A leader in Scottish education has been recognised as part of University of the West of Scotland’s winter graduations.

Aileen Ponton, previously Chief Executive of the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF) Partnership, was celebrated as part of a ceremony taking place at Paisley Abbey today (Tuesday 12 November).

Aileen joined the SCQF Partnership as its first CEO in July 2007. The Partnership is the body responsible for maintaining the National Qualifications Framework for Scotland. Prior to joining the SCQF Partnership, Aileen was Head of Policy Development with Sector Skills Development Agency for three years.

Before joining SSDA in 2004, Aileen had worked with the Scottish Qualifications Authority and its predecessor SCOTVEC for 16 years in a range of roles around qualifications development and quality assurance. 

Dr Alison Gilmour, Director of Learning and Teaching Enhancement at UWS, delivered Aileen’s laureation, which reflected on her inspirational career in the education sector to date. 

“It’s a privilege to receive this award from an institution whose work aligns so closely with that of my own. UWS’s commitment to its learners and being a force for good alongside other institutions and employers within the community mirrors many of the goals of the SCQF Partnership and it is especially pleasing to see the University support schools in developing more diverse pathways into higher education. It was wonderful to be part of the graduation ceremony today.”
Aileen Ponton
“Graduation is the most important event in our University calendar, giving us the opportunity to showcase the fantastic achievements of our students and celebrate each and every one of their successes amongst their families and peers. “As part of the ceremony, we were delighted to present Aileen Ponton with this Honorary Doctorate. Aileen’s important work throughout her career to shape the quality of Scottish education is inspirational and will have benefited our students and colleagues alike.”
Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor