In a heartwarming initiative to combat stress and promote well-being, Weston College welcomed two furry friends, Alfie and Diesel. The visit of these four-legged friends brought joy and relaxation to students, creating an unforgettable experience for both humans and canines.

Alfie and Diesel, accompanied by their owners, spent the day at Knightstone campus, engaging with learners who may have been feeling the pressures of the new academic year. As the students interacted with the dogs, they could feel their stress melt away, replaced by smiles and laughter.

The canine visitors proved to be a hit with the students, who relished the opportunity to take a break from their studies and enjoy in a little furry therapy. Students said that Alfie and Diesel’s presence brightened their day and provided a much-needed reprieve from their schedules.

Not only did the learners enjoy the visit, but the dogs also seemed to relish the attention and affection showered upon them. The wagging tails and happy barks were clear signs of their enjoyment.

Alfie and Diesel will be visiting the South West Skills campus on Thursday, bringing their therapeutic magic to even more students seeking stress relief and a dose of canine happiness. The initiative has undoubtedly left a lasting paw print of positivity on Weston College.

Weston College has always been a breeding ground for creative talent, and it's about to witness a remarkable reunion as former student and accomplished singer-songwriter, Alex Lipinski, returns to record a brand new album.

On October 12th, alongside his band, the Crown Electric, Alex will step back into the familiar surroundings of Weston College to embark on a musical journey that not only captures his own evolution but also offers aspiring students a chance to learn and create alongside him. This album, considered a retrospective of his songwriting journey, symbolises a union between past and present, mentorship, and creative growth.

Alex's musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Having honed his skills at Weston College, he has gone on to release popular albums such as Lonesome Train and For Everything Under the Sun, establishing himself as a gifted songwriter and performer.

His decision to return to the place where it all began reflects his deep connection to the college and his desire to give back to the institution that played a pivotal role in his artistic development.

One thing that sets this album recording apart is the active involvement of Weston College students.

From production to filming, students will have the opportunity to work alongside external professionals and their experienced tutors, on a live album recording. This hands-on experience is invaluable for aspiring music industry professionals, providing them with real-world exposure and the chance to learn from the best in the business – a key part of Weston College’s Career Excellence Hub.

Alex Lipinski, said: “I wanted to curate a ‘document’ of the songwriting journey, from my first collection of songs, ‘Lonesome Train’ recorded in Weston, through ‘Alex’ which we did in Berlin - to the recent ‘For Everything Under the Sun’ which was crafted in London’.

“I wanted to give something back; so, we’re bringing the band, a professional sound engineer, and top-flight videographer to work collaboratively with students at the college, in a real, and incredibly important piece of work.

“I’ve seen the enthusiasm, and high standards to which this next generation of technicians work, and couldn’t be more confident of a successful outcome.

“The finished live album, and concurrent performance video will be available around Christmas 2023 through www.alexlipinski.com as a limited edition, signed, numbered CD. We will limit the run to 250, and this will sit alongside my existing body of work, as the first look at my entire career, across one album.”

This guest artist forms part of the Music Careers Excellence Hub. The College has fourteen sector-specific Career Excellence Hubs, which evidence our dedication to supporting both employers and learners in achieving their future goals. By creating a seamless connection between industry and education, we enable learners to acquire not only the essential skills and knowledge but also the professional networks necessary to excel in their chosen fields.

The recording session on October 12th will be a memorable event. Music students and the up-and-coming band, the Like Minded, will open the evening, setting the stage for Alex Lipinski and the Crown Electric to take centre stage.

This promises to be a night filled with music, creativity, and inspiration, where the past and future of music come together in perfect harmony.

You can find out more about our Music courses, by clicking here.

Here at Weston College, we believe the importance of upskilling cannot be overstated. Whether you are an employee seeking career advancement, a job seeker looking to gain new skills, or an employer aiming to enhance your workforce's capabilities, upskilling can benefit everyone. 

How Can I Upskill?

Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) 

Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes are government-backed initiatives designed to help job seekers acquire the skills and experience needed to secure employment in specific industries. These programs offer several benefits: 

• Industry-Relevant Skills: SWAPs focus on providing participants with the skills and knowledge required by employers in high-demand industries. This targeted approach increases participants' employability. 
• Work Experience: Many SWAPs include a work placement component, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field. This practical exposure is invaluable for building a resume and making industry connections. 
• Employer Engagement: SWAPs often involve partnerships with local businesses, which can lead to direct job opportunities for participants. Employers may even hire participants who excel during the program. 
• Government Support: These programs are often funded or partially funded by government agencies, making them accessible to a wide range of job seekers, including those looking to transition into new careers. 

Upskilling Through Skills Bootcamps 

Skills Bootcamps provide a unique advantage. They offer intensive, hands-on training that prepares learners for real-world scenarios. In the case of HGV Bootcamps, students gain practical skills, ensuring they are ready for the road. Project management Bootcamps immerse participants in the complexities of overseeing projects, providing valuable experience to carry forward.  

Adult Courses 

Adult courses are a fantastic way to get back into work, upskill, retrain to change career entirely, or gain skills for life. Life is busy, and commitments can vary greatly from person to person. We understand this and have designed adult courses to be as flexible as possible, in as many subjects as possible. With courses in almost every subject you can imagine, that can be moulded to fit around your schedule, the barriers to upskilling are significantly reduced. Whether you're a parent, a full-time employee, or simply someone with a hectic lifestyle, these courses can be a practical solution to your educational aspirations. 

The benefits of upskilling are undeniable, whether it's through Adult Courses, Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes, or via Bootcamps. Employees who embrace upskilling enjoy improved career prospects, job security, and job satisfaction.  

On the other hand, employers benefit from a more skilled and adaptable workforce that can drive innovation and competitiveness within their industries. These programs are essential in bridging the gap between job seekers and industries in need of skilled talent. 

If you would like to upskill yourself, or upskill members of your team, find out how our 30 Day Challenge can benefit you! 

Click here to find out more! 

- Mike Hudson – Strategic Lead, Recruitment Adult Studies 

In a remarkable achievement, two of our outstanding learners, Toby and Kam, have been shortlisted for the prestigious AoC Student of the Year awards 2023/24.

These awards, a testament to their hard work, dedication, and exceptional contributions, recognise the remarkable accomplishments of students across the country.

Toby: Apprentice of the Year Nominee Sponsored by NOCN Group

Toby's journey to becoming a nominee for the Apprentice of the Year award has been nothing short of inspiring. His dedication and commitment throughout his Digital Marketing apprenticeship with Visit Somerset have set a shining example for fellow apprentices and learners alike. Toby's ability to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application in the ever-evolving digital landscape has made him a standout candidate.

Toby has shown exceptional growth and expertise during his apprenticeship. His innovative strategies, creative thinking, and unwavering determination have not only elevated him within the apprenticeship programme but also contributed significantly to the success of Visit Somerset's digital marketing efforts.

Toby was delighted with the news, saying: “To be shortlisted for apprentice of the year with Associates of Colleges, is a great feeling.

“To know your work is noticed not just in the county of Somerset but also the whole of the UK, is truly fantastic recognition.

“I wouldn’t be shortlisted without the help from my management, my team and of course Weston College. Who continuously support my development. To even be shortlisted is an achievement in itself. I am hoping I can win this award in November.”

Kam: Higher Education Student of the Year Nominee Sponsored by Advanced HE

Kam, our exceptional UCW student, has earned a well-deserved nomination for the Higher Education Student of the Year award, sponsored by Advanced HE. Kam's dedication to academic excellence and his commitment to personal and professional development have set him apart as a truly exceptional student.

Throughout his time at UCW, Kam has consistently demonstrated a thirst for knowledge and a passion for learning. His intellectual curiosity, combined with his contributions to the wider community, has resulted in outstanding academic achievements and a profound impact.

Kam's journey is a testament to the transformative power of higher education and the importance of nurturing students who aspire to make a meaningful impact on the world. His nomination reflects his dedication to personal growth and academic excellence.

Kam expressed his pride, saying: “I feel truly humbled and immensely honoured to be shortlisted for Higher Education Student of the Year.

