News and events

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.