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LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES

Person using laptop with graphic AI on top of it.

Artificial intelligence has many weird and wonderful functions within our society and in workforces, making many jobs easier and revolutionising the way we work.

With the continual growth of AI, many professions hinge on uniquely human traits such as creativity, empathy, ethical judgment, and complex problem-solving.

We thought we would delve deeper into the careers which won’t be replaced by AI, and how you can start your journey into these careers with Weston College.

Creative arts:

While AI can generate music, write articles, and create visual art, it lacks the human touch that infuses these creations with genuine emotion and originality.

Human artists draw upon personal experiences, cultural contexts, and emotional depths that AI simply cannot replicate.

Creative works are often valued not just for their technical quality but for their ability to stir up emotions and provoke thought – something that requires a deeply human perspective.

We offer many courses which can get either get you started in the industry, or allow you to progress your career with new skills, whether that be through our courses for16–19-year-olds, or for adults.

Some of the available courses that we offer, include: Art, Design, Graphics and Fashion | Weston College | Creative and Digital Media | Weston College and Performing and Production Arts | Weston College. 

Education:

Teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about inspiring, mentoring, and engaging students.

While AI can offer personalised learning experiences, the role of a teacher as a motivator and guide remains crucial.

Educators adapt to the diverse needs of their students, foster critical thinking, and create a supportive learning environment—elements that go beyond AI’s capabilities.

At Weston College, we can support you in starting a career in education through our Early Years Course: Education and Early Years | Weston College.

Social workers:

Social workers play a vital role in supporting individuals and communities through challenging circumstances.

Their work involves advocacy, crisis intervention, and providing emotional support, all of which require a high degree of empathy, ethical judgment, and interpersonal skills.

While AI can assist with data management and administrative tasks, the core of social work relies on human connection and compassion.

We offer several routes into this profession, some of our courses which are currently available include: Health and Social Care | Weston College, Adult Care Worker, Apprenticeship | Weston College Healthcare Support Worker, Senior Healthcare Support Worker, Apprenticeship | Weston College, or NHS Health & Care Somerset SWAP | Weston College. 

Mental health professionals:

The field of mental health requires a profound understanding of human emotions, behaviour, and relationships.

AI can provide tools for therapy, such as chatbots for basic mental health support, but it cannot replicate the deep empathy and human connection provided by psychologists and counsellors.

The therapeutic relationship, built on trust and understanding, is fundamental to effective mental health care and cannot be fully replaced by machines.

To kickstart a career in mental health, Weston College offer level 3 Counselling | Weston College and level 1 Introduction to Counselling | Weston College.

Environment, agriculture, and conservation:

While AI can greatly enhance efficiency and provide valuable data-driven insights in the fields of environment, agriculture, and conservation, it cannot replace the essential human elements required in these careers.

The complex problem-solving, ethical judgment, interpersonal skills, hands-on experience, creativity, and long-term vision that humans bring to these roles are irreplaceable.

Start your career with our Animal Management | Weston College course, or apply to our UCW Animal Conservation, Behaviour and Welfare, BSc (Hons) - University Centre Weston (ucw.ac.uk), and Animal, Environment and Biological Studies - University Centre Weston (ucw.ac.uk) courses.

Shaq Taylor on stage as Hamilton in the musical

Weston College Creative Arts Careers Excellence Hub (CEH) and the Bristol Hippodrome, renowned ATG Entertainment Venue, are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership to nurture the next generation of creative talent. This innovative collaboration marks an important moment for our students in the arts education landscape, offering opportunities for our aspiring performers and creatives. 

The first initiative of this partnership saw Weston College students embarking on a visit to the Bristol Hippodrome to see the celebrated EduHam/Hamilton Education Performance, where students watched the full show, got to view a full demonstration of roles from numerous departments including cast, musicians, stage management and technical teams as well as a Q+A. 

The College’s Performing Arts team was amazed at how immersive and useful this first experience was for our students and are excited about all the other opportunities that are on the horizon due to this partnership with the Hippodrome, these will include:

 

  • Access to theatre careers: our students will benefit from access to theatre careers guidance, along with robust support to explore and seize diverse placement opportunities. 
  • Guest lectures: renowned industry professionals will impart invaluable knowledge and insights through engaging guest lectures, enriching the learning experience of our students. 
  • Hippodrome visits: all students across Weston College will have the privilege of visiting the Hippodrome, immersing themselves in the vibrant world of theatre and gaining firsthand exposure to its inner workings. 
  • Collaboration with touring companies: students will have exclusive opportunities to collaborate with touring companies, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents on a larger stage. 
  • Access to touring shows and workshops: our students will have access to a myriad of touring shows and immersive workshops, allowing them to delve deeper into the craft and hone their skills under expert guidance. 
  • Community engagement: the partnership extends beyond the confines of the College, with visits and interactions at key community events aimed at inspiring and inclusively involving the wider community in the creative process. 