“This recognition is not just a personal achievement, but a testament to the potential that education holds for individuals within the criminal justice system and beyond.

“My hope is that this acknowledgment serves as an inspiration, motivating others to pursue their passions through education. By doing so, we can collectively find fulfilment in our lives and work towards contributing positively to society.”

As we eagerly await the final results, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Toby and Kam, and we wish them the best of luck in the upcoming competition. Their achievements inspire us all and remind us of the incredible heights our learners can reach.

The winners will be revealed during the AoC Annual Conference on 14 November, where we hope to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Toby, Kam, and all the nominees.

My name is Nick, and I am currently studying Applied Computing at University Centre Weston, after completing the Digital: Production Design and Development T Level and the Digital Foundation course at Weston College.  

The foundation course wasn’t easy for me, but it was the challenges that drove me; the course kept me on my feet and kept pushing me to my limits and made it well worth the challenging aspects.  

The T Level course was great, and the highlight was the web development aspects of the course. I had learnt so much and had the opportunity to show off what I could do and what I had learnt from my work experience.  

The staff were fantastic during the transition from Weston College to UCW; I had been given opportunities and knowledge about life at UCW before I’d even started. Teachers and would happily show me round the facilities to give me a flavour of university life and introduce me to staff who could help ease the big step from college to university. I ultimately decided to progress onto UCW because I knew I would continue to receive brilliant support. 

I always aim high for my educational achievements and don’t set a limit because I always push myself to do better than before. I’ve always believed there is no limit to what I can achieve, so throughout my degree, I just aim to work hard and push myself to be better than before.  

Following the completion of my degree, I hope to go straight into a bright and successful career for myself. 

My advice for someone considering a T Level course would be not to be afraid of the challenge, but always be willing to try something new. The T Level combines Work Experience with in-college learning, so you're always learning something new.  

The one thing you must always remember is that even though it can be a challenge, you will always have teachers and staff who are there to help and support you through all of it. Weston College has many ways to support its learners; it’s impossible to not be supported here. With that & the qualifications you receive at the end, what's not to love about the T Level? 

I know that I wouldn't be in the position I am without the help and support from so many staff members & teachers who helped me through my time at Weston College & I am forever grateful. I would not only recommend the T Level to anyone but also recommend studying at Weston College. It is truly the experience of a lifetime. 

Weston College ambitiously set the challenge to enrol 500 apprenticeships in just 30 Days, as part of the latest campaign which comprises of three 30 Day Challenges, and we are thrilled to share that not only has this goal been hit, but it’s been surpassed, with 532 pledges! 

The first 30 Day challenge was apprenticeship focused, while the second’s goal is to achieve 150 adults upskilled in 30 days, and the third is to reach 150 T Level placement pledges in 30 days. 

The incredible achievement of reaching 532 pledges would not have been possible without the college’s wonderful employer partnerships, from global heavyweights, national organisations, and up and coming businesses, such as the following who pledged throughout September: 

• GKN Aerospace 
• Airbus 
• Avon Fire & Rescue 
• Future Stars Coaching 
• Thatchers 
• Rolls Royce 
• Ministry of Defence 
• Cheddar Motors 
• UHBW NHS 
• Bristol International Airport 
• Pier Health Group 
• Wessex Water 
• Ashton Scaffolding 

And many more! 

Tracie Leahy, Assistant Principal, Apprenticeships and Traineeships Recruitment, commented: “We are pleased once again, to be leading the way when it comes to apprenticeships, and creating opportunities in such a short amount of time. The tangible benefits are numerous, and offer experiences that ultimately help create brighter futures. 

“Every year the bar is raised, and every year we are thrilled to hit the number. A huge thank you must go to our wonderful employer partners as this couldn’t have happened without them.” 

Liz Merchant, Organisational Development Manager at Avon Fire & Rescue, told us: “We’ve built up a really good relationship with Weston College. It’s had a huge impact; without the college, we would never have been able to set up any of our apprenticeship schemes and they wouldn’t have been as successful as they have been!” 

