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, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… and Early Years</a> students welcomed Amy Marsh, Head of Nursery and Preschools at The Priory Learning Trust and former UCW student, alongside Debbie Parker, HR Admin Manager at The Priory Learning Trust, for an insightful workshop exploring career opportunities within the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</a> sector.</p><p>During the session, Amy shared an overview of <strong>The Priory Learning Trust</strong>, highlighting the wide range of career pathways available to students after completing their studies. She discussed progression routes including university, childminding, and preschool and nursery practitioner roles, helping students gain a clearer understanding of the opportunities open to them and the steps needed to achieve their goals.</p><p>Students were also given valuable advice on how to stand out when applying for roles, including the importance of understanding workplace values, making strong first impressions, and carefully proofreading CVs and cover letters. Amy also explored the key qualities and attributes needed to succeed as an <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</a> Practitioner, such as patience, adaptability, communication skills, and the ability to support both children and parents.</p><p>The workshop provided further insight into the responsibilities involved in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</a> roles, including planning engaging activities, monitoring children’s progress, supporting transitions into school, encouraging independence, and adapting routines to meet individual needs.</p><p>Amy and Debbie also spoke about the variety of roles available within The Priory Learning Trust, from full-time and maternity cover positions to bank and lunchtime cover roles, encouraging students to consider the flexibility and availability different opportunities can offer.</p><p>The session concluded with a Q&A, giving students the chance to ask questions and gain further advice about careers in the sector. Interviews were also held with students who had applied for roles within The Priory Learning Trust, providing valuable real-world experience and potential employment opportunities. </p><p>Rachael Moger, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… and Early Years</a> Curriculum Co-ordinator, added, “Employer engagement opportunities like this are invaluable in helping our students build connections with industry professionals and gain a deeper understanding of the wide range of career pathways available after completing their course. Sessions like these not only broaden their future opportunities, but also give students valuable insight into the expectations and realities of applying for and progressing into full-time roles.”</p><p>A huge thank you to Amy and Debbie for joining our students and sharing their invaluable knowledge!</p><p>This guest lecturer forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… and Early Years</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>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/education-and-early-years/">Ed… and Early Years</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">Click here!</a></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 []">Last week, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music… Performance and Production</a> students at Weston College took part in an inspiring Q&A session with musician and former student, <strong>Beth Rowley</strong>. During the session, Beth shared her journey into the music industry, reflected on the experiences that shaped her career, offered invaluable advice to students hoping to follow a similar path, and even performed a few songs with guitarist, Tom Kuras. </p><p>Beth’s journey began at Weston College, where she initially studied <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… and Design</a> before discovering her passion for music and progressing onto one of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; courses. Reflecting on her time at Weston College, Beth explained how pivotal those years were in shaping her future, allowing her to develop her creativity, build confidence, and connect with like-minded people who shared her interests. Her studies also helped her progress to <strong>the British and Irish Modern Music Institute (BIMM) </strong>in Bournemouth, an experience she credits with opening many doors within the industry. </p><p>During the session, Beth discussed her musical influences and recalled her first major break while studying at BIMM, when she toured with <strong>Ronan Keating</strong> as a backing vocalist. She described this as a defining moment in her career, helping her recognise her value within the industry and giving her the confidence to pursue music professionally. Beth encouraged students to take advantage of every opportunity available to them, emphasising that experience and exposure are essential for career development. </p><p>She also highlighted the importance of performing in smaller venues and building a community through live music. Beth encouraged students to attend open mic nights and use intimate performances as an opportunity to discover their stage presence, develop audience engagement skills, and refine their personal style. She explained that these smaller gigs are often where musicians build both confidence and a loyal fanbase. </p><p>Drawing from her own experiences, Beth advised students to work on the areas they find most challenging, rather than focusing solely on their natural strengths. Developing a wider skillset, she explained, can make musicians more adaptable, independent, and versatile within the industry. </p><p>Alongside the highlights of her career, Beth also spoke openly about the challenges she has faced. In particular, she discussed the growing role of social media within the music industry and the increasing pressure artists face to constantly self-promote their music and performances online. Beth reflected on how this shift can sometimes make the industry feel less personal, with greater emphasis placed on creating engaging content rather than focusing solely on the music itself. Her honesty gave students valuable insight into the realities of working within a modern creative industry and how quickly it can adapt. </p><p>Beyond performance, Beth encouraged students to think about the business side of music. She stressed the importance of understanding industry-standard fees, setting boundaries with venues, and recognising personal value as an artist. For students beginning their careers, this advice offered an important reminder that confidence and professionalism are just as essential as talent. </p><p>Comparing today’s Weston College facilities to those available during her time as a student, Beth praised the College’s updated equipment and industry-standard resources. She spoke enthusiastically about the opportunities now available to learners and even expressed interest in returning to collaborate and record with students in the future. </p><p>This session allowed our students to ask insightful questions, listen to a fantastic live performance, and engage with a talented musician who was once in their shoes. Her openness provided students with an honest and relatable perspective, outlining the challenges, sharing her insight and guidance, whilst also discussing how she overcame self-doubt and navigated changes throughout her creative career. </p><p>Beth finished the session with valuable advice, saying, “Your job has to be fun because life is too short to do something you don’t love every day. Fortunately, music has always been enjoyable for me, so I have no regrets. Music helps me get up in the morning. It provides an escape and that’s what you need from your career.” </p><p>Oz Cahill, Music and Production lecturer at Weston College, added, “It was fantastic to welcome Beth back to the College to share her invaluable insight with our current students. Seeing her successful career journey is hugely inspiring and demonstrates what can be achieved through hard work and perseverance. Hearing her honest reflections and industry experience gave students a genuine insight into what a career in music really looks like.” </p><p>A huge thank you to Beth for taking the time to share her insight with our students and perform for them!</p><p>This session forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music… Performance and Production</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> </p><p><em>Photos credited to </em><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… </em></a><em>student, Louis Havinden.</em></p><p> </p>
<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… and Fitness</a> students recently received a hands-on workshop with self-employed sports physiotherapist, Sam, who shared her expertise with the students as part of their current unit on their course, gaining a deeper understanding of how to deal with injuries.</p><p>During the workshop, students practised a range of sports massage techniques on each other, focusing on targeting specific muscle groups and areas of tension or discomfort. This hands-on experience enabled students to refine their practical skills, improve their confidence, and develop a greater understanding of how sports massage can support recovery, performance, and injury prevention. Students also benefited from receiving professional feedback throughout the session, helping them identify strengths and areas for improvement ahead of their upcoming practical exams.</p><p>The workshop gave students the opportunity to work in a realistic and professional environment while developing important communication, consultation, and client care skills. Learning from a self-employed practitioner also provided students with a valuable understanding of career pathways within the sport, exercise, and health industries, including the opportunities and responsibilities associated with self-employment.</p><p>The session provided students with valuable insight into current industry practices and expectations, allowing them to learn directly from someone with extensive real-world experience within the sports therapy and fitness industry. The experience helped students feel more prepared and exam-ready while further developing the practical and professional skills needed for future careers.</p><p>A huge thank you to Sam for sharing her invaluable insight and knowledge with our students to give them a practical understanding of the benefits of sport massage to athlete's development.</p><p>This workshop forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… and Fitness</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>
