Ayrshire College is celebrating after being named a finalist in five categories at the CDN College Awards 2026.
The annual awards recognise the talent, innovation and achievements of Scotland’s colleges, their staff and students. This year’s competition attracted 195 entries from colleges across the country.
Ayrshire College has been shortlisted for:
- Changemakers Award – Reimagining the Transitions Process
- Community Impact Award – Recovery to Employment: Transforming Lives Through Community Partnership
- Professional Services Colleague of the Year Award – Teri Evans
- Research and Innovation Award – Powering Scotland’s Offshore Wind Workforce
- Thriving Together Award – BSL in the Classroom
The five nominations recognise work taking place across the College to support successful learner transitions, transform lives through community partnerships, promote inclusive learning and respond to Scotland’s future skills needs.
The Research and Innovation nomination recognises Ayrshire College’s work to support the growth of Scotland’s offshore wind workforce. This includes the development of the Scottish Wind Technician Education Centre at Kilwinning Campus, created through a partnership with leading Norwegian training provider Energy Innovation.
Recovery to Employment has also been recognised for its work with community partners to create supportive pathways into education, volunteering and employment for people recovering from alcohol and drug addiction.
Teri Evans, Engagement and Wellbeing Team Leader at Ayrshire College, has been shortlisted for the Professional Services Colleague of the Year Award. Teri plays a key role in ensuring students receive compassionate, inclusive and individualised support to help them overcome barriers and succeed. Her work includes supporting student carers and care-experienced students, as well as sharing the College’s approaches and best practice with organisations across Scotland.
BSL in the Classroom has been shortlisted for the Thriving Together Award in recognition of its contribution to a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. The initiative brings British Sign Language into everyday classroom practice, helping students and staff communicate more confidently while strengthening awareness and understanding of Deaf culture. It demonstrates how practical, inclusive approaches can help people feel recognised, involved and able to participate fully in College life.
Angela Cox, Principal and Chief Executive of Ayrshire College, said:
“To be shortlisted in five categories is an outstanding achievement and reflects the breadth and quality of the work taking place across Ayrshire College.
“These nominations recognise the dedication of our staff, students and partners, from supporting individuals to overcome barriers and progress towards employment to developing the skilled workforce required for Scotland’s growing offshore wind sector.
“I am extremely proud of everyone involved and delighted to see their commitment, innovation and impact recognised nationally.”
The CDN College Awards ceremony will take place at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow on Thursday 3 December 2026.
View the full shortlist on the CDN College Awards website.