Borders College is delighted to announce that this year’s Graduation ceremony, taking place at the Borders Events Centre, Kelso on 18 September, 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 Charlesfield Farms, Eildon Housing, Floors Castle, MKM Building Supplies, Morrison Construction, Mott MacDonald, Safe Services, and Scottish Borders Housing Association. Their contributions highlight not only their commitment to education but also their dedication to supporting the wider community across the Borders and beyond.
Charlesfield Farms 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.
Eildon Housing is 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.
Floors Castle is a historic estate in the Scottish Borders and the largest inhabited castle in Scotland. It combines heritage, tourism, gardens, hospitality, events and retail, while serving as the family home of the Duke and Duchess of Roxburghe. The wider Roxburghe Estate also encompasses farming, forestry, conservation, property and renewable energy.
MKM Building Supplies is a UK-wide builders’ merchant serving trade professionals and DIY customers. Established in 1995, it supplies building materials, timber, plumbing, heating, electrical products, tools, kitchens, bathrooms, landscaping and decorating products. With over 140 branches, MKM focuses on local expertise, customer service, delivery, trade support and sustainable building solutions.
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.
Mott MacDonald is a global, employee-owned engineering, management and development consultancy. It plans, designs, delivers and maintains infrastructure across transport, energy, water and buildings. The company combines technical expertise, digital innovation and sustainability to help clients address complex challenges and improve lives worldwide.
Safe Services is a Scottish Borders-based security systems company, specialising in the design, installation and servicing of CCTV, intruder alarms, fire alarm systems and access control. Based in Galashiels, the company provides security solutions for businesses and organisations across the region, helping customers protect their premises, people and assets.
Scottish Borders Housing Association (SBHA) is a registered social landlord and Scottish charity supporting tenants and communities across the Scottish Borders. It provides affordable homes, tenancy support and community services, while investing in new housing, neighbourhoods and sustainability. SBHA also works to strengthen the local economy and improve residents’ quality of life.
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 Lynn Murray expressed the gratitude of the College, noting:
“Graduation is a proud and memorable day for our students and the people who have supported them along the way. The support of these eight organisations helps make this wonderful day possible and reflects the spirit of partnership and community that lies at the heart of the Borders.”
The College, its students, and the people who have supported them along the way extend heartfelt thanks to all this year’s sponsors.