A warm welcome to our Star Awards ceremony 2O11
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welcome
A warm
welcome to
our Star Awards
SQA Chief Executive Dr Janet Brown
ceremony 2O11
I am thrilled that we are gathered here tonight the ceremony as well as the performances of
at Anniesland College, Glasgow. This is the first our young musicians and dancers, which are
year we have held the ceremony in a college, sure to inspire as well as entertain.
and I’m sure we will have a wonderful evening.
Also, this year, we ran two competitions to
We at SQA recognise that good qualifications strengthen our work with Chinese centres and
are more important today than they have ever candidates, and to promote and raise awareness
been. Our qualifications genuinely reflect of Scotland. This was a contribution to the
our candidates’ skills and provide them with Scottish Government’s Strategy for Stronger
a pathway to the workplace or further study. Engagement with China, and a celebration of
our successful partnership with the Chinese
Scotland’s education and training system is Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE).
world-renowned. No matter where in the world
Scottish qualifications are delivered, there are I am delighted that the winners of the
inspirational stories to be told and magnificent Contemporary China / Inspiring Scotland
achievements to recognise from students competitions are here with us tonight and I’m sure
and centres. At our ceremony this evening we you will join me in welcoming them to Scotland.
will be rewarding and acknowledging those
achievements in a range of areas. I am truly delighted that the contributions of
our finalists, our sponsors, and all who have
This year’s Star Awards have seen a been involved in the ceremony, have created
tremendous number of nominations in all such a memorable occasion. Congratulations!
categories from Scotland, the rest of the UK
and internationally. Selecting finalists in each
category was very difficult. To all who have
made it to this evening’s ceremony, well done!
You represent the absolute best of education Dr Janet Brown
and training and should take enormous pride Chief Executive
in your achievements. I do hope you all enjoy
SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11 3
‘Celebrating the Stars of the Future’ The future growth and prosperity of Scottish industry relies on a talented and qualified workforce. CBI Scotland understands the importance of academic excellence and achievement. CBI Scotland is proud to support the SQA Star Award category ‘Lifelong Learning Individual Award’. CBI Scotland helps create and sustain the conditions in which businesses in Scotland compete and prosper for the benefit of all. We work with the Scottish and UK governments, international legislators and policy makers to help UK businesses compete effectively. Find out more about what we can do for your business by contacting: David Lonsdale, Assistant Director, CBI Scotland david.lonsdale@cbi.org.uk or call 0141 223 6763
contents
Tonight’s
Programme
Menu 7
Kaye Adams 9
Celebration of
Worldskills Success 10
Inspiring Scotland /
Contemporary China 12
Curriculum for Excellence 14
Academic Excellence Award 16
Skills Competitor of the Year 18
Appointee of the Year 20
Partnership of the Year 22
Lifelong Learning (Centre) 24
International Award 26
Innovation Award 28
Lifelong Learning (Candidate) 30
SQA Champion 32
Training Organisation Candidate
of the Year 34
School Candidate of the Year 36
College Candidate of the Year 38
Pride o’ Worth Awards 41
Fellowship Award 43
Tonight’s entertainment 44
Our sponsors 46
Thanks 50
SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11 5
The new national development and
improvement agency for education
from early years to adult learning
Our priorities are:
leading and supporting the implementation of Curriculum
for Excellence
promoting high quality professional learning and leadership
identifying and stimulating innovation and sharing successful
approaches widely with others
providing independent external evaluations of the quality
of educational provision
increasing the capacity for self-evaluation and
self-improvement amongst education providers
supporting the development and implementation of policy
at national level
Transforming lives through learning
www.educationscotland.gov.uk
menu
Star Awards
Menu 2O11
Starter
Terrine of sustainable Scottish salmon
with a soused fennel, cucumber
and mini caper salad, served with
sour cream, dill and celery cracker
infused with green herb oil
Main Course
Slow cooked collop of Scotch shin
of beef with gratin dauphinoise
potatoes, confit of smoked baby onion,
seasonal roots selection enhanced
with red wine and fresh thyme jus
Dessert
A combination of Scottish classic
desserts: warm Braeburn apple frushie
with cranachan mousseline and
firework coulters candy parfait
Fairtrade tea and coffee
with Anniesland tablet
SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11 7
RECOGNITION OPPORTUNITY PROGRESSION FOR ALL SCOTLAND’S LIFELONG LEARNING FRAMEWORK helping people of all ages and circumstances to get access to appropriate education and training so they can meet their full potential visit us at www.scqf.org.uk 39 St Vincent Place Glasgow G1 2ER T 0845 270 7371 E info@scqf.org.uk www.scqf.org.uk Registered Scottish Charity No. SC037958
host
Kaye Adams
Kaye Adams is one
of the country’s most
experienced live TV
and radio broadcasters.
Host for the evening Kaye Adams
Kaye Adams is one of the country’s most Probably best known for her seven years at
experienced live TV and radio broadcasters. the helm of ITV’s award-winning, daytime
Kaye presents her own daily morning chat show Loose Women, she is a regular
discussion show – Call Kaye – on BBC Radio presenter on Channel Five’s The Wright Stuff
Scotland. The show brings a human touch to and Radio Five Live, and most recently has
the stories making the news, talking to people appeared as a regular reporter on BBC One’s
at the heart of the headlines and discussing The One Show. She is also a sought-after
the issues that affect our daily lives: families, contributor on a range of discussion and
work, money, health – to name only a few. panel shows. She’s braved both Question
Time and Have I Got News For You and sat in
She has presented a number of documentary the more cosy surroundings of Countdown’s
series for BBC Radio Scotland including her Dictionary Corner. She presented seven
latest, ‘So Who’s Got the Children?’ which series of Scottish Women for STV, her own
explored the effect of divorce on children. show Kaye for BBC2, Esther for BBC2, Central
Weekend for Central TV and from 2000 till
2007, she anchored Loose Women.
SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11 9
Worldskills UK
Celebration of Worldskills success
Last month the Worldskills competition was There were 36 young people in the UK team
held in London. Competitors from 51 nations but we are so proud that 5 of them were
took part in skill based competitions around Scots. They were:
a wide range of work based skills from
construction to hairdressing to electronics. Emma Fitzpatrick
Caring
The UK achieved 5 gold, 2 silver and 6 Frances McMenemy
bronze medals along with 12 medallions Caring
for excellence. Out of 51 countries the Rachael Terras
UK finished fifth. This is really impressive! Painting and Decorating
Worldskills really underline our commitment Rory Andrew
to developing skills to support our growth Fashion Technology
and economic future. Ryan Sheridan
Mechanical Engineering Computer Aided Design
Tonight we want to celebrate their success
and their skills based achievements. We wish
them all well in their future careers!
10 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11
The competitors
The competitors all felt that participation in the skills
competition had huge benefits for them. As well as improving
confidence, performance and ability, their experiences at
Worldskills have helped better prepare them for industry, working
together and trying new things. By demonstrating their dedication
and skills we are sure that many new opportunities will come
from their achievements in this prestigious competition.
Emma Fitzpatrick Frances McMenemy Rachel Terras
Rory Andrew Ryan Sheridan
Celebration of Worldskills success 11
Since 2004, SQA has established educational The winners of both competitions were
links with the People’s Republic of China. announced at a prize-giving ceremony held
Thirty-one Chinese universities now offer in Beijing in July 2011 and hosted by Neil
Scottish HND qualifications as part of a MacGowan, Head of Corporate Affairs at
programme that sees Chinese students SQA. Xianglong Chen from Wuhan University
complete their studies at university in an of Technology won the Contemporary China
English-speaking country. Over 10,000 competition. Xianglong is a shining example
students have benefited from our joint of a student keen to progress his learning
collaboration. To celebrate this success we while providing support and encouragement
ran two competitions with our Chinese to fellow students and the wider community.
centres. Our Inspiring Scotland and Pinpin Lv from Capital Normal University
Contemporary China competitions were scooped the top prize in the Inspiring
launched in Beijing on 22 October 2010 by Scotland competition. Pinpin took Scottish
Michael Russell MSP, Cabinet Secretary for air music as her inspiration and enthralled
Education and Lifelong Learning. the judges with her interpretation of the
music on the Urheen, a traditional Chinese
Inspiring Scotland invited Chinese students musical instrument.
to take any aspect of Scotland that inspires
them and develop a creative piece of work. We are delighted that the winners of this
Contemporary China invited our Chinese year’s competitions are joining us at tonight’s
university partners to nominate students Star Awards. Xianglong Chen and Pinpin Lv
who excelled at learning and acquiring have travelled from China with their parents
new skills on the HND programme while to be with us tonight. We hope you will
demonstrating a commitment to their family, join everyone at SQA in extending a warm
community, other students and university. Scottish welcome to them.
12 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Inspiring Scotland, contemporary china 13
Qualifications are Curriculum for Excellence has introduced a new way of learning into schools and colleges. The new curriculum will equip young people with the knowledge they’ll need to thrive in the 21st century. The skills young people learn today will help them succeed in life outside the classroom. The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) is designing new qualifications which will help young people demonstrate the knowledge and skills they’ve learned at school or college. SQA is working with teachers, lecturers, parents and employers to make sure national standards are maintained and the new qualifications are of the same high standard as those we currently have. New National Qualifications called National 4 and National 5 will replace a number of current qualifications – Standard Grade at General and Credit level, Intermediate 1 and Intermediate 2. Standard Grade at Foundation level will be replaced by the updated Access 3. Revisions will be made to the current Access 1, Access 2, Higher and Advanced Higher qualifications. The new qualifications will help young people reach their full potential as they progress from their broad, general education through to college, university, other learning and employment.
changing For more information on SQA and how we’re developing the new National Qualifications, visit www.sqa.org.uk/curriculumforexcellence curriculum for excellence
THE FINALISTS
Academic Excellence Award
Our Star Award for Academic Excellence recognises the very best
performances from candidates in the 2011 exams for National Courses.
Jemma Brown Gavin Macauley
Marr College St Aloysius’ College
Troon Glasgow
Jemma displayed academic excellence at Gavin was one of the most outstanding
Marr College throughout her secondary students St Aloysius’ has had. He was a
education, culminating in the awards of pupil for 15 years, first joining the school in
Dux in S4 and S5. Her SQA examination kindergarten.
results were exceptional and attest to
determination, diligence and ability. The breadth of his academic interests is
astounding and he could have pursued any
She has been described by her teachers as subject to the highest level. He is a brilliant
‘outstanding’ and ‘the best I have had the mathematician, scientist and linguist. At the
privilege to teach’ while others have been same time he is very modest, without any
impressed by her consistent excellence, hint of arrogance. Everyone likes Gavin and
application, quiet confidence and modesty. understandably so because he is friendly,
helpful, kind, calm and funny. Not only is he
Jemma is not only extremely talented a great student, he is a great person as well.
academically, gaining a place at Oxford
University, but was regarded as a first-rate
contributor and role model to the school
community and her peers.
16 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Dr John Halliday accepting the Award on BEHALF OF RACHAEL MCLELLAN FROM DR Gill Stewart,
Director of Qualifications Development at SQA. winner 2010
David Young
Stewart’s Melville College
Edinburgh
David was Deputy Head Boy, and this year’s he has a real social conscience and hopes
Dux, at Stewart’s Melville College and is one one day to work in financial services to aid
of the most successful students to have developing countries.
passed through the school.
He attained ‘A’ Band 1 grades in his five
Higher examinations and then repeated this
feat in his four Advanced Highers in sixth
year. He is an outstanding mathematician
and economist, and is a young man of
considerable intellect.
He is a fine musician and singer, a good
chess player and swimmer, and he recently
completed the Gold section of the Duke
of Edinburgh’s Award. Yet, despite all these
accomplishments, David remains very
modest about his achievements; indeed
Academic Excellence 17THE FINALISTS
Skills Competitor of the Year
This award recognises SQA candidates who have developed their
vocational qualifications to competitive levels, locally or nationally.
