This term, Weston College Level 1 students enjoyed an unforgettable residential trip to Mendip Activity Centre, designed to help them build confidence, teamwork, and life skills.  

To ensure every learner could take part, two groups attended across a three-day week, each experiencing a full schedule of outdoor challenges and team-building activities. Students took part in rock climbing, archery, axe throwing, air rifle shooting, and Mission Impossible, all of which encouraged them to step outside their comfort zones and work collaboratively with their peers from different courses.  

Upon arrival, students settled into the Basecamp Tented Village, staying in glamp house tents, bell tents, and bunk tents. They also enjoyed cooked dinners, continental breakfasts, and packed lunches throughout their stay to keep them energised throughout their activities. Evenings included organised group sessions and reflective discussions, helping students’ bond and share their experiences.  

The residential provided a valuable enrichment opportunity, supporting students’ personal, social, and practical development. Through outdoor learning, they strengthened their communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, while also enhancing their independence and resilience. Not only this, taking part in these activities promoted physical health and mental wellbeing whilst strengthening friendships and bonds across a range of subject areas.  

David Eddins, Managing Director and CEO of Mendip Activity Centre, said:  

“Hosting Weston College’s residential was a privilege. Over the course of a week, we watched students push boundaries, connect with one another, and discover what they’re capable of. Outdoor learning has this incredible ability to build confidence and teamwork in a way the classroom can’t. It gives young people the space to grow, fail safely, and succeed together.” 

“The activities at Mendip challenge, inspire, and encourage real-world thinking - building leadership, communication, and resilience: the skills every young person needs.” 

Gary Durant, the Deputy Principal for Curriculum and Quality at Weston College, said: 

“At Weston College, we want to help form well-rounded individuals who leave the college feeling prepared for their future and enriched from a range of opportunities within the college. This residential trip was an excellent experience for Level 1 students across all disciplines to develop both personally and professionally by building confidence, teamwork, and communication skills that are valuable in education and future careers." 

This residential trip forms part of a range of Level 1 courses across different Careers Excellence Hubs. 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.  

@westoncollege Weston College Level 1 students take a residential trip to @mendipactivitycentre ♬ original sound - WestonCollege

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 delighted to announce the appointment of Jane Hadfield as the College’s new Chair of Governors, effective from 5th November.

Jane succeeds Tim Jackson, who has served as Interim Chair of Governors since the summer of 2024. We are deeply grateful for Tim’s integrity, dedication, and steady leadership during this period, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for his invaluable contribution to the College community.

Jane brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and ambition to her new role. In her professional career, she serves as the National Lead for NHS Apprenticeships and was a member of the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education Board. Her deep commitment to supporting people through education and skills development perfectly reflects Weston College’s people-centred values.

Earlier this year, Jane was recognised nationally as the national winner of the Special Recognition Award at the Apprenticeship & Training Awards. This honour celebrated her tireless work in transforming apprenticeship pathways across the NHS, creating opportunities that have empowered thousands of individuals to gain new skills, grow in confidence, and progress in their careers. Her leadership has not only raised the profile of apprenticeships but also demonstrated a steadfast belief in the potential of every learner, values that resonate strongly with Weston College’s mission.

Pat Jones, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Jane as our new Chair of Governors. Jane has many connections with Weston College – she has lived in North Somerset for 40 years, her daughter studied here, and through her role within the NHS, she has worked closely with us to deliver cohorts of apprentices.

“Jane’s integrity, compassion, and ambition shine through everything she does. She has a clear passion for supporting our learners and the wider community, and we look forward to working closely with her as we embark on an exciting new chapter in Weston College’s journey towards becoming an extraordinary college.

“I would also like to express my sincere thanks to our outgoing Chair, Tim Jackson, for his commitment and wise counsel over the past 18 months. It has been a privilege to work alongside him, and on behalf of everyone at Weston College Group, I offer our heartfelt appreciation for his service and support.”

Jane Hadfield, new Chair of Governors at Weston College, said:

“I am absolutely thrilled to be taking on the role of Chair of Governors at Weston College. The College plays such an important role in supporting the local community – something I feel deeply passionate about.

“I am particularly looking forward to helping widen participation and improve access to education and training opportunities across our region, enabling people from all backgrounds to thrive and grow.”

A new report has highlighted the incredible impact Weston College has on its learners in 24-25, showing how our unique approach to teaching, employer engagement and personal development is transforming lives and preparing students for bright, successful futures.

The report, which you can read in full here, explores how our curriculum is built around the principles of being Ready to Learn, Ready to Work, and Ready for Life; equipping students with the skills, confidence and experience they need to succeed.

Ready to Learn

At Weston College, we believe success starts with a strong foundation for learning.

Our “Ready to Learn” ethos ensures that every student has the skills, behaviours and environment to thrive. Staff set high expectations, supported by exceptional facilities and dedicated teaching, so that all learners can reach their potential from day one.

Positive learning behaviours form part of our College Learning Agreement, encouraging every learner to take ownership of their studies and develop a proactive, motivated mindset.

Ready to Work

One of the standout features of the report is our strong, employer-led curriculum, delivered through the College’s Career Excellence Hubs.

These hubs connect students directly with leading employers, giving them hands-on, real-world experience through industry days, project briefs, work placements and masterclasses.

Our students regularly work alongside organisations such as Puxton Park, Wildstar Films, the Royal Navy, the NHS, the Ministry of Defence, Jet2, Bristol Zoo Project and North Somerset Council plus many more.

These partnerships ensure every learner gains meaningful exposure to industry and develops the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers are looking for — giving them a competitive edge in today’s global job market.

“Employer engagement is at the heart of our commitment to preparing students for the world of work,” the report explains. “It inspires ambition, builds employability skills, and fosters strong links with the workplace.”

Ready for Life

Our vision goes beyond qualifications. We want every student to leave with the confidence, resilience and life skills to thrive in the wider world.

Through our STEPS curriculum and Future Skills Framework, learners develop essential personal and professional skills such as communication, teamwork, resilience and time management.

We also encourage students to take part in enrichment activities — from social action projects to extra-curricular clubs — that broaden their horizons and help them grow as individuals.

This holistic approach ensures that every learner is Ready for Life, able to manage their future, contribute to society and achieve lasting success.

Celebrating Student Success

Celebrating success is central to life at Weston College.

The report highlights how we actively recognise not only academic and vocational excellence, but also commitment, progress and personal growth.

This culture of celebration and encouragement helps build a sense of pride and community across the College, motivating students to aim higher and believe in what they can achieve.

One student summed it up perfectly:

“When you put in that effort and your effort is recognised, that’s like a stepping-stone and you realise – yes, I can do this.”

Discover More

To explore how Weston College is creating brighter futures for students, you can read the full report here: Read the full report

Find Your Future at Weston College

Whether you’re ready to start your career journey, upskill, or explore a new path, we offer hundreds of programmes, courses and apprenticeships — all designed to help you become Ready to Learn, Ready to Work and Ready for Life.

Explore our courses and apply today