The College is delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Louise Ritchie, Lecturer in Fine Art, who has recently completed her PhD at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD), University of Dundee. This significant milestone marks years of dedication, artistic exploration, and academic rigor, and we are immensely proud of her accomplishment.

Louise’s doctoral research, titled Automaking: A Reflexive Nomenclature of Practice-Based Research, introduces the term ‘Automaking’—a pioneering way to visually map an artist’s life through creative practice. Unlike traditional ‘autobiography’ or ‘autotheory’ in literature, Automaking presents an artist’s journey through the processes and outcomes of their work. Louise’s thesis is structured around seven exhibitions undertaken during her research, each paired with reflective writings on art, practice, and personal experience.

Generously supported by the College’s Enhanced Qualifications Scheme, which funded 50% of her PhD fees, Louise has expressed immense gratitude for both the financial support and the encouragement provided by faculty members and the Organisational Development (OD) team throughout her journey.

Reflecting on her PhD journey, Louise shared: “A PhD is quite a ride—exhilarating at times, often lonely, and full of challenges as you uncover new knowledge and learn to articulate it,” Louise shared. “It has spanned a period of global disruption, personal challenges, and countless adjustments to my research. But despite the difficulties, the thrill of discovery and the opportunity to share my work kept me going.”

Beyond her research, Louise has actively enriched the College’s Fine Art program by integrating new approaches to practice-based arts research into her teaching. She has introduced her students to Post Graduate Research symposia and conferences, provided guidance on professional artistic careers, and initiated writing retreats to strengthen students’ text-based practice. Her work has already influenced a new generation of artists, with students expressing appreciation for her innovative insights and mentorship.

One of the seven core exhibitions in her thesis, thought space at South Block Gallery in Glasgow (2022), was a collaboration with City of Glasgow College Fine Art colleagues Celia Garcia and Lorna Mitchell. This exhibition explored their roles as artist-educators and how they create time and space for creative learning.

Alison Bell, Dean of Faculty for Creative Industries, said: “The faculty is absolutely thrilled by Louise’s incredible achievement. Earning a PhD is no small feat—it requires perseverance, countless hours of research, and a deep passion for learning. We are immensely proud and look forward to the positive impact this will have on students, faculty, and Louise’s career.”

We congratulate Louise on this remarkable achievement, which stands as a testament to the power of practice-based research in shaping contemporary artistic discourse. As she now looks to mentor other academics considering doctoral research, her impact will continue to grow—both within the College and across the wider arts community.

City of Glasgow College was delighted to once again host one of Scotland’s most prestigious culinary competitions – the Knorr Professional Scottish Student Chef of the Year 2025 – and even more proud to see our own students shine on the national stage.

In a thrilling live final on Wednesday, 26 March, held at City campus, Ross Gourlay, HND Professional Cookery student, cooked his way to a well-deserved second place. Ross demonstrated the skill, passion and professionalism that defines our College’s culinary training. Ross was supported by Jamie Robb, just 17, who performed with confidence and composure as assistant chef in a high-pressure, professional kitchen environment.

Their high-level performance, under the guidance of expert lecturer Robbie Philips, highlights the incredible talent nurtured within our award-winning hospitality and culinary programmes.

The competition challenged student chefs from across Scotland to create a two-course menu inspired by the theme ‘Feel Good Food’, emphasising nutrition, wellbeing, and sustainable cooking. Judged on creativity, technique, use of local ingredients and minimising food waste, the event was a true showcase of next-generation talent.

The judging panel – led by Gary Maclean, Scotland’s National Chef and competition ambassador – praised the high standard across the board.

“The level of talent this year was incredible,” said Gary. “Ross and Jamie clearly understood the theme and had the technical ability to bring it to life on the plate. They should be incredibly proud.”

Hosting this prestigious competition reinforces City of Glasgow College’s reputation as a centre of culinary excellence, and we remain committed to inspiring and empowering the chefs of tomorrow.

A transatlantic culinary adventure is now on the menu for students and staff at City of Glasgow College, thanks to an exciting new partnership with The Culinary Institute of New York at Monroe University.

In a move set to stir up opportunity on both sides of the pond, the College has signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the New York-based institute, paving the way for joint projects, staff exchanges, and cultural collaborations focused on food, hospitality, and innovation.

