Student satisfaction continues to rise at NESCol

June 1, 2026

North East Scotland College (NESCol) is celebrating another year of strong student satisfaction, with the latest survey results highlighting its commitment to delivering a positive learner experience.

The annual Student Satisfaction and Engagement Survey results for the 2025-26 academic year show that overall student satisfaction remains high at 92%, up from 90% last year.

The survey encourages students to share their views on different aspects of their college experience. It includes 13 mandatory statements set by the Scottish Funding Council (SFC), which are used by colleges across Scotland to allow for national comparison. In addition, the survey features a range of statements set by NESCol, and a section for leaving any comments.

Student participation is key to the survey’s success, and the SFC sets a minimum participation target of 50% for full-time students. NESCol once again exceeded this benchmark, with responses from 77% of students on Further Education (FE) courses, as well as 76% of students on Higher Education (HE) courses, such as HNCs and HNDs.

Key findings for full-time students from this year’s survey include:

96% would recommend NESCol to others
93% feel their time at College has helped them develop knowledge and skills for the workplace
96% feel safe and secure on campus
98% feel staff encourage them to take responsibility for their learning.

NESCol Principal Neil Cowie said, “Receiving such excellent results in the Student Satisfaction and Engagement Survey is a real reflection of the hard work and dedication of our colleagues across NESCol.

“The feedback gathered through the survey gives us a valuable insight into the student experience, helping us understand what we’re doing well as well as where we can improve. This ensures our students continue to receive high-quality education and support – and, just as importantly, enjoy their time at College.

“We’re delighted to see overall satisfaction grow year on year, and we look forward to building on this success in the future.

“Thank you to our learners who took the time to complete the survey, and to our staff who have gone above and beyond to actively support and encourage participation, helping to secure strong response rates while continuing to deliver an outstanding student experience at NESCol.”

The survey also had a strong response from part-time learners, including those on Schools-College courses. Response rates exceeded SFC participation targets, with 69% for FE and 66% for HE students.

Feedback was also positive, with 94% of part-time students and 98% of Schools-College learners saying they would recommend NESCol to others.

View the infographic pdf for this year’s survey.

Bringing learning to life at NESCol

At NESCol, our goal is to give everyone the chance to build the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in learning, life and work. Our strategic plan, launched last year, outlines how we plan to get even better at what we do.

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