Edinburgh College students and co-authors of the United Us Podcast, Oleksandr Shtepan and Volodymyr Iushchenko, have released a special episode featuring Audrey Cumberford, the Principal and Chief executive of Edinburgh College. This episode highlights the college's pioneering role in transforming professional and academic education in Scotland’s capital city.
As Scotland’s largest education institution, Edinburgh College is at the forefront of shaping the future of learning. The Principal Audrey Cumberford shares her vision for a student-centered approach that emphasises innovation, inclusivity, and diverse opportunities, setting new standards for education across the region.
In a compelling and wide-ranging conversation, Audrey Cumberford highlights that Edinburgh College is responsible for over 10% of Scotland’s college activity and serves a vibrant community of students from more than 135 countries. Recognised as the College of the Sanctuary the college excels in technical and vocational education, fosters strong industry partnerships, and provides comprehensive student support, including financial advice, bursaries, and free breakfasts.
“Our college is more than just a place to gain qualifications. It’s a launchpad for lifelong success,” explains Audrey Cumberford. “By connecting students with real-world employers, offering hands-on learning, and utilising cutting-edge technologies like virtual reality in nursing training, we prepare confident, skilled graduates ready to thrive in tomorrow’s workforce. University collaborations allow our students to progress directly into the third and fourth years of degree programs”.
Edinburgh College also tackles today’s pressing challenges students face, including the cost-of-living crisis, housing shortages, and ongoing impacts from the pandemic. Audrey emphasises the college’s commitment to supporting care-experienced and disabled learners, alongside its outstanding work providing refuge and education to displaced individuals.
Oleksandr also highlights the solidarity and support for Ukrainians in Scotland: “The Ukrainian flag has flown alongside the Scottish flag at the college for many years.”
Volodymyr remarked, "The use of cutting-edge technologies and Al helps college students master new professions and achieve outstanding results."
Diversity enriches every aspect of life at Edinburgh College, where staff and students come from over 120 countries. Global collaboration remains central to the college’s mission of fostering inclusive excellence.
“With each graduate and team member, our reputation as a beacon of opportunity in Scotland and beyond continues to grow,” Audrey Cumberford concludes.
Special thanks to Mark MacDonald-Scott, Gordon Young, and Victor Mira for their technical support in this episode.