The agreement was officially signed this week at a special ceremony in New Rochelle, New York, where both institutions celebrated what’s being described as a “landmark moment” for global culinary education.

For students, this partnership opens up a world of possibilities — from learning new techniques and traditions to building international friendships and connections that could last a lifetime.

Dr Paul Little, Principal and CEO of City of Glasgow College, said the collaboration will serve up rich learning experiences for everyone involved:

“This global partnership will provide mutual benefits for students and staff at both institutions. At City of Glasgow College, we take pride in equipping future chefs with world-class skills, and this partnership will open new doors for innovation, knowledge exchange, and global opportunities. Together, we are shaping the next generation of culinary leaders.”

Scotland’s National Chef and Executive Chef at the College, Gary Maclean, echoed the enthusiasm:

“The best chefs never stop learning. Bringing together two world-leading culinary institutions is a fantastic opportunity to share ideas, refine skills and celebrate the diversity of global cuisine. I’m looking forward to seeing the creative sparks that fly.”

This partnership deepens the understanding of how food connects cultures, communities and careers. Over the coming years, both institutions will work closely to support students and staff in exploring everything from regional food heritage to sustainable kitchen practices.

Dean Frank Costantino, Assistant Vice President and Dean of Hospitality at the Culinary Institute of New York, summed it up best:

“As a chef and academic, I know the value of international collaboration in shaping future culinary leaders. This agreement will provide students and educators with unique opportunities to gain experience, innovate and elevate our craft.”

City of Glasgow College is celebrating the outstanding success of its National Chef and Senior Chef Lecturer, Gary Maclean, who has been elected as an Academician of the renowned Royal Academy of Culinary Arts (RACA). This remarkable achievement places Gary among some of the most respected figures in the industry, including culinary icons such as Raymond Blanc, Tom Kerridge, and Clare Smyth.

The Royal Academy of Culinary Arts is the UK’s leading professional association dedicated to culinary excellence, education, and training. Gary’s election to this prestigious body is both a significant personal honour and a testament to his tireless dedication to culinary education and leadership. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated exceptional talent, inspiring countless students and championing Scotland’s hospitality sector on both a national and international stage.

His passion for teaching and mentoring has made a lasting impact, both within the College and across the wider industry. Reflecting on his achievement, Gary shared how humbled he feels to be recognised at this level, saying it represents “a lifelong commitment to education, training, and raising the profile of our profession.” He described the honour as “fantastic recognition of the work we are doing at City of Glasgow College” and added, “to be welcomed into this group is truly humbling.”

Dr Paul Little CBE, Principal of City of Glasgow College, highlighted the significance of Gary’s success for the institution: “Gary’s election to the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts is richly deserved and reflects both his outstanding talent and the important role he plays in inspiring the next generation of culinary professionals at our College. We are incredibly proud of his achievement.”

The recognition also underscores Gary’s role as a national ambassador for Scottish food and drink. Lisa Jenkins, CEO of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, praised his contribution: “His long-term work in further education, mentoring students, and promoting Scottish food and drink demonstrate his commitment to the culinary arts, and we are excited to have him as part of the RACA family.”

Gary Maclean’s success is a true milestone — it reflects the talent, ambition, and excellence fostered at City of Glasgow College. His achievement perfectly embodies the college’s mission to Let Learning Flourish. It also stands as a source of pride for Scotland’s culinary community.

City of Glasgow College had the privilege of welcoming renowned hairdressing expert Jason Hall for an exclusive workshop with our HNC Hairdressing students. Jason, a celebrated industry figure and winner of the Scottish Hairdresser of the Year at the British Hairdressing Awards 2019/2020, brought a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the session, making it an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.

Held on Tuesday, 11 March the workshop provided students with the unique opportunity to learn directly from one of the best in the business. Jason’s expertise, along with his team’s extensive accolades in colour work, set the stage for a day filled with inspiration and hands-on learning.

Throughout the session, Jason demonstrated a range of professional techniques, from timeless classic styles to bold, avant-garde creations. A particular highlight was his emphasis on interpreting and executing hairstyling ideas from reference images—a crucial skill as students prepare for their upcoming graded unit assessments. His insights offered a fresh perspective on creativity and precision, helping students refine their ability to bring a vision to life.

