On Wednesday 25 March, more than 60 members of the STEP Network came together at Forth Valley College for our seventh STEP Day, and the STEP Network’s third meeting of the 2025-26 academic year. The event blended focused project development work with opportunities for networking and shared learning. 

Scotland’s Tertiary Enhancement Programme (STEP) is delivered by CDN and QAA Scotland, and funded by the Scottish Funding Council. STEP drives lasting improvement across colleges and universities through collaboration and innovation. The current cycle of STEP focuses on Supporting Diverse Learner Journeys, highlighting how the sector can better support learners at key transition points. 

The day opened with two dynamic project updates that showcased the ambition and impact of work underway across the Network. 

The first session, led by the Staff Development project team, explored the staff development landscape needed to support diverse learner journeys across the tertiary sector. Delegates reflected on how staff development features within their own projects and shared insights with peers, reinforcing the vital role of workforce capability and professional learning in supporting increasingly diverse student pathways. 

This was followed by a major milestone for the Language Accessibility Promise project team, who officially launched their new sector-wide pledge – the first significant output of a STEP project. 

The Language Accessibility Promise is now open to institutions across Scotland’s tertiary sector, backed by several colleges and universities and supported by the Scottish Funding Council. 

By signing the Promise, institutions commit to using clear, simple and accessible language in student-facing communications and embedding these principles across organisational practice. The initiative aims to improve access to education, enhance the quality of the student experience, and strengthen students’ sense of belonging. 

The Promise has been designed to be light touch and to become part of business as usual rather than create additional work. Participating institutions commit to reviewing 20 per cent of student-facing documents within two years of signing and 50 per cent within five years. 

Institutions signing the Promise agree to communicate directly, clearly and honestly; assume no prior knowledge and avoid acronyms, initialisms and unnecessary abbreviations; offer information in a range of accessible formats; use technical terms only where necessary; and demonstrate compassion, consideration and understanding of students’ needs and experiences in all communications. 

The STEP Steering Group has endorsed the Promise and institutions across the sector are encouraged to sign. 

“We’re delighted with the overwhelming support we have received from across colleges, universities and sector agencies – this is real recognition that we can all create a more inclusive environment for both students and staff through the use of accessible language,” said Xander McDade, Language Accessibility Promise Project Lead. 

Throughout the day, project teams worked together to progress their initiatives, sharing expertise and tackling common challenges in a supportive, solutions-focused environment. 

Another highlight of STEP Seven was the introduction of Project Speed Networking – a fast-paced, interactive session designed to spark new connections across the Network. Delegates exchanged ideas, discovered synergies between projects, and built relationships in an energising format that injected fresh momentum into cross-sector collaboration. 

Dedicated networking time also allowed members to deepen conversations, strengthen partnerships and explore new opportunities to work together. 

For more information or to sign up to the Language Accessibility Promise, please contact info@step.ac.uk. 

——————- 

What’s coming up… 
Submit your programme proposal by 10 April, for Stepping Over the Threshold: Belonging and Inclusion in Scotland’s Tertiary Sector, taking place on 27 May 2026 at Glasgow Caledonian University. Join students, staff and sector partners to explore belonging, inclusion and transitions across tertiary education. 

We’re continuing the momentum in 2026 by spotlighting the collaboration, innovation, and opportunities supporting Scotland’s college sector.

This month, we’re excited to highlight CDN’s Elevate LT Programme — a funded professional learning initiative developed in partnership with TeachingHOW2s. Now underway in its first year, the programme is enhancing teaching practice across colleges, with early impact already being felt. In a new blog post, CDN’s Delivery and Engagement Partner, Stephen Grainger, shares insights into this innovative work and its progress so far.

You’ll also find:

There’s plenty to explore — discover what’s new and how it can support you at #YourCDN.

Read the full March CDN Update here.

CDN and QAA Scotland are excited to invite programme proposals for Stepping Over the Threshold: Belonging and Inclusion in Scotland’s Tertiary Sector, taking place on Wednesday 27 May 2026 at Glasgow Caledonian University. This one-day event will bring together students, staff, researchers and sector partners to explore how belonging, inclusion and key transitional thresholds shape learner journeys across Scotland’s tertiary education landscape.

The conference is part of Scotland’s Tertiary Enhancement programme (STEP), delivered by CDN and QAA Scotland and funded by the Scottish Funding Council. STEP drives lasting improvement across colleges and universities through collaboration and innovation. This cycle focuses on Supporting Diverse Learner Journeys, highlighting how the sector can better support learners at key transition points.

