Weston College proudly announces its outstanding performance in the recently released national apprenticeship success rates, positioning itself as a leading provider in the education sector. According to the latest data, Weston College has achieved a remarkable success rate of 68.1%, marking a significant increase of 3.5% compared to the previous year.

Barney Willis, Assistant Principal - Apprenticeship and Traineeship Operations, expressed his delight, stating, "The national success rates for apprenticeships were released yesterday, and Weston College performed excellently again this year compared to other apprenticeship providers. Our apprenticeship success this year has risen by 3.5% to 68.1%. National benchmarks are at 54.3%. We are now officially the best College in the south-west and the only one that has met the government’s minimum target of 67%!"

This achievement reaffirms Weston College's commitment to delivering high-quality apprenticeship programs that not only meet but exceed national standards. The College has garnered attention on multiple fronts:

• Weston College ranks in the top 5 nationally when excluding smaller further education (FE) colleges with relatively low numbers of apprentices.
• In a comparison against all provider types, including colleges and other institutions, Weston College secures a spot in the top 10 nationally. Notably, among colleges of similar or larger size, Weston College is unmatched in its success rate.
• Within the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) area, Weston College stands out with a success rate of more than 10% higher than its closest competitors.

Weston College's consistent excellence in apprenticeship provision highlights its position as a beacon of educational excellence, supporting employers and empowering learners to thrive in their chosen fields and contributing to the region's economic growth.

Every year, University Centre Weston holds a photography competition, open to entries both in an international ‘open call’ and to entries from Weston College students. This year’s theme for photos to follow was around ‘Embrace’. This photography award is produced and organised by the BA Hons Photography & Visual Cultures students from UCW, with support from Royal Photographic Society. The awards were presented alongside the Dirigo International Student Film Festival at the Cube Microplex.  

Our student winner for this year was the very talented Lucy Kenchington, who is currently studying the UAL Level 3 Photography course. You can see her impressive work below. 

The runners up for the students category are below: 

Runner up - Tanya Fairall 

Runner up - Viktorija Chvirago 

We caught up with Lucy to get her reaction to her impressive win. Lucy said: "I was a little surprised when I discovered I had won the Embrace competition, especially when I found out how many other photographers had entered.  

“It was a very nice shock. I hope to have a career in photography one day and this feels like a positive first step. Not only did I gain some valuable work experience during the actual shoot, but I am also lucky enough that my photo has been published and displayed in galleries in Bristol and Weston which is great for publicity.”  

The award was also open to an international open call for submissions. The winner in this category was Farid Barari from Tehran, Iran for the incredible piece; Shoemaker!  

The runners up for the open category are as follows:  

Runner up - Amir Farhoud, Modernity Against Modernism, London, UK  

Runner up - Elaine Cristina Melo, The Miracle of innocence, Sao Paulo, Brazil 

Commended - Tony Jordan, Stroud, UK 

We proudly celebrate Fiona's remarkable tenure of over 31 years of continuous full-time service. Fiona, currently serving as College Registrar and Lead Safeguarding Officer, embarked on her journey with the College in a different role, starting as an Information Officer during a pivotal transition period.

Reflecting on her enduring commitment, Fiona expressed, "Quite simply, I feel that my job is not yet finished. The education sector is like sand dunes, constantly shifting with the winds of government initiatives and funding. Despite the challenges, I've never found the grass to be greener elsewhere."

Throughout her tenure, Fiona has been instrumental in numerous initiatives and achievements. Notably, she was elected to represent the further education sector on the original Metropolitan Police National Counter Terrorism Advisory Board, conducting research on radicalisation in coastal communities. Additionally, Fiona's unwavering dedication to supporting learners through safeguarding disclosures has been pivotal in guiding them toward brighter futures. 

When asked about the culture and atmosphere at Weston College, Fiona emphasized the institution's steadfast focus on learners and their individual journeys.

Fiona's dedication to students has been the foundation of her experience at Weston College. "Without learners, the College has no heartbeat," she noted, highlighting the pride she feels in seeing alumni succeed in various fields.

Regarding staff support and development, Fiona believes Weston College stands apart due to its culture of opportunity, optimism, and genuine encouragement. As a staff member, she emphasized the importance of seizing every opportunity and embracing discomfort as avenues for personal and professional growth.

In offering advice to new staff members, Fiona imparted three key principles: cherish time, embrace growth opportunities, and foster camaraderie with colleagues, who become like a second family. 

As Fiona's journey continues, we extend our deepest gratitude for her unwavering dedication and profound impact on the College and its community.

Our Performing Arts learners recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to the heart of London, immersing themselves in the vibrant world of professional theatre. The trip proved to be an invaluable experience, encouraging independence, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the theatrical craft among the students. 

Students from both Level 2 and Level 3 Performing Arts programs, spanning pathways of Musical Theatre, Dance, and Acting, were treated to a mesmerizing performance of the renowned musical Back to The Future at the prestigious Adelphi Theatre in London's West End. Witnessing the magic of live theatre first-hand, the learners were inspired by the production's excellence, igniting a passion to excel further in their training. 