 

Jade Hicks, Creative Arts Dean of Faculty, commented: 

“The ability to watch professional shows has significant benefit to all of our students, for us, it opened doors to the Creative Industries sector and the versatility of job roles needed on such a production. The afternoon was invaluable, re-igniting our love for the arts and providing a welcome break as learners go through their final assessment period.” 

This collaboration between Weston College Creative Arts Careers Excellence Hub and the Hippodrome underscores a shared commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and excellence in the arts. Through a cooperative blend of education, industry partnerships, and community engagement, this partnership is poised to support the landscape of arts education and embed workplace skills that will empower aspiring creatives to realise their full potential and shape the future of the creative industries. 

Interested in our Performing and Production Arts courses? Click here.

Image - Shaq Taylor as Hamilton and Company credit Danny Kaan

 

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

weston college knightstone campus in weston super mare

This week the Governing Body of Weston College, announced the appointment of Alex Warner as the new Deputy Principal, Curriculum of the Weston College Group.

alex warner

 

Alex brings 15 years of experience in the Further and Higher Education sector. His most recent role was at Milton Keynes College where he was Principal with responsibility for campus-based provision and the development of the South Central Institute of Technology.

Alex was a Milton Keynes College Group executive team member and has Prison Education experience. In addition to having held senior leadership roles and responsibilities, Alex also works as an Ofsted Inspector. He has a real passion and enthusiasm for the craft of teaching and learning. 

On his appointment, Alex commented: “I am delighted to be joining Weston College. While the College's reputation and ambitions are reasons in their own right to want to join, the opportunity to work with brilliant colleagues attracted me the most. 

"I have followed the College and many of its brilliant staff for some time and I am looking forward to getting started.”

Alex will be joining Weston College on a fractional basis in May, and then commence full-time in the coming months. 

Andrew Leighton-Price Chair of Governors commented: “The Board is excited that Alex is joining us to strengthen our team, we see Alex continuing and supporting all the great work that our staff teams are doing to make Weston College one of the best in the country. Giving our learners the best start we can.”

Students talking and laughing together in college campus

This year we’re recognising Mental Health Awareness Week, a week-long celebration from May 13th to May 19th, dedicated to acknowledging and enhancing mental health for all students and lecturers. Each year, we address aspects of mental well-being, and this year's theme, "Moving More," shows the connection between physical activity and mental health.

Movement stems from the link between physical activity and mental wellness. Regular exercise is found to have a positive impact on mental health, enhancing quality of life and overall well-being.

Exercise has been scientifically proven to release endorphins, often referred to as "feel-good" hormones, which reduce stress and promotes contentment. Despite these well-documented benefits, many people struggle to incorporate sufficient movement into their daily lives. Mental Health Awareness Week serves as an opportunity to address these challenges and inspire individuals to prioritise movement for their mental well-being.

It is crucial to acknowledge that messages promoting movement may be triggering for individuals with a history of eating disorders or exercise addiction. For those who may be concerned about excessive exercise or harmful behaviours, please don’t hesitate to contact our welfare team, located at each campus or visit our welfare page here. 

You can always find further resources and support via the Welfare SharePoint. 

 

Resources you can access:

 

  •  24/7 support via our Student Assistance Programme SAP

     

  • Let’s Chat: a hub of resources to help with resilience, esteem, relaxation, moving, eating, anxiety, uncertainty, stress, social media and much more.

     

  • Kooth – your online mental wellbeing community. Free, safe and anonymous support.

     

  • Samaritans – call 116 123. Whatever you’re going through, a Samaritan will face it with you 24/7.

 

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Bristol Airport recruiters in an informal interview with a learner

Last week we hosted a successful Fast Track Engineering Interview Event at our South West Skills Campus. The event provided an excellent platform for students to directly engage with leading employers in the engineering industry actively seeking new talent. 

From Level 2 to degree apprenticeships, the event offered a variety of opportunities, providing students a gateway to prestigious positions within the region's most impressive companies. Learners were given exclusive access to renowned employers, without the need for a formal CV, only required to have a passion for engineering. 

The event offered face-to-face interactions between students and key decision-makers, creating meaningful connections and opening doors to promising career paths within the engineering sector. Notable participating employers included Bristol Airport, Rotamec, Bristol Port Company, among others, highlighting the number of opportunities available to attendees. 

If you missed out on this fantastic event, you can still browse our Apprenticeships page here to find your dream career.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career. 

Learner stood facing the camera and smiling in their workplace

A key challenge for many businesses continues to be attracting people with the skills they need. Tackling ‘skills gaps’ with employers is a daily conversation in my role at Weston College. It’s a challenge and has driven the increase in employers engaging with our Future Talent Business Partner scheme, which connects students with employers through our faculty Careers Excellence Hubs.