Steven Butler outstanding performance and attitude during
South Lanarkshire College the competition.
East Kilbride Steven’s incredible journey of success
continued with him winning the Community
As an apprentice, Stirling resident Steven Partnership Apprentice of the year —
has achieved an SVQ Level 3 in Roofing presented by the Provost of Stirling to an
Occupations, developing his skills in roof individual for outstanding achievement and
slating, tiling and cement work. services to the community.
During this time his talents and drive to succeed John O’Hara
have brought rewards not just in national
Coatbridge College
competitions but also in the form of additional
titles awarded by prestigious industry sponsors.
North Lanarkshire
He has successfully competed in the Regional At 27, John decided to follow his lifelong
and National Skillbuild competitions twice, ambition to become a hairdresser, enrolling on
winning the title of ‘Best Apprentice’ in the NQ Introduction to Hairdressing course
the Slating section and the coveted title before achieving his HNC.
of ‘Best Roof Slating and Tiling Apprentice
in Scotland’. This year he was awarded the John is dyslexic, and has shown real
Frank Eaton Trophy, which is presented to determination to excel in his studies — the
the competitor who demonstrates the most number of awards he has achieved proves that.
18 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Gary Riley receiving his Award from Rob Lennox of the scottish government. winner 2010
They include Gold at Scottish and National of professionalism in his own studies and
Worldskills competitions, two Silver medals commitment to his fellow apprentices.
at the AHT (Association of Hairdressers and
Therapists) National Competitions, and a As well as winning ‘Best Plumbing
place on ‘Young Artistic Team’, a prestigious Apprentice’ and ‘Speyside Plumbing Services
three year scholarship from L’Oreal to Lead’ awards three years in a row, Raymond
nurture new talent. has represented the college at Scottish
SkillPlumb, ranking first place, and being
As well as starting his own hairdressing the only Scottish representative at the UK
business and delivering masterclasses SkillPlumb finals.
to other potential Skills Competition
participants on behalf of a number of At the invitation of Historic Scotland,
colleges, John is now studying for an HND he took a lead role in demonstrations at
in Make Up Artistry. this year’s Royal Highland Show, and also
showcased his talents at the Worldskills
Raymond McWilliam event in London.
Moray College
Raymond’s success is underpinned by his
Elgin desire to continue to improve his own skills
and promote his chosen trade.
During his time as a plumbing apprentice,
when he achieved an SVQ Level 3,
Raymond has demonstrated a high level
Skills Competitor of the Year 19THE FINALISTS
Appointee of the Year
Every year SQA relies on the professional service provided by
around 15,000 appointees, undertaking a wide range of tasks.
This award acknowledges appointees who have demonstrated
outstanding commitment to SQA over time.
Tom Hardie new National Qualifications. When Edinburgh
University heard of Tom’s retirement they
Tom has held a number of roles in SQA since persuaded him to help in the mentoring of
1993 including Principal Assessor, Senior trainee teachers as well as visiting and assessing
External Verifier and Examiner for Physical trainees in their school placements.
Education.
David Jack
In 2010 Tom participated in an event that
showed how Physical Education can be David has held a number of appointee roles
accessible to everyone, regardless of their within SQA including Marker and examination
disabilities. For the 2011 Exam Diet he was team member for Religious Moral and
involved in ensuring SQA provided robust Philosophical Studies (RMPS). He is currently
Marker training, resulting in a high number Principal Assessor for RMPS Higher and
of ‘A’ Markers. Also in 2010 and 2011, Tom Advanced Higher.
led a major project producing DVDs for
Exemplification of Physical Education At the recent review of RMPS, David supported
Performance, which was designed to help SQA in effectively implementing the required
teachers with internal assessments. changes ensuring centres were given the
correct advice and support. In addition, he
Tom retired from Beeslack Community High provides support to other centres especially
School this year but is continuing his role as an those with singleton posts in RMPS. David has
SQA appointee, working with the Curriculum also developed and presented bespoke training
for Excellence team on the development of the courses for local authorities with a particular
20 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Joe Walker receiving his award from Maidie Cahill, Director of HR and Organisational Development at SQA. winner 2010
focus on Advanced Higher level which has George was totally committed to SQA, going
encouraged uptake and improved the quality above and beyond his job remit and giving his
of candidate responses. own time to advise and help colleagues and
centres. His knowledge, and technical and
Currently, David is providing assistance to the industry awareness, of the HAUC (Highway
Curriculum for Excellence development team. Authorities and Utilities Committee) sector is
He is doing this in his own time as he is willing unsurpassed. He co-wrote the HAUC Award
to share his knowledge and experiences to structures and Unit provisions as we know
develop robust new qualifications. them today.
George Livingstone George was instrumental in promoting
HAUC re-assessment qualifications in 2010.
George has been involved with SQA for He was also a key member of SQA’s Business
20 plus years as Senior External Verifier for Development and Customer Services
Street Works (road qualifications) and in the committee, and was involved in training our
development of Customised Awards. He has Business Development Managers in HAUC
also worked with the Scottish Government re-assessment for the rest of the UK. George
and UK Government advising on Highways and retired from SQA in July 2011.
Roads legislation and training needs.
APPOINTEE OF THE YEAR 21THE FINALISTS
Partnership of the Year
The awards in this category recognise partnerships whose work has set
new standards in education and training, to the benefit of candidates.
The award recognises partnership in its widest sense including those
between schools, colleges, universities, business and training providers.
Anniesland College and The partnership has also provided a selection
Knightswood Secondary School of enterprise and citizenship courses to
develop the four capacities of Curriculum
Anniesland College and Knightswood for Excellence. It also allows staff to teach in
Secondary School have been working each partner institution, and develops joint
together since 1991. The partnership helps staff development activities.
young learners make the transition from
school to college and develop employability Kilmarnock College and
skills. It also promotes citizenship and GE Caledonian
extends the school curriculum to provide
greater breadth and choice. For the past 13 years GE Caledonian,
a Prestwick-based engineering firm
This partnership has included working with specialising in turbofan aero-engines has
the Dance School of Scotland to develop enjoyed a successful relationship with
programmes up to HND level and promote a Kilmarnock College.
pathway for excellence in creative performance.
