The digital age we live in puts a wealth of resources and technology at our fingertips.

At Weston College, we use these digital advantages to make learning more accessible through the ‘Flexible Learning Fund’ (FLF). Our digital learning team works closely with curriculum staff to adapt lesson content into digital formats, whilst ensuring virtual learning remains engaging and high quality.

This enables people whose circumstances might prevent them from physically attending college to access the same opportunities and make the most of some of the fantastic part-time courses that are available. This flexible approach also helps students on Access to Higher Education courses, by enabling work and research to be completed outside the academic year so it doesn’t interfere with other courses.

Compared to an average online learning course, the digital learning team goes the extra mile to connect learners with a personal tutor. These lecturers, who have a breadth of experience in their industry, provide their students with the same care and attention as those studying in a ‘traditional’ sense.

This is all done through the Virtual Learning Environment where participants receive and submit work and interact with their tutors. Hattie Abretti, Digital Learning Development Manager, said: “Although we are still in our infancy as a team, we already have a strong ethos and model to which we develop our courses.

“We want learners to engage with content, not be spoon fed. Our primary focus is providing quality access to our outstanding subject specialists and opportunities to participate in, and build, learning communities.”

The team made fantastic progress since being formed just over a year ago, with courses such as the Autism Awareness Award experiencing high levels of intake. The team currently comprises five members of staff:

September is arguably one of the most exciting times of the year as we welcome an entire new group of young people into the Weston College family.

During the first few weeks of term, we’re offering students the chance to come together and contribute towards creating a piece of artwork that will make your first week at college a memorable one…

For those who get involved, we’ll be randomly selecting one lucky winner to receive a Love 2 Shop gift voucher valued at £100!

This can be spent online and in store at numerous shops such as Alton Towers, HMV, New Look, River Island, Top Shop and many more!

A Weston College former Apprentice and winner of the Principal’s Outstanding Achievement Award has become UK National Apprentice of the Year.

Emma Rogers, 20, was also the College’s Apprentice of the Year in 2010 and the young mum, who is profoundly dyslexic, has opened her own shop – Beauty by Emma in Wedmore.

Emma, of Nyland, Cheddar, said: “I was so shocked and happy when I was told I’d won National Apprentice of the Year; it’s the best award yet.

“Every time I win something it’s a great surprise but inspires me to go on to the next thing.

“Studying at Weston College has been an amazing journey for me and it’s one I am keen to share to help support other young people find their path in life.” Emma will receive her Adult Learners’ Week Apprentice of the Year certificate at a lunch in London’s Queen Elizabeth Conference Centre on May 20th.

David Hughes, Chief Executive of the National Institute of Adult Continuing Education is set to host the event.

Emma is also set to go to a Parliamentary reception on Thursday, May 16 at Westminster hosted by the All Party Group for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning chaired by MP’s Kelvin Hopkins, Robert Halfon and Stephen Lloyd.

Weston College Principal and Chief Executive, Dr Paul Phillips OBE, said: “This is an amazing achievement for Emma which she rightly deserves.

“All our students are special to us. With 30,000 enrolments, 30 A Levels, more than 100 vocational courses, 50 Apprenticeships and an expected turnover next year of nearly £45 million - we are the best in the West.”

Emma started her Apprenticeship in April 2010 but left in December to have her son Charlie-James. When he was just three months old she returned to win Gold in her first UK WorldSkills heat. Emma went on to win two WorldSkills rounds and then gold at the National Final. As top beautician in the UK she trained to represent the United Kingdom in Germany.

WorldSkills is the largest unique biannual global competition involving almost 1,000 apprentices and students, aged 18 to 24 in 46 skill areas. Around 5,500 young people compete for a place in the British squad made up of world-class vocational competitors in skills including mobile robotics, graphic design, carpentry, catering and mechanics. At the same time she completed her Level 2 and progressed to Level 3 beauty therapy and took care of Charlie-James who is now two years old.

Emma said: “I struggled at school because I’m dyslexic but I was happy to find what I was good at. I have to force myself to deal with paperwork for my business but do it.

“I didn’t expect to be a mum so young but having Charlie-James inspired me to get on and make the most of my life. His dad is very supportive, as are both our families”.

“My business is successful and it’s thanks to the training, support and vision I received at Weston College.””

Emma was nominated by her tutor, Head of Apprentices in Beauty, Hair, Barbering and Nails, Tanita Veal.

Tanita added: “Every now and then someone crosses your path who is truly exceptional. Emma is like a breath of fresh air.

“She’s displayed drive, passion, enthusiasm and total dedication to her apprenticeship, training and learning.

“We supported her dyslexia and Emma has overcome this and proved it isn’t a barrier to learning. She is an amazing person with courage, focus and commitment.”

If you've been inspired by Emma's story and would like to find out more about the Apprenticeships we offer, visit our Apprenticeship section.