QMU to celebrate 25 years of Allied Health Professions in Scotland
Former Chief Allied Health Professions Officer Carolyn McDonald to reflect on 25 years of impact as QMU premieres special anniversary film featuring graduates.
Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh will host a special event on 28 October 2026 to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Allied Health Professions (AHPs) in Scotland, bringing together staff, students, graduates and healthcare colleagues to mark 25 years of collective achievement, innovation and leadership.
The event, ‘Celebrating 25 Years of Allied Health Professions in Scotland’, will feature a keynote address from Professor Carolyn McDonald, former Chief Allied Health Professions Officer for the Scottish Government and an honorary graduate of Queen Margaret University. Professor McDonald will reflect on the evolution of the AHP workforce over the past quarter-century, highlight the profession's contribution to health and social care, and share her vision for the future.
A highlight of the event will be the premiere of a specially commissioned film celebrating 25 years of Allied Health Professions in Scotland. The film features a selection of QMU graduates whose stories bring to life the collective impact AHPs have had across healthcare, education and communities.
As the Scottish university offering the broadest range of Allied Health Professions education, QMU is proud to play a central role in the Silver Jubilee celebrations, preparing highly skilled professionals whose expertise continues to shape health and social care across Scotland.
The event forms part of wider activity recognising the vital contribution AHPs make across Scotland and reflects QMU's commitment to shaping the next generation of professionals.
This Silver Jubilee celebrates the collective impact Allied Health Professionals have had on Scotland's health and social care system over the past 25 years. AHPs are at the heart of a more inclusive, preventative and person-centred approach to care, improving lives every day in a wide variety of settings and communities. We are delighted to welcome Professor Carolyn McDonald to QMU and to premiere a film that brings to life the stories of graduates whose careers reflect the remarkable contribution of the profession. As we look to the future, collaboration across professions, communities and sectors will be vital in helping AHPs continue to drive innovation, improve outcomes and shape a healthier future for Scotland.
The programme will include a welcome from Professor Sara Smith, the premiere screening of the Silver Jubilee film, Professor McDonald's keynote presentation, a question-and-answer session, and networking opportunities for attendees.
The event is open to QMU staff, students and our practice education partners who wish to celebrate 25 years of shared achievement and explore the opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of the sector.
Event Details
- Celebrating 25 Years of Allied Health Professions in Scotland
- Date: Wednesday 28 October 2026
- Time: 1.30pm-3.30pm
- Venue: Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, Musselburgh, EH21 6UU
- Booking via Eventbrite. Places free but limited, booking is essential with places allocated on a first come, first served basis.
