Ayrshire College has celebrated more than a decade of impact from the Ayrshire College Foundation (ACF), recognising its investment in students, skills and communities across the region.
Established in December 2013, the Foundation was created to support the College to go beyond core public funding, enabling investment in modern facilities, enhanced learning experiences and career-focused opportunities for students. Now concluding its work, the Foundation leaves a lasting legacy of investment in facilities, learning and opportunities across Ayrshire.
The Foundation has supported a wide range of projects, helping to create modern learning environments and enhance the student experience. This includes investment in the restaurant and training kitchens at the College’s Ayr Campus, where students gain valuable, real-world experience as part of their studies.
To mark this milestone, a special lunch was held on Friday 20 March at the Westerly Restaurant. Former Trustees, staff involved in Foundation-supported projects and key stakeholders came together to celebrate the Foundation’s achievements and the people behind its success.
Guests enjoyed a three-course meal prepared and served by Ayrshire College students, showcasing the high-quality training and skills development supported by the Foundation’s investment.
The event also recognised the commitment of the Foundation’s Trustees, who played a key role in guiding its work over the years. As a token of appreciation, Trustees were presented with an engraved crystal clock.
Speaking at the event, Angela Cox, Principal and Chief Executive of Ayrshire College, said:
The Ayrshire College Foundation has played a vital role in helping us deliver opportunities that change lives. Its support has enabled us to invest in our facilities, enhance learning and ensure our students are equipped with the skills they need for the future. We are incredibly grateful to our Trustees and everyone who has contributed to its success over the years.
Tracey Stark, former Chair of the Foundation added:
It has been a privilege to support the work of the Ayrshire College Foundation and see first-hand the difference it has made to students and communities across Ayrshire. The Foundation’s investment has helped create opportunities that will have a lasting impact for generations to come.
As the Foundation concludes its work, its legacy continues to be felt across Ayrshire College, supporting students to develop skills, achieve their goals and progress into employment or further study.