As part of our celebration of Supporting the Power of Specialist Further Education (1st–5th December), we asked Caitlin and her family to reflect on her time at Weston College so far.

Caitlin studies Pathways to Supported Adulthood at the College, and since joining us she has made outstanding progress - personally, socially and in her independence. Transitioning from Briarwood Special School in Bristol, Caitlin and her family chose Weston College as the next step in her journey, a decision that has led to transformative growth across every aspect of her life. She has also been recognised as the 2025 Celebration of Success Winner for the Pathways to Supported Adulthood programme, an award that celebrates exceptional achievement, progress and resilience.

One of Caitlin’s most significant areas of development has been her communication. Through dedication and determination, she has built a strong and effective system of expressive tools, including signing and a high-tech Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device. These skills have empowered her to express herself with clarity and confidence.

Caitlin began college with a high level of support, receiving 2:1 assistance across much of her curriculum. As her confidence, independence and self-regulation grew, this support was gradually reduced. She now accesses community-based learning with 1:1 and group support, demonstrating her increased autonomy and readiness for the next phase of adulthood.

Throughout her time at Weston College, Caitlin has also worked hard to build meaningful and trusting relationships with both staff and peers. She now leaves college equipped with the social skills to form and maintain friendships and professional connections, an achievement that will support her as she moves forward into adulthood.

Caitlin’s journey is a powerful reflection of her strength, resilience and determination. Her achievements show just how much she has grown, and she is truly deserving of her Celebration of Success recognition. Weston College is incredibly proud of everything she has accomplished and excited for the opportunities ahead of her.

Last week, our Year 2 Level 3 Travel and Tourism learners had the fantastic opportunity to visit Bristol Airport for an immersive experience focused on careers in aviation.  

The trip began with a guided tour of the main terminal, where students explored the passenger journey from check-in to boarding. This gave them a real insight into the operational side of the airport and the variety of roles involved in ensuring smooth travel for thousands of passengers every day. 

Students then got the opportunity to access the staff-only Aviation House, a behind-the-scenes area that most travellers never see. Here, learners discovered the coordination required between different departments, from security to ground handling, and learned about the skills and qualifications required for these roles.  

Following this, the group attended a lesson in Lulsgate House, where airport staff delivered an engaging session on career pathways, progression opportunities, and the importance of customer service in the aviation industry. 

One of the highlights of the day was visiting the roof deck, where students watched planes take off and land. This experience brought classroom learning to life, allowing them to see the scale and complexity of airport operations in action.

The focus of this visit was on career opportunities, showcasing roles such as airside operations, terminal management, customer service, and specialist positions within aviation security and logistics. This allowed learners to gain a deeper understanding of the different employment pathways available after college and the general expectations and requirements needed to pursue careers in the aviation industry. 

Students networked with staff, gained invaluable insight from industry professionals, and came away with a clearer understanding of the diverse employment options available within the travel and tourism sector. 

A big thank you to Harry Ellis at Bristol Airport for another fantastic visit and taking the time to engage with our Travel and Tourism students.  

This curriculum trip forms part of the Travel and Tourism 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. 

John studies Pathways to Adulthood at the College and has been with us since 2022. As part of our celebration of Supporting the Power of Specialist Further Education (1st–5th December), we asked John to reflect on his time at college so far.

Throughout his time here, John has made impressive academic, social, and personal progress. One of his biggest areas of growth has been his communication. At the start of the year, he found it difficult to initiate or join conversations, particularly in group settings. Through small-group communication sessions and support from staff, John has grown in confidence, now sharing his opinions and asking questions more freely.

John has experienced several standout achievements this year. He successfully passed his Entry Level 1 Maths and English Functional Skills exams and proudly attended his graduation ceremony, receiving certificates for completing his second year and for his Maths success. These milestones reflect his dedication, determination, and increasing independence.

John thrived during his work experience placement at Butcombe Farm, as well as in the college garden and at Grove Park. These placements helped him develop communication, teamwork, and practical skills. He particularly enjoyed working outdoors and hopes to pursue a career in this environment. He also participated in several college trips, which he thoroughly enjoyed.

John is most proud of making new friends, travelling independently on the bus, and developing outdoor work skills. He has become more confident with new people and more independent in lessons and around campus. Staff support has helped him build his English and maths skills, which he applies in real-life situations in the community.

Meeting new people was initially John’s biggest challenge, but with time and support, John overcame his worries and formed meaningful friendships. He now feels a strong sense of belonging within the college community and is more prepared for adulthood. He hopes to progress into a supported internship to help him achieve his goal of working outdoors.

John encourages new students to embrace the college experience, saying, “You will learn new skills, make friends and become more independent. I am becoming well prepared for future employment. “ a milestone he is clearly proud of and excited about.