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We hope you had a great break and have hit the ground running in 2026.
Last year, we shone a spotlight on the people behind the work at CDN. This year, we’re building on that momentum by bringing key projects to the fore — helping you discover what’s available and how it can support you at #YourCDN.
First up, we’re highlighting the Insights and Innovations Hub in the blog Sparks of Inspiration: Exploring the Insights and Innovations Hub. Gordon Hunt, Head of Insight, Planning and Impact, and Jo Turbitt, Insight and Innovation Partner, introduce this dynamic resource, designed to bring research to life and give college staff practical ideas and inspiration they can use daily. They also explain how to get involved, share innovations, and learn from colleagues across the sector.
Gordon and Jo also introduce this month’s #YourCDN Update, which brings together insight, innovation and opportunities from across Scotland’s college sector.
This edition features the return of our popular Generative AI Series, new research on digital skills development, and opportunities to build coaching skills. You’ll also find highlights from the Researcher Development Programme, the latest issue of the CAIRN Journal, College Awards 2025 highlights , and the upcoming Marketing and Communications Network Conference.
There’s plenty to explore — discover what’s new at #YourCDN.
If you have any questions related to Gordon or Jo's work, please reach out to them at: research@cdn.ac.uk
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Generative AI Series Kick-Starts
Online - Several Dates
The Generative AI Series returned this month with continued strong interest from across the sector, with several sessions already at capacity.
Following another sell-out run, the series is giving educators, support staff and leaders hands-on experience with tools such as ChatGPT, focusing on practical, real-world applications in teaching, learning and assessment.
Designed for those new to AI as well as those looking to build on existing skills, the sessions support confident, ethical and critical use of generative AI in day-to-day practice across Scotland’s colleges.
Spaces still available.
View all sessions here.
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New Research Report: Digital Skills Development: A Scoping Project
As part of our Spark Insights focus,CDN is excited to publish Digital Skills Development in Scottish Colleges: A Scoping Project, written by Walter Patterson.
Based on interviews with staff across the sector, the report shines a light on how colleges are developing digital skills among their workforce. It highlights a sector in transition — moving from reactive, system-led training to more strategic, embedded approaches — and uncovers opportunities for collaboration, shared learning, and national coordination to strengthen digital capabilities in ways that are practical, inclusive, and sustainable.
Read new research report here
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Coaching Skills for Managers Programme
In-person - Stirling
10 February and 3 March
The Coaching Skills for Managers Programme helps current and aspiring managers develop coaching approaches that enhance leadership and team performance.
Through pre-course reflection, two face-to-face workshops, and practical activities, participants explore coaching models, emotional intelligence, feedback, difficult conversations, and conflict — building the skills and confidence to embed a coaching culture within their teams.
Explore Coaching Skills for Managers Programme and apply here
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Researcher Development Programme: Highlights and What’s Next
Over recent months, the Researcher Development Programme (RDP) has brought researchers together to build skills, confidence, and professional networks.
This month, the RDP returned with Write On! — our writing room on 30 January — where delegates are stepping out of the everyday into an inspiring, supportive space where ideas sparked and words flowed.
Next, the programme continues on 25 February with From Practice to Possibility: Rethinking Teaching Through Research, led by Professor Tara Brabazon (Flinders University, Australia). You can hear more from Tara about her session here. This is followed by Assessment Design and Compassionate Pedagogies with Deirdre Murphy (25 March) and Quiet Camaraderie with Kerry Heathcote (29 April).
Interested in taking part or finding out more? Contact CDN’s Insight and Innovation Partner, Jo Turbitt: jo.turbitt@cdn.ac.uk
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CAIRN Journal Issue 4 Now Available!
We’re excited to announce that Issue 4 of the Colleges Action Inquiry Research Network (CAIRN) Journal is now available!
Hosted by CDN, the CAIRN Journal provides a vital platform for practitioner-led scholarship across Scotland’s college sector. This latest issue showcases innovative educational practice through a diverse range of contributions from college-based researchers.
Want to contribute? Draft proposals for Issue 5 (June 2026) are due by 27 March. Find out how to submit.
Read CAIRN Issue 4 here.
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College Awards 2025 – Watch the Highlights!
The CDN College Awards 2025, proudly supported by SQA, were a fantastic celebration of colleges, staff, and learners across Scotland. With over 300 guests and a record 199 submissions, this was our biggest Awards yet!
We were delighted to welcome back host Amy Irons, guest speaker Ben Macpherson MSP, and enjoy superb entertainment from Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, marking the 26th anniversary of the Awards.
Now you can relive the excitement - our new highlights video is available, capturing the winners, the celebrations, and all the memorable moments from the night.
Watch here.
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Marketing and Communications Network Conference
In-person - New College Lanarkshire, Coatbridge Campus - 17 February
This year’s theme: Making the Message Matter - what we say, how we say it, and why it matters.
With sessions on influencing decision-makers, managing the media, mobile video creation, building a social media strategy, and emerging digital trends, it’s a must-attend for anyone shaping college communications.
Programme now online!
Book your place now
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#EqualityMatters:
Putting Inclusion at the Heart of Your Work
Discover #EqualityMatters, CDN’s monthly digest supporting staff to embed equality, diversity, and inclusion across colleges. Each edition links the UN SDGs to inclusive leadership, providing easy access to resources and events.
The February issue focuses on Intersectionality in Practice: Understanding Overlapping Identities and Systemic Barriers – coming soon!
View all previous editions here.
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Hi everyone,
I hope you had a restful break and are looking forward to an exciting 2026. It was lovely to see so many of you at the College Awards in December and to celebrate the amazing work of the sector, its staff and students
We’re kicking off another action-packed year, supporting you to Sharpen Your Skills, Spark Insights, and Showcase Colleges, while celebrating innovation and excellence across the sector.
I’m delighted to welcome Stephen Grainger as our new Delivery and Engagement Partner. With extensive experience in learning and teaching, digital skills, staff development, and inclusive practice, Stephen will help us expand our capacity and delivery for the sector.
We have gone full steam ahead with the Elevate LT programme, supporting staff to enhance practice, build networks, and embed innovation in the classroom. Since October, delivery has accelerated, with key milestones reached in January, including the AP Collective’s first full-group meeting.
Behind the scenes, we are out and about meeting with every college across the country, through our delivery agreement meetings and developing our new strategic plan, which puts you at the heart of everything we do. This is truly #YourCDN: supporting every college and every staff member, every step of the way.
As 2026 progresses, we look forward to working with you, learning together, and making a meaningful difference across Scotland’s colleges.
You can keep up with all our upcoming activities at cdn.ac.uk, on social media, and through our regular newsletters.
Warm regards,
Marie Hendry
Chief Executive, CDN
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