News and events

Ewan, a Hospitality and Catering Apprentice, has been working hard during his placement at COR Restaurant, where his dedication and growth have not gone unnoticed. Over the past six months, Ewan’s efforts and professionalism have impressed the team at COR so much that they took to social media to celebrate his achievements.

In a glowing post, the restaurant described Ewan as a polite professional and highlighted his enthusiasm, team spirit, and hunger to learn. They praised his initiative, noting his ability to create a delicious tiramisu and expressing excitement for his continued development in 2025.

Ewan is in his second year of a Level 2 Hospitality and Catering Apprenticeship with Weston College and shared insights about his journey so far. He described his apprenticeship as highly educational and credited COR Restaurant for providing a welcoming environment where the team’s kindness and support have helped him grow. One of his favourite aspects of the experience has been learning from the talented chefs he works alongside, an opportunity he believes has significantly boosted his skills, knowledge, and confidence.

Ewan chose his apprenticeship because it offered the practical, hands-on experience he needed to thrive in the catering industry. He values the supportive nature of his workplace and colleagues, who have helped him navigate any challenges that arise. Reflecting on his time at Weston College, he commended the staff and praised the excellent kitchen facilities, which have further enriched his learning experience.

For those considering an apprenticeship, Ewan emphasised the importance of having a genuine passion for the field. He encouraged future learners to pursue apprenticeships if they are clear about their interests and career aspirations, as the experience provides invaluable real-world learning and growth opportunities.

Ewan’s journey so far stands as a testament to how dedication, curiosity, and the right support can set the stage for a bright future in the hospitality industry.

Thank you to COR Restaurant for giving Ewan this opportunity and providing him with a supportive, hands-on environment that is encouraging his growth and building confidence in his ability.

If you are interested in applying for a Hospitality and Catering Apprenticeship, click here.

UCW is excited to announce the addition of a Chartered Management Institute (CMI) accredited diploma as part of its Operations / Departmental Manager Level 5 Apprenticeship. This new addition aims to provide learners with essential leadership and management skills, empowering them to excel in their careers and achieve chartered manager status through the CMI. 

UCW is also making this high-quality course available as a standalone Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) option for those looking to upskill independently. This flexible online course, supported by CMI’s state-of-the-art virtual suite, allows learners to tailor their learning experience to suit their schedules, making it accessible for busy professionals who need to balance study with other commitments. 

Learners enrolled in the CMI module will benefit from the latest in digital education, with a full online suite offered by the CMI. The course structure includes four group workshops each year (these may be on site), designed to reinforce online learning with interactive, real-world applications. 

The CMI is the only chartered professional body in the UK dedicated to promoting the highest standards of Management and Leadership excellence. CMI gives managers and leaders, and their organisations, the skills they need to improve their performance and create an impact. Chartered Manager is the highest accolade in the management profession. Awarded only by CMI, it is recognised throughout the public, private and third sectors across all managerial disciplines. Becoming a Chartered Manager means that you’ll join an elite group who prove they have the skills and knowledge to deliver results. 

To enquire about the CMI-accredited Operations / Departmental Manager Level 5 Apprenticeship or the standalone HTQ course, please contact UCW's Apprenticeships Team at apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk 

In December, a group of A Level Media students and Creative Arts Media Course students had an exciting opportunity to explore the world of professional media production. They visited BBC’s newest and most advanced studios in Cardiff, where they were introduced to a dynamic environment bursting with cutting-edge technology.

The students toured the BBC newsrooms, gaining insights into the tools and techniques used in modern broadcasting, including augmented reality, virtual reality, green screens, and state-of-the-art cameras. They also explored the radio broadcasting facilities and engaged in conversations with presenters and producers to better understand the complexities of creating live programming.

The visit extended beyond the BBC studios to the National Museum of Cardiff, where the students immersed themselves in the arts, culture, and history of Wales. This enriched their understanding of the cultural context that often influences media production. In the afternoon, they worked collaboratively in groups to tour Cardiff and create engaging vlogs documenting their experiences, combining creativity with technical skills.

This hands-on experience was invaluable for the students, as it offered a glimpse into potential career paths and opportunities in the media industry. By engaging with professionals and experiencing real-world production environments, they developed a deeper understanding of media processes and the progression opportunities available after completing their studies. The visit served as both an educational and inspirational experience, equipping the learners with practical knowledge and sparking enthusiasm for their future in media.

Thank you to BBC Cardiff for having our Media learners and giving them insight into the available pathways.

If you are interested in applying to one of our Media courses in September, click here.