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Earn while you learn, at global engineering organisation, GKN Aerospace.

We have teamed up with GKN Aerospace to offer 23 vacancies, with roles including:

• Aerospace Engineer Degree Apprentice
• Engineering Production Apprentice
• Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice
• Engineering Technical Support Technician Apprentice.

BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION HERE

GKN Aerospace design, manufacture and service systems and components for manufacturers around the world. This opportunity will give you the chance to not only gain a qualification but also get experience from some of the best engineers in the country.

This exclusive apprenticeship programme starts in September 2024 and will allow you to be in paid employment from as young as 16 year old, whilst also studying towards one of three professional and recognised engineering qualifications.

As a GKN Apprentice your time will be split between the real-world production facilities (Filton) or Western Approach (Bristol) and Weston College’s engineering campus on Locking Road (Weston-super-Mare). 

It's easy to apply, fill in the form below and we will be in touch to discuss your application, answer any questions and support you with your next steps.

The closing date for applications is 23rd February 2024, which will be followed by an initial assessment for successful candidates. 

T Levels are the future of technical education, designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and practical workplace experience. These two-year courses offer students a unique opportunity to gain valuable knowledge and skills that are directly relevant to their chosen industry. At Weston College, there are 13 different T Level courses on offer, spanning from Education & Early Years to Engineering & Manufacturing, and Construction, plus many more. 

Weston College are the largest provider of T Levels in the region, and on results day in August, an 100% pass rate was achieved by our learners.

One of the standout features of T Levels is the industry placement, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing the learner's understanding of the real-world workplace. There are a huge number of benefits of industry placements, and the results show a positive impact on the employers and their business. 

T Levels are tailored to the specific needs of industries and provide students with a deep understanding of their chosen field. When businesses host T Level learners for industry placements, they contribute to the development of a more skilled and job-ready workforce. Employers can actively shape the future workforce by imparting industry-specific knowledge and skills to the next generation. Some of the fantastic employers we already work with include national employers such as the NHS, regional employers such as Wessex Water, and local SMEs. These employers have recognised the untapped talent that can be provided to the business, and were first in line to experience it. 

One example is one of the largest financial employers in the UK, who had five T Level students on placement last year. The students made such a positive impression that the employer has given four of those students a job offer to work for them when they finish their course. That’s proof that T Levels work.  

Recruiting and training new employees can be an expensive and time-consuming process. When businesses provide T Level learners with industry placements, they are effectively getting to know potential future employees. This hands-on experience allows employers to assess the learner's aptitude, work ethic, and compatibility with the company culture. This reduces the risk of making poor hiring decisions and can ultimately lead to cost savings in recruitment and training. 

T Level learners bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to businesses. They often have a strong theoretical foundation and can apply their classroom knowledge to real-world situations. Employers benefit from the infusion of new ideas and approaches, which can lead to improved processes, products, or services. 

Students on industry placements are highly motivated to learn and make a positive impression. Employers often find that T Level learners contribute to increased productivity by taking on tasks and projects with enthusiasm. Their energy and eagerness to learn can inspire and motivate existing employees, creating a positive work environment. 

Hosting T Level learners on industry placements is an excellent way to identify and nurture potential talent for the future. Businesses can establish a pipeline of skilled and knowledgeable workers who are already familiar with their operations and industry. This can lead to more seamless onboarding and faster integration of new employees when they transition from students to full-time workers. 

T Levels offer substantial advantages to both businesses and learners. By providing industry placements to T Level learners, employers can help shape a skilled and job-ready workforce, reduce recruitment costs, introduce fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, enhance productivity, create a talent pipeline, contribute to corporate social responsibility, and align with government initiatives. 

The positive impact of T Levels on businesses is a win-win scenario, benefiting both employers and the future workforce. Encouraging more employers to pledge to have T Level learners on placement with them is not just a sound business decision but also a valuable investment in the growth and prosperity of industries and communities. 

Throughout the month of November, we have set ourselves the challenge of receiving 150 T Level pledges from business owners and employers just like you. Don’t miss out on your opportunity to change the future of your business through an industry placement - click here to find out more. 

We look forward to working with you! 

Dave Crew, Head of Business Growth & Employer Partnerships 

Meet Jess from VADO! Jess completed her Leadership and Management Apprenticeship with Weston College and received top honours at the Weston College Business Awards. She was named Leadership and Management Apprentice of the Year and Overall Apprentice of the Year. Learn more about her story below...

"I really enjoyed my apprenticeship journey; it opened a world of opportunities to me. The modules were broken down clearly and this made it manageable. Once I had set up a structure to how I would complete each module I could really commit and throw myself into it! The whole experience was a highlight, even modules that I did not think I would enjoy as much actually turned out to be some of my favourites, I love to learn and understand, and this apprenticeship was right up my street.

The knowledge and skills I gained during my apprenticeship were transformative, both personally and professionally. I delved deep into the nuances of being a manager, understanding the various facets of leadership, and mastering the art of emotional intelligence. These newfound skills didn’t just stay confined to my coursework; they became an integral part of my managerial approach. 

I applied these skills to navigate complex situations, manage change effectively, and foster a positive work environment. The project management skills I acquired proved instrumental, especially when I transitioned to a new team. Every lesson learned, every theory grasped, and every skill acquired became a stepping stone, propelling me toward my goal of senior management within VADO. I was promoted at the end of my course and the skills I developed have helped me make this transition, I am still learning but it has given me a great foundation overall to make that step further and continue to develop. 

Balancing work and study was undoubtedly challenging at first however, with time and determination, I discovered a rhythm that worked seamlessly for me. Having a supportive network made this balancing act much easier. The unwavering support from my manager, Michelle, and my tutor, Greg, played a pivotal role in shaping my learning experience. Michelle’s hands-on approach and dedication, coupled with Greg’s mentorship, guided me through the intricacies of the course. Their understanding and encouragement allowed me the time and space I needed to excel in both my work and studies. 

I was incredibly fortunate and humbled to be nominated for Apprentice of the Year at the Weston College Business Awards. Winning the award was beyond my wildest dreams! I owe this achievement to the incredible people around me at VADO and Weston College. To be recognised as the overall learner of the year left me speechless.

Reflecting on my journey, my advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship is simple: go for it! The knowledge and confidence I have gained on this journey have been amazing. This experience has not only helped me build great relationships within VADO but has also opened doors to endless possibilities. Weston College made the entire experience easy, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity."

If you're interested in the leadership & management opportunities available at Weston College, click here!