College Celebrates Outstanding Partnership Award for Supporting Refugee Doctors

We’re thrilled to share that City of Glasgow College has received an Outstanding Partnership Award from Bridges Programmes. The Bridges Programme is a Scottish initiative that supports the integration of refugees into the workforce, with a focus on aligning their existing skills and qualifications with opportunities in the local job market. This award celebrates our ongoing collaboration and commitment to helping refugees and asylum seekers achieve their goals.

Our partnership with Bridges has been especially impactful through the Refugee Doctors Project, which supports medical professionals on their journey to gain GMC registration and join the NHS. Over the past year, our team has worked closely with Bridges to tackle barriers faced by refugee doctors, developing innovative and practical solutions to help them succeed.

One highlight of our work has been delivering Occupational English Test (OET) training designed specifically for medical professionals. We’ve also made great use of our healthcare ward simulation facilities for realistic role-play exercises. These sessions equip participants with essential skills they’ll use in real-life medical settings.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to expand this support with a new online OET provision starting in January. This will allow us to reach refugee doctors living beyond Glasgow and offer tailored support to those needing extra time to strengthen their language skills.

Bridges Programmes had high praise for our team:

"They have worked tirelessly to improve the flow of students, reduce waiting times, and support learners of all levels. Their support has been instrumental in streamlining the journey for refugee doctors."

James Davies, Associate Dean - ESOL and Communities, shared his pride in the partnership:

“The ESOL team are delighted to receive an Outstanding Partnership Award from Bridges. Our work together on the Refugee Doctors Project is so important in supporting medical professionals on their journey to practice in Scotland.”

We are incredibly proud of this recognition and look forward to continuing our vital work with Bridges to create opportunities for refugee doctors and make a real difference in their lives.