This partnership started from the knowledge
The school and college have also provided that GE Caledonian wants to ensure its
full-time vocational programmes for pupils workforce meets the high standards expected
who are disengaged at school — leading them by the industry, regulatory bodies and
to college and future employment, as well as customers; Kilmarnock College wants to give
offering subjects not provided by the school. its students the best start to their careers.
22 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Sodexo and Langside College, WINNERS RECEIVING THEIR AWARD FROM
KAREN MCCALLUM, DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS AT SQA. winner 2010
The partnership between the two — they Scottish Institute for Residential Child Care
call it Inspiring Achievement – Building (SIRCC) and other organisations.
Futures — is built around a mix of vocational
and academic education with close ties to This qualification covers practical and
GE Caledonian’s operation: college lecturers theoretical work, and equips learners with
go to GE’s premises; the college has recruited the knowledge and skills they need for work
GE staff to deliver academic content; college in residential child care settings.
assessments are carried out at GE.
The teaching team at Langside College
There are benefits for both partners (in has designed an SVQ that includes getting
terms of recruitment, resources and results), realistic insights from young people who
and for the students, who get an enhanced have experience of this form of care.
learning experience.
SIRCC got together a group of young people
The partnership model has also been who live in care and who, working with the
adopted by other organisations. teaching team, devised lesson plans for the
students. They have provided an invaluable
Langside College and Scottish overview of the realities of working and
Institute for Residential Child Care living in residential child care.
Langside College offers an HNC in Social Everyone involved has benefited from this
Care delivered in partnership with the innovative partnership, and the results have
improved the learning experience.
PARTNERSHIP OF THE YEAR 23THE FINALISTS
Lifelong Learning (Centre)
Lifelong learning is important to Scotland, its economy and the
workforce. This award recognises the work of centres to deliver
real and sustained learning opportunities to learners of all ages.
This award is sponsored by the Scottish Credit and Qualifications
Framework Partnership.
Angus Council Social Work also promoted best standards of practice
and Health and a quality service delivered to the service
users in Angus.
Arbroath
Fife Council Adult Basic Education
Angus Council Social Work and Health
Glenrothes
(ACSW&H) has a well-established SVQ
centre — it has been running since 1996.
Fife Council’s Adult Basic Education Service
Throughout this time the centre has worked provides literacies support for up to 900
in partnership with the community to adult learners in the region each year.
promote lifelong learning opportunities. This
has involved working with partners including Tuition is arranged in local venues across
Angus College. Fife, and people come along to build their
skills and confidence. They follow their own
By building up a trusted working partnership, learning plan, tailored to their own goals
ACSW&H was able to develop new and needs.
opportunities for students in the local
community and also for ACSW&H employees. An important element of adult basic
education provision is the delivery of
The collaboration includes delivering the accredited learning opportunities for adult
HNC Social Care jointly, and college students literacies learners. A team of 15 qualified
taking work placements at ACSW&H. This assessors help learners to build portfolios
24 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Stevenson College Edinburgh receiving their award from Aileen Ponton, Chief executive of SCQF. WINNER 2010
detailing their achievement in Core Skills Units Cadets are put through a tough recruitment
in Communication, Numeracy or ICT. process that includes a full fitness test, medical,
vetting procedures and entrance exam.
For many, this is the first time they have
ever achieved a formal qualification. Their Cadets are also assessed on their ability
sense of accomplishment helps to build their to communicate, how they work in a team,
confidence, demonstrating that they can be and how they work under pressure, while
successful learners and encouraging them to undergoing varied and demanding challenges.
take up opportunities for progression in their
learning or career. Grampian Police based the programme on
a Customised Award. The skills learned are
Grampian Police completely transferable and can be utilised
in a variety of workplaces, not just with
Aberdeen
Grampian Police.
The Grampian Police Cadet Programme is for To date, 41 Cadets have gone on to become
local people aged 16. It gives them an insight full time Police Officers, and many others have
into the work of the police, provides an chosen to take the experience and qualification
opportunity to work with community partners, gained from the Cadet programme into other
and develops their life skills and experience. careers or educational vocations.
Lifelong Learning (Centre) 25THE FINALISTS
International Award
We operate in a global environment and this award recognises the work
of centres delivering SQA qualifications to international candidates in
Scotland or abroad.
Anniesland College students worked for the SQA Personal
Development Planning Awards.
For the past two years, Anniesland College
has been working with four Palestinian The experience of undertaking an SQA PDA
Colleges in the West Bank Territory – Hisham was particularly useful, enabling tutors from
Hijjawi Technical College (Nablus), UNRWA the Palestinian colleges to develop their own
WTC (Ramallah), the Palestine Technical PDA and PDP programmes – in Arabic as well
College Al-Arroub (Hebron) and the Palestine as English.
Technical College for Girls (Ramallah).
In June 2011, a Celebration of Achievement
Initially, the partnership was primarily was held in Ramallah in the Palestinian
‘practitioner’ focused. Staff from the Territories, attended by the Palestinian
Palestinian colleges attended workshops Minister of Education and Linda McTavish,
in Glasgow. Eight staff from Anniesland CBE, Principal of Anniesland College.
have led training sessions in Ramallah, and
attended forums, meetings and conferences Edinburgh’s Telford College
in Palestine.
For over 40 years, Edinburgh’s Telford
The emphasis of the partnership has shifted College (ETC) has been helping international
towards student-centred learning, and learners to gain international qualifications
vocational training. and work experience.
Between 2009 and 2011, Palestinian Since 2006, over 2,000 learners from outside
colleagues undertook the SQA Professional Europe have undertaken a wide range of SQA
Development Award in Training, while courses across all college departments.
26 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11ADNOC Technical Institute, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates receiving their award from john mcdonald,
director of business development at sqa. WINNER 2010
Recognised as one of the leading UK colleges The first year of the HND is delivered
for international operations, ETC has been overseas. The second year of the HND
expanding its operations significantly over is delivered in Glasgow.
the past five years.
