The Business and Creative Centre
at West Lothian College is a vibrant learning environment, which opens endless
opportunities for careers in the world of commerce and advanced education.
The comprehensive range of
courses offered, includes Business, Accounting, Art, Photography, Events, Media
and Communication. Along with professional qualifications through ILM,
CIPD and SAGE approved courses.
The centre recently opened its
own ‘Creative Centre Gallery’ which hosts regular Photography and Art
exhibitions – just one of the many innovations the college has developed to
offer a better place for learners to grow and learn.
Centre Head, Business and
Creative Centre, Hazel Brady said: “The essence of our success is the way that
we prepare professionals for the world of work and provides learners with the
space to create their own future.”
Hazel works alongside Centre
Depute Manager, Beth Brownlee, who added: “Our vision for the centre in the
college’s 50th year is still being formed – our centre covers a wide range of
subjects and we find ourselves constantly matching our offer to changing and
evolving employer demands for the industries we serve.”
Hazel and Beth are especially
proud of the degree provision at West Lothian College.
Hazel explained: “We deliver the
BA in Business Management, awarded by Edinburgh Napier University. Many college
learners can gain direct entry to the final year of this course at Edinburgh
Napier University essentially meaning that all study up to the third year
degree level can take place here on the modern campus of West Lothian
College at Livingston.”
This year has seen the addition
to the portfolio of e-learning and distance learning.
Hazel continued: “Initial demand
for our online HNC in Business and online Diploma in Leadership and Management
has been really positive. Many learners are able to access full funding through
the part time fee grant and the course is easily able to fit in with their busy
lives and meet their need to develop knowledge and skills at the same time. We
plan to extend the range of courses available and anticipate significant growth
in learner numbers.
“One of our top priorities is to
give our learners a fantastic learning experience, ” says Hazel, “This year one
of our students, Megan Waugh, won a scholarship to study for a year in the USA.
When Megan returns after this amazing experience she will finish her degree
studies, possibly here at West Lothian College.
“In March 2016 eight of our
learners will have the opportunity to visit France where they will study and
work and gain a Work experience qualification at the same time – we are really
excited about the growth in international opportunities.
“Our courses have been updated
and are aligned to employer requirements. Just an example of this is the
accountancy offer, which has a track record of great progression either into
employment or higher study – only college can offer these choices.”
The enthusiasm of Hazel and Beth
for their learners comes across strongly.
“Our students are brilliant”
says Beth. “Last year every single art student seeking higher level study was
offered a university place. This was a direct result of the teaching and
support offered here in college, alongside of course the dedication, commitment
and hard work of the students involved.
“We believe in starting them
early. We are in the middle of enhancing our offer to school learners. It is
now possible to come to college from school on Tuesdays and Thursdays to study
for a HNC in Media and Communication. Those who successfully complete will be
able to progress directly upon leaving school to the second year of study in a
choice of related subjects at Queen Margaret University. We will be rolling
this model out to Art and Accounting in 2016/17 to build on this initial
success.”
Hazel and Beth are enthusiastic
about the opportunities available at West Lothian College.
Beth continued: “College is a
great choice – in fact the best choice – for young people who need good options
but don’t yet feel ready to make the leap to university study. We can help
bridge that gap and at the same time provide learners with work experience and
access to skills which employers value.
“Students also appreciate all
the work undertaken to help them succeed.”
Student Annie MacKenzie, said:
“I was shocked and amazed when I won student of the year – when I started I
never even expected to pass the course!”
James West, added: “This year I
am going to Edinburgh Napier University to complete the honours year of my
degree and this is thanks to my time at West Lothian College.”
Applications are now open for
our courses starting in Autumn 2016, apply at www.west-lothian.ac.uk
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