Find out more about hiring an apprenticeship here, and find out what is next in our campaign, here!

Callum is currently completing his first year of the T Level in Design: Production Design and Development, following the Level 2 course in computing, which acted as a crucial step in laying the foundation for his T Level aspirations. This choice was born out of the need for flexibility and skill-building, especially since Callum had received home education during his final years of secondary school due to medical conditions. The Level 2 course not only provided him with valuable education but also allowed him to regain essential skills, such as punctuality and professionalism, which are crucial in a professional environment. 
 
What truly ignited Callum's desire to pursue a T Level was the resounding praise he heard from a friend who had recently completed her own T Level. Intrigued by her positive experience, he embarked on an investigation into what Weston College's T Level had to offer. After conversing with his tutors and considering the incredible work experience, high-quality education, and professional atmosphere that awaited him, Callum knew that the T Level was the path he wanted to follow. 
 
The transition from the Level 2 course to the T Level brought with it exciting challenges and opportunities. One particular highlight for Callum was the coursework focused on data analysis. It was demanding, but it allowed him to engage in a real and time-consuming project, preparing him for the rigors of the T Level program. 
 
However, the real gem of Callum's T Level journey lies in the work placement component. Callum eagerly anticipates gaining real-world working experience and skills, a prospect made possible by Weston College's support in finding suitable placements. He has set his sights on securing a work placement with Lloyds Bank, a company renowned for its commitment to T Level students and for its investment in their development. Hearing about a friend's successful transition into an apprenticeship at Lloyds Bank post-T Level further motivated Callum to pursue this opportunity. 
 
The support from Weston College's staff has been instrumental in Callum's success so far. From academic guidance to a brilliant resource for seeking support when needed, the college has been a constant pillar of assistance. As a student with ADHD, Callum has been particularly appreciative of the support provided by the college's ADHD support teams. They have not only made him feel comfortable but also offered practical solutions to navigate challenges effectively. 
 
Callum's journey at Weston College exemplifies the transformative power of T Level programs. His story serves as an inspiration for those considering embarking on their own educational journey. To those contemplating joining the T Level transition course, Callum offers valuable advice: it's an excellent starting point, whether you're looking to bolster your grades or overcome personal challenges. The transition course provides the flexibility and time needed to prepare oneself for the enriching T Level experience that Weston College offers. With dedication and the right support, students like Callum can thrive in the professional world, ready to make a meaningful impact on society.

Last Thursday, we welcomed over 350 enthusiastic Key Stage Four school learners and their guests to our highly anticipated 'What Next?' Careers Showcase!  

This dynamic event provided a unique platform for school leavers to explore a multitude of exciting career opportunities, with participation from more than 50 local and national employers including Wessex Water, Ministry of Defence, Ashton Gate Stadium, Boeing, Jet2, and Thatchers Cider! 

The 'What Next?' Careers Showcase was a resounding success, empowering young individuals to make informed decisions about their future careers.  

Attendees had the opportunity to engage with representatives from a diverse range of industries, gaining valuable insights into the various career paths available to them. This immersive experience allowed students to envision their future possibilities and connect with potential employers who are actively seeking new talent. 

James Shakespeare, Founder of EVO Agency commented: “There were so many people the queue went out of the door, and down the road! We’ve been exhibiting at these fairs for years and this was the busiest one we’ve seen. We hope to have inspired young people that a career in tech and digital has so much more to offer than ‘just coding’, and that there are alternative training routes, such as apprenticeships, available with further education providers such as Weston College.” 

One of the highlights of the evening was the insightful talks on what Weston College can offer school leavers and the varied study options we offer including the new T Level qualifications, as well as our award-winning apprenticeship offer, having just been named the 2023 best apprenticeship provider in the whole of the South West! 

Furthermore, the event facilitated one-on-one interactions between attendees and Weston College staff, enabling school leavers to receive personalised guidance on choosing the right courses that align with their career aspirations.  

Our dedicated team of educators and advisors were on hand to provide valuable insights and assistance, ensuring that every student was equipped with the information they needed to embark on their chosen career path. 

