10 February 2025
Colleges across Scotland are launching their annual #LoveScotlandsColleges campaign this week, in time for Valentine’s Day, and Fife College is celebrating the vital role played by colleges right across the country.
The week-long campaign kicks off today (Monday, 10 February) and will highlight the outstanding work of colleges throughout the country, showcasing all the important courses and training offered to Scotland’s workforce now and the workforce of the future.
The campaign will promote a theme for every day:
- We Love… Our People - (Students, Staff, Alumni) - Monday 10 February - Did you know Colleges employ over 14,000 staff across Scotland?
- We Love… Learning - (Students, Potential Applicants, Influencers - teachers, parents, advisors) - Tuesday 11 February – Did you know Colleges deliver 68 million hours of learning annually to over 248,000 students?
- We Love… Our Partners (Businesses, Industry Partners, Elected Members) - Wednesday 12 February – Did you know Colleges are the largest providers of Modern Apprenticeships, supporting over 14,000 students?
- We Love… Giving Back (Community) - Thursday 13 February – Did you know 26% of school leavers transition into further education from school, with 36% from the most deprived areas?
- Love is… All You Need! (Encompassing everything) - Friday 14 February (Valentine’s Day) – Did you know College graduates contribute £52 billion to the Scottish economy?
What’s not to love about that?
Created by CDN’s Marketing and Communications Network, this annual collaborative campaign is supported right across Scotland’s 24 colleges. The campaign will highlight national and local examples of how colleges are supporting students, employers and businesses, communities, staff and the economy.
One student who has benefited from the opportunities at Fife College is Katie Wansall, a Level 5 Travel and Tourism student. Katie said:
"I’m really enjoying my course, and it’s opening up different experiences in the Travel and Tourism industry. My course covers sustainability, customer service, tourist destinations, and cabin crew, which is the area I want to go forward with.
"When I found out about the possibility to do work experience at the Stanza Poetry Festival in St Andrews through one of my lecturers, I knew it would be a great addition to my CV. It was an amazing experience, and I would do it again. I got to work with so many different people from different backgrounds, and it gave me valuable insight into different working environments.
"I would definitely recommend Fife College. The lecturers are super supportive, and there are so many opportunities to gain real-world experience."
Jim Metcalfe, Principal of Fife College, said:
"At Fife College, we are incredibly proud to be part of the #LoveScotlandsColleges campaign, celebrating the vital role colleges play in shaping futures and strengthening communities. Our students, staff, and partners are integral to everything we do, and this campaign highlights the dedication and innovation that make our sector so impactful.
"Seeing students like Katie thrive in their studies and gain valuable real-world experience showcases the incredible opportunities available at college. Whether it’s through work placements, industry partnerships, or exceptional teaching, Fife College continues to equip students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in their chosen careers."
Marie Hendry, Chief Executive, College Development Network, said:
"Colleges across Scotland are the heart of our education system, providing vital skills, training, and opportunities for students of all ages. Through this #LoveScotlandsColleges campaign, we’re proud to celebrate the dedicated staff, innovative learning, and strong partnerships that are shaping Scotland’s workforce and communities.
"This campaign is a testament to the immense contribution colleges make, not only to local economies but also in transforming lives and empowering individuals to succeed."
Join the conversation - #LoveScotlandsColleges - and find out about the important work of Scotland’s colleges.
Download the #LoveScotlandsColleges campaign material here.