A roadmap for NESCol’s future

The launch of the new NESCol Strategic Plan in October 2025 marked the beginning of the next chapter in the College’s story. The plan clearly defines who we are, why we are here, what we stand for, where we are going and how we’ll get there.

Why we are here

 

Our goal is to give everyone the chance to build the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in learning, life and work. Putting students at the heart of everything that we do, NESCol joins forces with employers and other key partners to make sure the education and training we shape is what the North East needs. Our teams work hard every day to build strong, inclusive communities as we push for positive social change and economic growth.

Shared ambitions

The NESCol Strategic Plan was created with input from staff, students, Regional Board members and stakeholders and sets the direction of travel for the College community for the next five years.

What we stand for

  • Quality: We are committed to delivering the very best learning experience.
  • Community: We value the connections we build with students and colleagues as well as in the communities we serve and with our partners.
  • Inclusion: We take pride in providing opportunities for all in a welcoming and supportive way.
  • Innovation: We make it our goal to embrace change and new technology to make NESCol a better place to learn, work and visit.
  • Partnership: We work with employers and industry organisations to equip students with relevant skills and paths to rewarding careers.

Where we are going

  • Our ambition is to get even better at what we do, meaning more students leave College with the qualifications and qualities they need, and to provide a high-quality experience for everyone who falls under our wing.
  • NESCol is the North East of Scotland’s first choice destination for training and education – and we want to open up opportunities for even more learners.
  • To do that we need to build a sustainable future for the College, working efficiently and focusing on commercial goals.
  • We’ll continue to collaborate with employers to equip the workforce with skills for today and for the future, always looking for ways to innovate.
  • NESCol doesn’t work alone and we’re proud to be a partner of choice, aiming to build on the strong foundations already in place.
  • Our role as a progressive employer is important to us and we’ll strive to continue to enhance the ways we work.

How we’ll get there

The plan outlines five strategic objectives and is supported by six sub-strategies, designed to deliver on those goals.

  • Our Student Experience: Revolving around our commitment to an innovative, inclusive, welcoming, well-informed, supportive, transformative and sector-leading student experience.
  • Our Colleagues: The ambition to be a progressive employer and workplace of choice, one that leads with fairness, flexibility, and support, is the focus of the Our Colleagues sub-strategy.
  • Our Digital Ambition: Enhancing digital maturity by embracing opportunities for staff and students – promoting inclusivity, sustainability, efficiency and lifelong learning.
  • Our Secure Future: Ensuring financial, environmental and social sustainability is at the heart of decision making at NESCol is central to this sub-strategy.
  • Our Region: Putting an emphasis on the ambition to be a catalyst for regional social and economic growth, aligning with industry and the needs of learners.
  • Our Spaces: Underlining the importance of creating welcoming, safe, supportive, and energising environments that enhance the experience for students, staff and our communities.

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