Last Saturday (7th June), the Italian Gardens and Winter Gardens came alive with music, fun activities, great food and community spirit as students, families and friends gathered for the Weston College Summer Spectacular, celebrating the end of the academic year and the Class of 2025! 

The all-day event featured live music performances by talented learners, interactive curriculum showcases, and a wide array of family-friendly activities, all designed to highlight the creativity, innovation, and dedication of students and staff alike. The event was officially opened by Weston-super-Mare's new Mayor, Councillor Martin Williams, who was accompanied by the Mayoress, Mrs Brenda Charles. 

Inside the Winter Gardens, Performing Arts students took centre stage with a preview of their 2025 production, Echoes of the Stage, featuring standout performances from Anything Goes, Cabaret, Les Misérables, and Back to the Future. Musical Theatre and Dance for Commercial Performance (BA Hons) students wowed the crowd with dynamic routines and powerful stage presence. The day also marked a special milestone for our newly formed Adult Community Choir, who made a memorable debut on the iconic Ballroom stage. 

Despite the rain, outdoors on the Italian Gardens, the Music and Production learners took to the stage, showcasing a wide range of talent—from Level 1 students to Higher Education performers from the BA (Hons) in Professional Music Performance and Production at University Centre Weston. Visitors also enjoyed hands-on curriculum experiences, including PC-building demos, VR simulations, automotive diagnostics with a hydrogen-powered car, and nature-inspired sun catchers from the Early Years team. One of the day’s highlights was a special visit from the adorable alpacas from the College’s Animal Management Centre at Puxton Park! 

Throughout the day, curriculum areas held their own award ceremonies, recognising student achievements in front of proud friends, families, and tutors. A standout moment was the Game, Media, Photography, and Film Awards Ceremony in the Ballroom, where learners had popcorn and had a chance to showcase their work to their family and friends and they were honoured with accolades like ‘Learner of the Year’, ‘Heart of Gold’, and the ‘Perseverance’ Award. 

Pat Jones, Principal and CEO of Weston College, commented: “This year’s Summer Spectacular has truly showcased the strength of our community. It’s been inspiring to see learners, families, staff and the wider community come together to celebrate a year of hard work and creativity in the centre of our town. We wish the Class of 2025 every success in their next chapter!” 

With hundreds in attendance, the Summer Spectacular was a vibrant reminder of the power of education, collaboration, and celebration. We’re already looking forward to next year’s event! 

The celebrations don’t stop there! On Wednesday 11th June we held our Creative Arts Summer Showcase at our Loxton Campus! The showcase celebrates creativity and achievement, featuring an inspiring exhibition of design, art, media and game and animation and fashion projects from students across all levels and disciplines! The showcase is open until 20th June so make sure to head over and check it out!