News and events

Students and staff from the Faculty of Inclusive Practice have successfully completed their first international SEND residential training programme in Canada, made possible by the Turing Scheme, a fantastic initiative designed to break down financial barriers and open doors to global learning opportunities.

The Turing Scheme provides vital funding to education providers, helping ensure students of all backgrounds can access international study and training opportunities. The programme supports a more inclusive and globally-minded educational experience that empowers students to gain practical skills, global awareness, and lifelong memories.

The group travelled across western Canada, starting in Vancouver. They visited major landmarks such as Stanley Park, the Capilano ‘Bessant’ Bridge cliff walk, Grouse Mountain, and experienced local culture through food and city life, sampling local favourites like poutine, moose burgers, and towering stacks of maple syrup-covered pancakes.

The group then travelled to Hudson’s Hope in British Columbia, where they spent time living in a rural community. They visited sites such as the Peace Canyon Dam, took part in fossil hunting, campfire cooking, and school-based activities. Each student also completed work experience placements and contributed to daily tasks such as preparing meals.

During the trip, the group visited several lakes, hiked local trails, explored caves, and took part in activities including baseball training. Many tried new foods and saw wildlife including moose and bears.

For many students, this was their first time leaving the country or flying. They adapted well to the challenges of international travel and unfamiliar environments, building confidence and learning practical skills, from navigating airports and ordering transport to interacting with local communities and managing daily routines.

The experience provided valuable personal and professional development, giving students the opportunity to grow their independence, expand their cultural understanding, and develop new workplace and life skills in a completely different setting.

Thank you to the staff who attended, this trip would not have been possible without your efforts and support!

Weston college is one of three SEND Centres for Excellence, click her to find out more.

Weston College is delighted to announce a partnership with Boeing, a leading global aerospace company, as part of its expanding Careers Excellence Hub. This exciting collaboration aims to bring students closer to the heart of industry and help shape the next generation of aerospace professionals.

Through this strategic partnership, Boeing will work with Weston College to offer students a range of industry-tailored experiences. Engineering learners will benefit from expert-led guest lectures and opportunities to participate in curriculum-linked projects that reflect the real challenges and standards of the global aerospace industry.

The partnership will also enhance students’ understanding of the career pathways available within aviation and engineering by facilitating networking events, and industry taster sessions. In addition, Boeing will support the development of Weston College’s curriculum by providing insight into the latest industry practices, ensuring students are equipped with the skills and knowledge required by employers.

"Boeing is excited to partner with Weston College, a vital ally in our strategic growth in the region”, said Lee Parks, Apprentice Manager, Boeing UK. “Together, we are committed to nurturing the next generation of talent through the Digital Professional Level 6 Apprenticeship. Our shared passion for development was evident when Weston College recently hosted a Boeing-supported aviation-themed mobile Newton Room, reinforcing our dedication to shaping the future of aerospace innovation.

For students on vocational, T Level, and Supported Internship programmes, this collaboration will give an insight to careers within a global company. Boeing will also contribute to staff development, enabling Weston College educators to deepen their own industry knowledge and further enrich the classroom experience for learners.

The partnership strengthens Weston College’s Careers Excellence Hub, which is designed to connect students directly with top employers and help them make informed, confident steps toward successful and sustainable careers. By aligning education with real-world industry needs, Weston College continues to raise the bar for technical and vocational training in the South West — ensuring its learners leave college career-ready, confident, and competitive in the global job market.

Click here to view our engineering courses.

Max and Kieran, two Brickwork Construction students from Weston College, recently demonstrated their skill and professionalism at the South West Skills (SWS) Challenge Construction event held at Yeovil College. Competing against learners from other local colleges, the pair were set the demanding task of building a stretcher bond wall featuring a 90-degree herringbone pattern with recessed joints—an intricate challenge that tested precision, speed, and skills.

Although only first and second place were awarded prizes, Max and Kieran narrowly missed out, with judges remarking on how close the competition was. Remarkably, they completed the task in just four hours which was an hour ahead of the allotted five-hour limit. This showcased their excellent time management and efficiency under pressure.

The SWS Challenge series, newly introduced this academic year, covers a range of subject areas and aims to enhance technical abilities and build students’ confidence for future employment and competitions. Events like these are crucial in helping students apply their classroom learning to real-world application. They provide a platform for learners to develop key transferable skills such as problem-solving, organisation, and communication in a high-pressure, hands-on environment.

Max and Kieran’s performance was applauded not only for the quality of their work but also for their professionalism and attitude. Christie Ross and Duncan Edwards, two of our Brickwork Construction lecturers and their personal tutors, accompanied them to the event and expressed how proud they were of how Max and Kieran held themselves throughout the day.

Christie shared, “I was told by the brickwork staff there they were an absolute credit to Weston College—and they were! They went in, had fun with it, and represented Weston College perfectly. Hopefully next year, when we host the competition, we will get some points for the home team!"

Beyond the technical experience, the competition offered the students valuable opportunities to network with industry professionals serving as judges, who provided constructive feedback to assist in their continued development. It also gave them the chance to connect with peers who share similar interests and aspirations in construction.

After college, both Max and Kieran are set to begin apprenticeships in September with Dan Findlay Construction Ltd., working on Persimmon sites. Their experience at the SWS Challenge has made them more prepared for the next step in their careers. They walked away not only with new skills and insights, but with a few souvenirs and a memorable experience that will shape their personal and professional journey.

Well done to Max and Kieran for their hard work and their professionalism, you did Weston College proud!

If you’re interested in applying to one of our Construction courses, click here.