Brazilian scholarship students begin 16-week experience at FVC

Forth Valley College has welcomed 30 scholarship students, sponsored by the Brazilian Government, from Pernambuco, Brazil, for a 16-week programme of learning and cultural exchange at its Falkirk and Stirling Campuses.

The students arrived on Monday 19 October through the College’s partnership with the World Education Programme (WEP). They will join a range of classes alongside Scottish students, developing their skills, improving their English and experiencing life in Scotland.

Their arrival builds on the success of the four students from Paraná, Brazil, who joined the College in August to study Creative Industries across the two campuses. The latest intake brings the total number of Brazilian students welcomed through the partnership this academic year to 34.

The new students took part in a two-day induction this week, featuring campus tours, support to access College systems, workshops on life at the College, icebreaking sessions and meetings with curriculum managers. The activities helped students familiarise themselves with their surroundings, get to know one another and prepare to join their classes.

The induction was supported by Sarah Higgins Vice Principal Learning and Student Experience, Sarah Tervit Head of Inclusion and Student Services, Hannah Fearnley Learning Support Advisor, Laura Geoghegan Student Support Manager and staff from the Learning Resource Centres (LRCs) at both campuses.

The students join a diverse College community, with around 100 nationalities represented among FVC’s student population. The recent launch of the International Student Society provides a further opportunity for students to connect, share their cultures and build friendships across the College.

As well as enriching the learning experience, the programme generates a substantial amount of additional income for the College. Developing international partnerships that bring new revenue into FVC is an important part of strengthening its financial sustainability and supporting the delivery of high-quality education and training for the communities it serves.

Alongside their studies, the programme offers students the opportunity to experience Scottish culture and build friendships within the local community. It also gives FVC students and staff the chance to learn about Brazilian life and culture through their everyday interactions on campus.

Kenny MacInnes Forth Valley College Principal, said: “We are delighted to welcome our latest cohort of Brazilian scholars to our College and to Scotland. We are all looking forward to sharing in their learning journey over the next 16 weeks and to help make their Forth Valley College experience a truly memorable one.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to everyone who assisted with and supported the arrival of our students from Brazil earlier this week. I am very grateful for the efforts of all those involved. Your support reflects the collaborative approach that makes Forth Valley College such a welcoming and inclusive place for our students and international partners. Thank you once again for your hard work, commitment and support.”

Jamie Allan, Global Partnership Manager at Forth Valley College, said: “We are delighted to welcome our 30 students from Pernambuco and to see our partnership with WEP continue to grow.

“Our four students from Paraná have already shown how valuable this experience can be, speaking enthusiastically about their classes, the welcome they have received and the friendships they are making. It is fantastic that another group now has the opportunity to enjoy that same experience.

“I am extremely grateful to Sarah Higgins, Sarah Tervit, Hannah Fearnley, Laura Geoghegan and the LRC staff at both campuses, for their support with this week’s two-day induction. Their time, care and enthusiasm have helped give our new students a warm welcome and a positive start to their College experience.

“With around 100 nationalities represented among our students, we have a wealth of cultures and experiences within FVC. It is also great to see the recent launch of the International Student Society, creating more opportunities for students to meet, celebrate that diversity and feel part of our College community.

“This partnership also delivers significant financial benefits for the College. Generating additional income through international activity is particularly important at a time of continued pressure on college finances. It helps strengthen our financial position and supports our ability to provide opportunities for learners across the Forth Valley.

“I would also like to thank WEP and the local host households whose support helps make this programme possible. We are still looking for more households to get involved, particularly in the Stirling area, and would encourage anyone with a spare bedroom to consider offering a student a warm Scottish welcome.”

Host households still needed, particularly around Stirling

WEP are continuing to seek suitable host households, with a particular need in the Stirling area.

Hosts receive a stipend from WEP of £500 per month per student, along with ongoing guidance and support from WEP throughout the placement.

Hosting offers the opportunity to earn additional household income, learn about Brazilian culture and help a young person make the most of their time in Scotland. Households do not need previous hosting experience to enquire.

Anyone interested in hosting, or finding out more about what is involved, can visit www.wepeducation.co.uk/host-brazil-oct26, telephone 02380 970 924 or email wepeducation@wep.org.

The programme forms part of a longer-term partnership between Forth Valley College and WEP, supporting international education and cultural exchange while strengthening the College’s connections with Brazil and other potential countries.