Ben Knocks, Vice Principal at Weston College, said: “Our ‘What Next?’ event was a resounding success, and it was great to welcome and inspire so many young people from across the region on their next steps. 

“The energy in the room was electric, I couldn't be prouder of our college community and the opportunities we provide to inspire, educate, and empower our future leaders. 

“At Weston College we are passionate about careers, not courses, and I think this event is the perfect example of putting that into action.  

“A big thank you to all of the employers that attended as well, they play a critical role in our Career Excellence Hubs, which are having such a positive impact on our learners.” 

Find out more about our Programmes for School Leavers starting next September here. 

Come along to our October Open Evening and visit our campuses, see our facilities, meet our amazing staff and learn more more about the courses we have available to start in 2024. Register your place here.

It’s official, University Centre Weston (UCW) is among the best places to study at university level in the UK, according to the results of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) published on September 28th 2023.

The TEF panel considered the overall rating for UCW to be Gold, placing it among the country’s best university and college higher education providers. This recognition by the TEF Panel reflects UCW’s unwavering dedication to providing outstanding education to a diverse student body and places it within the top 20% in the UK and one of only six colleges nationally to achieve the status.

The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) is a national scheme run by the Office for Students (OfS) that aims to encourage higher education providers to improve and deliver excellence in the areas that students care about the most: teaching, learning and achieving positive outcomes from their studies.

The TEF does this by assessing and rating universities and colleges for excellence above a set of minimum requirements for quality and standards.

Providers that take part in the TEF receive an overall rating as well as two underpinning ratings – one for the student experience and one for student outcomes.

The ratings reflect the extent to which a provider delivers an excellent experience and outcomes for its mix of undergraduate students and across the range of its undergraduate courses and subjects.

Hundreds of higher education institutions in England, Wales and Scotland have had their teaching quality, learning environment, and student outcome data assessed by the TEF Panel and rated as either Gold, Silver, Bronze or Requires Improvement.

The TEF Panel judged that UCW delivers consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for its students, which is of the highest quality found in Britain.

Jacqui Ford, Interim Principal and Chief Executive of the Weston College Group expressed her delight, saying,

“This achievement represents a significant milestone for our region, confirming the excellence of our institution for higher education. Furthermore, it underscores the Weston College Group’s positive impact on learners both locally and nationally. Attaining Gold status also validates UCW’s approach of seamlessly blending high-quality academic learning with practical, career-oriented education, providing our students and university partners with confidence in our offerings.”

Ford extended her gratitude to the dedicated staff at UCW, Weston College, and partner universities, recognising their instrumental role in achieving this remarkable status. She noted:

"Our journey to this point would not have been possible without the invaluable support of my predecessor Sir Paul Phillips who led the Weston College Group since 2001 until his retirement in August 2023, our partner universities, the University of the West of England, Bath Spa University, and Hartpury University, as well as UCW’s Vice Principal for Higher Education, Sadie Skellon. The dedication of our staff, and governors, and the collaborative efforts with the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership and North Somerset Council have also been essential in reaching this remarkable achievement.”

UCW’s Vice Principal for Higher Education, Sadie Skellon added:

“The TEF Panel has recognised the efforts of the talented and dedicated students and staff that we have at UCW and across the Weston College Group, and the value of the outstanding support we provide.

“UCW is committed to being an inclusive institution, promoting participation from students from all backgrounds and supporting students to ensuring positive outcomes for all. We have strategic aims to articulate this and are pleased the OfS has acknowledged that UCW ‘tailors provision and succeeds in its aim of supporting underrepresented groups of students from its region to achieve in their studies’.

In addition to praise for the student experience, UCW was praised for its supportive learning environment, offering students access to a wide range of high-quality academic support tailored to their needs. The institution has also demonstrated a commitment to embedding employability and entrepreneurship into its course content, preparing students for successful futures.

UCW’s dedication to research, innovation, scholarship, professional practice, and employer engagement further enhances the academic experience, contributing to the institution’s outstanding standing in the TEF.

This Gold rating in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework solidifies UCW’s status as a leading institution committed to excellence in higher education.