Courses for 16 to 18-year-olds (old)
COURSES FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS
With hundreds of unique, exciting and inspiring programmes to choose from, everything you need to create your brighter future is waiting for you at Weston College.
From the minute you walk through the door, the experience and the environment that we create is all about maximising your potential. It’s about preparing and motivating you for a fresh and focused career pathway.
Every Weston College student becomes part of one of our exciting new Career Excellence Hubs. This means you will take part in a study programme with lots of career boosting benefits, all with the aim of help you to go further, giving you the opportunity to become career ready with the skills, knowledge and expertise you need to be successful in your next step and reach your ultimate goal - whatever that may be!
Whether you are looking for the next step after school or the next step in your career, we're bound to have a programme for you. Take a look below at the different types of qualifications available for school leavers and young people between 16 and 18 years old.
Did you know we also run English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)?
Start your brighter future by selecting a subject you're interested in below, and don't forget - you can apply online and it only takes 5 minutes!
Discover our range of courses for school leavers aged 16-18 using the search options below...
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Find Your Future Path
Qualifications Explained
At Weston College we know that everyone learns differently. That’s why we deliver a variety of different qualification types - to give you the chance to learn in the way that suits you the most.
A Levels
A Levels develop the knowledge, skills and study habits to excel at university, as well as the attributes recognised by employers. Your academic studies will be complemented with enrichment opportunities such as trips, mentoring and work experience, providing the perfect springboard for your future career. A Levels are assessed through exams at the end of two years of study. Most learners study three subjects - some choose four.
Apprenticeships
With an apprenticeship you’ll go straight into the workplace and be shown clear routes to progress straight into employment within a specific occupation. You can achieve nationally recognised qualifications, earn a wage, and gain skills that will see you get ahead. On average you will spend 20% of your learning time in the college and 80% within the workplace..
Professional and Technical Qualifications
Professional and technical qualifications are designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to gain employment within specific industries or occupations. They provide a balance between theory and practical skills development. They are suited to those who want to get hands-on experience within a particular vocational area. These programmes include work placements. Assessment is more varied and will include exams, coursework and practical work.
Traineeships
Traineeships are a great way for 16 to 24-year-olds who haven’t yet gained the skills and experiences necessary to apply for jobs and apprenticeships. They are taught mostly in the workplace and include a mixture of personal and social development, and employability skills. The aim of a traineeship is to train you within a company so that you are more likely to be offered an apprenticeship or a job.
T Levels give you the chance to learn what a real career is like while you continue your studies. T Levels have been designed with leading businesses and employers to give you the knowledge and skills you need, including a minimum of 45 days on an industry placement – this means you will spend 80% of your learning time in College and 20% within the workplace.
CHOOSING WHAT TO STUDY
We are all about CAREERS NOT COURSES and pride ourselves on being able to offer a huge range of programmes to ensure you develop the skills and knowledge employers and universities are looking for. As the only education provider in North Somerset that enables you to work your way up from an entrylevel programme to a degree, we’re here to help you choose the right programme for you.
We can help you choose your study programme or apprenticeship by accessing the following support:
School Liaison Team
Working with local schools we help you find out about college life and programmes of study, and we provide you with advice and guidance about what programmes will best suit you. We will either visit your school, attend careers fairs and parents’ evenings or coordinate campus and virtual events such as our taster days, holiday workshops and tours.
Events
We put on a number of events over the year, which will be a mixture of face-to-face and virtual events. These provide you and your family with the opportunity to explore our facilities, speak to our lecturers, find out about the support on offer and choose the right programme for you. Our events also give you the opportunity to engage with a number of employers to find out about careers in their industry and why they value the calibre of candidates that come from Weston College.
CAREERS ADVICE
- On our website you can access a wealth of career guidance, such as:
- All the programmes you can study.
- What our alumni have gone on to achieve.
- Labour Market Intelligence (LMI) that will help explain what relevant careers and jobs are available, including salaries.
- NEW – Subject careers roadmaps, so you can map your journey with us and ensure it will get you into your chosen career. Also, check out Career Coach - this provides you with the opportunity to:
- Take an assessment that matches you with careers.
- Explore broad career pathways that match your strengths and interests.
- Compare careers within a pathway - including salaries, required education and more.
- Explore our programmes that will set you on the path to your desired career.
- Take a career assessment - and receive an in-depth report that can help you identify the best programme and career path for you!
We’re here and happy to help – if you would like more advice and guidance, contact our school liaison team by emailing schoolteam@weston.ac.uk. - they you can arrange a one-to-one careers appointment with our specialist staff.
