How students receive their bus pass is changing next term. Please read the information below to ensure you are prepared for these changes when you return from Easter break.

If you receive a bus pass through bursary or are buying one from our online shop, you need to register for an account in the First Bus app using your college email address - if you previously set up an account using your personal email address, please sign out and register again with your college email address.

From 16th April, we will be working with First Bus to send your bus pass directly to your account in the app, where it will appear automatically.

If you have purchased a bus pass for the summer term or are entitled to one through bursary and have not received your bus pass in the app by midday on 20th April, please call us on 01934 411411 so we can get this resolved.

If you have any queries, please email buspasses@weston.ac.uk

Last month, our Level 1 Health and Social Care students became Dementia Friends after receiving an engaging session from Dementia Friends Ambassador, Alan Richardson, who explored what dementia is and the impact it has on people’s lives.

Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friends initiative aims to raise awareness and deepen people’s understanding of dementia, encouraging them to take small actions that can positively impact those living with the condition in their communities.

Alan outlined what it truly means to live well with dementia and how small, everyday actions can make a big difference. This gave our learners a deeper understanding of how to support people with dementia, equipping them with a practical understanding of dementia, as well as a level of empathy and confidence to communicate with people suffering with it.

Following this talk, our learners developed the confidence and communication skills that are essential for careers in the Health and Social Care sector. It was also a powerful opportunity for our students to gain insight into the Alzheimer’s Society and the impact they have on people living with dementia, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate society for the next generation to foster going forward.

Dale Bond, Head of Health and Social Care at Weston College, added, “Sessions like these are invaluable in helping our students develop a holistic understanding of the Health and Social Care industry, equipping them with a well-rounded skill set and preparing them for a wide range of future pathways. We aim to ensure students engage with as many employers as possible, giving them insight into the diverse opportunities available, broadening their knowledge, and nurturing kind, empathetic individuals who will thrive in their future careers.”

A huge thank you to Alan Richardson for taking the time to visit our students and share your knowledge!

This guest lecture forms part of the Health and 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.

Last month, our Protective Services students travelled to South Wales to climb Pen y Fan, the highest peak in the region, putting their resilience and fitness to the test alongside their peers.

Activities like this form a key part of the Protective Services courses, designed to challenge students beyond the classroom. By working together in demanding environments, they develop their fitness while building essential transferable skills such as determination, resilience, communication, and leadership - qualities that are crucial for success within the Protective Services sector.

The Level 2 Protective Services cohort was the first group to successfully reach the summit. Their accomplishment set a strong benchmark, with all students showing impressive effort, teamwork, and perseverance throughout the climb.

Experiences like this not only enhance physical endurance and resilience but also support mental wellbeing. Overcoming the challenges of the climb, combined with the benefits of exercise and exposure to the outdoors, helps students build the mental strength required for future career demands.

Careers in the Protective Services require a unique set of attributes, and we are committed to providing our students with as many hands-on opportunities and real-world challenges as possible to develop these essential skills.

David Usher, Protective Services lecturer at Weston College, said: “We organise activities like this to give our students the opportunity to apply their classroom knowledge in practical settings, such as expeditions and competitions, and to see how far they can push themselves. It was fantastic to see them working together and rising to the challenge.”

Well done to all the students who took part and worked hard to complete this challenge!

This curriculum trip forms part of the Protective Services 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. 

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.