Did you know that at College Academy there are several qualifications that you can study while you are at school? Schools and colleges are dedicated to working together to ensure young people are offered the opportunity to gain vocational experience and to study a subject that might not be available to them at school.
Planning for the future is essential in a world of new technologies and changing employment opportunities. College Academy is presenting our most ambitious and varied set of qualifications to date. Our offers are based on the growing skills, requirements and employment for Dumfries & Galloway’s regional economy.
Please note all courses below are subject to change until details are finalised.
STEM and Technical Skills
Construction Crafts @ SCQF Level 4 (Stranraer)
If you are interested in a career in the construction industry then this is the course for you, this is an exciting opportunity to take that first step to a career that is both satisfying and rewarding.
Thursday PM (Stranraer) In Person
Construction Crafts @ SCQF Level 4 (Dumfries)
If you are interested in a career in the construction industry then this is the course for you, this is an exciting opportunity to take that first step to a career that is both satisfying and rewarding.
Tuesday PM (Dumfries) In Person
Renewable Energy Practical Skills @ SCQF Level 5
This course is designed to incorporate alternative energy systems installed in the College’s new Green Energy Centre and allows candidates to learn the theory behind alternative energy production while learning new skills required to design, build and evaluate these systems.
Thursday PM – In Person
Foundation Apprenticeship in Engineering @ SCQF Level 6
This course will give you skills and understanding of the Engineering industry allowing you to gain practical experience while studying towards a qualification.
Tuesday PM / Thursday PM – In Person
Automotive Skills SFW @ SCQF Level 4
This qualification is designed to engage and motivate pupils who are interested in learning about the motor vehicle industry. It is aimed at learners who prefer and respond to ‘hands-on’ learning.
Tuesday PM – Dumfries
Tuesday PM – Stranraer
Automotive Skills SFW @ SCQF Level 4
This qualification is designed to engage and motivate pupils who are interested in learning about the motor vehicle industry. It is aimed at learners who prefer and respond to ‘hands-on’ learning.
Thursday PM – In Person
Cyber Security NPA @ SCQF Level 5
This course provides you with the foundation knowledge and skills in Cyber Security. You will develop skills relevant to the use of Data Security, Digital Forensics and Ethical Hacking.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Creative Industries
Digital Media Animation NPA @ SCQF Level 5
This course gives you insight into the limitless world of animation. You will learn a range of animation skills and processes to develop your creativity and technical skills.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Photography NPA @ SCQF Level 5
You will learn a range of photography skills, techniques and digital editing processes to develop your creativity and technical skills. Enabling you to understand photographic work to a more in-depth level, to self-evaluate work and the work of others.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Art & Design NPA @ SCQF Level 5
During this course, you will develop your skills through Illustration, printmaking and mixed media. You will also understand Art & Design in a more in-depth level, to evaluate your own work and the work of others and start your journey in Creative Practice.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Introduction to E-Sports NPA @ SCQF Level 5
This course will give you an introduction to E-sports and advise you on how you can progress within the computing industry which extends far beyond games development and Esports.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Education, Health & Society
Early Learning and Childcare @ SCQF Level 5
If you are interested in pursuing a career in working with children, the Early Learning and Childcare National 5 course may be for you.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Early Learning and Childcare @ SCQF Level 5
If you are interested in pursuing a career in working with children, the Early Learning and Childcare National 5 course may be for you.
Thursday PM – In Person
Foundation Apprenticeship in Social Services Children and Young People @ SCQF Level 6
This is a 1-year programme if you are interested in pursuing a career in working with children and young people.
Tuesday PM / Thursday PM – Hybrid
Introduction to Education of Children and Young People NQ @ SCQF Level 5
f you are interested in pursuing a career in working with children this course may be for you. It is an introductory course that focuses on developing practical skills and knowledge working in the Early Learning and Childcare sector.
Thursday PM – Online
UWS Healthcare Foundation Academy @ SCQF Level 5
This is a school Foundation Academy course delivered in partnership with UWS and the NHS. You will be a UWS Associate Student on the pathway towards a degree in nursing.
Completing this programme alongside other specific subjects at your school will mean you may go on to the level 6 Foundation Academy course whilst still at school next year.
Tuesday PM / Thursday PM – Hybrid
UWS Healthcare Foundation Academy @ SCQF Level 6
This is a school Foundation Academy course delivered in partnership with UWS and the NHS. You will be a UWS Associate Student on the pathway towards a degree in nursing.
Completing this programme alongside other specific subjects at your school will mean you may meet the entry criteria for nursing.
Tuesday PM / Thursday PM – Hybrid
Legal Studies NPA @ SCQF Level 6
The National Progression Award in Legal Studies at SCQF level 6 has been designed to provide you with a fundamental knowledge of Scots Law, which will primarily facilitate progression into further academic qualifications but may be useful for entry-level employment in a range of sectors.
Tuesday PM – Online
Criminology – Social Science Pathway NPA @ SCQF Level 5
It will interest you if you want to develop your knowledge of understanding criminal behaviour and crime. You may be interested in a career in police, law, social work, probation service, legal services or community work.
Tuesday PM – Hybrid
Service Industries and Tourism
Professional Cookery @ SCQF Level 4
Professional Cookery introduces learners to techniques that are important in professional cookery. It develops practical, technical, and transferable skills in food preparation and cooking, and provides bite-sized chunks of learning that are straightforward for learners to study.
Monday PM – In Person
Professional Cookery @ SCQF Level 5
Professional Cookery introduces learners to techniques that are important in professional cookery. It develops practical, technical, and transferable skills in food preparation and cooking, and provides bite-sized chunks of learning that are straightforward for learners to study.
Monday AM – In Person
Professional Cookery @ SCQF Level 4
Professional Cookery introduces learners to techniques that are important in professional cookery. It develops practical, technical, and transferable skills in food preparation and cooking, and provides bite-sized chunks of learning that are straightforward for learners to study.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Events, Tourism and Barista @ SCQF Level 5
This course will help you to gain employment in restaurants, hotels, and conference centres. If you are interested in a career in hospitality, then this course is the one for you. This course covers all aspects of working in the hospitality industry.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Make-Up, Hair and Beauty Skills @ SCQF Level 5
This course aims to give you the experience of a salon environment and the opportunity to learn about the different roles and responsibilities in beauty therapy and Hairdressing.
Tuesday
Sport and Recreation SFW @ SCQF Level 5
Skills for Work: Sport and Recreation is an introductory qualification. It develops the skills, knowledge, and attitudes needed for work in the industry.
Tuesday PM – In Person
Life Skills, Employability & Pathways (LEAP)
Introduction to LEAP @ SCQF Level 3
This course is designed to support school students who may be considering one of the College’s supported learning courses after leaving school and provides an enhanced transition to college. The course will support students in developing skills that will support them for life and develop the necessary skills required for post-secondary education.
Thursday PM – In Person
Micro-Learning Suite
Get a head start on your College Academy journey with our brand-new, free online courses!
Designed to help you prepare for your chosen course, these flexible, self-paced courses will give you the skills and confidence you need before you start.
You’ll also receive support from your dedicated tutor, ensuring you get the most out of your learning. These courses are a great introduction to college life, helping you transition smoothly into your studies at Dumfries and Galloway College.
Real Stories. Real Success. Real Futures.
Don’t just take our word for it—hear from the students themselves!
Our College Academy transforms futures, helping senior pupils gain qualifications and real-world experience.
Discover the inspiring success stories of students who’ve taken this exciting step and see how College Academy has helped them achieve their goals.
Ready to be inspired?