LATEST NEWS
<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last week, Weston College hosted a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</u></a> <strong>WorldSkills International Pressure Test</strong> ahead of the upcoming <strong>WorldSkills Shanghai</strong> competition, welcoming competitors from Team UK, Northern Ireland, and Spain. The event provided a valuable opportunity for competitors to test themselves in a high-pressure but supported environment while offering staff and peers a unique insight into the different techniques, approaches and professional standards demonstrated across countries.</p><p>Over four days, competitors completed a series of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</u></a> practical assessments designed to replicate the intensity of the WorldSkills competitions. These included full body masks, hot stone massages, facials, leg and underarm waxing, lash lift and tint, brow lamination and tint, manicure and pedicure, and creative makeovers. Each task challenged participants to demonstrate exceptional technical ability, precision, organisation, adaptability and time management under strict competition conditions.</p><drupal-entity alt=""Competitor from Spain waxing clients leg"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8e5352b-5a8c-4710-b970-124dc9cc6aae" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity><p>Experiences like these help raise the aspirations of our current learners, provide valuable insight into the opportunities available through skills competitions, and encourage them to pursue challenges like this which will enhance their abilities. They also strengthen links with industry and international partners, creating networking opportunities and reinforcing Weston College's reputation as a high-achieving Careers Excellence Hub.</p><p>Hosting competitions like these provide Weston College with a fantastic opportunity to welcome international competitors and raise the profile of our learners and the college. Not only this, students, staff, and competitors are able to observe industry-leading professionals in action, gaining first-hand exposure to the standards, techniques and professionalism expected at the highest level of the beauty industry. </p><p>The treatments carried out during the Pressure Test were offered to Weston College staff, allowing competitors to perform on real clients in a realistic competition setting. Staff not only supported the competitors throughout the event but also experienced the exceptional standard of treatments being delivered, helping to create a realistic environment that closely reflected the requirements of an international competition.</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Industries at Weston College, said, “Being able to host Pressure Tests like this and welcome international competitors is a fantastic opportunity for Weston College and provides excellent networking opportunities for our students. It highlights our high-quality facilities whilst demonstrating the standards of talent and support that our current learners receive when studying at Weston College. We encourage as many enrichment opportunities and experiences as possible to ensure our students have a wide skillset and are prepared for the expectations and careers available to them within the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</u></a> industry.”</p><p>Good luck to all the competitors competing in WorldSkills Shanghai next month!</p><p>This visit forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</u></a> Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys. </p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p>
<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Weston College is proud to announce the launch of its <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; Foundation Apprenticeship</strong>, starting in October 2026, designed to support both local businesses and young people to thrive in the sector. </p><p>The programme offers a unique opportunity for employers to build their future workforce early, while supporting young people in gaining meaningful experiences and confidence in a real working environment. </p><p>Foundation Apprenticeships are employed roles with structured support, combining practical, on-the-job experience with one day per week of college-based learning. </p><p><strong>Benefits to Hospitality Businesses</strong> </p><p>With the busy autumn and Christmas trading period approaching, Weston College is calling on hospitality businesses to take advantage of this time to train and develop new talent during peak operational periods, as well as identify high-potential individuals ahead of future recruitment cycles and build a sustainable pipeline of skilled staff ready for Summer 2027.</p><p>Employers will benefit from supporting apprentices to develop essential skills including: </p><ul><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e8beea55d40371f3d99417019e729088a">Customer service and communication </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e0534fbde778c946a2a953e6a1cc76602">Food preparation and service </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e4e414303a4bc5f3a9ccb3bb15d882612">Teamwork and workplace behaviours </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e8131741a90711cc3138a87bae0ed6714">Stock management and food safety </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e3f00742ce9d115ee65d9546419f55221">Health and safety awareness </li></ul><p><strong>Supporting Young People into the Industry</strong> </p><p>The Foundation Apprenticeship is specifically designed for young people who benefit from: </p><ul><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e02f73240518f88c5430e00befe383f91">A broader introduction to the workplace </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e5a0768f1c0adbfbfd27c09642dfd024a">Additional support and structured development </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e3d2c64db4af2f82223f22d9c79950f5f">Clear progression routes into employment or further apprenticeships </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e9b968386a3b5cb28601f9d3f515c969c">This approach helps learners build confidence, capability, and career direction, while enabling employers to shape talent from an early stage. </li></ul><p><strong>Funding and Progression Opportunities</strong> </p><p>Employers may be eligible for up to £2,000 per apprentice to support participation. </p><p>At the end of the programme, apprentices