At Weston College, we recognise the importance of providing learners with SEND access to valuable work experience opportunities. Currently, only around 5% of people with learning disabilities in the UK are in employment. We are committed to helping improve this statistic, and meaningful work experience plays a vital role in that effort.

Fortunately, we have developed strong partnerships with local stakeholders who share our commitment to improving employment opportunities for learners with SEND. Through these collaborations, learners on our Preparation for Life course are given the opportunity to practise the employment skills they develop at college within real-world working environments. At the same time, our partners are enhancing their knowledge and understanding of how best to support individuals with SEND in the workplace.

With this in mind, we would like to shine a spotlight on some of these fantastic providers.

Weston-super-Mare Library

Firstly, Weston-Super-Mare Library has supported four learners with placements this year: Jordan, Coby, John, and Jordan. All have spoken highly of their experiences and the support they received from the library team. Jordan shared:

“I have learnt to recognise the skills and qualities I need for work and getting the chance to put them into practice has been really fun.” 

We would like to send a massive thanks to Charlotte Rumble and all the team at Weston-Super-Mare Library.

Weston-super-Mare Foodbank

A huge thank you goes to Weston-super-Mare Foodbank Warehouse. Lucy Cooper and the team have been dedicated to providing meaningful work opportunities for our learners for a number of years. Their continued commitment to supporting each learner as an individual, helping them to develop their skills while also understanding the vital role the Foodbank plays within the local community, has enabled many learners to work towards and achieve their aspirations.

This year, Weston-super-Mare Foodbank has supported six learners: Emily, Lexie, Jack, Zyisha, Bailey, and Kaylum. Kaylum shared:

“I love going out to the foodbank on Wednesdays. We get to work and help people. I want to have a job after college.”

Somerset Wood Recycling Centre

Next on our list of local stakeholders to thank for providing work experience opportunities for learners with SEND is Somerset Wood Recycling Centre.

Tom and the team at Somerset Wood Recycling Centre have supported two learners from the Preparation for Life course this year and are keen to continue this partnership into the next academic year. Ben and Brad have both benefited from these placements, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a supportive environment.

Brad shared his experience, saying:

“I have thought about studying carpentry in the future, and going to work here has helped me with my decision-making.”

Strawberry Line Cafe and Cycle Project

We would also like to highlight the fantastic support offered by the Strawberry Line Café and Cycle Project.

Sally Willcock and the team at the Strawberry Line have worked closely with us to provide truly meaningful opportunities for three learners this year. They have demonstrated a strong commitment to learner development and growth through practical, hands-on experience, working in partnership with us to prepare learners for their next steps.

Abbi, Kane and Ava have all taken part in placements at the Strawberry Line this year. For Ava, this opportunity has provided the confidence to progress onto the Supported Internship programme at Weston College. We wish her the very best of luck as she takes this next step.

The Greenhouse Cafe and Lauriston Hotel

Finally, as part of our commitment to recognising the invaluable contribution of local stakeholders who provide work experience opportunities for learners on the Preparation for Life course, and who are helping to improve employment outcomes for individuals with SEND across the UK, we would like to extend our thanks to The Greenhouse Café and the Lauriston Hotel. Nicole Day, along with the teams and both the Lauriston Hotel and Greenhouse Café have shown a continued commitment to supporting these learners to develop their skills.

This year, they have supported Luke, Hayden, Lauren, Joel and Brad by offering opportunities to experience real working environments and develop key employability and teamwork skills that will support them in their next steps.

Luke, who attended a placement at the Lauriston Hotel, shared:

“I am going to IntoWork next year, and working with others at the Lauriston Hotel, as well as developing my skills in the simulated Grove Café lessons at college, makes me feel ready to work hard.”

Not every young person follows a straight path after school.

For some, education hasn't always been the right fit. Others may be unsure about their next steps, have lost confidence, or need extra support before progressing into further study or work.

That's where Weston College's new NEET Prevention and Engagement provision comes in.

Created to support young people who are not currently in education, employment or training (NEET), or who are at risk of becoming disengaged, the team provides personalised pathways designed to help learners rebuild confidence, develop essential skills and take meaningful steps towards their future.

At the heart of the provision is the new Future Ready programme, a supportive and flexible route for young people who aren't quite ready to move directly into a vocational course but who have the potential to thrive with the right encouragement and guidance.

Based across Weston College's Loxton, Knightstone and South West Skills campuses, learners are supported by dedicated tutors and pastoral teams who help them identify realistic goals and build the confidence to achieve them.

The programme is built around three simple stages: Ready to Learn, Ready for Life and Ready for Work.

