Copyright dailyrecord
Over 800 people came together to mark the success of people who achieved a higher education qualification at West Lothian College this year. The college hosted a spectacular celebration on Saturday, November 1, featuring indoor fireworks, music from Sing West Lothian and dancing with Unison Anthems in the college square. More than 1400 students achieved higher education qualifications in 2024-25, and 200 attended the graduation ceremony at the college’s campus in Livingston. These graduates gained qualifications that sit at the same level as first, second, third or even fourth year of a university degree. Most of those who achieved HNCs or HNDs are now working or are at university. Many went straight into the second or third year of their degree. As an example, this is the tenth successive year that all HNC Contemporary Art students who applied to university received multiple degree offers at the best art schools across the country, again many directly into second year. Other graduates achieved professional qualifications from the Institute of Leadership and Management by attending evening classes, and Scottish Vocational Qualifications while working full-time. Student success has improved steadily at the college over the last five years, and this year was no different. Figures published by the Scottish Funding Council in July showed that higher education students at West Lothian College had the best attainment rates of all colleges in Scotland. These figures also showed that West Lothian College had the highest overall student success of all colleges. Principal of West Lothian College, Jackie Galbraith, said: “What a privilege it was to celebrate our graduates in the company of their friends, families and college staff. “I have worked with or in colleges for over 30 years and believe more than ever that they transform lives. Almost every day I meet people who tell me that and I know how they feel. “Going to college when I was 25 was the best decision I ever made. It enabled me to gain a qualification through which I secured a good job.” Jackie has been the college principal since August 2018 and retires at the end of November. After an unsuccessful recruitment process to replace her, Hazel Brady has been appointed as interim principal until 31 July next year. Hazel has worked at the college for nearly 20 years and was appointed vice principal for learning and attainment in June 2024. Jackie added: “Leaving West Lothian College was the toughest work decision I have ever made. I am very lucky to retire from the best job I have ever had, working with the best people and the best students. “I leave confident that it will continue to be a superb college under Hazel’s leadership.” Don't miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here .
