As we approach the festive break, we want to make sure you have access to support if you need it while the college is closed. 
Please find below a list of contacts and organisations who can offer help over the holidays:

📞 Hopeline UK – 0800 068 4141 

📱 Text SHOUT – 85258 

☎️ Samaritans – 116 123 

🏥 NHS Medical & Mental Health Support – 111 
 

Click here to see more safeguarding resources

Have a wonderful break and see you in January

Learners from the T Level Digital Production, Design and Development course recently took part in the West of England Transport Data Hackathon, a collaborative industry-led event hosted by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority in partnership with AECOM.

The hackathon brought together students, industry professionals and researchers, giving learners a valuable opportunity to work alongside experts in the field while attempting to overcome real-world transport challenges using authentic datasets and digital tools.

Over the course of the week, learners worked in teams to address challenges linked to the region’s Integrated Micromobility Service (IMS), which manages shared e-scooters, e-bikes and e-cargo bikes across Bristol, South Gloucestershire and Bath. Teams were encouraged to think creatively, explore open datasets and develop innovative digital solutions, with several choosing to design websites or applications using Python.

To conclude the week, students created a formal presentation and presented them in their Bristol offices, showcasing their solutions to a judging panel and responding to questions about their technical decisions, data insights and potential real-world impact.

Participation in the hackathon enabled learners to develop and demonstrate a broad range of skills, including programming and coding, data analysis and statistical thinking, as well as transferable skills such as collaboration, communication and critical problem-solving. Learners also gained first-hand experience of working with live transport data and addressing challenges faced by the region.

By engaging directly with real transport systems, learners enhanced their employability and gained a deeper understanding of how digital skills can be applied to encourage change. Events such as this hackathon provide invaluable insight into the industry, empowering students to build confidence, apply their classroom knowledge, and prepare for potential careers in digital and data transport solutions.

Well done to all the students involved, they presented themselves with professionalism and maturity and engaged well with industry professionals.

This curriculum project forms part of the Computing and Digital 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 Computing and Digital! 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 week, our Music and Production students performed at their Winter Showcase, performing for their family and friends in the Michael Eavis Performance Suite at Loxton Campus.

Within the showcase, students performed a variety of pieces to reflect their progression this term, kickstarting the evening with individual performances from Mina and Saynel, followed by sets from bands such as Jaregona, Pulverised, Grimshaw, Killing Whales, Sub Octave, Covered in Bottles, and Bürdwatchers.

This wide variety of Music genres made for an exciting evening suited to many tastes. Students, staff, friends, and family all came together to enjoy the fantastic tunes and vibes throughout the evening.

The Michael Eavis Suite reflected a real-life gig, with students adjusting the lighting and sound from behind-the-scenes and Photography students capturing the evening with professional cameras and a range of angles. This was excellent practice for our students, not only gaining real-world experience, but also improving their adaptability and resilience to new situations.

Not only did this event build the students confidence, but it also celebrated the progress they have made throughout this term. Students worked hard to put this production together and ensure the seamless execution of it, not only the performers, but the light and sound production team.

A huge well done to all the students involved, the effort and passion was reflected within each performance, and it was a fantastic event. Also, a big thank you to the Music and Production lecturers, this production also would not have been possible without the tireless efforts they dedicated to ensuring the success of the event.

This Winter Showcase forms part of the Music and Production 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.