Courses
- Full and Part Time Learning
- Part-time Day and Evening Courses
- 17th Edition Course (including 2011 Update)
- Arts and Visual Communications
- (BASE) Borders Academy of Sporting Excellence
- Borders Business Programme
- Digital Media Computing NC and Interactive Media HNC
- Early Education and Childcare HNC (part time)
- eBook Prospectus
- Electrical Engineering - HNC
- English for Speakers of Other Languages – ESOL
- Hair and Beauty Professional Practice
- Modern Apprenticeships
- National Training Programmes
- Open and Flexible Learning
- Order a Prospectus
- Professional Development Awards
- School Plus
- Short Courses
(BASE) Borders Academy of Sporting Excellence 
Borders College’s Innovative Practice Showcased by Education Scotland
Identifying good practice is a key aim for HM Inspectorate of Education and Borders College, Borders Academy of Sporting Excellence (BASE) has been selected for Sector Leading and Innovative Practice (SLIP) in preparing learners for high-level competitive sport through college programmes and is now highlighted in the Education Scotland ‘Showcase for Excellence’ .
The Borders Academy of Sporting Excellence (BASE) aims to provide learners with the environment to combine the acquisition of qualifications with high-level skill development in their chosen sport. BASE provides the opportunity for learners to realise their full potential in rugby, downhill mountain biking or football while studying towards BTEC Level 2 and 3 awards in sport (SCQF levels 4 – 6). Partnerships with governing bodies, links with professional clubs and teams, and access to specialist coaches and facilities are key features of BASE. Learners on the programmes have achieved success in their sports as well as attaining qualifications.
In rugby, two learners have gained contracts with Scotland’s two top-tier professional teams and others play for premiership clubs. Two learners have also represented Scotland at under 18 level. At the 2010 Universities and College Cup Finals, BASE rugby teams won both the Premier Cup, beating the Scottish National Universities team, and the Women’s Student Cup.
The downhill mountain biking programme is delivered in partnership with the sport’s national governing body, Scottish Cycling, and benefits from top-level coaching input and access to world-class local facilities. Learner achievements include winning the Junior European Championships and a bronze medal at the Junior World Championships. Other learners are competing in the 2011 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup.
The football programme is in its second year. It is targeted at players released from Scottish Football League and Scottish Premier League clubs at under 15, 16 and 17 age groups, as well as emerging talent in the Edinburgh, Lothian and Borders areas. Two learners on the 2010-2011 programme have signed for senior professional clubs, one in the Scottish Premier League, and another has secured summer trials.
Learner retention and attainment are high and learners gain employability skills as well as relevant qualifications to help them gain employment. Progression to university is available through an articulation agreement and plans are in place to enhance progression opportunities within the college by including a HNC award in Developing, Coaching and Fitness in 2012-2013.
“The Borders Academy of Sporting Excellence (BASE) encompasses innovative practice in preparing learners for high-level competitive sport” said Lynne Gilchrist, Head of Creative Industries and Sport Faculty.
For BASE course information please click here.
Job Vacancies
Spaces still available on some courses
A limited number of spaces still remain available on some courses commencing August 2013.
