About Cairn College
around learners, employers and the realities of modern working life
Education Designed Around People and Work
Cairn College was founded on a simple belief: higher education should adapt to people, not require people to reorganise their lives around it.
We recognise that learners may be balancing employment, family responsibilities and personal commitments alongside their studies. Our approach combines flexible delivery, clear academic support and career-focused learning so that students can progress with structure and confidence.
We also work with employers who want to develop capable people and stronger teams. Through professional training at Level 4 and above, we connect recognised learning with practical workplace priorities.
This combination of academic quality, flexibility and workplace relevance shapes how Cairn designs programmes, supports learners and builds partnerships.
Dr. Hastings McKenzie EngD CEng MIMechE
Principal, CEO and Founder of Cairn College
Cairn College was established by Dr Hastings McKenzie, who brings more than twenty years of experience at senior levels within UK higher education.
Having developed and supported academic partnerships with universities and colleges in the UK and internationally, he founded Cairn to create a higher education provider that combines academic credibility with genuine flexibility and treats every learner as an individual.
Under his leadership, Cairn is developing a model that serves both learners and employers: supporting personal progression while helping organisations build workforce capability through relevant professional education.
Our Mission
To provide flexible, career-focused higher education and professional training that supports individual progression and strengthens workforce capability.
Our Vision
To be a trusted higher education and workforce development partner, known for academic quality, adaptability and practical workplace relevance.
Our values
Learner-centred support • Flexibility with purpose • Inclusion and respect • Practical excellence • Integrity and accountability • Lifelong professional growth