can progress into a Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship and sustained employment within the business. </p><p><strong>Get Involved</strong> </p><p>Weston College is now seeking hospitality employers across the region who are keen to: </p><ul><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e64f2825f0b9c220748a127225704f2c1">Invest in future talent </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="eee514a6caf7c8e878a78c60b2c35c603">Support young people into the industry </li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e2e5490170f752837c9ace9bc33289e3b">Strengthen their workforce ahead of Summer 2027 </li></ul><p> </p><p>Now is the ideal time to recruit, train, and shape your future team. </p><p><strong>For more information or to get involved, please contact:</strong> <strong>01934 411594 or email </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="mailto:apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk"><strong>apprenticeships@weston.ac…;
<p>At Weston College, we recognise the importance of providing learners with SEND access to valuable work experience opportunities. Currently, only around 5% of people with learning disabilities in the UK are in employment. We are committed to helping improve this statistic, and meaningful work experience plays a vital role in that effort.</p><p>Fortunately, we have developed strong partnerships with local stakeholders who share our commitment to improving employment opportunities for learners with SEND. Through these collaborations, learners on our Preparation for Life course are given the opportunity to practise the employment skills they develop at college within real-world working environments. At the same time, our partners are enhancing their knowledge and understanding of how best to support individuals with SEND in the workplace.</p><p>With this in mind, we would like to shine a spotlight on some of these fantastic providers.</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://n-somerset.gov.uk/directories/libraries/weston-super-mare-libra… Library</strong></a></p><p>Firstly, Weston-Super-Mare Library has supported four learners with placements this year: Jordan, Coby, John, and Jordan. All have spoken highly of their experiences and the support they received from the library team. Jordan shared:</p><p><em>“I have learnt to recognise the skills and qualities I need for work and getting the chance to put them into practice has been really fun.”</em> </p><p>We would like to send a massive thanks to Charlotte Rumble and all the team at Weston-Super-Mare Library.</p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Weston%20Library%20-%20Thomas_0.jpg" data-entity-uuid="d6337fe9-db08-4206-b33f-70afeac09815" data-entity-type="file" alt="Student working at Weston Library" width="335" height="391"><p> </p><p><a href="https://westonsupermare.foodbank.org.uk/"><strong>Weston-super-Mare Foodbank</strong></a></p><p>A huge thank you goes to Weston-super-Mare Foodbank Warehouse. Lucy Cooper and the team have been dedicated to providing meaningful work opportunities for our learners for a number of years. Their continued commitment to supporting each learner as an individual, helping them to develop their skills while also understanding the vital role the Foodbank plays within the local community, has enabled many learners to work towards and achieve their aspirations.</p><p>This year, Weston-super-Mare Foodbank has supported six learners: Emily, Lexie, Jack, Zyisha, Bailey, and Kaylum. Kaylum shared:</p><p><em>“I love going out to the foodbank on Wednesdays. We get to work and help people. I want to have a job after college.”</em></p><p> </p><p><a href="https://www.somersetwoodrecycling.co.uk/"><strong>Somerset Wood Recycling Centre</strong></a></p><p>Next on our list of local stakeholders to thank for providing work experience opportunities for learners with SEND is Somerset Wood Recycling Centre.</p><p>Tom and the team at Somerset Wood Recycling Centre have supported two learners from the Preparation for Life course this year and are keen to continue this partnership into the next academic year. Ben and Brad have both benefited from these placements, gaining valuable hands-on experience in a supportive environment.</p><p>Brad shared his experience, saying:</p><p><em>“I have thought about studying carpentry in the future, and going to work here has helped me with my decision-making.”</em></p><p> </p><p><a href="https://www.strawberrycycles.com/"><strong>Strawberry Line Cafe and Cycle Project</strong></a></p><p>We would also like to highlight the fantastic support offered by the Strawberry Line Café and Cycle Project.</p><p>Sally Willcock and the team at the Strawberry Line have worked closely with us to provide truly meaningful opportunities for three learners this year. They have demonstrated a strong commitment to learner development and growth through practical, hands-on experience, working in partnership with us to prepare learners for their next steps.</p><p>Abbi, Kane and Ava have all taken part in placements at the Strawberry Line this year. For Ava, this opportunity has provided the confidence to progress onto the Supported Internship programme at Weston College. We wish her the very best of luck as she takes this next step.</p><p> </p><p><a href="https://www.thegreenhousewsm.co.uk/"><strong>The Greenhouse Cafe and </strong></a><a href="https://www.thelauriston.co.uk/"><strong>Lauriston Hotel</strong></a></p><p>Finally, as part of our commitment to recognising the invaluable contribution of local stakeholders who provide work experience opportunities for learners on the Preparation for Life course, and who are helping to improve employment outcomes for individuals with SEND across the UK, we would like to extend our thanks to The Greenhouse Café and the Lauriston Hotel. Nicole Day, along with the teams and both the Lauriston Hotel and Greenhouse Café have shown a continued commitment to supporting these learners to develop their skills.</p><p>This year, they have supported Luke, Hayden, Lauren, Joel and Brad by offering opportunities to experience real working environments and develop key employability and teamwork skills that will support them in their next steps.</p><p>Luke, who attended a placement at the Lauriston Hotel, shared:</p><p><em>“I am going to IntoWork next year, and working with others at the Lauriston Hotel, as well as developing my skills in the simulated Grove Café lessons at college, makes me feel ready to work hard.”</em></p>
