Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction T Level students recently enjoyed an exciting site visit to the Albert Road student accommodation development in Bristol, delivered by construction company B+K.

The visit began at Bristol Temple Meads, where students met before walking to the Albert Road site, which forms part of the wider Temple Quarter regeneration project. Once complete, the development will provide 454 student accommodation units alongside commercial space at ground-floor level, contributing to the ongoing transformation of the area.

Students were warmly welcomed by the B+K team and provided with branded personal protective equipment (PPE) before being taken on a comprehensive tour of the site. The visit was led by Russ from B+K, whose enthusiasm, knowledge and engaging delivery helped bring the project to life for the learners.

The group had the opportunity to explore the development from ground level right through to the upper floors of the building. For a short period during construction, the building will become the tallest structure in Bristol, offering spectacular views across the city. Despite the extremely windy conditions at the top of the building, students were fascinated to see specialist operatives working safely at height using harnesses, tethers and other fall-protection systems.

Throughout the visit, learners gained first-hand insight into the construction process, including the use of precast concrete construction methods and the central tower crane that supports the build programme. Seeing these elements in a live construction environment helped students connect classroom learning with real-world industry practice.

The visit also highlighted the strong partnership between Weston College and B+K. The company has been a valued supporter of the T Level programme and last year provided industry placements for two T Level students, helping them gain valuable workplace experience and develop skills for their future careers.

Charlotte Alsop, Lecturer in T-Level Design, Planning and Surveying for Construction said: "The visit gave our students a fantastic insight into a major Bristol construction project. Russ was exceptional throughout, seeing everything from the flood defence measures and construction methods being used, bought the classroom learning to life. It was also the tidiest construction site I have ever visited, which says a great deal about the professionalism in the B + K team."

Last week, our Health and Social Care students took part in a Reverse Careers Fair, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their skills, ambitions and career aspirations to local employers.

Unlike a traditional careers fair, students became the exhibitors, creating displays that highlighted their work, CVs, personal achievements and future career goals. They also introduced themselves to employers, giving valuable insight into their interests, experiences and ambitions within the industry.

Students demonstrated a wide range of career aspirations, including mental health nursing, midwifery, care work and embalming, reflecting the diverse opportunities available within Health and Social Care.

We were delighted to welcome employers from Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP), University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust, Access Your Care, and other industry professionals, who took the time to speak with students, offer advice and learn more about the next generation of health and care professionals.

Following the Reverse Careers Fayre, students attended a series of employer presentations and talks. These sessions provided a valuable insight into the wide variety of careers available within the sector and what it is like to work in different health and social care settings. Topics covered included nursing, mental health nursing, dementia care, support work and a range of progression opportunities within the industry.

The event gave students the chance to develop their confidence, communication and employability skills while building connections with professionals working in their chosen fields.

A huge thank you to all the employers who attended and supported the event. Their time, expertise and encouragement helped make the day a valuable and inspiring experience for our students.

Today, Weston College proudly celebrated the achievements of our care experienced learners at the first Care Experienced Awards, held at the Conference Centre.

The special event welcomed care experienced learners, social workers, virtual school staff, foster carers, key workers, and college staff, who gathered to recognise and celebrate the outstanding dedication, resilience, and achievements of students throughout the academic year.

The awards ceremony highlighted the remarkable progress made by care experienced learners across a range of curriculum areas and acknowledged the positive impact they have had within the college community and beyond.

Awards were presented across categories inspired by Weston College's READY to Learn values. A huge well done to all of the students below!

WINNERS:

Respect Award Winner - Aimee

Empathy Award Winner - Izzy

Attend Award Winner - Connor

Determined Award Winner - Zayed

You Award - Duong

In addition, a special Outstanding in the Community Award was presented to Adam, who has made an exceptional contribution to the community outside of his studies.

The event provided an opportunity not only to celebrate success but also to acknowledge the perseverance and commitment shown by care experienced learners in overcoming challenges and pursuing their educational goals. Their achievements reflect the values of determination, respect, and ambition that are central to the Weston College community.

Speaking after the event, college representatives praised the learners for their dedication and success, highlighting the importance of recognising the achievements of care experienced young people and celebrating the positive impact they make within the college and wider community.

Following the awards presentation, guests enjoyed refreshments and had the opportunity to connect with fellow learners, carers, and professionals who continue to support young people in their educational journeys.

The Care Experienced Awards remain an important annual event for Weston College, providing a platform to recognise excellence, inspire confidence, and celebrate the accomplishments of learners whose determination and commitment continue to make a lasting difference.