Borders College receives Professional Update Validation from the General Teaching Council for Scotland

Borders College has become the latest college to receive Professional Update (PU) Validation from the General Teaching Council for Scotland (GTCS).

Borders College uses a new peer observation process, which includes three stages: pre-observation preparation discussion, an observed lesson and then a professional dialogue to identify mutually agreed good practices and further recommendations. This is something the college hopes to develop further to enhance learning.

There is a clearly defined PRD process in place, including specific advice on GTCS processes for those lecturers who are GTCS registered, and evidence was presented of a high level of PRD completion by college staff.

It was clear that there was a commitment to enhancing teaching and learning. This was especially evident through the role of the Learning & Teaching Enhancement Specialists (LTES) as well as the new peer observation process.

Dr Carol Langston, GTCS Senior Education Officer (Colleges and Professional Learning), said:

“It was clearly demonstrated that there was a strong commitment to learning, teaching and continued development by the senior team, curriculum learning managers and lecturing staff at Borders College.”

Borders College Principal, Angela Cox, commented:

“Providing first class learning and teaching opportunities is what Borders College is all about. In order to achieve this, we recognise that we need to invest in our staff to support their development, and we are delighted that the PU Validation award reflects this.”