"This new and exciting musical gave our learners the opportunity to experience a professional production and inspire them to continue working hard in their training" remarked Joe Miller, Lecturer in Performing Arts at Weston College. "This also gave students the opportunity to further their skills in professional etiquette and witness professionals at their best. " 

Following the show, the learners spent a night in London, preparing for an equally thrilling day ahead. The itinerary included a spine-chilling visit to the London Dungeons, offering both entertainment and educational value. Here, students had the unique opportunity to observe live actors up close, acquiring their improvisation skills and learning from seasoned professionals in an immersive environment. 

The adventure continued with a ride on the iconic London Eye, providing breath-taking views of the city skyline. Additionally, students were granted free time to explore London independently, to take in all the sights and see iconic landmarks. 

"Overall, the trip was a huge success and allowed all our learners to build on their skills, build their confidence and experience professionals working in the theatre industry”, Joe added. 

The London theatrical adventure not only enriched the students' academic pursuits but also served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. As they return to Weston College, these budding artists carry with them memories and lessons that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavours in the performing arts. 

This journey to London forms part of the Creative Arts Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys. 

To find out more about our Creative Arts courses, please click here.

Last week we were extremely pleased to welcome Iain ‘Robbo’ Robertson to our Loxton Campus for an exciting guest lecture. Iain has years of experience in the music industry, allowing him to give students a direct insight into the music industry and how it works.  

Iain worked as a Tour Manager, a key role in the music industry which means looking after all of the musicians and crew while on the road. This role includes communicating with concert producers and venues to coordinate sound check and set times. On top of this, a Tour Manager will often look after the band's hospitality needs and ensure that the artist's rider requests are met.  

Some of the artists that Iain has managed tours for include Gary Moore, BB King, Spandau Ballet, Sisters of Mercy and even Oasis! He is now Managing our very own alumni Alex Lipinski who a rising star on the Music scene! Iain was able to give learners knowledge, insights and tell riveting stories about tour management. This helped our learners to learn the realities of an ever changing, fascinating and wonderful industry. 

Oz Cahill, one of the music instructors at Weston College organised the guest lecture and had this to say: “One of the most important and valuable opportunities for our learners is to connect with genuine industry professionals. It was a real privilege to have Iain Robertson, an Industry Legend, give us his time in the Music Department of Weston College.” 

This guest speaker forms part of the Creative Arts Careers Excellence Hub. At Weston College our approach goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through industry speakers, workshops, employer projects, and more, we equip our learners with the real-world experiences and insights that set them apart in the competitive job market. It's not just about getting a job; it's about standing out from the crowd when they embark on their job searches. 

A huge thanks to Iain for coming in and supporting our students!  

To find out more about music at Weston College, click here.

Learners studying Level 2 and 3 courses part of our Career Excellence Hub in Hair and Beauty, embarked on a thrilling trip last week to Beauty Rooms Medi Spa, where they had the opportunity to see a health spa in action.

Guided by Amanda from Beauty Rooms Medi Spa, our learners were treated to a tour of the spa, and were also able to gain hands-on experience with Caci and Guinot machines, as well as discovering all about franchising opportunities.

Jenna Ratcliffe, Divisional Lead for Service Sectors at Weston College, said: “It was fantastic for our learners to be able to visit Beauty Rooms Medi Spa.

“The feedback from learners has been overwhelmingly positive, with several expressing how they feel more motivated since visiting the spa.

“At Weston College we are all about careers, and not courses, and this is the perfect example of our Career Excellence Hub in action. A big thank you to Amanda for the tour, we look forward to working closely with you over the coming months.”

Find out more about our Beauty courses, by clicking here.

Last year Weston College and University Centre Weston (UCW) launched a new scholarship, for Engineering learners, in partnership with the Luke Wheaton Trust, which honours the memory of former learner Luke Wheaton, one of Weston College’s most inspiring apprentices working with Wessex Water. 

The scholarship, which is available for one student, per year, is open to any apprentice studying on a Level 2, 3, 4 or 6 Engineering apprenticeship at Weston College. 

Each scholarship is worth £4,000, with students receiving £1,000 per year for up to four years. The scholarship is renewable annually, subject to progress being made as agreed in partnership between the College and the apprentice’s employer. 

This year, Weston College and UCW announced that Heather, an apprentice with the Ministry of Defence, would be the recipient of the scholarship. 

Heather’s achievement marks not only her commitment to academic excellence but also her passion for expanding her horizons within the field. 

We caught up with Heather, to hear her thoughts on the scholarship, her experiences at UCW, and her aspirations for the future. 

When asked about the benefits she hopes to gain from the scholarship, Heather expressed her excitement about exploring various activities related to marine engineering. She plans to undertake a diving course and weld coding, recognising their significance in marine maintenance, investigation, and salvage operations. 

Heather credits UCW for fostering her growth both academically and personally. The university provided a supportive environment for her to acclimate to student life away from home and encouraged collaborative learning among apprentices. Utilising tools like Blackboard to organise her coursework, Heather found the practical labs and workshops to be particularly engaging, allowing her to expand her theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills. 

