Edinburgh College has been shortlisted in two categories at the 2021 Tes FE Awards – the UK-wide annual celebration of achievements within the FE sector.

The College has been shortlisted in the Support for leaners category as a result of its work in ensuring care experienced students are given the best possible opportunities to succeed in education.

As a proud corporate parent, the College is dedicated to supporting all students and has introduced additional support for care experienced students at every stage of their college journey – from application to completion.

The College has recently seen an increase in the number of care experienced students undertaking courses and a significant decrease in the percentage of those students withdrawing early.

The College has also been named as a finalist in the Employer engagement category – in partnership with City of Glasgow College for our colleges’ collaborative work in delivering the Fast Track into Financial Services.

The course sees students complete a six-week work-readiness programme, developed in partnership with employers and Skills Development Scotland, and delivered by both lecturers and financial services’ industry experts.

Between Edinburgh College and City of Glasgow, 120 students across four cohorts have completed the course, with an increasing number of students progressing into employment within the sector as the course becomes more established.

Edinburgh College Principal Audrey Cumberford said: “I’m delighted our College has been nominated in two categories at these prestigious awards. The Tes Awards is a wonderful celebration of work carried out every day across our sector which makes a positive difference in people’s lives – and I’m very proud our College is being recognised for that.

“Congratulations to both of our teams who are involved with these nominations. Their hard work and commitment to delivering a fantastic experience for our students is inspirational – I’m both thrilled and grateful that their work has been given this recognition.”

Tes head of FE Julia Belgutay said: “Further education providers have excelled in what has been a truly challenging year, and the amazing individuals, teams and institutions on our Tes FE Awards shortlist showcase that. Our judges were highly impressed with the calibre of entries and I want to congratulate everyone who has made the shortlist – it is a brilliant achievement”

The winners of the 2021 Tes FE Awards will be announced during a virtual ceremony taking place on Friday 28 May.

See the full list of nominees and register your free place at the virtual awards ceremony here: tesfeawards.co.uk