Nearly 300 students from institutions in India
The college has a network of over 75 agents and Pakistan have completed the first year of
in 19 countries worldwide, and 23 global the HND overseas and arrived in Glasgow.
partnerships (outside EU including India,
Nepal, China, Bangladesh, Libya, Philippines, Most students begin a seagoing training
South Africa, Angola and Sri Lanka). phase on completion of the HND
and some will progress onto a degree
This has helped ETC become the single programme run in conjunction with
biggest Scottish college, enrolling the Glasgow Caledonian University.
largest number of full-time international
learners across a college’s range of SQA The college has recognised the need for
curriculum programmes at its campus in investment and commitment to support
Scotland and overseas. the programme. Of the number of students
enrolling for the first year overseas, some
92% arrive in Glasgow to enrol on the
City of Glasgow College second year.
The One-plus-one programme at City of
Glasgow College delivers maritime training
in collaboration with overseas colleges. It
started in Chennai in 1992.
International Award 27THE FINALISTS
Innovation Award
These awards will be presented to centres who can demonstrate
good practice and innovation in their delivery of SQA qualifications.
This award is sponsored by Education Scotland.
Royal Zoological Society At the end of the programme, the students
of Scotland (RZSS) create and present a conservation project.
They also outline their own personal
Edinburgh development achievements.
The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland’s
ZEST (Zoo and Environmental Skills Training) South Lanarkshire College
programme integrates SQA qualifications, East Kilbride
including the Access 3 Social Subjects, the
Employability Award, and the Practical South Lanarkshire College’s Renewables Training
Abilities and Self & Work Units of the Personal facility offers programmes in renewable
Development Award. technologies and sustainability that are being
The programme allows students to work delivered through extensive partnership work.
with over 1,000 exotic animals, and gain The Low Carbon House (The Aurora) was
an understanding of environmental and built with over 50 construction partners.
conservation issues. Construction was integrated into the
The main objectives meet the requirements college’s curriculum, with HNC and HND
of Curriculum for Excellence — developing Units being covered.
employability skills and responsibility towards the
The college’s training facilities use the latest
environment, and building confidence, experience
and interpersonal skills. renewable technology, such as solar panels,
insulation materials and air source heat pumps.
ZEST has grown from hosting eight students in The equipment is supplied by strategic partners.
2009, to 14 students in 2010 to 16 in 2011.
28 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11South Lanarkshire College, East Kilbride receiving their award from graeme ogilvy of learning
and teaching scotland. WINNER 2010
The facilities are used by industry partners, It offers Rural Skills courses through which
manufacturers and the college, and 200 people students undertake real tasks such as working
from industry so far have participated in training. with stockmen, fencing workers, and vets.
Qualifications relating to the installation and It also offers the Managing Environmental
testing of renewable technologies are available, Resources qualification.
and many learners have gained employment A hairdressing course, using local premises,
as a result of the college’s close working is being developed.
relationship with industry partners. Full-time
courses for adults to retrain are also on offer. ‘Outdoor classrooms’ offer experiential
learning in subjects such as Art, English,
and Practical Craft skills.
The Queensberry Initiative at
Wallace Hall Academy A Strategic Group oversees the Initiative and
has involvement from local businesses, who
Thornhill offer work projects and become involved in
the business mentor scheme.
Wallace Hall Academy set up the Queensberry
Initiative in June 2008. Using a large country
estate, and all the resources and environments
this offers, the initiative has now become a
centre of learning for the whole community.
The initiative involves the secondary school
itself, cluster primaries, local businesses, third
sector groups, local colleges and parents.
INNOVATION award 29THE FINALISTS
Lifelong Learning (Candidate)
This award acknowledges candidates who have demonstrated
commitment to Lifelong Learning in achieving SQA qualifications.
This award is sponsored by CBI Scotland.
Doug Fairweather Since then, Doug has completed an SVQ
Level 4 in Health and Social Care, an ILM
Angus Council Social Work and
course in Management, a post-graduate
Health, Arbroath
module in Profound and Complex Needs,
and two SVQ Leading Change Units.
Doug is now manager of a resource
centre, though he left school in 1976 with Doug now manages the SVQ programme in
no qualifications. the Learning Disabilities service at Angus
Council.
Doug began his working life in retail,
attending Dundee College on day-release for
his SNC in Business Studies. He then worked Stephen Johnson
in the bar trade for ten years. Langside College, Glasgow
Starting a family, Doug decided to change
his work pattern. He began work as a nursing Four years ago, Stephen, then 32, was in an
auxiliary, also training as a health care industrial accident. This left him dependent
support worker. on a wheelchair.
Doug then joined Angus Council Social Work Stephen decided that the best way that he
and Health as a day centre officer. He completed could secure a sustainable future was to
a PDA in Learning Disabilities and became depute maximise his intellectual capacities. He has
learned to cope with his disability and has
manager and then was promoted to manager.
found a new passion for learning.
Despite challenging personal circumstances he
also managed to gain his SVQ Level 3 in Care.
30 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Gill Roberts, West Lothian College, RECEIVING HER AWARD FROM IAIN MCMILLAN, DIRECTOR OF CBI SCOTLAND. WINNER 2010
After success on an Access level course, Amanda Robertson
there has been no stopping him. He has
Adult Basic Education Service,
recently completed his HND in Interactive
Fife Council
Media.
Through his own hard work, determination Having left school with no qualifications,
and positive attitude, he has achieved many Amanda had little confidence in her abilities,
goals, which will enable him to look forward but more than anything she wanted to be able
to a brighter future. to help her three daughters with their learning
Stephen plans to take a year out from study and be a positive role model.
to concentrate on his biggest challenge yet Amanda began her learning at level 3 with
— becoming a father for the first time. His a Numeracy qualification and then a level
ultimate goal is to complete a degree level 4 Numeracy and Communication. With
qualification. her new-found confidence she was able to
complete an Introduction to Care course at
Adam Smith College, and is now undertaking
an Access to Nursing course.