If you’re reading this blog and planning to recruit new staff, it’s likely that although 80% of the talent you need is probably already in work (your recruitment strategy for skilled people), and perhaps the other 20% are probably in education and yet to join the workforce.

As someone leading business engagement activity at Weston College, I’m often hearing the employer perspective on working with those in education. However, it’s important that we understand what our young people want. We're understanding our audience through our marketing and communication strategies to attract customers, so why shouldn’t we deploy the same approach to find talent to grow our businesses? 

What does the future workforce, as in our young people in education, want from their future career or employer? Here's what I discovered from a few recent conversations here at Weston College:

  1. Values are important. Young people want to work for employers that have clear values that align with their values. Many want more than just a job, and feel that through their job at work, they can positively contribute to the external environment around them.
  2. Work life balance. The pandemic changed the way we work, and work life balance is key for young people too. Some have seen their parents now hybrid working, but to young people work life balance doesn't just mean working from home. Many students place greater importance on their outputs (what they achieve) rather than being measured on their inputs (working hours). They feel what they produce should be valued more than say how much or what time it’s taken to produce their work, which raises questions regarding their attitude to fixed working hours and a desire for flexible working patterns.
  3. Pay fairness, workplace equality and inclusion. Young people want financial stability and fair pay, but they also want to know the vision of their employer and how they’re part of that. Equity is important and they want to see how a business takes equality, diversity, and inclusion seriously. Employer’s approach to EDI (Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) is important and how employers communicate this to the future workforce is key.
  4. Social responsibility and sustainability. Many care about climate change as they’ll be here to see further impact of climate change. They do their research and want to know a business cares about the community and external environment around them, and that businesses have taken action to reduce their environmental impact to play their part to mitigate climate change.
  5. Knowing self-worth. Many young people are more self-assured and happier to fight for what they believe in. Remember that those currently in education have little awareness of a deep recession (despite turbulence during the pandemic) and have grown up in a candidate-driven employment market. This also links back to young people placing significant importance on their values.

Important to say that my reflections above is based on conversations with staff and students at Weston College only, and of course not representative of all young people. However, I recently read a survey by the Open University (2024) that said 72% of employers have seen a shift in young people’s values and priorities in the workplace in the past three years.

So, what’s the solution to harnessing and recruiting the workforce of tomorrow? Engagement, having conversations and creating partnerships.

That’s where we can help at Weston College. We connect employers with our students, both in the classroom through talks and projects, through workplace experience through our student industry placement programme and beyond college through apprenticeships.

So, let’s create those conversations. Contact us at employers@weston.ac.uk to engage with the future workforce and grow your business.

David Crew – Head of Employer Partnerships at Weston College

travel and tourism students receiving a lecture from the border force

Travel and Tourism students at were given a firsthand look into the vital work of Border Force during a guest lecture delivered by Andrew and Lucy, representatives from Border Force stationed at Bristol Airport. 

During the engaging session, students were confronted with eye-opening images and real-life case examples, leaving them shocked at the lengths individuals go to smuggle contraband into the UK. Andrew and Lucy not only highlighted the challenges they face but also provided insights into various career opportunities within Border Force, including application processes and entry requirements. 

"We have had a great afternoon with Border Force from Bristol Airport," commented Travel and Tourism lecturer Hannah. "Our learners were shown examples of how many items are smuggled into the UK, and they were taught about the rules of what is and is not allowed to be brought in." 

The interactive nature of the lecture, which included a role-play scenario of searching luggage filled with mock contraband, provided students with a strong understanding of the responsibilities and complexities of Border Force's work. 

Border Force check all passengers and freight arriving in the UK by air and sea and conduct searches for prohibited, counterfeit or restricted goods such as drugs, firearms, weapons, cash, tobacco, and alcohol. 

The session proved to be a valuable opportunity for Level 2 & Level 3 Travel and Tourism learners to gain insights into a critical aspect of the travel industry and to consider potential career paths within Border Force. 

To find out more about Travel and Tourism at Weston College, click here!

music students performing on the stage of a busy nightclub

Last night marked another triumphant showcase for the talented Weston College Music students. Thanks to a special agreement with the venue owner, students took to the stage once again at The Electric Banana. 

Throughout the evening, students not only captivated the audience with their performances but also played a crucial role in setting up the stage and managing transitions between the nine acts scheduled for the night. This hands-on experience showcased their musical talents and helped to highlight their professionalism and technical skills. 

The diverse lineup of performers underscored the eclectic personalities and skillsets built by the music courses. From renditions of 60s classics that resonated with both young and mature audiences alike to energetic punk anthems and the infectious tunes of a closing function band, the night was a testament to the students' versatility and creativity. 