Regarding the support from lecturers, Heather highlighted the invaluable assistance she received from workshop technicians in her first year. As she progresses into her second year, Heather has found her lecturers to be supportive and helpful, further enhancing her learning experience at UCW. 

Heather commended UCW’s state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, which have greatly facilitated her studies. From well-resourced workshop facilities for machining, welding, and CNC to comprehensive laboratory setups, UCW’s resources have enriched Heather’s understanding of theoretical concepts and practical applications. 

Looking ahead, Heather expressed her anticipation for future modules, particularly highlighting her enjoyment of thermodynamics thus far. She looks forward to delving deeper into her studies and completing performance packs for her NVQ4, which validate the practical aspects of her apprenticeship, including problem-solving and quality assurance. 

As for her ambitions, Heather remains steadfast in her goal to pursue a career in marine engineering, acknowledging its diverse nature and the myriad opportunities it presents. While the specifics of her future role are yet to be determined, Heather’s unwavering dedication and enthusiasm ensure a promising journey ahead. 

Heather’s journey exemplifies the spirit of excellence and determination fostered at UCW, and her receipt of the scholarship serves as a testament to her dedication to the field of marine engineering. As she continues to embark on her academic and professional endeavours, Heather stands as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring engineers everywhere. 

Well done Heather! 

You can find out about engineering at Weston College by clicking here, and find out about apprenticeships by clicking here.

It's Neurodiversity Celebration Week! To celebrate, we want to showcase some information regarding inclusion awareness training.

Weston College has seen increasing demand from our employer network for neurodiversity and inclusion awareness training. Business demand, alongside only 1 in 5 autistic adults being in employment, resulted in the College creating training for employers to access, supporting businesses to make inclusive adjustments in hiring and employment processes. Supporting existing staff has also been a theme given that 65% of neurodivergent employees do not disclose their conditions due to fear of discrimination improving inclusion strategies and policies will foster a more inclusive workplace.  

During the past 18 months, over 450 people from 40+ businesses have been trained; sharing key knowledge on recruiting, retaining, and supporting staff and customers. Workshops cover autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia along with racism, LGBTQ+ issues, sensory differences, and trauma-informed response.  

The initiative has generated promising results, with businesses like Mendip Activity Centre, Puxton Park, and The Grand Pier implementing changes to become more neurodiversity friendly. Puxton Park has made its facilities more inclusive and accessible, diversified its workforce, and created tailored roles for applicants.  

Similarly, Mendip Activity Centre, known for its outdoor activities, underwent dedicated training, fostering empathy and understanding among staff members. The Grand Pier now provides sensory-sensitive equipment and a quiet room for visitors with sensory sensitivities.  

Mendip Activity Centre, known for its adventurous outdoor activities’ welcome individuals and groups of all ages and abilities took part in dedicated training. One staff member remarked that, "Just by putting yourself in someone else’s shoes who is neurodivergent was hugely impactful and we don’t have the ability to understand unless we ask".   

Lynsey McKinstry, Business Partnership Manager for SEND provision, has continued to support businesses in their goals to understand and value individual needs. The initiative aims to create a genuinely inclusive society where everyone can thrive. " Instilling Inclusion at every level and opening employment routes for neurodivergent employees; the journey into inclusive practice is not just about ticking a box, but about creating a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive utilising incredible skills that are often overlooked."  

Employers interested in the training can contact Lynsey at employers@weston.ac.uk or visit our Inclusive Practice page.

As part of Futures Month, Weston College had the privilege of hosting a transformative workshop led by renowned Sports Psychologist Marcus Nel. This workshop left a lasting impact on L3 and L4 learners, providing valuable insights into the world of sports psychology and performance optimisation. 

Marcus Nel, a highly qualified and respected figure in the field of sports psychology, brings a wealth of experience working with elite athletes, including his contributions to the success of Bristol Bears and Gloucestershire Cricket. His expertise and proven track record in enhancing mental resilience and performance have made him a sought-after professional in the sporting world. 

The workshop aimed to empower learners with practical strategies and psychological tools to maximise their potential both in and out of the sporting arena. Marcus Nel delved into key aspects of mental toughness, stress management, and goal setting, offering a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and real-world applications. 

The workshop was structured to engage participants in interactive discussions, case studies, and practical exercises, providing them with a hands-on understanding of the principles Marcus Nel advocates for peak performance. Attendees gained valuable perspectives on the psychological aspects of athletic achievement, fostering a holistic approach to their personal and professional development. 

"We are thrilled to have had Marcus Nel join us for this enriching workshop. His expertise and engaging presentation style captivated our learners, and the knowledge shared will contribute to their growth and success," remarked Dan Lomax, FE Curriculum Co-ordinator in Sport and Health. 

This workshop forms part of the Sport and Fitness Careers Excellence Hub; Weston College is committed to preparing learners for success in a rapidly evolving job market which is reflected in our offer via our bespoke Career Excellence Hubs, which form an integral part of all college programmes. In a world where professional networks and industry-specific skills are integral to landing employment, these hubs provide a unique solution to bridge the gap between education and industry demands. 

Interested in finding out more about our Sport and Fitness courses? Click here.