Student Lyndsay Tait shared her excitement about the experience, saying: “Fabulous. Jason gave me so many ideas, tips, and tricks for my graded unit. He kept everything simple to follow but impactful. I was engaged the full time.”

Cristina Devine, Curriculum Head of Hairdressing & Barbering, echoed the significance of the event: “Having Jason Hall work alongside our students was a fantastic opportunity for them to learn from one of the leading experts in the field. His approach to hairdressing and his insights into working on editorial shoots will undoubtedly enhance our students’ creative abilities. It’s events like these that help bridge the gap between education and industry, empowering our students as they progress towards their graded unit assessments.”

Supporting Jason in delivering this enriching experience were Curriculum Head Cristina Devine and esteemed lecturers Emma Greer, Karen Hislop, and Ali Greer. Their collective expertise and dedication ensured the session was not only educational but also interactive and engaging.

This collaboration with Jason Hall and L’Oréal Professional reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to providing students with access to industry-leading professionals and real-world learning experiences. The students left the session feeling more confident, motivated, and equipped with new skills that will undoubtedly enhance their future careers in the hairdressing industry.

Tom Hird, second year HND Professional Cookery, has been awarded a prestigious Hospitality Industry Trust Scotland (HIT Scotland) scholarship to attend a renowned short course at the EHL Hospitality Business & Hotel Management School in Lausanne, Switzerland.

The fully funded scholarship enabled Tom to participate in an exclusive two-day course on Customer Excellence at EHL, one of the world’s leading hospitality institutions. The experience provided him with the opportunity to refine his skills, network with industry professionals and gain insights from global hospitality experts.

Tom’s dedication to the hospitality industry set him apart as a deserving recipient of the HIT Scotland scholarship. With prior experience in the sector, his passion for professional growth made him an ideal candidate. Reflecting on the experience, Tom shared:

"Just back from the most incredible and educational trip with HIT Scotland to EHL, with classes on Creating Value in Service. Fantastic workshops on personality types, value chain, and service recovery. I went with a group of people I had never met before but left with great connections and friends."

HIT Scotland, a leading charity supporting young hospitality professionals, played a pivotal role in making this opportunity possible. Special thanks go to Allyson Gray and the entire HIT Scotland team for their continuous support in nurturing emerging talent in the industry.

City of Glasgow College is immensely proud of Tom’s achievement. Lecturer Ava Kaskonas praised his commitment and success, stating:

"Tom is an exceptionally dedicated student who has demonstrated a strong commitment to the College since day one. He consistently excels in his coursework and actively seeks opportunities to enhance his skills and broaden his experience. I am so pleased that Tom had the chance to travel to Lausanne and engage with experts in the hospitality industry. He is an exemplary representative of City of Glasgow College and reflects the best of the hospitality industry!"

Tom’s journey is a testament to the power of dedication and the impact of industry support. His experience at EHL has enhanced his knowledge and strengthened his passion for hospitality. As he continues to build his career, Tom stands as an inspiration to fellow students aspiring to excel in the industry.

City of Glasgow College is proud to collaborate with the British Council on "Next Steps for Gender Equality in STEM." This international partnership with Politeknik Negeri Batam (Polibatam) in Indonesia is driving positive change by increasing women's participation in STEM education and careers.

Funded through the British Council’s Going Global Partnerships, the project unites educators and experts to break down barriers to gender equality in STEM fields. City of Glasgow College lecturers Michelle McSorley and Lee Ann Clulow, alongside manager Douglas Thomson and colleague Simone Cilia, play a key role in inspiring change both locally and globally.

The initiative focuses on four areas: research and diagnostics, online seminars and workshops, policies and procedures, and evaluation. Research conducted by Polibatam in collaboration with City of Glasgow College surveyed students and professionals to identify challenges such as workplace diversity, leadership representation, and career progression opportunities for women in STEM.

To tackle these challenges, interactive online seminars and workshops have equipped participants with advocacy skills and knowledge. Topics include unconscious bias, leadership development, and workplace policies promoting gender equality. A highlight was a panel discussion featuring STEM role models from the UK and Indonesia, providing valuable insights for students and professionals alike.