The conference is open to the wider tertiary education community, including students, college and university staff, apprentices and training providers, researchers and practitioners, policy and quality specialists, community and widening access partners, and sector leaders. Registration is open to all but will initially be limited to four delegates per institution.

We are inviting programme proposals to help shape an engaging, creative and collaborative day. Sessions can run for 30, 45, 60 or 90 minutes and may take many formats, including storytelling, workshops, lightning talks, live demonstrations, panel discussions, or creative approaches such as visual exhibits or performance pieces. Original, experimental and thought-provoking contributions that spark conversation and collaboration across the sector are especially welcome.

We encourage contributors to share practice, research and ideas that foster belonging across Scotland’s tertiary sector. This could include inclusive learning environments, student-staff partnerships, curriculum and assessment innovation, digital inclusion, place-based belonging, or research and evaluation offering new insights into learner experience. We particularly welcome insights into learners’ journeys throughout tertiary education.

Students are central to the conference, and we strongly encourage submissions from the student community. Students may present individually or in groups, and all presentation formats are welcome. Proposals might draw on lived experiences of belonging or exclusion, creative or reflective work, research findings, collaborative initiatives, artwork or media responses, or innovative ideas for change across the sector.

Submissions should include the details of all contributors, a title and abstract (up to 200 words), the proposed format and session length, and any technical or space requirements. Proposals can be submitted via the online form here. If you encounter difficulties completing the form, please contact info@step.ac.uk.

The deadline for submissions is Friday 10 April, with decisions made by Friday 24 April and communicated on Monday 27 April.

We look forward to receiving inspiring proposals that showcase the innovation, creativity and commitment to inclusion across Scotland’s tertiary sector. For informal enquiries or to discuss potential content and formats, please contact info@step.ac.uk.

Colleges across the sector are encouraged to take part in a collective campaign aligned with Show Racism the Red Card.

Led by the Black History Month (BHM)/Anti-Racism Working Group within CDN’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Strategic Network, the initiative aims to bring colleges together to create a strong, shared voice that raises awareness and supports anti-racism across the sector.

Colleges are invited to submit a short contribution showing their support for the campaign. There is no set format – the aim is to keep messages brief so that as many institutions as possible can take part. Contributions could include a photo, a short video clip, a blog or a short statement.

CDN will compile all submissions into a shared slideshow or video, which will be circulated collectively. Supporting blogs or statements may also be published ahead of the main release to help build momentum for the campaign.

To allow time for development, materials should be submitted by Friday 27 March, with the final promotional content scheduled to be shared week commencing 27 April.

The working group has also contacted Show Racism the Red Card about the possibility of sharing the materials across its platforms, helping to extend the reach of the campaign.

Colleges interested in taking part, or with any questions, can email marketing@cdn.ac.uk.

Lead with Purpose, Lead with Confidence

Staff across colleges, universities and education organisations are invited to take the next step in their leadership journey with the 2026/27 #YourCDN Leadership Programmes. From emerging managers to experienced executives, these programmes provide practical, ethical and impactful leadership development tailored to the needs of today’s education sector.

Applications are now open for the CMI Emerging Leaders and CMI Strategic Leadership Programmes, with expressions of interest invited for the Executive Leadership Series.

The Executive Leadership Series is a high-impact programme for current and aspiring senior leaders. It offers space to reflect, grow and develop practical, ethical and impactful leadership alongside peers facing similar challenges. The programme is suitable for current executive leaders seeking to sharpen specific skills, aspiring senior leaders preparing for executive roles, and professionals who value collaboration, reflection and peer learning.

Email e-learning@cdn.ac.uk to express interest.

The six-month blended learning CMI Emerging Leaders Programme supports new and aspiring managers to develop core leadership skills and earn a CMI Level 5 Certificate. Participants complete 11 online workshops, learning to lead ethically and empower their teams. Cohorts start in September 2026 and January 2027.

The CMI Strategic Leadership Programme is designed for senior managers and aspiring leaders, helping them turn organisational strategy into operational success. Participants complete 11 online workshops and earn a CMI Level 7 Certificate. Cohorts begin in September 2026 and January 2027.

Start Your Leadership Journey

From emerging talent to experienced executives, #YourCDN Leadership Programmes provide progressive development that meets the needs of today’s sector.

Find out more and apply on the CDN website.

We’re keeping the momentum going in 2026 by celebrating the collaboration, innovation, and opportunities shaping Scotland’s college sector.

This month’s update highlights the launch of the College Awards 2026, recognising the talent and achievements of colleges, staff, and learners across the country.

You’ll also find:

There’s plenty to explore — discover what’s new and how it can support you at #YourCDN.

