Dundee & Angus College is delighted to recognise former Principal Grant Ritchie receiving an OBE in the King's Birthday Honours list 2025

Current Principal Simon Hewitt said "I am absolutely delighted for Grant to receive this award. Grant built the foundations for the successful College Dundee and Angus is, and on a personal level he supported, mentored and encouraged me to believe in myself. I am one of many similar stories, as he has been instrumental in the success of students and careers of staff for over four decades in education. Well deserved recognition."

Beginning as a student at the former Dundee College of Commerce, returning to complete his Highers after leaving school, Grant ascended to the role of Principal of Dundee and Angus College in 2015. His early career saw him pioneer computer-based learning, establishing one of Scotland's first computer-based teaching facilities and introducing Apple Macs into further education. His involvement in setting up an extracurricular IT club remarkably led to students creating the iconic 'Lemmings' game, contributing to Dundee's flourishing games and digital creative industry.

Playing a pivotal role in shaping the then college's broadcasting curriculum, Grant designed and delivered Higher National qualifications in broadcast media, integrating practical learning and real-life broadcast content production, expanding the Scottish broadcasting landscape. He also founded and led the Creative Loop network from 2006 to 2018, fostering education and training in the broadcasting sector.

Instrumental in establishing the Energy Skills Partnership for Scotland in 2013, he devised a comprehensive strategy and training framework for skills development in the energy and STEM sectors, overseeing its significant contributions to skills development for energy employers and service providers across Scotland. His leadership extended to national initiatives, including designing Higher National qualifications in the creative industries and chairing the SQA's College Curriculum Group from 2016, guiding the development of qualifications in Scotland and recognised for that with the prestigious SQA Fellowship in 2017.

Grant's contributions to the local community include leading the £50m redevelopment of our Gardyne Campus and chairing various community initiatives such as the Angus Community Planning Partnership. He played a crucial role in the Tay Cities Deal developments and the Dundee Fairness Commission, advocating for improved access to education for marginalised groups.

Implementing innovative strategies at D&A such as the Good to Great transformation, the College earned the Campbell Christie Award for public service reform in Scotland in 2018. Under his leadership, the College consistently outperformed national averages, particularly in communities with low school attainment rates.

Continuing his impactful work, on retirement Grant developed two Tay City Deal projects, securing £4.5 million investment for the local economy. He also contributed to establishing the College Development Network's first research centre, serving as its Interim Chief Executive, ensuring organisational stability during a transitional period.

In 2023, he was appointed by the Scottish Government as a member of the Board of Management for the Scottish Funding Council, recognising his reputation for innovation and excellence in managing major projects and publicly funded organisations. Throughout his career, Grant has exemplified dedication and leadership in further and higher education, deserving recognition for his profound impact locally and nationally.

Grant said '"An award like this is not really for me. It's an award for all the staff of the College that work so hard to support our students. I mean all the staff - the cleaners, the caretakers, the admin and support staff as well as the lecturers. And of course, the Board who trust people like us to get on with the job of creating the best College in Scotland."