West Lothian College takes home win at CDN Awards

There was one win, two highly commended and one commended from the shortlisted candidates. The win went to the Workforce Development Faculty who created the Skills Boost – Gateway to Health and Social Care alongside the Scottish Ambulance Service in the Employer Connections category. The Skills Boost course was designed to upskill key staff working at Mobile Testing Units (MTUs) who were at risk of unemployment when their temporary contracts come to an end.

The team behind the Skills Boost also received high commendation in the Innovation Award category alongside the college’s Man Cave, a group dedicated to supporting men’s mental health, in the Health and Wellbeing Award category.

Aaron Hume, who was shortlisted for Student of the Year, Was given a commendation to recognise his dedicated involvement in committees and initiatives throughout the college, even during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Aaron adapted well to remote learning and showed real resilience and an ability to work round the various challenges the current climate has created to continue to pursue his goals.

On their win, Sarah Allison, learning and skills manager for the Workforce Development team, said:

"It’s a pleasure working on this project with Scottish Ambulance Service. The MTU Operatives are inspirational and their high level skills are showcased and enhanced through the course, putting them on the right path for future careers in care.  We were delighted this was recognised by the CDN judges and we are over the moon with winning and being highly commended."

Aaron Hume added about his commendation:

“It was truly an honour to be nominated for the Student of the Year Award. To get to go to the ceremony, sitting with a truly great bunch of talented and inspiring people was like winning the lottery for me!

“Thank you to everyone at West Lothian College who believed in me, motivated me and supported me to achieve my dreams and live my best life.”