Three Weston College lecturers have been chosen to join Microsoft’s global network of educator experts. This means a wealth of benefits and possibilities for learners.

Louise Pratten, lecturer in English, Shaun LaTouche, lecturer in Foundation Learning and Lynne Richards, lecturer in ICT, have been awarded Microsoft Innovative Educator (MIE) Expert status.

As MIE experts, the trio will get to use a huge range of the technology giant’s resources and programmes and be able to test new products before they’re released. They’ll also have the opportunity to share innovative and exciting teaching methods with thousands of fellow experts around the world.

And this will all be channelled into developing innovative teaching methods and engaging learning environments – with the ultimate aim of improving the learner experience.

The MIE experts will have the expertise and knowledge to:

• Enable learners to get the best out of Microsoft’s resources
• Use technology to spark learners’ creativity and uncover hidden talents
• Help learners overcome barriers to learning and support learners with special educational needs or disabilities
• Create more inclusive learner-centred classrooms and environments
• Communicate more effectively with classes and encourage learners to collaborate with a range of resources
• Create learning resources in a variety of formats to suit a range of needs and learning styles.

Anthony Salcito, Vice President, Worldwide Education, Microsoft, perfectly sums up the role MIE experts play: “Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts are inspiring examples of educators, applying new ways of teaching and learning in their classrooms that motivate learners and empower them to achieve more.

“We celebrate and support the work they do every day.”

This news follows hot on the heels of the announcement that we are one of 14 providers in the UK to be awarded ‘Microsoft Showcase College’ status.

As a Showcase College, we’ll benefit from billions of pounds of research and knowledge, as well as Microsoft’s support in the personalising student education. This includes the use of one-to-one devices, Office 365 Education, Office Mix, OneNote, Skype, Minecraft and more.

Interested in joining us, browse our courses:

• 16-18 full-time courses for school leavers
• Part-time adult courses

Over 50 local children from nurseries, primary schools and childminders experienced a range of activities in Grove Park on Thursday (Art in the Park) and went home with a bag of their creations.

Learners from Level 1 to Level 3 Early Years courses planned and presented activities to encourage creativity in the outdoors.

“I started at college last month and this was our first big children’s activity. I really enjoyed it, it’s interesting to see how children use the same equipment and the differences in their creativity.” Grace, Level 3 BTEC Extended National Diploma in Children’s Play Learning and Development (previously from Hans Price Academy).

Gergana from Little Angels Weston said “We want to say a big thank you to all of you for inviting us to the Art event in the Grove Park today. All of the children and staff were so happy to join the event today! It was really well organised and all of us felt very welcome to come and join”

Karen, Early Years Subject Area Manager said “Thank you to the children and staff of Christchurch Primary School and Little Angels Weston. The children who attended the event were well-behaved and enthusiastic in joining in with all the activities. Also, a special thank you to Friends of Grove Park for their support today. Our local community is massively important to Early Years learners at Weston College. We want to get involved in making Weston the best place for children to grow and thrive.

Find out about the early years courses starting here in September at our open evening:

? Thursday 7 November 2019
⏰ 17:30 – 20:00
? Knightstone Campus
? www.weston.ac.uk/event/open-evening-7th-november

Looking for a way to increase your employability?

Employers often ask for you to give examples of where you’ve overcome challenges or when you’ve shown specific skills such as leadership, communication and showing initiative. The Combined Cadet Force (CCF) is the perfect chance for you to enhance your CV gain those skills and experiences.

Available to all students, this free enrichment activity incorporates elements from the RAF, Army, Navy and Royal Marines. With no previous experience required, Cadets take part in regular drill exercises, practical survival activities as well as specialist skills such as shooting, flying and more.

As well as increasing your confidence and skills, this programme serves as a brilliant platform for anyone who is interested in pursuing a career within the armed forces.

Contingent Commander and Science Lecturer Rob Heaton said: “Through unique and fun learning opportunities the CCF provides valuable life skills which are vital for further study or employment.

"From leadership through the NCO scheme, to self-reliance during Duke of Edinburgh the Cadet force provides learners with an amazing opportunity to gain new life experiences.”

A previous cadet added “I’ve made new friends, learnt new skills and discovered how I can improve myself as a person and I can’t wait to continue my journey.”

CCF meetings take place every Wednesday afternoon from 1pm – 4pm during term time only.

All uniform and activities are completely free.