Public affairs PR | graduation marks three years of transformation

Scotland’s only dedicated college for complex needs students celebrates its first cohort

Student Darren Fitzpatrick celebrates graduating at Corseford College's first ever graduation ceremony, as showcased by Charity PR.

AFTER three years of progress, the first cohort of students from Scotland’s only college dedicated to young adults with complex needs have graduated.

Corseford College, based in Renfrewshire, has seen its initial intake of 13 complete the pilot programme – marking a major milestone in their educational journey.

Among those graduating were: Ali Chaudhry, Ava Horn, Beth Fargher, Bryan Brownlie, Cody Gallacher, Darren Fitzpatrick, Fraser McAlpine, Jamie Thomson, Kulatein Athuman, Lauren Wishart, Max Reid, Olivia Turner and Sophie James-Rae, all of which received their certificates in front of friends and family.

Created and operated by Capability Scotland, Corseford College provides post-school education for 18 to 25-year-olds with complex needs who are often left behind by traditional systems.

After three years of progress, the first cohort of students from Scotland's only college dedicated to young adults with complex needs have graduated, as showcased by Charity PR.

Liz McConnachie, Head of College, said: “Seeing our first students graduate has been an emotional and powerful moment for every staff member and family involved.

“These young people have not only developed new skills and confidence but have become ambassadors for what inclusive education should look like across Scotland.”

The college welcomed a small pilot intake in 2022; yet demand has grown year-on-year. For the latest academic term, it has received 34 applications for a limited number of spaces, reflecting a growing appetite for specialist education that addresses a long-standing gap.

Each student has made inspiring strides in confidence, communication, and independence, with several non-verbal learners gaining their voice through assistive technologies and personalised learning approaches.

CEO of Capability Scotland Brian Logan celebrates with student Fergus McAlpine on his graduation from Corseford College, as showcased by Charity PR.

Liz added: “The progress these students have made is extraordinary. We are seeing real change in the lives of our students and their families, but more than that, we’re seeing a path forward for how Scotland can support young people with complex needs in a meaningful and sustainable way.”

The recent graduation event celebrated more than academic achievement. Families, staff and supporters gathered to honour the personal growth and resilience of each student, many of whom had previously found few suitable post-school options.

Courses at Corseford College combine classroom learning with real-world engagement, including volunteering placements in local businesses and community initiatives – offering students experiences that support their wider personal development.

Its holistic, person-first approach ensures that every student is supported by qualified educators and support staff, creating an environment where potential can be recognised and nurtured.

Student at Corseford College Sophie James-Rae celebrates after graduating from the complex needs college. On her left she is joined by fellow students, Fergus McAlpine and on her right, Darren Fitzpatrick, as showcased by Charity PR.

Brian Logan, Chief Executive of Capability Scotland, said: “There is now a clear and growing case for replication. What we’ve built here is working, and we know it can work elsewhere.

“Our hope is that more young people across Scotland will soon have access to this level of opportunity and support.”

The college is waiting for a ministerial announcement to confirm funding following an independent evaluation, allowing it to continue operating into 2027. The college management team is keen to now explore opportunities to expand the model to benefit other communities in Scotland.

As students collect their graduation certificates, the impact of Corseford College is being felt far beyond its Renfrewshire base. With continued interest and advocacy, the first graduating class may yet prove to be the catalyst for a wider movement in inclusive education.

For more information on the work of Capability Scotland and Corseford College, visit: https://www.capability.scot/services/641-corseford-college

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