Weston College has become the first college to sign up to the national Ban the Box campaign.

Candidates with a criminal record can now apply for jobs at the College with the knowledge that they will be assessed on their ability to do the job before any convictions are fairly considered.

However, the same rules surrounding who can legally do certain jobs will still apply, and DBS checks will still take place before any member of staff is appointed. Anyone teaching learners or working alongside College staff will have been through the same rigorous legal checks as usual.

Applicants will however, be asked to declare any such record at the point of job offering, and will undergo DBS/legal checks as all with all other applicants. Only once they are successful in passing those will they be able to accept a position.

The campaign is spearheaded by Business in the Community, and currently more than 90 UK-wide employers are signed up, with the College being the latest. Other organisations include Boots, Barclays, Bristol City Council and Virgin Trains.

The initiative will mean that the College no longer asks about criminal convictions on job application forms, instead committing to considering an applicant’s skills, experience and ability first and foremost.

Having a job can reduce a person’s chance of reoffending by up to 50%, and by signing up to Ban the Box Weston College is creating a fair chance for ex-offenders to compete for jobs and helping to keep the community safer.  

Grace Mehanna, Business in the Community’s campaign director for employment and skills, said: “Two thirds of employers admit to discriminating against people with criminal records, but the employers we work with recognise the skills and loyalty this diverse group of people can bring to their roles. Removing the barrier of a tick box can make all the difference to someone deciding to apply to your company.”

The Ofsted “Outstanding” organisation has confirmed that “Weston College is committed to recruiting an inclusive workforce, reducing barriers to employment and offering opportunities to applicants with the talent, motivation and potential to succeed. The College is already proud to be changing lives by the delivery of high quality Offender Learning and we are delighted to have signed up to this new policy. We know from experience how important it is for people with a criminal record to know that they have a fair chance of gaining legitimate employment to support them and their families and contribute positively to society. As an employer, we pride ourselves on equal opportunities for everyone and this is another step we have taken to show people that it is their skills and ability to do the job that matters.”

For more information about the work the College undertakes with ex-offenders visit www.offenderlearning.co.uk or to find out about current job vacancies across the Weston College Group, visit www.weston.ac.uk/jobs

If you'd like to know more about the 'Ban the Box' initiative visit http://www.bitc.org.uk/banthebox

Construction is a vital contributor to the regional economy.

And it’s set to increase in importance with a number of projects either in development or planned.

The Hinkley Point C nuclear power station in Somerset is the largest construction project in Europe. Four thousand businesses in the south west are registered to work on the project and, by 2020, there will be £200m of spending each year in the local economy.

Public housing is another key area of regional growth, with the south west set to buck the UK trend and grow at 3.7% to 2021. Plus, the government’s pledge to build 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s, will also impact the region.

However, these developments – and issues such as Brexit – have highlighted a significant problem: demand is outstripping supply of skilled workers. In fact, a shortage of construction workers faced by small and medium-sized businesses has hit its worst level on record.

With over 20,000 new jobs being created in the region up to 2021, action is needed.

At Weston College, we’re taking the bull by the horns by developing a purpose-built Construction Training Centre This £3.8m project, which adds to our already comprehensive range of construction training courses, is based just off Junction 21 of the M5, and is due to open in spring 2019.

It addresses the shortage of infrastructure construction skills, and targets three areas where the shortage is at its most acute – plant operations, scaffolding, and groundworks.

But what makes this centre unique is that it’s geared towards fulfilling genuine commercial need and to providing training on demand.

Over the last decade, we’ve built strong relationships with employers to develop our apprenticeship provision. And it’s become increasingly apparent that commercial organisations want training at the point of need – not just for school leavers during the academic year.

Once the new centre is up and running, employers can come to us at any time for short courses, top-up courses, and to up-skill staff who are taking on new roles. We’ll also provide apprenticeships in these new areas when they’re required.

School leavers are able to take advantage of the available training at Weston College at our existing centre at South West Skills Campus on Locking Road. The new Construction Training Centre will also allow us to provide bespoke training at short notice, and react to the realities of the commercial world.

What’s more, construction employers, trade organisations and the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), who match-funded the project with some £3.3m through the Local Growth Fund, administered by the West of England Combined Authority, have all been fully engaged in informing the building design and offer.

But, as with any project of this nature, much of its success relies on the strategic partnerships it involves and we’re extremely fortunate to be working with highly professional, market-leading organisations.

We have a long-running relationship with Midas Construction, who are commissioned to build the centre. They understand the College, our priorities and how to provide the learning environment that students need. Midas are also a key member of the employers’ forum that drives the content of the new centre’s curriculum.

We’re also working closely with Simian Risk to deliver scaffolding training. We worked hard to identify a strategic partner for the centre and are delighted to be working with Simian, who are national leaders in the field of scaffolding safety, training and assessment.

For more information on the Construction Training Centre, please click here. 

Weston College joined forces with the Chefs’ Forum Academy to host an event promoting careers in the hospitality industry to over 200 pupils.