Amanda is now able to help her children with
their homework. She has been an inspiration
to other learners, advising them not to set any
limit to their lifelong learning goals.
Lifelong Learning (Candidate) 31THE FINALISTS
SQA Champion
This award recognises staff in centres who champion SQA
qualifications. It is for teachers, lecturers, trainers and support staff —
anyone who supports candidates to achieve their full potential.
This award is sponsored by YouthLink Scotland.
Linda Greenhill Youth workers have more confidence and
delivery is improved. In the words of her
As Community Learning and Development Manager, Linda’s work has ‘changed the face
Worker for the Stranraer area, Linda supports of youth work in Wigtownshire’.
a team of youth workers.
Christine Lambie
Realising there was a need for accredited
training, in 2004 Linda got involved in creating Christine became involved with SQA when
the SVQ in Youth Work. She has helped she was President of the Scottish Paralegal
develop the SVQ systems and documentation, Association and SQA was revising its HNC
has actively promoted the benefits of the and HND in Legal Services.
qualification, and has achieved her A1 Assessor
Award, a part-time degree and the Internal Passionate about getting professional
Verifier qualification, all in her own time while recognition for paralegals, for the work
supporting candidates to complete the Youth they do in the legal and other sectors,
Work SVQ. Christine helped introduce the Law Society
of Scotland Registered Paralegal Scheme
The result of Linda’s input shows in the which requires, among other criteria, that
candidates. According to those she has candidates hold an appropriate national
supported, Linda ‘was always there to answer qualification.
questions or concerns I had’, ‘worked hard to
keep me motivated’, and ‘was always willing The legal profession is evolving to a state
to accommodate me in her diary’. where there will be more paralegals working
32 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Gordon Thorburn, Perth High School. WINNER 2010
for fewer solicitors. Christine has actively Elaine has continued to be involved by
helped facilitate this, helping bring about participating in consultation workshops
engagement between SQA and legal sector for new qualifications, and attends SQA’s
stakeholders to ensure that it happens with Professional CPD workshops. She has also
thorough and relevant engagement. encouraged bodies in England and Wales
to offer the qualification where the NVQ
There is increasing interest in, and uptake of, equivalent is not available.
the PDAs for paralegals.
Committed and enthusiastic, Elaine has
Christine also champions the HNs and PDAs developed a pilot scheme for candidates,
to her own membership, and continues to which provides opportunities every six
help SQA with developing the qualifications. months for candidates to undertake the SVQ
and, where appropriate, to progress
Elaine McDiarmid to assessor and/or internal verifier.
Elaine implemented the UK’s first Elaine is also an assessor in the Baking
qualification in Electronic Monitoring — sector, has SAMB Assessor/Internal
SQA’s SVQ 3 in Community Support through Verifier status for Levels 1, 2, 3, and Modern
Electronic Monitoring. To develop the Apprenticeships, and has supported
qualification, she liaised with Skills for Justice many candidates through their Baking
and SQA to ensure the qualification was fit qualifications.
for purpose, and used existing Units from
various qualifications in the Justice sector.
sqa champion 33THE FINALISTS
Training Organisation
Candidate of the Year
This award recognises candidates in employment, or with training
organisations, who have achieved SQA qualifications and can show how
qualifications have broadened their knowledge, contributed to their
personal development, or benefited the local community.
Scott MacKenzie Centre in Aberdeen, where he showed great
Aberdeen College/Inchgarth dedication, working with youth groups to
Community Centre facilitate activities. His positive attitude
and work ethic led to an invitation to work
Scott has faced many challenges in life but at Inchgarth Community Centre over the
felt strongly that he wanted to pursue a summer months as a youth worker.
career working in the community. Having in
his past had dealings with the criminal justice Scott aims to be a positive role model to
system, Scott built a strong case to gain young people in the future.
access to the NC Working with Communities
course. Angela Riley
Loretto Care
On starting the course, Scott was faced
with a steep learning curve, which he had
to overcome. Showing great capacity for Angela returned to education after a number
change, he learned to use his life experience of years and, with a lot of hard work and
as a foundation to inform his practice and dedication, achieved her SVQ Level 3 Health
slowly embarked on a journey of self- and Social Care (Adults) within 6 months.
awareness while developing his knowledge
and skills. Angela supports service users who have
experienced homelessness, and who have
As part of his course, Scott undertook a mental health and addiction problems.
work placement at Inchgarth Community She believes that her increased knowledge,
34 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11STUART LEITCH COLLECTING THE AWARD ON BEHALF OF JAMIE LEE MILLER, MI TECHNOLOGIES LTD,
FROM MORAG TURNBULL OF ROYAL MAIL. WINNER 2010
and the ability to reflect on her work to make recommendations to Loretto’s
practice that she gained during her SVQ, has Management Committee about Wellness
enhanced the support that she now offers Recovery Action Planning (WRAP) training in
her service users during their tenancies. the organisation.
Since completing her SVQ, Angela’s Thomas underwent training to become a
confidence has increased and she has WRAP facilitator for Loretto, and he is now
a strong desire to continue to develop involved in developing and delivering WRAP
her knowledge and skills. She recently training in the organisation.
completed an Adult Learning and Literacies
Service volunteer training course, and is Thomas also does a lot of voluntary work,
striving to further develop literacy and and is a great contributor in his local
numeracy support within the service. community. He continues to be motivated to
assist and support others formally and as a
Thomas Sanderson volunteer.
Loretto Care
Thomas joined Loretto in February 2007 as
a part-time support assistant. In 2009 he
achieved his SVQ Level 3 in Health and Social
Care (Adults). The knowledge and experience
he gained in his SVQ enabled Thomas
Training Organisation Candidate of the Year 35THE FINALISTS
School Candidate of the Year
This award acknowledges school candidates who have achieved
SQA qualifications and have demonstrated outstanding commitment or
achievement in a number of ways, including to fellow candidates
or communities. This award is sponsored by Hodder Gibson.
Cameron Flewitt Cameron is motivated to make positive
Arran High School change in the world and sees his higher
education goals as the first step to this.
