Principals Welcome Welcome to our 2011–2012 Course Guide. I hope you find it to be an informative and useful aid to determining your next steps. This year’s guide is informed and influenced by student comments, views and suggestions so it reflects the College Mission ‘to place learners at the heart of everything we do’. As Scotland’s oldest College, we understand very well the difference education makes – not only to individuals but also to families and the communities where they live. Our aim is to provide all our learners with an outstanding learning experience. We are very much aware that our students come from wide ranging and diverse backgrounds; people who have been away from education for many years, those who are employed and looking to develop or change their career, people with additional support needs, school leavers and people who are unemployed – all wanting to enhance their employment opportunities, their confidence or just develop new interests. Coming to College is all about developing your independence, making new friends, taking advantage of new opportunities and learning new skills for your future career. Just like life, the more you put in, the more you will get out of your time at College. We are a friendly, welcoming College focused on your learning experience. Those of you who are returning to continue their studies will, I am sure, be delighted by the progress of our campus development strategy. Modern, accessible learning spaces with excellent support and social spaces will make your experience so much more fulfilling and enjoyable. Where required you will receive ‘hands on’ training in real work environments and work with up to date industry standard equipment. There are opportunities for work placements on some courses and we have excellent links with industry. I look forward to welcoming you to Coatbridge College, to a new beginning and a bright future. John Doyle Principal and Chief Executive