Along the way, learners develop English and maths skills, gain employability experience, take part in enrichment activities and explore different vocational areas before deciding on their next step.

Charlotte Hynes, Head of NEET Prevention and Engagement, said: “We know that every young person's journey is different. For some, the traditional route through education hasn't worked, while others simply need time, support and guidance to discover what's possible. Our role is to help learners rebuild confidence, develop the skills they need and create a clear pathway towards further education, employment or training.

“We believe no young person should feel left behind, and this new provision is all about helping them realise their potential and take positive steps towards their future.”

Weston College is also a trusted delivery partner for the Kings Trust, and the NEET Prevention and Engagement team will continue offer the Kings Trust programmes, Team and Achieve.

If you are interested in finding out more, you can contact the team by clicking here.

Throughout the spring term, Weston College welcomed employers from a wide range of industries to a series of Employer Forums, continuing its commitment to ensuring students develop the skills, knowledge and behaviours that employers need most. By listening directly to employers, the College can continue to adapt and enhance its curriculum, ensuring courses remain relevant, future-focused and aligned with the needs of the local and regional economy.

This collaborative approach plays a key role in preparing students for successful careers while helping employers develop the skilled workforce they need for the future.

Over the spring season, forums were held across a range of industries, including:

Travel and Tourism Forum at Bristol Airport

The Travel and Tourism Employer Forum brought together industry partners to discuss the future of the sector and ensure Weston College's curriculum continues to meet employer needs. Discussions focused on the importance of digital skills, professional behaviours and workplace readiness, alongside opportunities to expand industry placements and employer engagement. Attendees also heard from Bristol Airport about its ambitious expansion plans and the significant career opportunities these developments will create across the region.

Project Management

The Project Management Employer Forum focused on strengthening the link between education and industry, with discussions centred around the introduction of a new AI & Data in Projects module, due to become a key part of the curriculum. Employers welcomed the focus on AI, data analysis and Microsoft Excel skills, while highlighting the importance of preparing both learners and workplaces to apply these skills effectively.

The forum also explored the rollout of new apprenticeship units, funded through the Growth and Skills Levy, and gathered valuable employer feedback to help shape future project management training and ensure learners develop the skills needed for a rapidly evolving industry.

Health and Social Care

The Health and Social Care Employer Forum brought together employers to discuss curriculum development, workforce priorities and the future of healthcare education. Key discussions included the introduction of new qualifications, enhancing learner safety through lone working and personal safety training, and plans to relaunch the Health Care Academy for learners aged 14 and above.

Employers also helped shape future training by identifying skills gaps in areas such as mental health, therapy and public health, while highlighting the importance of clear communication, effective apprenticeship support and stronger collaboration between education providers and healthcare employers.

Media Production

Discussions focused on the growing demand for skills in sound, production management, animation, and storytelling, alongside the increasing importance of streaming, digital content, and immersive technologies within the sector. Taking place in the new college podcast suite, the advisory board also explored new opportunities for employer engagement, guest lectures, podcasting projects, and industry-led experiences to better prepare learners for careers in the creative industries.

Construction Professions 

The Construction Employer Forum focused on strengthening collaboration between employers and the College to ensure learners are equipped with the skills needed for the industry. Discussions covered T Levels, industry placements, apprenticeship and higher education pathways, and the importance of guest speakers, site visits and employer engagement in enhancing the learner experience.

Employers highlighted key priorities including health and safety, communication, workplace readiness and digital skills, while also identifying opportunities to better align recruitment timelines, curriculum delivery and employer involvement to support learners' progression into the construction sector.

Engineering Forum at Oxford Instruments

The Engineering Employer Forum brought together Weston College and industry partners to discuss updates on apprenticeships, assessor processes and the development of the AMTEC campus. Key discussions focused on improving communication, simplifying onboarding processes, supporting learner progress and preparing for the upcoming academic year, including timetable updates and additional assessor recruitment.

Employers also received updates on Smart Assessor training, apprenticeship units in areas such as AI leadership, green energy and advanced manufacturing, and plans to ensure a smooth transition to AMTEC while continuing to provide high-quality training and support for learners. 

The College also continued its engagement with employers through Professional Studies in partnership with Somerset Chamber of Commerce, while Sport & Fitness representatives attended SIMSPA events to strengthen industry links. Sixth Form teams also worked closely with employers to support Progression Week, encouraging businesses to engage directly with students and share valuable career insights. 

Weston College would like to thank every employer who contributed to the spring forums. Their expertise, insight and ongoing collaboration are invaluable in helping shape the College's curriculum and ensuring students leave ready to make a positive impact in their chosen industries.