Isle of Arran
Carla Grant
An exceptional student across the academic
Beeslack Community High School
spectrum in language, creative subjects and
science, Cameron aims to study Life Sciences
Midlothian
at Cambridge University.
Carla faced the challenge of her Advanced
As a school prefect he has shown excellent Highers head on, while her father and two
leadership qualities and has encouraged and brothers were deployed to Afghanistan
motivated younger pupils to achieve their as part of the 2nd Battalion of the Royal
own goals, through peer support at school Regiment of Scotland. As the oldest ‘army
and also as part of his work towards the child’ in the school, she made it her duty
Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award. to act as a role model and mentor to the
younger pupils.
As well as his work with children with
profound learning difficulties, Cameron As they waited for the safe return of their
has been involved in many diverse projects loved ones, many pupils found it difficult
— from acting and playwriting to political to focus on school life. Carla showed great
debate, producing insightful argument as patience and care as a mentor, and as
part of the school’s ‘Youth Speak’ team. Learning Support helper with S2 ICT pupils.
36 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Richard Glennie, Hillpark Secondary School, Glasgow receiving his award from john mitchell,
managing director of hodder gibson. WINNER 2010
Studying for her Advanced Higher Product He has worked hard during a difficult year,
Design, Carla identified a weak spot in standard- putting much energy and effort into his
issue armed forces body armour, and diligently work in the local community. Coaching
devised an innovative retro-fit solution. younger pupils and adults in karate, assisting
the work of St Andrews First Aid, and
Carla’s ambition is matched by her working with people with disabilities at
compassionate nature and willingness a Leonard Cheshire Home have proved
to help others. As well as impressing the strong motivation for Connor.
teachers and pupils at Beeslack, she received
two unconditional university offers as reward His teachers commented on his diligence and
for her hard work. enthusiasm for schoolwork and the many
extra-curricular projects he has taken on in
Connor McIntyre his five years at the school.
Auchmuty High School
Connor will be studying for three Advanced
Glenrothes Highers in his 6th year at Auchmuty, and aims
to progress to university to study medicine.
Connor juggled studying for five Highers at
Auchmuty this year with community work
and sports instruction, on top of dealing
with the emotional difficulties of two family
bereavements and a winter house move
following a roof collapse.
School Candidate of the Year 37THE FINALISTS
College Candidate of the Year
This award recognises candidates in colleges who have achieved SQA
qualifications and can show how these qualifications have broadened
their knowledge and contributed to their own personal development.
Nikki Crabtree Using her traditional heritage skills and creativity,
Cardonald College Nikki can make a valuable contribution to the
island community and economy.
Glasgow
Leon Hutchison
Nikki started her business as a Harris
Stevenson College
Tweed weaver in 2010. Since then she
has successfully completed the SVQ in
Edinburgh
Manufacturing Textile Products Levels 1
and 2, at the Stornoway training school Leon is an inspirational student who has
established by Cardonald College. This has overcome severe dyslexia to make huge
enabled her to set up a weaving shed and achievements in his personal and vocational
invest in a specialist loom. development.
Nikki combines weaving of Harris Tweed After gaining his NC in ‘The Office Experience’,
with other creative aspects of her business, he went on to work with Best Western
such as the innovative use of production Edinburgh Capital Hotel. Recognising his need
waste from the loom to make rugs. She also to continue with his studies, Leon progressed
has an interest in rare breeds of sheep, with to an SVQ then, with the support of his
ambitions to raise these and expand the employer, embarked on Stevenson’s Highers
spinning side of her business. Programme and on to an HNC in Events.
He has now been accepted to join the HND
in Events Management course — a significant
38 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11Gordon McDonald, Reid Kerr College, RECEIVING HIS AWARD FROM ANDY WILLOX OBE,
FEDERATION OF SMALL BUSINESSES, SCOTLAND. WINNER 2010
achievement — and he is a great ambassador volunteered during his school holidays, gaining
for progression and development through valuable extra experience.
qualifications.
Scott’s passion for machinery led him to
Leon has shown great enthusiasm and Oatridge College where he completed his
professionalism in his employment, in Certificate in Agricultural Engineering — a
working with charity groups to raise money significant challenge given that he was still
for good causes while at college, and in his helping on the family farm on Bute. This
commitment to learning and development. meant quite a commute, but Scott maintained
His aspirations are to pursue a relevant course impeccable timekeeping, his determination
at university and ultimately, a career in the driving him to succeed.
events field.
This determination paid off, and he later went
Scott Simpson on to complete his Modern Apprenticeship
at Hamilton Brothers and Oatridge, while
Oatridge College
continuing to maintain his commitment to the
West Lothian family business in Bute.
Scott has been fascinated by ‘big machines’ His talent and passion for engineering was
since early childhood, and while at school spotted by John Mackirdy Haulage on Bute,
in Rothesay he got the chance of work where he now works as fleet engineer and
experience at Hamilton Brothers in Bishopton. driver of the large-scale vehicles that have
To develop his skills further, he even inspired him since he was young.
college Candidate of the Year 39DON’T
WORRY
BE
APPY
Create your own study plan with the new MyStudyPlan App
at www.sqa.org.uk/studyplan
Create your own exam timetable using our online timetable
builder at www.sqa.org.uk/timetable
www.mysqa.info
My SQApride o’ worth award
Pride o’ Worth Awards
Our Pride o’ Worth Awards are our highest accolade and are selected
from tonight’s winners in both individual and centre categories.
SQA’s formal crest incorporates
the evocative words ‘pride o’
worth’ from ‘A Man’s a Man for A’
That’ by Scotland’s national poet
Robert Burns. It provides a fitting
tribute to tonight’s exceptional and
inspirational award winners.
A prince can mak a belted knight,
A marquis, duke, an’ a’ that!
But an honest man’s aboon his might –
Guid faith, he mauna fa’ that!
For a’ that, an’ a’ that,
Their dignities, an’ a’ that,
The pith o’ sense an’ pride o’ worth
Are higher rank than a’ that.
A Man’s a Man for A’ That
Robert Burns (1759 – 1796)
SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11 41Skills
mean more
with SQA.
