14 February 2024

A couple who met on their Fife College course are celebrating after graduating together.

Kaiya Gardinar and Robbie Simpson successfully completed their Higher National Diploma (HND) in Acting and Performance, and graduated together at the College’s recent ceremony in Kirkcaldy.

The couple, who met during their College orientation at the start of the course, reflected on their College experience after their graduation which took place at the St Bryce Kirk.

Kaiya, from Kirkcaldy, said:

"Graduation means a lot, I get to close this chapter and hopefully open more doors to new things.”

When asked about their plans post-graduation, the couple shared their excitement about moving in together and pursuing acting opportunities.

Kaiya added:

"We are currently moving house so that's fun but then hopefully it's finding some acting jobs."

The pair also praised the unique hands-on approach of Fife College's Acting and Performance course.

Robbie, from Perth, said:

"The course is very hands-on, which was much different to school. School was, here's a textbook, go learn it yourself. Whereas this was like they were physically showing us what we were doing, and it was great."

Encouraging prospective students, Robbie added:

"Initially, I was hesitant and considered it beyond my comfort zone. In the beginning, I didn't really want to do it. However, I decided to take action, realizing that sitting idly wasn't the answer. Engaging in the activity pushed me out of my comfort zone, but it was a worthwhile experience. Once you take that step, it becomes much more enjoyable and fulfilling."

Kaiya and Robbie’s story is being highlighted as part of the national #LoveScotlandsColleges campaign which showcases the vital role played by colleges across the country.

The week-long campaign kicked off on Monday and will highlight the outstanding work of colleges throughout the country, showcasing all the important courses and training offered to Scotland’s workforce now, and the workforce of the future.

Created by CDN’s Marketing and Communications Network, this annual collaborative campaign is supported right across Scotland’s 25 colleges. The campaign will highlight national and local examples of how colleges are supporting students, employers and businesses, communities, staff and the economy.

Four Fife College Graduation ceremonies took at St Bryce Kirk, Kirkcaldy recently with 470 of the College’s 2022/23 students crossing the stage to graduate in a range of qualifications including degrees and diplomas.

Family and friends of students, along with staff and guests of the College celebrated the students’ hard work and commitment – with around 1,000 people attending. After each ceremony, graduates and guests carried on the celebrations at a drinks reception in the Atrium of the College’s Kirkcaldy Campus.