Read the full February CDN Update here

The CDN College Awards are now open for entries! Celebrating the talent, dedication, and achievements of colleges, staff, and learners, the Awards provide a platform to showcase excellence, innovation, and impact across Scotland’s college sector.

Marking their 27th anniversary, the Awards highlight the difference colleges make to learners, communities, and Scotland’s economy – showcasing the vital role they play in shaping a brighter future.

Key Dates: Entry deadline is Wednesday 24 June 2026, with the Awards ceremony on Thursday 3 December 2026 at the Radisson Blu, Glasgow. Amy Irons returns as MC for the evening.

Following sector feedback, the 2026 categories have been refreshed to make them clearer and more impactful. The Thriving Together Award combines Inclusive College and Health & Wellbeing into one category, the Learning and Teaching Award (formerly Skills Development) now includes additional factors, the Showcasing Colleges Award now incorporates Marketing & Communications, and a new Student-Led Initiative Award celebrates outstanding student-led projects demonstrating leadership, creativity, and impact.

The full list of 2026 award categories includes: Changemakers Award, Community Impact Award, Digital Learning Award, Employability in Action Award, Learning and Teaching Award, Lecturer of the Year Award, Professional Services Colleague of the Year Award, Research and Innovation Award, Showcasing Colleges Award, Student of the Year Award, Student-Led Initiative Award (NEW), Sustainability Action Award, and Thriving Together Award.

View the prospectus and submit your entry here

We look forward to celebrating your achievements – good luck to all entrants!

This is #YourCDN supporting every college, every staff member, every step of the way.

Yesterday (Tuesday 17 February), CDN’s Marketing and Communications Conference brought over 100 colleagues from across Scotland’s college sector together for an engaging and practical day of learning, connection and fresh thinking, focused on Making the Message Matter: What we say. How we say it. Why it matters.

The conference felt particularly timely and relevant in an election year, as colleges consider how clear, confident communications can help articulate the sector’s value and influence public conversation.

Delegates were welcomed by Gordon Hunt, CDN’s Head of Insight, Planning and Impact, who also acted as MC throughout the day, guiding the programme and helping to ensure a smooth and enjoyable conference experience.

The conference opened with Professor Christopher Moore, Principal at New College Lanarkshire, who delivered an inspiring keynote on the power of marketing and why it matters, outlining five key dimensions for consideration. A special thank you to the college for hosting the conference in their excellent facilities.

We were then delighted to welcome Will McLeish, Director of Communications at City of Glasgow College, whose keynote Cutting Through the Noise: How Influence Really Works explored how influence happens behind the scenes. Drawing on political and communications insight, Will examined how decision-makers receive messages, how priorities are shaped through the budget process, and how advocacy can be strengthened to drive action.

C

This was followed by Eleanor Bradford, Director of Corporate Communications at Muckle Media, with the keynote Crisis, What Crisis?. Sponsored by Muckle Media, Eleanor shared practical, low-cost strategies for resetting media relations during challenging situations, demonstrating how effective communications can limit reputational risk while generating positive coverage and stakeholder confidence.

A series of interactive workshop sessions then gave delegates the opportunity to build skills and share ideas. Sessions included Spot the Social Trends That Matter with Iona Murray and Emma Reavey (Hydrogen), Co-Creating a World Cup Campaign with Lynne McInnes (Glasgow Clyde College), and Thar Be Treasure: Identifying Award-Winning Projects with Jason Miles-Campbell (Jisc Scotland and Northern Ireland) and Ian Dunn (New College Lanarkshire).

Delegates could also take part in Five Hands-on Tips for Creating Video Content on Mobiles, a practical workshop led by Jon Gill of Playful Communications and sponsored by Hollyland Technology. To maximise learning opportunities and choice, all workshops were repeated in the afternoon.

In the afternoon, Callum Chomczuk, Director of College Employers Scotland (CES), delivered a keynote on Building Credibility, Voice and Impact Across the College Sector, exploring how stronger partnerships, shared storytelling and clearer narratives can amplify the sector’s collective voice.

The conference concluded with Heather MacBain, Interim Deputy Director of Marketing and Scott Coutts Marketing and Communications Manager, University of Edinburgh, who shared insights into Building a Strong Global Brand. Their session highlighted the importance of internal collaboration, engagement and consistent communication in aligning teams around a shared vision and strengthening institutional reputation.

With a strong blend of strategic insight, hands-on learning and opportunities to connect, the conference showcased the power of collaboration and shared practice across the sector — a clear example of #YourCDN in action.

Interested in taking part in a CDN Strategic Network? Join colleagues from across the sector and find out what’s available here.

