College scoops award for collaborative schools course with SIC

UHI SHETLAND has been recognised with a silver award for the school or college partnership programme of the year at this year’s Pearson National Teaching Awards.

The college’s partnership with Shetland Islands Council focuses on courses aimed at S5 and S6 pupils, allowing them to study at UHI Shetland and gain a qualification while still being at school.

More than 100 S5 and S6 pupils enrolled on this year’s intake, with the courses gaining popularity every year.

It is said that the courses allow pupils to gain hands-on experience, leaving them better prepared to enter the local workforce.

Chosen from thousands of nominees, UHI Shetland are now in with the chance of winning a highly esteemed gold award – which will be announced at an awards ceremony in London and on BBC One’s The One Show later this year.

UHI Shetland was one of 93 teachers, lecturers, leaders, support staff and institutions recognised as a silver winner in this year’s awards.

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College principal Professor Jane Lewis said the UHI Shetland was “delighted to have been recognised”.

“Our strong and collaborative relationship with both schools and local industries allows these courses to meaningfully contribute to the skills and employment pipeline to support Shetland’s workforce needs,” she said.

“This is a testament to all the staff and stakeholders involved with these courses, and we look forward to the final award ceremony in November.”

Shetland Islands Council chief executive Maggie Sandison said the collaboration between the council and UHI Shetland was “crucial to bridge the gap between education and employment.

“I am delighted that our success in preparing our young people for the demands of the modern workforce has been recognised through this award,” she added.