Students at UHI Inverness have once again given their college top marks, returning a remarkable 96% satisfaction rating in this year’s Early Student Experience Survey.
It is the third consecutive year the Inverness campus has achieved the same figure, confirming its reputation as a place where students feel supported, included, and inspired to thrive.
The survey, which gathered responses from over 2,000 students, also matched a record 63% response rate.
That success translated into a £999 donation for Highlands and Islands Blood Bikes, the charity partner chosen by students at the Scottish School of Forestry.
An additional £663 was raised through a bake sale, raffle and donations on the final day, bringing the total contribution to an impressive £1,662.
The cheque was presented at a special event at the Scottish School of Forestry campus to Helen Robertson, one of the charity’s fundraisers, and Neil Stewart, its Events Manager and rider, a familiar face to many, having previously taught forestry at the Balloch campus.
The charity provides a free service delivering urgent medical samples and supplies across the north of Scotland in support of NHS Highland and local communities.
Students described a warm, inclusive, and engaging environment across the UHI Inverness campuses.
One student said:
“I like that the tutors are warm and approachable.
“They make learning enjoyable and are very supportive.
“I also like the library, the cafeteria areas and the pods for learning.
“I like how UHI Inverness is concerned for students’ needs as well as their learning, as they have a book fund, food and toiletry banks for those in most need, and free breakfast and lunch.
“It shows that UHI Inverness takes a holistic approach to supporting their students, which will in turn help students to be their best selves.”
Another added:
“All the staff have been incredibly supportive and always go that extra mile.
“The opportunity for feedback and seeing the way things have evolved over my time at UHI Inverness has shown that the student voice is listened to and responded to.”
Dr Lindsay Snodgrass, Vice Principal of UHI Inverness, said the consistent results show a college culture rooted in care and progress.
“To achieve a 96% overall satisfaction rating every year since 2023 is outstanding, and demonstrates that we are providing our students with an excellent experience,” she said.
“However, we are never complacent and continue to grow and adapt, and the feedback from this latest survey will allow us to identify and drive forward further changes.
“I’m delighted that this latest campaign has raised much-needed funds for a brilliant cause that works tirelessly every day of the year to provide a vital service that could benefit every one of us.
“Each year these survey campaigns allow us to develop meaningful partnerships with local charities, and although we already enjoy a connection with Highlands and Islands Blood Bikes through former colleagues who volunteer for the charity, I hope our relationship continues to develop and be mutually beneficial.”
Zak Gillan, the charity’s Head of Business Development, expressed his gratitude to everyone involved.
“On behalf of the charity, I want to say a huge thank you to UHI Inverness and all the students for their generous support,” he said.
“This type of donation makes it possible for our volunteers to continue our vital work in support of NHS Highland and communities across the region.
“It was wonderful to have the opportunity to share what we do with students and staff alike, building awareness and a relationship for the future.
“The generosity and enthusiasm shown by students and staff, from the survey to the bake sale and raffle, truly embody the community spirit that keeps our service running to provide vital, free transport of essential medical supplies across the Highlands and Islands.”
Liz Cook, Quality Team Manager, said the response had been “exceptional.”
“More than 2,000 students completed the survey, and they have provided us with a revealing insight into the learning experience across our campuses,” she said.
“We have collated, analysed and distributed the survey responses and will be working with both academic and professional services staff to act on some of the points raised.”
For UHI Inverness, the results are another proud moment proof that kindness, community and care remain at the heart of learning in the Highlands.