Despite the severe weather warnings once again in force, more than 70 colleagues and students from Scotland’s colleges and universities braved the wind and rain to join us in Edinburgh on 27 January, at an event to support and promote the progress of projects being developed through Scotland’s Tertiary Enhancement Programme (STEP).

(And, not to be excluded by those inclement conditions, our friends from Orkney and Shetland were able to join us remotely for a hybrid session.)

This was our sixth STEP Day, following events in Dundee, Fife, Glasgow, Stirling and Inverness.

STEP is Scotland’s national enhancement programme and forms part of the Tertiary Quality Enhancement Framework. Delivered by CDN and QAA Scotland, and funded by the Scottish Funding Council, it aims to drive lasting improvement across colleges and universities through collaboration and innovation. The focus of our current STEP cycle is ‘Supporting Diverse Learner Journeys’.

Launched in autumn 2024, STEP has brought together students and staff from across Scotland’s tertiary sector to devise, develop, implement and evaluate a diverse range of collaborative initiatives.

Our latest STEP Day gave participants an opportunity to share updates on the progress of their projects and for project teams to get together to discuss, develop and plan the next stages of their work.

The event also saw the launch of two new STEP projects.

An initiative led by the University of Aberdeen and North East Scotland College will involve staff and students as partners in creating resources to equip neurodivergent students with the linguistic and social tools to navigate professional discussions.

Lianne Marriott, from North East Scotland College, said: “North East Scotland College is proud to be collaborating with the University of Aberdeen on this innovative STEP-funded project. Support services are constantly evolving to meet the needs of learners and this is a great example of a tailored approach in action. Our aim is always to give every individual the opportunity to thrive in education, work and in life – by expanding our focus on neuro-affirmative approaches, the goal is to remove barriers and increase opportunities that will have a positive impact on all those who benefit from the project.”

Faye Hendry, from the University of Aberdeen, added: “A team of colleagues from the School of Education at the University of Aberdeen, and from the student support team at North East Scotland College, are working collaboratively with students, tutors and partners in professional settings to support neurodivergent learners on professional placements. In particular, we aim to work together to create a toolkit of materials which will support neurodivergent learners to navigate professional dialogue, particularly in challenging situations. We are delighted to have received STEP funding to support us with this important project, and we are looking forward to collaborating across sectors to co-construct guidance and resources which will have a positive impact on student placements in tertiary education.”

Meanwhile, a project led by Robert Gordon University will design, test and refine a coordinated model for delivering tailored, targeted and personalized support for STEM students that can be adopted across the Scottish tertiary sector.

Judith Abolle, from Robert Gordon University Aberdeen, said: “Robert Gordon University is delighted to be leading the new STEP project Pathways to Personal Support, in partnership with the North East Scotland College and the University of Aberdeen. By working with students to design and test a coherent model of tailored support across STEM programmes and college university transitions, this project aims to provide the sector with a practical, evidence-based framework that can be adapted across Scotland. Our ambition is that the resulting pathway will not only make it easier for students to access the right help at the right time, but will also inform future enhancement work on personalised support, retention and progression across the tertiary system.”

Our STEP team has also announced the date of this year’s STEP Conference. Stepping over the Threshold: Inclusion and Belonging in Scotland’s Tertiary Sector, will take place on Wednesday 27 May at Glasgow Caledonian University, and will be is open to all students and staff from Scotland’s tertiary institutions as an opportunity to share in, and contribute to, the learning developed from our ongoing projects.

“It’s so exciting to see how these diverse projects to support and enrich the journeys of our sector’s learners have grown and developed, and are now blossoming,” said Alison Eales, Quality Enhancement Manager at QAA Scotland. “Students and colleagues from across the nation’s colleges and universities are bringing together their ideas, enthusiasm and energy to collaborate on initiatives that will positively impact learning experiences and outcomes for many years to come.”

Gail Toms, Delivery and Engagement Partner at CDN, said: “STEP demonstrates the power of collaboration across Scotland’s colleges and universities, with students and staff working in partnership to enhance learner journeys and strengthen inclusion and belonging. We look forward to the upcoming STEP Days and to welcoming colleagues and students from across the tertiary sector to the STEP Conference in May, as we continue to share learning, build connections and support lasting enhancement across Scotland’s tertiary education system.”

We’re kicking off 2026 by shining a light on the work, ideas, and opportunities shaping Scotland’s college sector.

This month’s update is introduced by Gordon Hunt and Jo Turbitt and puts a spotlight on the Insights and Innovations Hub, in blog post showing how research, insight, and innovation are being turned into practical ideas colleges can use every day.

You’ll also find:

There’s plenty to explore — discover what’s new and how it can support you at #YourCDN.

👉 Read the full CDN Update here