In this month's issue, we’re excited to introduce Kenji Lamb, Delivery and Engagement Partner at CDN, who is leading efforts to prepare staff and students for an AI-driven future. Kenji has been guiding the CDN AI series in association with UHI Inverness, offering practical experience through an online programme, and recently led the interactive 'Leveraging AI for College Marketing' workshop at the CDN Marketing and Communications Conference.
Kenji’s latest blog post, 'Unreasonable Assistance - An AI Challenge', explores the impact of AI on education, highlighting challenges in student coursework and the latest SQA and JCQ guidance. He also shares practical tips for educators on navigating AI in academic settings—be sure to read the blog post here.
Kenji also introduces this month's update:
"Welcome to this month’s newsletter. The CDN College Awards are now open for entries, celebrating Scotland’s colleges, staff, and learners. Submit by 26 June and join us at the awards ceremony on 4 December in Glasgow. We also celebrate the success of the #LoveScotlandsColleges campaign, invite applications for the Coaching Skills for Managers Programme, and call for papers for the College Action Inquiry Research Network (CAIRN) Journal. Keep reading for more!"
If you have any questions related to educational technology, feel free to reach out to Kenji at kenji.lamb@cdn.ac.uk.
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CDN College Awards 2025 Open for Entries
The College Awards 2025, proudly delivered by CDN, are now officially open for entries! Celebrating the talent, skills, and achievements of colleges, their staff, and learners, these awards recognise innovation across the sector.
The deadline for entries is on 26 June. Be sure to mark your calendars for the awards ceremony, which will take place at the Radisson Blu in Glasgow on 4 December.
Good luck everyone!
Discover College Awards here
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#LoveScotlandsColleges Digital Campaign Success
To celebrate the innovation and dedication across Scotland’s colleges, the CDN Marketing and Communications Network launched the successful #LoveScotlandsColleges campaign, which took place from 10 to 14 February.
The campaign generated an impressive Social Media Reach of over 470,000 (excluding LinkedIn)
The campaign highlighted the invaluable contributions of colleges nationwide. Thanks to everyone who participated and shared their love for Scotland's colleges!
Discover the campaign here
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Coaching for Managers
Applications Now Open!
We're excited to announce that applications are now open for the Coaching Skills for Managers Programme. This specialised course is designed to help managers develop effective coaching strategies for leadership and team development. The programme includes pre-course work, two immersive workshops, and tailored activities to complete between sessions.
Discover more and apply here
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College Action Inquiry Research Network (CAIRN) Journal:
Call for Papers
We’re pleased to announce the call for papers for the CAIRN Journal, with issues in June and November. The deadline for draft proposals is 31 March, for the June issue, and 31 August, for the November issue.
The journal invites submissions from across the college sector, aiming to engage educators, researchers, and leaders in teaching, managing, and evaluating delivery provision.
Read recent blog post here
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#EqualityMatters Digest
We want to help you put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of all you do, so we have developed a monthly #EqualityMatters digest, signposting you to related events, information and resources.
Next months focus is... Neurodiversity. Click the image above for infographic.
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Scottish Apprenticeship Week: Skills Development Scotland
Scottish Apprenticeship Week runs from 3 to 7 March, with the theme Made for Business.
In partnership with employers, Scottish Apprenticeships create skilled individuals who benefit businesses.
The week will highlight how apprenticeships build a competitive workforce, equip people with essential skills, and unlock economic opportunities for Scotland.
Discover more here
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SDG Teach In:
Students Organising for Sustainability
(SOS-UK)
The SDG Teach In runs from 1 to 31 March. Colleges using the FE Climate Action Roadmap may already include it in their strategies, making now the perfect time to take action.
The campaign invites educators worldwide to integrate one or more SDGs into their courses. Pledge to participate any time before 31 March.
Discover more here
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Hello everyone, a few final thoughts from me.
As we continue to develop and deliver our offer to the sector in 2025, we’re delighted to have recently published the CDN Review of the Year 2024. This report showcases the significant impact and progress we’ve made in supporting Scotland's colleges, staff, and students. It reflects our unwavering commitment to driving excellence and fostering growth across the sector. I encourage you to explore the full report here.
CDN is seeking a dynamic individual to join our Board and help shape the future of education in Scotland. This unique non-exec opportunity provides the opportunity to join a fantastic Board and contribute to our strategic vision and make a lasting impact. To apply, submit your CV and cover letter by 3 March. Find out more here.
Last month, we launched the new look for the CDN Update, and we'd love to hear your thoughts. How do you feel about the refreshed design? If you have any suggestions for improvements, please reach out to us at marketing@cdn.ac.uk.
As always, we’re here to support your professional development with a range of courses, events, and resources. Be sure to explore what’s on offer through CDN’s website.
Best wishes,
Marie Hendry
Chief Executive, CDN
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