Reflecting on the project, Michelle McSorley, Lecturer in Business and Management at City of Glasgow College, shared: "Being part of the British Council-funded 'Next Steps for Gender Equality in STEM' project has been a fulfilling experience. Collaborating with passionate educators and experts from the UK and Indonesia has broadened my perspective and reinforced my commitment to fostering inclusivity in the workplace. Witnessing the positive impact on students and professionals has been truly inspiring. Together, we are breaking down barriers and paving the way for a more equitable future."

Lee Ann Clulow also emphasised the project’s significance: "Working on the British Council - Next Steps in Gender Equality in STEM project has provided deep insight into the benefits of international collaboration while highlighting how experiences of inequality are mirrored globally. This strong partnership will, I hope, continue into future projects, allowing us to create positive change by raising awareness and removing barriers for women in education."

A significant milestone has been establishing a Gender Equality Steering Group (GESG) at Polibatam, developed with consultancy support from Equate Scotland. This ensures gender equity remains a long-term priority within the institution, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women in STEM.

To further collaboration, reciprocal visits between City of Glasgow College and Polibatam have allowed both institutions to exchange ideas and best practices. City of Glasgow College’s Simone Cilia visited Indonesia to support the steering group’s development, followed by Polibatam representatives visiting Scotland to strengthen the partnership.

As the project nears completion, a final report in March 2025 will evaluate its impact and outline recommendations for continued progress. The initiative demonstrates the power of international collaboration in addressing gender inequalities and empowering the next generation of women in STEM.

At City of Glasgow College, we are committed to creating opportunities for all, fostering global partnerships, and driving meaningful change. Through initiatives like this, we continue shaping a more diverse and inclusive future in STEM.

We are delighted to celebrate the success of our Hospitality and Professional Cookery students at SCOTHOT 2025 – the Scottish Culinary Championships. SCOTHOT is Scotland’s premier food, drink, hospitality, and tourism showcase, attracting top industry professionals and emerging talent. This event features a range of competitions, where students and professionals demonstrate their skills under high-pressure conditions. Competing in multiple categories, our students showcased their talent, bringing home an impressive collection of Silver and Bronze Medals.

In the Cocktail Mixology category, HNC Hospitality students Sophie Tulloch and Phil Milne impressed the judges with their innovative cocktails. Sophie earned a Silver Medal, while Phil secured Bronze, both incorporating premium Scottish spirits—Arbikie Vodka and Crossbill Gin.

Phil reflected on his first competition, saying, “The feeling of stepping in front of the audience was amazing! Winning Bronze has motivated me to aim for Gold next time.” Sophie added, “I loved the process of developing my cocktail and showcasing Scottish produce. It was an intense but exciting experience, and I’d love to compete again!”

Their lecturer, Ava Kaskonas, praised their dedication, stating, “Winning medals at SCOTHOT in their first competition is fantastic! Sophie’s creativity and Phil’s adaptability were outstanding. I know this experience has sparked their passion for competitions and the drinks industry.”

HNC Patisserie student Kayla Monaghan demonstrated exceptional artistry in the Works in Chocolate (Tasted) category, earning a Silver Medal for her handcrafted selection of chocolates. Guided by lecturer Kenneth Hett, her creations stood out for their flavour, presentation, and technique.

Kayla expressed her excitement, saying, “SCOTHOT was my first-ever competition. I’m proud to have competed at this level and thrilled to win Silver.” Kenneth added, “Kayla’s dedication and skills were evident. To achieve Silver in her first competition is remarkable, and I’m incredibly proud of her.”

In the Junior Pasta competition, Level 6 Professional Cookery student Adam Walker delivered a skilled performance under strict time constraints, securing a Bronze Medal. Competing against some of Scotland’s top emerging chefs, he impressed the judges with his technique and execution.

Reflecting on his achievement, Adam said, “It was an honour to win Bronze in my first competition. Representing the College in an area I’m so passionate about was a fantastic experience, and I look forward to competing again.” His lecturer, Darren Seggie, commended his success, saying, “Adam’s precision and creativity shone through. This achievement is just the beginning for him.”

