Healthcare students

West Lothian College welcomed the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care as part of Scottish Careers Week. 

Neil Gray MSP visited the Livingston campus this week to learn how the college is driving the development of skills and innovation for students from its SWAP Access to Nursing and HNC Healthcare Practice courses.

Scottish Careers Week highlights the wide range of industries, career pathways, and opportunities available across Scotland, as well as the support that helps individuals reach their full potential- the week also celebrates emerging sectors, evolving job roles, and inspiring stories of people shaping their futures.

During the visit, students showed Mr Gray a range of industry-relevant skills such as performing CPR, showcasing the use of Virtual Reality (VR) in learning and teaching, recording simulation data within a ward environment, and sharing insights gained through their work placements.

Hazel Brady, Principal of West Lothian College, said: “The visit was an incredible opportunity to showcase the talent, dedication, and confidence of our students. They demonstrated not only the skills they have mastered through their learning but also the passion that drives them toward careers in healthcare.

“Our students spoke with pride about what inspires them, the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives, contribute to their communities and be part of a sector that values compassion and excellence. Their enthusiasm and professionalism were evident throughout the visit, and we are proud to see them representing the future of healthcare.

“This visit reaffirmed the importance of investing in education and training for the next generation of healthcare professionals. We thank Mr Gray for taking the time to engage with our students and for recognising the vital role they will play in shaping the future of health and social care.”