Borders College is delighted to announce that this year’s Graduation ceremony, taking place in Kelso on 23 October, will be made even more special thanks to the generous support of many valued community partners. The event marks a milestone in the academic journey of students, and the backing from local and regional organisations ensures that the occasion remains accessible and memorable for all involved.
Providing financial support to help offset the costs of the ceremony are Borders Competitions, Borders Buses, Morrison Construction, Eildon Housing, Finlaysons Contracts and Muirhall Energy. Their contributions highlight not only their commitment to education but also their dedication to supporting the wider community across the Borders and beyond.
Borders Competitions, a Scottish Borders–based online raffle platform founded in 2023, has quickly built a reputation for giving back. Alongside offering life-changing prizes, the company reinvests profits into charities and community initiatives, underlining its strong sense of local responsibility.
Borders Buses, Operates modern and reliable services across the Borders, Edinburgh, East Lothian, Midlothian, Cumbria, and Northumberland. The company plays a vital role in connecting communities and has demonstrated its ongoing support for regional growth and opportunity.
Morrison Construction, one of Scotland’s leading construction firms, brings decades of expertise to essential infrastructure projects such as schools, bridges, and flood defences. As part of Galliford Try, the company actively promotes sustainability and innovation, while remaining rooted in community values.
Eildon Housing, a charitable housing association based in the Borders since 1973 is dedicated to supporting and strengthening our communities. Their mission goes beyond bricks and mortar and the high quality, sustainable, affordable homes they offer. They deliver exceptional care and support to older people and individuals with learning disabilities. Their values – caring, committed, connected, and creative – are at the heart of everything they do.
Finlaysons Contracts is a local Scottish Borders-based construction company with over 80 years’ experience in specialising in the delivery of multi-trade contract projects. The company undertakes a range of projects, from repairs and property maintenance to refurbishments & new builds, with its in-house specialist trade sectors covering Masonry, Joinery, roofing and decorating. It delivers public and private sector projects primarily across the South of Scotland Borders region. Finlayson Contracts Ltd emphasises quality, safety, and sustainability in building solutions for community & development projects.
An independent renewable energy developer has delivered over 150 MW of onshore wind projects and continues to expand its 3 GW clean energy pipeline. Known for its strong community focus, the company goes beyond industry standards by creating shared ownership opportunities and guaranteeing community funding, sharing over £4.6million to date.
Charlesfield Farms
Charlesfield Farms in the Scottish Borders has evolved from a traditional farm into a diverse rural enterprise. The estate combines agriculture, renewable energy, and commercial development, balancing heritage with innovation to secure a sustainable future. Its diversification strategy addresses economic change, climate challenges, and land use policies, ensuring long-term resilience. Committed to community and environment, Charlesfield exemplifies how rural estates can thrive while supporting people, place, and progress.
Together, these organisations exemplify the importance of businesses working hand-in-hand with education to strengthen communities. Their sponsorship of the Borders College Graduation not only reduces costs for students but also demonstrates their collective belief in the power of education to transform lives.
Borders College Vice Principal Kirsty Robb expressed the gratitude of the College, noting:
“Graduation is a proud and memorable day for our students and their families. The support of these seven organisations helps make this possible and reflects the spirit of partnership and community that lies at the heart of the Borders.”
The College, its students, and their families extend heartfelt thanks to Borders Competitions, Borders Buses, Morrison Construction, Eildon Housing, Finlaysons Contracts and Muirhall Energy for standing alongside them in celebrating success and shaping brighter futures.