We are proud to announce the College’s outstanding achievement, securing the prestigious position of Number 7 in the esteemed National Centre for Diversity (NCFD) Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023. This recognition stands as a testament to the College's dedication to embedding Fairness, Respect, Equality, Diversity, Inclusion, and Engagement (FREDIE) values at the core of its organisational framework.

The College's commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity has been acknowledged on a national scale, reflecting the culmination of diligent efforts and resolute determination to embrace FREDIE principles across all facets of its operations.

Solat Chaudhry, Chief Executive at the National Centre for Diversity said:

“I send my warmest congratulations to Weston College on successfully reaching number 7 in the Top 100 Most Inclusive Workplaces Index 2023. It’s been a challenging year and yet, it has not dented the excellent work that organisations and individuals do in promoting FREDIE best practices.  

“I am particularly proud that we celebrate excellent work across all sectors as these organisations are the future of the workplace in the UK. We celebrate the exceptional work of people and organisations who have EDI running through their DNA. Let’s rejoice at this and build a better society."

The full listing of the 2023 Top 100 Most Inclusive UK Workplaces Index can be accessed here: https://nationalcentrefordiversity.com/top-100-2023-fredie-awards, showcasing the exemplary efforts of organisations dedicated to championing diversity and inclusion.

Lewis, currently studying the T Level Healthcare course, recently performed at the Royal Albert Hall at a charity event with Barnardos, showcasing his incredible talent to thousands in the audience!

Lewis was approached by Barnardos for the opportunity, having previously worked with the charity for a music video for their ambitions project. The video had been shown to the event organisers and the President of Barardos, Natasha Kaplinski OBE, which resulted in them contacting him to perform.

The song performed was ‘Shotgun’ by George Ezra. Lewis explained why that song was selected: “This was the was song featured in the music video, and it was one I felt confident singing in front of such a large audience.”

He went on to share how he felt on the day and the lead up to the performance: “On the stage and the build-up to the performance I wasn't nervous at all, they treated me so well and truly made me came to the realisation that I was the special guest that night - something that they'd never invited or incorporated into their event before and I was just excited rather than nervous. After I came off stage and heard the biggest applause of my life I cracked, after thanking the host and organisers and all the backstage staff I came into my dressing room and burst into tears of joy and emotion from how amazing it felt.”

When asked about the support from Weston College, Lewis shared: “Everyone was so supportive and the college was completely understanding despite me needing two days off to attend and travel to London for the event. They were willing to pay and help me achieve this opportunity before we found out that Barnardos would cover the entire cost.”

Lewis concluded with: “Life has not been easy and has been a very bumpy road with hard work, but that night has made all the effort and the hours of rehearsing and working hard to find networks worth it. It was the best night of my life, and I will never forget the opportunity life has given to me.”

Well done, Lewis!

My name is Allan, and I recently completed a Plant Bootcamp at the Construction Training Centre (CTC), which has really helped open the doors to my next great opportunity. 

I gained access to the course through an organisation called ‘Positive People’ and thought it would be a good course for me to complete as I’d always preferred outside, hands-on work instead of working in an office environment, which I’d previously done for more than 20 years in the Transport industry.

I’d always liked the idea of getting involved in the building/construction industry, so I started by enrolling for a Dumper/Roller course. This course was short and enabled me to get a foot in the door within the industry. The staff at the Construction Training Centre were extremely helpful and approachable. My tutor, in particular, was insightful and inspiring.

Upon completion of the course, it took some searches to find employment due to my lack of experience, but I eventually was offered employment via an agency called ‘Options’, where I was working on the A39 in Minehead, building a new footpath/cycle path for four weeks.

Following this, after a short break and searches, I found work through another agency, ‘Harbon’. This time I was working in Wincanton on a biomass plant, as a dumper driver. This work is still ongoing, allowing me to receive a stable income.

After being fortunate enough to gain some experience in the industry, I would like to go back to the CTC to complete the 360 digger and telehandler courses - I feel they would give me a great advantage for my future career.

I would encourage those out there considering a course at the CTC to definitely give it a go – if you are not work shy and enjoy working in the elements, I would recommend looking at what opportunities are on offer in construction.

Thank you, Weston College, for the perfect introduction to the Construction industry!

Find out more about the CTC, here!