Lucy studies on the Preparation for Life course at the College. Over her time with us, she has made outstanding personal, academic and social progress - so much so that she has been named the 2025 Celebration of Success Winner for the Preparation for Life programme.

Lucy’s journey this year has been remarkable. She has advanced academically - achieving a Level 2 English qualification, having progressed from Level 1, and attaining Level 1 and Entry 3 Maths, having progressed from Entry 2. These accomplishments reflect her hard work, dedication and growing competence in core academic skills.

One of Lucy’s biggest achievements was learning to travel independently to college - a milestone reflecting increased independence, confidence, and self-reliance. Through the “Autism and Me” curriculum, Lucy has also developed greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. She now uses a variety of strategies to manage her emotions in different contexts, which has helped her navigate college life more independently and confidently.

Lucy has developed increasing confidence and resilience in social situations, actively engaging in a wide range of enrichment activities. She eagerly participated in pathway group trips, including visits to the Harry Potter film studios and Thorpe Park, embracing each experience and enjoying every opportunity to challenge herself and try new things.

As part of broadening her skills and exploring her interests, Lucy joined Extension Studies Animal Care sessions, which had a profound impact on shaping her future ambitions. She completed a work placement at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, where she gained confidence working with animals and in an active workplace. Building on this experience, Lucy has now progressed into the Extension Studies pathway with the aim of working toward a Level 1 qualification in Animal Care.

Lucy’s achievements stand out because they reflect growth not just academically, but personally - in independence, emotional regulation, social participation and self-confidence. Her journey shows how the Preparation for Life course, combined with tailored support and opportunities, can enable individuals to unlock potential, build resilience, and lay the foundation for meaningful further education or employment.

We celebrate Lucy’s progress, her award, and look forward to supporting her as she aims to complete Level 1 Animal Care and pursue her ambitions for the future.

Last month, Health & Social Care students enjoyed an exciting and educational trip to Disneyland Paris, combining two days of park experiences with valuable professional development opportunities. 

As part of the visit, students attended an international Healthcare Support Worker Conference, where they explored how principles of Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity (EDI) are embedded in the design of the park to ensure accessibility for all visitors. The conference also highlighted the importance of AED awareness, particularly in large-scale organisations, offering insights into how health and safety measures are implemented in globally recognised settings. 

This experience allowed students to apply classroom learning to real-world scenarios, network with industry professionals, and gain a deeper understanding of how healthcare support roles operate within diverse sectors. The trip broadened their knowledge and provided a unique perspective on the application of healthcare principles in an international context. 

A huge well done to all students for their maturity and professionalism throughout the trip, and special thanks to Health & Social Care staff members, JJ Stallard-Gasson and Lauren Chapman, for their support and supervision, ensuring the visit was both educational and enjoyable. 

This curriculum trip forms part of the Health & Social Care Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys. 

Progress to the next level in Healthcare! At University Centre Weston (UCW) our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. Click here!

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Weston College is proud to announce that it has been shortlisted for two highly respected categories at this year’s Apprenticeship and Training Awards. The nominations recognise outstanding innovation, collaboration and impact across the College’s apprenticeship provision:

• Best Partnership in Training – highlighting the College’s exceptional collaborative work with Thatchers Cider 
• Best New Apprenticeship Programme – recognising the success of the Project Management Degree Apprenticeship

These nominations celebrate the dedication and expertise of staff from across the Weston College Group, as well as the commitment of the learners and employer partners who help drive the College’s mission to create brighter futures and meet industry needs across the UK.

The winners will be announced at the Apprenticeships and Training Conference Gala Dinner in Liverpool on 3rd March.

Tracie Leahy, Assistant Principal - Apprenticeships and Skills at Weston College, said:

“Being shortlisted for two national Apprenticeship and Training Awards is a tremendous honour and a testament to the passion, innovation and teamwork that underpin everything we do at Weston College.

“Our partnership with Thatchers Cider is an outstanding example of how employers and education providers can work together to create high-quality, industry-focused training that truly benefits local people and businesses.

“We are equally proud of our new Project Management Degree Apprenticeship, which has quickly established itself as a transformative programme for organisations and learners across the country. Its success reflects the forward-thinking approach of our curriculum teams and the ambition of our apprentices.

“I would like to congratulate all of our staff and learners whose hard work, expertise and commitment have made this recognition possible. These nominations shine a spotlight on the exceptional talent within the Weston College community, and we could not be prouder.”

If you would like to find out more about apprenticeships, please click here.