From frontline roles in hospitality to hands-on training for electricians, first aid qualifications to fun-filled cooking classes – more and more people are discovering the benefits of learning new skills. Whether it’s for work, business growth or simply personal interest, one thing is clear: development matters. And at Dumfries and Galloway College, opportunities for development are everywhere – you just need to be quick to make the most of them.
A Culture of Lifelong Learning
It’s no surprise that training courses are seeing a surge in popularity. In today’s fast-moving world, staying still often means falling behind. Whether you’re advancing in your current role, looking to change career, or exploring a new hobby, signing up for a course can unlock fresh possibilities and provide that all-important confidence boost. For businesses, investing in staff training means improved service, legal compliance, and a stronger team overall.
But it’s not just about qualifications on paper – it’s about progress in real life. Learning something new builds self-belief, encourages resilience and opens doors, both professionally and personally.
That’s exactly why Dumfries and Galloway College continues to attract learners from every corner of the region – and beyond.
In-Demand Courses with Limited Places
As interest grows, some of the college’s most sought-after courses are already close to capacity. If you’re thinking about levelling up your skills this year, here’s what’s on offer:
Food Hygiene & Hospitality
For anyone working with food or alcohol – or looking to break into the sector – these REHIS-certified courses are considered essential:
- REHIS Elementary Food Hygiene (Level 5) Perfect for beginners and anyone handling food in a professional setting.
- REHIS Advanced Food Hygiene (Diploma)Designed for supervisors and managers responsible for food safety.
- REHIS Scottish Certificate for Personal Licence HoldersA legal requirement for anyone selling or authorising the sale of alcohol.
With only a few spaces left, these courses are a direct route to meeting industry standards and enhancing career prospects.
Solar PV & Battery Storage for Electricians
The demand for renewable energy services is booming, and electricians are responding. These BPEC-accredited qualifications are designed to help tradespeople futureproof their businesses:
- BPEC Electric Energy Storage Systems (EESS)Covers installation and maintenance of domestic battery storage units.
- BPEC Solar PVTeaches how to design, install and maintain solar panel systems.
Both courses are running soon – but not for long. Final places are being booked by professionals from Dumfries and Galloway, Cumbria and the Central Belt.
First Aid – Because It Matters
Whether you’re a small business owner, a team leader, or someone who just wants to be ready to help others, first aid training is always valuable:
- First Aid at Work (Level 6)Full three-day course for designated workplace first aiders.
- Emergency First Aid at Work (Level 6)One-day option ideal for low-risk settings or refresher needs.
- First Aid for Mental Health: Awareness and support tools for workplace wellbeing.
These SQA-accredited courses are in high demand – with very limited places left.
Digital Skills – Learn from Anywhere
For those working remotely or wanting to sharpen their digital know-how, online learning makes skill-building easier than ever:
- Introduction to Microsoft Excel A great starting point for spreadsheets, formulas and functions.
- Advanced Microsoft ExcelDelve into pivot tables, data analysis and more.
- Minute TakingGain the confidence to produce clear and professional meeting notes.
Accessible from anywhere in Scotland and fully online, these practical courses are nearly full.
Cooking Classes – Learn Something Delicious
Looking for a night out with a difference? These relaxed, tutor-led sessions in Dumfries combine fun with food:
- Curries of the WorldA globe-spanning journey of spices and techniques.
- Pasta and Pizza MasterclassLearn to create Italian favourites entirely from scratch.
Whether you’re coming solo or bringing a friend, spaces are going fast – and bookings are open now.
A Place of Opportunity for Everyone
At Dumfries and Galloway College, learning doesn’t have to mean long-term commitments or big changes overnight. It’s about taking the next right step – whatever that means for you. From improving your job prospects to reigniting a passion, the college offers accessible, trusted and flexible courses across a wide range of subjects.
So if you’ve been thinking about signing up, now’s the time to act. With many courses close to full, it’s worth securing your place today.
Because no matter your age, role or reason, there’s one thing everyone gains from learning – growth.