 

Our music students performing on the stage of a busy nightclub

 

One audience member remarked, "It takes me back to my youth and very happy times," reflecting the emotional power of music. Oz students' interpretations of timeless classics left a lasting impression on attendees, showcasing the enduring relevance of musical expression across generations. 

Once again, our students have proven themselves as rising stars in the music scene, leaving their mark on Weston's vibrant cultural landscape!  

This performance forms part of the Creative Arts 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. 

To find out more about Music at Weston College, click here!

Our level 2 sports students posing for a picture in our sports hall

Our sport level 2 students showcased their dedication and organisational skills as they successfully executed a multi-sport event aimed at local SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) schools. The event was the final step in a year-long project for the students, who were responsible for planning and running it. 

Throughout the year, the students carefully planned every detail of the event, from inviting participating schools and conducting risk assessments to health and safety briefings. 

David Crossman at VANS (voluntary North Somerset) provided the students generous support in reaching out to schools, supporting the students to manage their event confidently and determinedly. Their dedication was further underscored by the delivery of a practice event before Christmas, allowing them to refine their strategies and make informed decisions for the main event. 

"The project-based unit has been an incredible learning experience for our sport level 2 students," remarked Jack Gadd, Sports Academy and Enrichment Manager. "Not only did it offer them the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, but it also gave them a sense of responsibility and ownership over their work. The success of the multi-sport event shows how hard they worked and how committed they were”. 

The event, which brought together students from local SEND schools, not only fostered a spirit of inclusivity and teamwork but also provided a platform for participants to showcase their athletic talents and skills across various sports. 

This project forms part of the Sports and Fitness 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.   

To see more about our Sports and Fitness courses, please click here. 

Marketing and Communications

The marketing department is responsible for promoting Weston College to the public, by promoting the Colleges courses, achievements and events.

Our aims are to attract learners to study within the Weston College Group, build and grow the College’s brand and highlight its reputation, and promote the College Group’s success, student progression and outstanding support for our learners.

The marketing department manages the College’s websites and official social media accounts, runs advertising campaigns, creates press releases, and manages many of the College Group’s events, such as Graduation, the Celebration of Success and the Business Awards.

We produce a wide range of publications including our full-time, Higher Education and part-time prospectuses, course leaflets and posters, and other documents such as the College’s annual report, magazines and newsletters, course brochures and the student handbook.

Weston College is committed to providing accurate and timely information for local, regional and national media, and the general public.

The marketing team is available between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Thursday and 8.30am to 4.30pm on Fridays. You can get in touch with us by emailing marketing@weston.ac.uk.

All of our press releases are uploaded to the news section of our websites. News from the academies we sponsor, including the North Somerset Enterprise and Technology College, can be found on the news section of the Inspirational Futures Trust’s website. News pertaining to our Higher Education Provision can be found on www.ucw.ac.uk.

The marketing department produces most imagery and film in house, and keeps an extensive archive of the photographs it takes. If you would like a copy of an image featuring you or a member of your family, please contact us at photography@weston.ac.uk.

Our photos of graduation and many other events can be found on the College’s Facebook page. High quality images can be found on the College’s Flickr account.

Weston College is able to accommodate many requests to provide locations for film and photography. The College has a range of attractive, modern and adaptable facilities which can be viewed on our youtube channel.

We also are able to provide heritage facilities such as the Victorian Hans Price designed Conference Centre and, from September 2017, the 1927 Winter Gardens Pavilion.

For booking details, contact marketing@weston.ac.uk.

For enquiries about sponsoring key events such as Celebration of Success, Business Breakfast, Business Awards and Graduation, please contact the marketing team by email at marketing@weston.ac.uk.

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One Message, Different Voices

Take a look at this powerful film made by the staff of Weston College to show how important it is for everyone from different backgrounds to be included. The film shares heartfelt stories and interviews with a diverse group of staff, showing how accepting different identities and backgrounds can make a big difference. Its purpose is to encourage viewers to think about their own biases and work towards making our community more welcoming to all. We invite everyone, regardless of their background, to join us and be a part of our journey toward a more inclusive future.

Halo workplace logo

Our workplace champions the right of staff to embrace all Afro-hairstyles. We acknowledge that Afro-textured hair is an important part of our Black employees’ racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious identities, and requires specific styling for hair health and maintenance. We celebrate Afro-textured hair worn in all styles including, but not limited to, afros, locs, twists, braids, cornrows, fades, hair straightened through the application of heat or chemicals, weaves, wigs, headscarves, and wraps. In this workplace, we recognise and celebrate our colleagues’ identities. We are a community built on an ethos of equality and respect where hair texture and style have no bearing on an employee's ability to succeed.