The success of our students at SCOTHOT 2025 highlights the exceptional training, mentorship, and support provided by City of Glasgow College’s hospitality and professional cookery programmes. Their dedication, skill, and passion continue to uphold the College’s reputation as a leader in culinary education.

A rare opportunity to witness the extraordinary work of legendary photographer Fabrizio Gianni is coming to City of Glasgow College. This exclusive retrospective exhibition will be on display at the Ralph Cowan Gallery, located on the seventh floor of City Campus, from 12th to 27th March 2025. Open to students, staff, and the public, the exhibition will run daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, offering a unique chance to explore the stunning portfolio.

Gianni’s career spans over four decades, with his striking imagery appearing in Vogue, Elle, GQ, and Harper’s Bazaar, featuring iconic figures such as Anthony Hopkins, Sir Ben Kingsley, and Keanu Reeves. Before turning his lens to fashion photography, he worked in the film industry, notably as an assistant director on Sergio Leone’s classic The Good, The Bad and The Ugly. His cinematic background strongly influences his photographic style, blending elegance, storytelling, and a sense of movement that captivates audiences.

To celebrate the opening of the exhibition, a special silent auction will take place on the evening of 12th March from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Guests will have an exclusive opportunity to acquire hand-printed darkroom photographs, limited edition prints, and posters signed by Gianni himself. All proceeds from the auction will go towards supporting the Beatson Cancer Charity, making this a celebration of art, but also a meaningful way to contribute to an important cause.

City of Glasgow College is honoured to host this remarkable collection, and Lecturer John Carberry expressed his excitement, stating:

“Fabrizio has been a great support to our students over the years, and it is a great honour to have his iconic work on display at the College, especially in support of the Beatson Charity.”

Those wishing to attend the opening night can register for free via Eventbrite here. Donations to the Beatson Cancer Charity can also be made via JustGiving.

For student group visits, please contact iain.smart@cityofglasgowcollege.ac.uk

We are proud to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Pitch Perfect, our innovative campaign tackling sectarian attitudes in football. In partnership with equality charity Nil by Mouth and backed by UEFA, this initiative has empowered over 1,000 students, equipping them with essential skills while addressing an important social issue.

Through Pitch Perfect, our students develop marketing campaigns that challenge sectarian behaviour and promote inclusivity. They present their ideas to a panel of industry experts, with past judges including comic book creator Mark Millar and BBC Scotland presenter Annie McGuire. The winning campaign is commissioned by Nil by Mouth, bringing student creativity to life in real-world settings.

Over the years, Pitch Perfect has produced powerful and influential campaigns, such as 2017’s ‘Just the Tip of the Iceberg,’ ‘Kiss Bigotry Goodbye,’ which engaged thousands of football fans online, and ‘Sectarianism is a Turn Off,’ exploring how sectarian language and online content affect relationships. Last year’s winning campaign, ‘Put a Sock in Sectarianism,’ is now being used in schools across Lanarkshire, demonstrating the lasting impact of our students’ work.

Providing real-world learning experiences is at the heart of Pitch Perfect. Amanda McSorley, Curriculum Head of Marketing, Advertising, and Public Relations, highlights its value:

“Pitch Perfect gives students a unique opportunity to work on a campaign that tackles a complex issue, engaging them in meaningful discussions. Over six months, they collaborate with industry professionals, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical experience. Working with Nil by Mouth, they gain not only employability skills but also motivation, confidence, and professional insights into marketing.”

Industry professionals also praise the competition. Emily McGowan, owner of McGowan Marketing and head judge, says:

“This competition challenges young creatives and helps them develop essential career skills. We want students to be bold and embrace big ideas, and Pitch Perfect encourages just that. It’s also wonderful to see the lecturers’ pride in their students. I wish something like this had been available when I was starting out!”

For students, the experience is transformative. Phillipa Lynas, our 2024 winner, shares her thoughts:

“Pitch Perfect has been a highlight of my time at college. It allowed me to sharpen my skills, collaborate with my team, and gain real-world experience in designing, pitching, and launching a campaign. I now feel more confident in my future career.”

As we celebrate a decade of Pitch Perfect, City of Glasgow College remains committed to fostering creativity, innovation, and social responsibility. With the continued support of our partners and the enthusiasm of our talented students, we look forward to another decade of inspiring change and tackling sectarianism head-on.