highly commended' accolades at the annual CDN College Awards last week.

The CDN awards, organised by the College Development Network, recognise the talent, skills and achievements of Scottish colleges, their staff and learners.

West College Scotland (WCS), which has campuses in Clydebank, Paisley and Greenock, had been shortlisted with nominations in five of the 12 categories including colleague of the year, learning and teaching colleague of the year, college community learning award, the marketing and communications award and the health and wellbeing award.

WCS took top place in both the college community learning award and prestigious Judge’s Award, which recognised the very best overall submission at the CDN College Awards.

The judges praised the college’s accessible, flexible and engaging approach to delivering learning to adults who otherwise would not be able to access education. 

The college was highly commended in the marketing and communications category, for their role in promoting WCS as a safe and supportive place to study and work during the global pandemic, and in the health and wellbeing award.

Isobel Donald, a makeup artistry lecturer at WCS, was also highly commended in the learning and teaching colleague of the year category for her inspirational work in taking an innovative approach to teaching.

Liz Connolly, WCS principal and chief executive, said: "These awards recognise the vital role our college plays in the success of our communities and in creating enriched futures for people.

"They also recognise the passion and dedication of our incredible colleagues in working to deliver positive outcomes for all who choose to learn, collaborate and work with us.

"To win the Judge’s Award for the best overall submission is a humbling but fantastic recognition of our innovative approach to delivering accessible learning.

"We would also like to congratulate all of our amazing college sector friends. It has been fantastic to hear the inspirational stories and initiatives being delivered by so many passionate people."