We are proud to mark National Innovation Week 2025 by showcasing the pioneering ways its students and staff are embracing technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and collaboration to transform education and training across Scotland. These innovations align closely with the College’s 2030 Strategy, which sets out a bold vision for delivering future-ready education, inclusive opportunities, and sustainable practices over the next decade.
From classrooms to construction sites, healthcare training suites to Scotland’s most remote communities, South Lanarkshire College is at the forefront of preparing students for the industries of tomorrow.
In construction and advanced manufacturing, students are now using virtual reality headsets to gain immersive, hands-on experience of building environments, alongside working with a 4-sided planer, an innovative machine that increases productivity, reduces costs, and supports sustainability by maximising the conversion of timber and reducing waste. This combination helps students to develop practical skills safely and efficiently while gaining experience with cutting-edge equipment.
In digital and data technology, we have introduced Power BI dashboards and AI tools like Jamworks and Skillsminer. These platforms create a data-driven learning environment, helping students and staff track progress, analyse skills, share resources, and work together. This supports the 2030 Strategy goal of embedding digital innovation into all areas of learning.
In health and life sciences, students train with interactive medical mannequins that talk and respond in realistic clinical scenarios, giving them essential practical experience and preparing them for the high standards of modern healthcare.
Collaboration and sustainability are also central to our work. South Lanarkshire College is the Sustainable Centre for the Colleges Local Innovation Centre (CLIC) Project, helping businesses in five priority sectors build their digital capabilities. In partnership with Fife College, We co-lead the CECA Academy at Perth Prison, providing inmates close to release with essential skills and pathways into employment, supporting the 2030 Strategy’s focus on inclusion and widening participation.
As a college, we also delivers specialist training in remote communities, including mobile heat pump and water by-laws courses using the college sector Scottish Government-funded mobile heat training unit in locations such as Thurso and Shetland. These programmes not only upskill local workforces but also contribute directly to Scotland’s journey toward net zero.
James Jamieson, Depute Head of Curriculum, said:
“Innovation Week gives us the chance to celebrate Scotland’s world-leading role in shaping the future, as well as the exciting work happening in our College every day. From using AI platforms like Jamworks and Skillsminer in the classroom to training with advanced equipment such as the four-sided planer, innovation is at the core of everything we do. These initiatives directly support our 2030 Strategy, preparing students for future industries, promoting inclusion, and embedding sustainability across the College.”
Through a mix of digital tools, AI, sustainability projects, and advanced training,we are ensuring our students, staff, and communities are ready to thrive in a fast-changing world - helping keep Scotland at the forefront of global innovation.
