We are delighted to unveil the shortlist for the CDN College Awards 2025, set to be our greatest and most exciting celebration yet! With a record-breaking 199 entries from colleges across Scotland, this year’s awards highlight the incredible talent, innovation, and impact happening throughout the sector. We can’t wait to shine a spotlight on the outstanding people and projects behind these achievements.
We’re also thrilled to welcome the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) as our Title Sponsor for 2025. SQA is due to become a new organisation, Qualifications Scotland in December and their partnership brings tremendous prestige and energy to this milestone year, helping us showcase the transformative role colleges play in shaping Scotland’s future.
“The College Awards are a true celebration of the difference colleges make to learners, communities and the economy. With more entries than ever before, we’re proud to recognise the creativity, resilience, and excellence across our sector. We’re so excited to welcome SQA as title sponsor for this year’s awards, and truly celebrate the great successes of the sector!”
Marie Hendry, Chief Executive, College Development Network (CDN)
“SQA is delighted to be the Title Sponsor of the 2025 College Awards. We’ll move to the new awarding body, Qualifications Scotland, in December and are proud to continue supporting this celebration of talent, dedication, and innovation. Colleges are vital to Scotland’s success, and these awards highlight the outstanding work that takes place across the country.”
Nick Page, Chief Executive, SQA
Celebrating Excellence Across the Sector
Now in its 26th year, the College Awards continue to shine a well-deserved spotlight on the achievements of colleges, their staff, and learners. From advancing skills development and fostering innovation to supporting inclusive learning and community engagement, Scotland’s colleges play a vital role – and these awards honour their extraordinary contributions.
What’s New for 2025?
To reflect the sector’s ongoing evolution, we’re proud to introduce two exciting updates this year:
- The Changemakers Award — celebrating individuals or teams who boldly challenge the status quo, take risks, and innovate in their teaching and learning approaches.
- Innovation and Research — now combined into a single, powerful category recognising the intersection of fresh ideas and evidence-based impact.
What’s Next?
Yesterday (Wednesday 2 September) we launched the shortlist, which you can check out here. And we’re gearing up for an unforgettable evening of celebration, recognition, and inspiration later this year.
Save the date: The College Awards ceremony will take place on 4 December at the Radisson Blu, Glasgow, where we’re honoured to be joined by Graeme Dey MSP, Minister for Higher Education, Further Education and Veterans. Book your place here.
Let’s come together to celebrate everything that makes Scotland’s colleges exceptional!
