Borders College has been named a finalist for the Large Business of the Year award at the highly anticipated Scottish Borders Business Excellence Awards 2025, organised by the Scottish Borders Chamber of Commerce.
Set to take place on Friday, 29 August 2025, the annual awards ceremony celebrates the achievements, innovation, and impact of businesses across the region. Open to organisations of all sizes and sectors, the event recognises the vital contribution businesses make to the Scottish Borders economy and community.
Borders College has earned its place on the shortlist through a compelling submission showcasing its wide-reaching educational impact, commitment to student and staff development, and a strong track record of sector-leading delivery.
As a major provider of vocational training, professional development, and higher education opportunities, Borders College serves a diverse customer base across the Scottish Borders and beyond. Its industry-relevant curriculum is developed in close collaboration with employers to ensure students are equipped with the skills and knowledge that match today’s workforce needs.
The College’s submission highlights several stand-out areas, including:
- Student-Focused Support: Borders College places the well-being and success of its students at the heart of its mission, offering a robust range of academic and pastoral support services.
- Workforce Development: Investment in staff training and progression is a key focus. The College supports professional qualifications, continuous professional development (CPD), and a host of internal programmes that champion growth and inclusion.
- Strong Leadership and Performance: Financial transparency and robust governance are backed by an active programme of leadership development, fair work principles, and staff engagement initiatives.
- Community and Economic Impact: Borders College plays a pivotal role in training the local workforce — from trades and healthcare to hospitality and early years — directly contributing to the economic and social prosperity of the region.
Borders College Principal and CEO Pete Smith commented:
“In the past year alone, the College has achieved recognition as a Great Place to Work, with certified awards in Wellbeing and Development based on staff survey feedback. Initiatives such as the annual “Work, Rest and Play” Day and a newly introduced wellbeing hour reflect a modern and progressive approach to employee engagement and mental health.”
Looking to the future, Borders College is focused on strategic growth, developing new delivery models to meet evolving community and business needs. Through partnerships with schools, employers, and government bodies, the College continues to play a central role in supporting job creation, economic development, and skills advancement across the Scottish Borders.