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CR> Do you track the progress of graduates to evaluate employment destinations?
BL> Yes. Recent evidence suggests that the majority of our graduates either enter the professional and commercial sector (46%) or go on to a first degree (32%). The college is also a partner in KT2, which is a knowledge transfer partnership with Queen Margaret University and Edinburgh Napier University. It allows students in an area such as photography to receive support – knowledge, resources and funding – in setting up their own businesses. Given that 6% of our graduates become self employed, this is very important. Additionally, we have close links with many employers such as NHS Lothian to ensure our graduates are aware of high quality job opportunities.
CR> What’s your view on how the city promotes itself and what role does Stevenson College Edinburgh play in promoting the city?
BL> Because of my personal affiliation with the city, I am very conscious of the ‘Inspiring Capital’ brand and we’ve incorporated its key purpose and aims to help promote the College. We see the Edinburgh connection as a major reason for our success, particularly in our international markets, but we are also committed to adding value to the city and help it focus on what it does well. This is not just the education and academic sector but also areas such as the creative arts and media, and in fact we are hosting a concert with Jon Lord, founding member of Deep Purple, at the Usher Hall on 5 October 2009 to further highlight our accomplishments and abilities, particularly in music.
CR> Where do you envisage Stevenson College Edinburgh in ten years time?
BL>We will be strengthening the relationship between all Edinburgh colleges so that collectively we achieve the common goals of preparing students with the right skills to complement the needs of the business community. I also see us collaborating more with the city’s universities. The development of Edinburgh Napier University at Sighthill is providing us with the opportunity to look at sharing resources, facilities and international recruitment capability. This will give strength to the academic reputation of West Edinburgh and enhance our relationship with its residents. We also see City of Edinburgh Council as a key partner and our strategy for the future is very much about utilising our core skills collaboration and partnership working.
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