Some of the region’s top chefs demonstrated at the Hospitality Industry Taster Day, which took place at the Winter Gardens, 11.30am-1.30pm on Wednesday 20th March.

This free event – was open to year 8, 9, 10 and 11 pupils, and college students – showcasing the hospitality industry as a career option. Guests were treated to mocktails, canapés and beef burgers.

The day included 20-minute interactive masterclasses showcasing culinary expertise such as butchery, beef cookery, the secrets of herbs and spices, and intricate pastry techniques.

Sandra Bull, Divisional Lead for Hospitality and Catering at Weston College, said “We are pleased to have some of the region’s top chefs and butchers involved to show how rewarding and exciting a career in the industry can be. In a sector, which is in, decline it is great to showcase the options open to those leaving school in the next couple of years. This year we also hosted various local businesses – a great opportunity for buddy chefs to see local produce is best!”

The Chefs’ Academy Forum is a network of industry experts that supports the next generation of chefs. As well as showcasing their skills at the taster day, forum experts teach Weston College hospitality students, enriching learning through bespoke cookery masterclasses in the College kitchens.

Jack Cook, of award-winning Devizes butchers Walter Rose & Son, performed a beef butchery masterclass in advance of Great British Beef Week. All pupils who attended the event got a delicious Walter Rose Angus x Hereford Stokes Marsh Farm beef burger, with delicious garnishes produced by College catering students.

Le Manoir-trained chef Amy Nancollis, from Oak and Glass restaurant in Weston, joined chefs Andy Chan and Tom Everard Fairburn, of Thornbury Castle Hotel, for an éclair filling and decorating competition.

Topping the day off will be a spice masterclass from Sam Guarino, of Santa Maria. Sam talked budding young chefs through the tasty world of herbs and spices.

Chefs’ Forum Founder, Catherine Farinha, said: “It was a real honour to be asked to hold this event with Weston College again this year. If a handful of students who attend the event are inspired to study catering and hospitality because of the fantastic industry experts on show, then our work here is done.”

This event is run annually, register your interest via email sandra.bull@weston.ac.uk.

Weston College has been named as the Bristol and Bath Apprenticeship Provider of the Year for the second year in a row.

The award ceremony, held at Ashton Gate Stadium, celebrated learners from across the region, as well as recognising the hard work of employers and training providers.

Weston College learner Josh King, an apprentice at GKN Aerospace, was also recognised on the evening – winning Outstanding Apprentice of the Year.

The College delivers a range of apprenticeships from Level 2 to degree-level and works with many high-profile employers in the Bristol and Bath area, including the Ministry of Defence and GKN Aerospace and Royal United Hospitals Bath.

Dr Paul Phillips CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College Group, said: “We are delighted to retain our award, which highlights our commitment to developing skills across the region.

“Our staff are always there to provide a smooth process for employers, and learners, so this award is recognition of those efforts.

“I’m also delighted for Josh. Our learners show such a fantastic attitude to their studies and he is clearly doing a brilliant job at one of the biggest companies in the area – GKN.”

This is the latest in a string of recent awards for the College, which include a Beacon Award for dedication to mental health, the BKSB National Provider of Year award and also the AAC SEND Apprenticeship Champion award.

Weston College and one of its lecturers have been shortlisted for honours in a military veterans’ awards ceremony.

Dave Beresford, who is a Lecturer in Public Services at the College, is in the running for the Lifetime Achievement Award at the English Veterans Awards, while the College has been shortlisted in the Employer of the Year category.

The awards recognise the successful veterans who have made the, often difficult, transition from the military to civilian life in England. They reward those who have gone above and beyond and excelled in their relevant fields and act as role models for future service leavers.

It is also an opportunity to salute organisations which have shown commitment to attracting, employing and retaining ex-forces personnel and reservists.

The awards ceremony takes place at Mercure Holland House, Bristol in September 2019.

During his 14 years in the Royal Marines, Dave was awarded the Military Cross after rescuing two colleagues who were weighed down with heavy equipment and under fire from enemy forces. He also served in Northern Ireland and Sierra Leone.

Despite struggling with some common problems associated with transitioning into civilian life, Dave has gone on to forge a highly successful career in education.

After starting as a graduate primary school teacher, he has progressed to lecture in further and higher education at Weston College. As well as being an outstanding lecturer, Dave always goes above and beyond for students – helping them achieve success and realise their potential.

Weston College has a strong history of supporting local military units and the Armed Forces community. It sits upon the North Somerset Armed Forces steering group and has launched several ‘forces-friendly’ initiatives. These include the ‘Train to Build’ scheme, which facilitates the training of ex-forces personnel to build their own accommodation, and ‘Taking Teaching Further’, which encourages veterans and military personnel to consider a career in education.

Dr Paul Phillips, CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, said: “This is a magnificent achievement for Dave – and deserved recognition.

“After a distinguished career in the armed forces, he showed huge determination and aptitude to transition into a wonderful lecturer and inspirational role model for his learners.

