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 []">Weston College is delighted to announce its involvement in an upcoming project, <em><strong>On Air</strong></em>, on 22-23rd October in partnership with <strong>Media Talent Manifesto (MTM)</strong>. <em>On Air</em> 2026 is the world’s largest student-led broadcast, bringing together students and industry partners from across the globe for a 24-hour, multi-channel, student-led broadcast. </p><p>This fantastic project will enable our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… and Communications</u></strong></a> students to explore a wide range of career opportunities, taking the lead in many roles such as script and content development, gallery and TV studio operations, location filming, channel creation, distribution, post-production and editing, and social media. This hands-on experience allows our students to develop practical production skills across the full broadcasting supply chain, helping them explore potential career pathways within the industry. </p><p>Launched in 2025, <em>On Air</em> involved more than 1,000 students from six continents, delivering content across a single channel. In 2026, the project will expand significantly, introducing five dedicated channels such as Culture, Film, Sport, News and Kids. Educational providers are invited to contribute to one or more channels through either live or pre-recorded broadcasts. </p><p>Like last year, <em>On Air</em> will be supported by a diverse range of industry partners, including the <strong>BBC</strong>, <strong>Into Film</strong> and <strong>Amazon Web Services (AWS)</strong>, alongside global media companies such as <strong>CNN</strong>, <strong>SVG Europe</strong>, <strong>InSync</strong> and <strong>Techex</strong>. Working with these organisations gives our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students valuable insight into the breadth of roles within the media industry, as well as providing excellent networking opportunities with professionals operating in a fast-paced, global environment. </p><p>This project not only enables our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students to take part in a growing international broadcast, but also connects learners worldwide, encourages collaboration, and supports skills development beyond the classroom. For students who are unsure of their next steps, <em>On Air</em> offers an invaluable opportunity to broaden their skillset, gain confidence, and showcase their abilities to industry professionals. </p><p>Gina Hele, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…, Game & Animation, and Photography</u></a> at Weston College, said, “This fantastic opportunity provided by Media Talent Manifesto will open many doors for our students. We are excited to see how they shape this project and apply their classroom learning in a real-world context. The experience will not only further develop their skills, but also build their confidence, while giving them valuable access to feedback and guidance from industry professionals - an invaluable contribution to both their personal and professional development.” </p><p>We would like to extend a huge thank you to <strong>Media Talent Manifesto</strong> for providing our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students with this outstanding opportunity to collaborate with colleges, universities and educators from around the world. </p><p>This project forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… and Communication</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>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/film-and-media-arts-production-ba-hons/">… and Media</u></a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/"><u>University Centre Weston (UCW)</u></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/"><u>Click here!</u></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 []">This week, Level 2 <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; students visited <strong>the Avon Fire and Rescue</strong> Fire Station, providing them with invaluable real-world insight into fire safety, emergency response, and the critical role that firefighters play in protecting the community.</p><p>As aspiring <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…;, there was an emphasis on Health and Safety, with students learning how to respond effectively to electrical fires, the correct protocols to follow in an emergency, and how to call for help. This knowledge is directly transferable to their future careers, reinforcing the importance of safe working practices and responsible behaviour on site.</p><p>During the visit, students were also given a tour of the fire station, where firefighters explained their roles and responsibilities, shift patterns, involvement within the community, and the benefits and challenges of the profession. This provided learners with a realistic understanding of emergency service careers and the importance of teamwork, resilience, and quick decision-making under pressure.</p><p>Students were introduced to specialist emergency vehicles such as fire engines and a hovercraft, broadening their awareness of the wide range of situations firefighters respond to. Not only this, students took part in practical demonstrations and activities to gain first-hand experience of essential operational procedures.</p><p>The students also observed and practised how firefighters access a fire hydrant to obtain a larger water supply during an incident. Working in teams, they repeated the process in a timed challenge, developing communication, problem-solving skills, and confidence under pressure. Firefighters further demonstrated the use of different stretchers, with students experiencing both patient and responder roles, enhancing their understanding of casualty care and safety.</p><p>During their visit, a memorable event occurred when all fire engines were called out to an emergency, leaving the station largely empty. Upon their return, students assisted by helping to clean one of the fire engines, giving them a unique insight into the realities of fire service life and reinforcing values such as responsibility, respect, and teamwork.</p><p>This visit deepened their understanding of the serious consequences of electrical hazards, encouraged swift and appropriate action in emergency situations, and strengthened their awareness of how their future profession intersects with public safety.</p><p>Overall, the experience was an excellent opportunity, providing students with practical knowledge, increased confidence, and a stronger sense of professional responsibility skills and attributes that will support them throughout their careers in the electrical industry and beyond.</p><p>A huge thank you to the firefighters at Avon Fire and Rescue for welcoming our students and sharing your journey and knowledge.</p><p>This curriculum trip forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; 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/engineering-and-construction/"… and Construction</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> </p>
<p>This month, we’re proud to feature <strong data-start="117" data-end="136">Brandon Hewlett</strong>, a <strong data-start="140" data-end="166">Weston College alumnus</strong> who has built a successful career in the <strong data-start="208" data-end="245">property and estate agency sector</strong>. Now the <strong data-start="255" data-end="307">Managing Director of Hewlett Homes Estate Agents</strong>, Brandon’s journey from studying Business and Finance at college to running his own company is an inspiring example of where determination, adaptability, and ambition can lead.</p><p> </p><p data-start="260" data-end="358"><em>My name is Brandon Hewlett, and I am the Managing Director of Hewlett Homes Estate Agents.</em></p><p data-start="360" data-end="726"><em>I studied Business and Finance at Weston College. While studying, I already knew that I wanted to work in sales, so after college I went straight into phone sales for a year. From there, I began my career in estate agency. Over time, I was promoted several times, eventually becoming a Branch Manager, before going on to start my own company in 2022. </em></p><p data-start="360" data-end="726"><em>One pivotal opportunity came when I was offered the chance to move to Taunton to become a Branch Manager. I took this opportunity because I wanted to further my career, and it proved to be an important step in my development. Adaptability has been important in my career, particularly when it came to moving town to chase a promotion. This experience gave me valuable knowledge and confidence, which later helped me when I decided to start my own business.</em></p><p data-start="360" data-end="726"><em>For students who feel uncertain about their future career path, my advice would be that nothing in life is ever certain. You may start college with a specific career or goal in mind, but things can change in an instant. It’s important to be adaptable, ready, and open to new opportunities. </em></p><p data-start="1727" data-end="1947"><em>In a world where industries and job roles are constantly evolving, young professionals should try not to become too specialist in one area unless they are completely certain about the career and role they want to pursue.</em></p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202"><em>If I could go back and give my younger self one piece of career advice, it would be this: don’t try to be everybody’s friend. There will be times when you need to show authority and manage a team. Lead by example and always give everything 110%.</em></p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202"> </p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202"> </p><p data-start="1949" data-end="2202"> </p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><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>