SQA offers a range of training qualifications to
encourage the skills people need to work more effectively
and more productively.
Meaning happier employers, happier staff, happier results.
Smile.
Log onto www.sqa.org.uk
Contact SQA’s Business Development Team on
0303 333 0330 or email mycentre@sqa.org.ukfellowship award
Fellowship
Award
The Fellowship of SQA is our
premier award, and is presented
to individuals who have made
an exceptional contribution to
education and training in Scotland.
Jennifer di Folco
Jennifer graduated from the Glasgow Since retiring in 2009 she has maintained
School of Art and began her teaching career her passion. This year she supported the
in Glasgow, bringing out the talents in Friends of the Royal Scottish Academy
Scotland’s young artists. She then became School Art Competition by running
Principal Teacher of Art and Design at workshops in schools in disadvantaged
Kirkland Community College and High areas of Scotland to fire young imaginations
School in Fife. and get them to think about entering the
competition.
In 2002, Jennifer came to SQA as the
Qualifications Manager for Art and
Design and PE. Her work as a Principal
Teacher positioned her well to understand
the issues facing her peers. Her role at
SQA allowed her to lead the subject’s
development nationally, where she
positioned Art and Design as a credible and
respected subject in the school curriculum.
SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11 43Tonight’s
entertainment
The High School of Glasgow part in major choral works of the calibre of
Mahler’s Symphony No. 3 at the BBC Proms
in London and his 8th Symphony at the
Performers: Usher Hall in Edinburgh. She has also sung at
Alasdair Campbell – Birkett (Saxophone) the Edinburgh Festival.
Alasdair began playing saxophone in Junior 4 In 2010 she was selected as the soloist
under his present tutor, Raymond McKeown for a concert in the Usher Hall with the
(Head of Wind). RSNO and Chorus.
At a singing competition at the RSAMD she was
He gained Distinction passes in both highly commended. She has regularly featured
Classical and Jazz genres at Grade 8 and is in The High School’s SingFest where she has
currently studying for his ABRSM Diploma. achieved awards for Outstanding Potential.
On leaving school Davina hopes to develop
He was twice named Junior Young Musician her singing further by gaining a place at a
of the Year at The High School and has national conservatoire.
appeared at every school MusicFest since
its inception in 2009 winning awards for Edinburgh’s Telford College
both Outstanding Potential and Outstanding
Musicianship. He was also runner-up in The BA Honours course at the Performing
the finals of the Scottish Jazz Musician Arts Studio Scotland in Edinburgh’s Telford
competition (U17 section). College provides an enhanced learning
and creative experience in a nurturing and
Davina Pittock (Soprano) supportive environment. Students begin the
Davina has been singing for three years under process of defining their dance practice in
the school’s Advisor in Vocal Studies, Wilma relation to the idea of dance as a socially
MacDougall. She gained a place at The Royal grounded art form, the significance and
Academy of Music and Drama Junior School potential of which create opportunities
where she continues her studies with Wilma and challenges for today’s dancer. The
as well as Viola under Pat Field. programme aims to develop students’
As a member of the Royal Scottish National practical and creative skills to a professional
Orchestra’s Junior Chorus she has taken level and to deepen their understanding and
awareness of dancers as a force in society.
44 SQA STAR AWARDS 2O11An emphasis is placed upon dance practice Coatbridge College
as existing and developing within the context
of an ongoing social and cultural analysis Coatbridge College offers qualifications in
and critique. Teaching is essentially student- Acting & Performance, Musical Theatre and
centred, placing a significant responsibility Professional Stage Dance from NQ to HND level.
upon the individual student for his or her
own progress and learning, whilst being fully The students performing this evening are the
supported throughout the year. This course graduating class from HND 2nd Year Musical
is validated by Northumbria University. Theatre and will shortly present the Rodgers &
Hammerstein classic ‘The Sound of Music’ at The
Performers Cottier Theatre in Glasgow’s vibrant West End.
Performances of this family favourite will run
Joanne Allison Lara Hardman from Wednesday 23rd November to Saturday
Kirsten Gillies Julie Kendrew 26th November.
Laura Birnie Amy Robinson
Christina Duncan Susan Vance We hope this performance will highlight
Michelle Ferguson Julie McNally the blossoming talent from Performing Arts
Kaitlin Forsyth Natalie Murray departments in Scotland’s Colleges. Join us
Nicole Green Parrysar Tavakoli now atop the Austrian Alps as we Climb
Every Mountain.
TONIGHT’S ENTERTAINMENT 45Our sponsors
Ashbrook Research & Consultancy Ltd is a full-service Bright Red Publishing Education Publisher of
market research agency working with clients across the Year for a second year running at the 2011
the public sector since it was established in 1996, is Independent Publishing Awards, and short-listed for
an approved contractor on the Scottish Government the Independent Publisher of the Year at this year’s
Marketing Services Framework, has been certified Bookseller Industry Awards, Edinburgh-based Bright
against ISO 9001: 2008 and is a Market Research Society Red Publishing is the leading independent Scottish
Company Partner. educational book publisher.
We publish the very
Ashbrook has extensive experience of applying a wide highest quality, most accessible revision and exam
range of research methodologies, including quantitative preparation materials for Scotland’s students and
applications (such as face-to-face interviews, telephone teachers, including a growing range of the only full-
interviews, postal surveys and online surveys) and colour revision titles for Advanced Higher students.
qualitative applications (such as one-to-one interviews We are also proud to be the publishers of the only
and focus groups). Over the past 15 years, Ashbrook has official and authorised SQA Past Examination Papers
developed specialisms in three key areas: and Answers. Bright Red books are developed
with imaginative and experienced educational
Learning & Skills research (on behalf of clients such
professionals at the heart of best practice in Scottish
as the Scottish Qualifications Authority, Education
teaching and learning, to be fresh, bright and easy to
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In addition, Ashbrook has undertaken current and The CBI helps create and sustain the conditions in
recent research on behalf of a wide range of other which businesses in the United Kingdom can compete
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