Ayr College graduates are award winners.

Oct 28 2011 by Lisa Boyle, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

A SERIOUS back injury inspired Gillian Carpenter to drastically change her life.

The Ayr woman had to take five months sick leave from her job as a merchandising rep for a large retailer.

Gillian had to have surgery and needed time to recover. But that gave her time to think and when the opportunity of redundancy came up, Gillian went for it.

This week she will graduate from Ayr College after completing an HND in Visual Communication.

And the bright spark has even bagged this year’s Student of the Year for Visual Arts award.

Michael McHugh, curriculum manager, said: “Gillian is a mature student who epitomises the ethic of lifelong learning and demonstrates how a return to education at any age can be a life changing experience.”

Gillian said: “I had always wanted to get involved in art when I left school, but life got in the way.

“I never thought I would be accepted into college, as all my design work was from my time at school.

“I never knew what to expect when I first attended college. I had been out of education for a number of years, so was a little apprehensive about being an older student in the class, however I needn't have worried.”

But this is a day humble Gillian never thought would come.

Michael continued: “Afterbelieving she was only capable of attaining an NQ, she will be entering the third year of a BA Digital Arts programme; an excellent effort from a dedicated student.”

Gillian is enrolled on the BA Digital Arts degree at UWS, where she plans to complete her Honours. After graduation, Gillian plans to complete the one year Post-Graduate Teaching Qualification so that she can teach art in secondary schools.

Joining Gillian and scores of other Ayr College graduates at Ayr Town Hall this Friday will be Scott McNeil.

Scott has just completed the NPA Construction (Carpentry and Joinery) course and has been awarded the Student of the Year accolade for his course.

Graeme Donaldson, curriculum manager, said: “Scott is a very mature and level headed student, who readily grasps both practical and theory skills producing work of a very high standard.

“He is a leading example to his fellow peers undertaking work over and above his required duties whilst still finding time to encourage and help others within his class group.“

Before coming to college, Scott had undertaken a variety of jobs including working in fabrication and with wind turbines. He also spent time as a retained fire-fighter.

Scott said: “I knew this was the course for me; I only wish I had done it years ago. I wanted to hone the skills I already had from previous employment, whilst developing myself further to improve my chances of gaining employment as a joinery apprentice.

“Through the learning development classes, I have learned how to perfect my CV, learn new ways of working, and my personal skills have improved greatly as well.”

Scott is now keeping his options open. He has been accepted to the NC Built Environment course for session 2011/12, and is currently seeking employment as an apprentice joiner