Thomas Reid Learning Forum
From Common Sense to Strategic Sense
A Stirling Centre Initiative
Welcome to Thomas Reid Learning Forum — inspired by Scotland’s own philosopher of common sense, perception, and practical wisdom. Thomas Reid believed that knowledge is not only acquired — it is lived, tested, and shared. Learning is more than theory. It is experience, judgment, dialogue, and above all, action.
In this forum, we bring that spirit into the 21st century.
We ask:
- How do SMEs really learn?
- How do leaders build capability?
- How do teams make sound decisions under pressure?
Over the next six months, we will create a community of learning across the Forth Valley — and beyond. Through expert-led sessions, practical tools, and peer discussion, we will explore how learning is not an event — it is a strategy. In an age defined by AI, change and opportunity.
The Thomas Reid Learning Forum aims to connect SMEs with world-class thinkers, equips them with usable tools, and brings to life a Scottish tradition of practical wisdom — transformed into a modern learning ecosystem for today’s business challenges.
Season One (Jan–Jun 2026)
Learning to Decide: Capability, Judgment & Growth for SMEs
Alternating Online & In-Person | FREE to Attend
Funded by The Stirling Centre for Strategic Learning & Innovation
Why This Forum / Why Now
SMEs are the backbone of Scotland’s economy — yet they face rapid change, rising expectations, and growing uncertainty. Unlike large organisations, most SMEs lack access to formal learning systems. Leaders must navigate complexity with limited time, limited resources, and limited support.
At the same time, Scotland is emerging as a centre for:
- Innovation
- Practical wisdom
- Lifelong learning
The Forth Valley region is uniquely positioned — where academia, business, and public service intersect. Now is the moment to create a living, applied ecosystem of learning for SMEs.
Thomas Reid’s philosophy — perception, dialogue, common sense, and lived experience — gives us a foundation for this modern challenge.
From Scottish wisdom to strategic sense — learning as the lifeblood of capability.
Purpose of the Forum
The Thomas Reid Learning Forum will:
✔ Build a community of practice for SMEs & startups
✔ Develop practical learning tools for real business impact
✔ Strengthen decision-making & strategic judgment
✔ Promote learning-by-doing & action-based innovation
✔ Position the Forth Valley as a Scottish Learning Region
Season One: Monthly Sessions
Each session includes:
- Keynote speaker
- Applied tool or framework
- Business-focused outcome for SMEs
| Month | Format | Topic | Guest Speaker |
| 28 Jan 2026 | In-Person | Lifelong Learning & SME Growth | Prof. Alaa Garad, FRSA, PhD |
| 25 Feb 2026 | Online | From Experience to Excellence | TBC — University of St. Andrews |
| 25 Mar 2026 | In-Person | Innovation Practices for SMEs | Dr. Arnaldo Costeira |
| 29 Apr 2026 | Online | Business Excellence & Quality Thinking | Prof. Paulo Sampaio |
| 27 May 2026 | Online | Foresight & AI – Navigating Uncertainty | Prof. Jeff Gold & H.E. Prof. Emilija Stojmenova Duh |
| 24 Jun 2026 | Online | Productising Learning | Mark Fritz |
Time: Last Wednesday of the month · 14:00–16:00 UK
Location: Alternating Online & In-Person (Forth Valley)
Cost: FREE — funded by The Stirling Centre
Why It Matters for SMEs
Thomas Reid’s philosophy connects directly to today’s business challenges:
| Reid’s Philosophy | Modern SME Challenge |
| Perception → reality | Understanding customers & markets |
| Learning from interaction | Improving products & processes |
| Judgment through dialogue | Decision-making & teamwork |
| Practical knowledge | Innovation & productivity |
| Trust in common sense | Confidence in leadership |
Rooted in Scottish wisdom — built for tomorrow’s organisations.
Why Attend?
- ✔ Tools you can use immediately
- ✔ Access to world-class experts
- ✔ Community of growth-minded peers
- ✔ FREE to attend — fully funded
- ✔ Flexible: online + in-person sessions
Join Us
Welcome to Season One of the Thomas Reid Learning Forum.
Together, let us lead through learning.
→ Register Here
Stay informed — subscribe to Stirling Centre updates.