“It’s also a great honour for the College to be recognised for the support it provides for the armed forces and military veterans. As well as being a Silver award holder with the Armed Forces Covenant, we employ veterans and reservists across a whole range of areas including vocational and engineering departments, sports and public services faculties plus throughout the College’s prison education contracts.”

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.

A group of former art students are keeping the skills they learned alive through exhibitions and workshops at the town’s Old Quarry Studios in Queen’s Road

A collection of old industrial buildings was converted for artists’ use in the late 1990s and now there is a thriving group of painters, potters, sculptors, photographers and printmakers - almost all of whom trained at the College - making work there.

The artists have just held a group exhibition at the Rowan Tree tea rooms, next to the studios, and have regular open days on the first Saturday of each month.

Next week a group of current  BA students will be exhibiting at the gallery, and there are plans to run courses for students in the use of a wood-fired kiln, which has been built by studio member Simon Taylor.

Simon is also a Ceramic Lecturer and Course Leader for the mature UAL Arts Foundation programme, and works alongside his dad, ceramicist Sinclair Taylor. Simon has taught several of the studio members and is hoping to inspire the latest generation of student artists with his ‘Anagama’ kiln, which he thinks might be one of the smallest of its kind in the world.

He said: “ I built this kiln not just for personal use as a practicing ceramicist but also for my students at the College.

“Weston Quarry Studios houses many artists and designers who have progressed from the College’s Foundation and Degree Courses and are now working as practicing artists with some flourishing professional businesses. I am particularly proud that I have taught many of these artists who have continue to demonstrate high motivation and commitment to the arts initiated from their original training at the College.”

Vicki Campbell is one of the artists at the studios and is a former College student and lecturer. She said: “My time at the College was very encouraging and stimulating and the staff were great. That experience has led to me joining this studio and pursuing my creativity in a lovely environment.”

Joan Hall is in her 80s, but still loves to paint JMW Turner-inspired seascapes. She said: “the College was a great experience for me and it taught me to explore different techniques that I still use in my painting.”

Weston College student Chloe Edrich, 16, could be heading to Rio de Janeiro this summer after securing a place at the national time trials for the 2016 Olympics.

Chloe, who studies A Levels at the College and is a member of its Academy of Sport, posted a qualifying time in the 200m breast stroke and will attempt to make the required time in the 400m individual medley and 400m breaststroke.

Chloe said: “Studying at Weston College has enabled me to improve my swimming, but has also supported me in achieving my academic targets.”

Her mother, Kelly Edrich, said: “It was amazing to see her smash the time she needed.

“She’s done fantastically well so far and it would be brilliant if she could make it all the way.”

Paul Taylor, Sports Development and Performance Manager at the College, said: “Chloe has worked incredibly hard to get to this point.

“Combining an Elite Athletic and Academic programme is challenging and requires commitment and dedication, we are very proud of her achievements.”

The Weston College Academy of Sport offers aspiring sportsmen and women an opportunity to further develop their potential, providing them with outstanding coaching, training and support both individually and as a team.

It allows College students to combine their academic or vocational studies with participation in sporting activities at local, regional and national levels.

Last month we attended the opening ceremony of Essential Beauty and Aesthetics, a beauty salon run by former Weston College student Jessica Stagg in Weston-super-Mare.

Now, Jessica wants to pass on the things she’s learned to others in the hope that it will help them set up their very own salons.

Being a salon owner, I have learned that you need to give everyone a little piece of what you know to show the knowledge and passion of understanding the industry.

My first experience of the beauty industry was at Weston College, where I achieved my first beauty therapy qualifications and gained my first steps into the industry.

It’s hard work to get to where you want to be, but so rewarding and you learn so much along the way.

Here are my top tips for people who want to open their own salon...

Learning is key

Many salons and spas do things in different ways. Management styles are different, staff and clientele are different, but each successful salon has gone through a learning curve to enable it to sculpt itself into the format that works best for its particular needs.

The things you learn from other salons might not be right for your business, but there are always aspects you can take away and learn from.

Experience is everything

The more experience you can get the better. It took me five years working in salons before I had gained enough experience to ‘go it alone’.

Try working in both salon and spa environments to gain knowledge of a range of treatments and learn as much as possible about them. Visiting salons and spas to experience not only the treatment but the customer service and environment is also a crucial part of the process.

Experiment with products

Every salon has its own recommended brands and products, and they choose these through experimenting to find the products that best suit their needs.

When choosing your preferred products, think about value for money, the kind of results they achieve, but most importantly – the experience of your clients.

Organising is crucial

While it may be easy to get distracted by the aesthetics, the treatments and the products you use, don’t forget the business side of things.

A salon is just like any other shop, but the product you’re selling is a satisfied customer. You need to get the costs and organisation of the business right in order for your salon to be successful.

The customer comes first

Talk to the customers, learn what they like and don’t like, and tailor your treatments around this feedback – it’s the most important and valuable advice you can get.

Every customer needs an amazing experience throughout their contact with the salon, and not just during the treatment. Every interaction needs to be amazing, including marketing, the booking process, the treatment itself and ongoing care.