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 style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Last month, our </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Sport</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> students embarked on an exciting trip to London for an overnight stay, offering them a fantastic opportunity to experience professional sports up close. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">The first day consisted of some free time to explore the sights of central London, taking in the atmosphere and visiting some of the must-see tourist landmarks. Later in the day, they made their way to <strong>Copper Box Arena</strong> to experience a professional basketball match between <strong>London Lions</strong> and <strong>Manchester</strong>. This was a close game, with the London Lions securing a narrow victory, finishing 78-73. </span></p><drupal-entity alt=""London Lions versus Manchester basketball match"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0f3e9510-16fb-4964-a036-8ebc1e25a6f0" 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 style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">On the second day, the students started the day with a delicious breakfast buffet before heading to the <strong>Wimbledon Experience</strong>. This was a 4-hour experience which included a tour of the grounds where they learnt about the facilities, the development of the grounds and how they upkeep and care for the distinctive green grass. They also learnt about the history of Wimbledon and some of the greatest tennis players in history. </span></p><drupal-entity alt=""Empty Wimbledon stands"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f6966e60-2ecd-4ec0-8138-13f6373ff9c5" 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 style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Dan Lomax, one of our </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Sport</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> Lecturers, outlined the importance of this trip for fostering a deeper appreciation for the logistics behind a sport, adding “this 2-day residential trip was a truly unforgettable experience for the students. It allowed them to see the preparation and maintenance required to ensure events run smoothly, as well as seeing the history and evolution behind sports and their venues. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">“It was also great to see the sights of London, including a glimpse of the King! The Basketball match was also an event that many of the students may not get the chance to watch live. The whole trip provided core memories for the students that they can take with them after college.” </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">This immersive experience not only brought classroom studies to life but also introduced students to professional-level sports that may not always be in the spotlight. By deepening their understanding of different sports, the trip left a lasting impact, equipping them with memories and knowledge to carry forward in their academic and professional journeys. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">If you are interested in applying to one of our Sport & Fitness courses, click here.</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> </span></p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">At Weston College, we pride ourselves on providing apprentices with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to excel in their careers. One of our former apprentices, Asha George, is a perfect example of how an apprenticeship can open doors to new opportunities. Asha completed a Level 2 Junior Estate Agent apprenticeship while working at Cross Keys Estates and has since built a successful career in the property industry. She shares with us her journey and insights into the benefits of apprenticeships. </p><p>During her apprenticeship, Asha gained a wealth of knowledge and practical skills that have helped her excel in her role. She developed expertise in identifying property age and construction types, spotting defects, preparing for negotiations, agreeing terms of sale, conducting viewings, and selling the services of her company. </p><p>Beyond industry-specific knowledge, Asha also improved her communication, time management, and organisational skills – crucial in her role as an estate agent. </p><p>Like many apprentices, Asha faced challenges during her course, particularly as someone with ADHD. However, she received excellent support from her Weston College assessor, Georgie, who ensured she had the flexibility and extra time needed to complete her work successfully. </p><p>"By having some flexibility, dedicating a day to my apprenticeship work, and speaking with Georgie about any concerns, I was able to overcome and manage the challenges I faced," Asha explains. </p><p>One of Asha’s fondest memories from her apprenticeship was spending a week shadowing her Director. This experience gave her insights into the valuation process, including preparing reports, attending valuations, and following up with clients. </p><p>"It was a great week of learning about a slightly different role within the business and how different valuations should be approached. I also loved learning about construction and defects – it was a fantastic module that has massively helped me in my role as an estate agent." </p><p>For Asha, choosing an apprenticeship was a strategic decision that allowed her to apply her learning directly to her job. She was also motivated to gain a qualification that would set her apart in the industry. </p><p>"Being a young woman in this industry can be challenging at times. While the world has made lots of progress, we do occasionally meet people who unfortunately haven’t. This motivated me to gain a qualification through an apprenticeship, giving me as much skill, knowledge, experience, and confidence as possible." </p><p>Since completing her course, Asha has taken her career to new heights. She is now a registered member of Propertymark, giving clients reassurance that she is qualified and up to date with industry regulations. She also manages her own portfolio of properties and sales, creates social media content for her company, and actively engages with clients. </p><p>When asked whether she would recommend an apprenticeship with Weston College, Asha had no hesitation in saying yes. </p><p>"Weston College is an excellent choice for anyone considering an apprenticeship. They have fantastic courses on offer, so there is something for everyone, and the support they provide goes above and beyond!" </p><p>Asha’s journey showcases the incredible opportunities that apprenticeships offer, blending education with real-world experience. If you're looking to start your career while gaining a valuable qualification, an apprenticeship could be the perfect choice for you! </p><p><strong>Interested in an apprenticeship?</strong> <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships?utm_source=ma… our courses and start your career today!</u></a> </p>
<p>Two of our ESOL learners, Romina and Glenn, have been taking part in a weekly <strong>Hospitality Course</strong> at<strong> </strong><a href="https://www.lovesweston.co.uk/"><strong>Loves Cafe</strong></a>. This fantastic initiative, a collaboration between the community and North Somerset Council, aims to support refugees and asylum seekers by equipping them with <strong>essential skills </strong>to help them <strong>gain employment</strong> in the <strong>hospitality sector</strong>.</p><p>Throughout the course, our learners have been developing their <strong>customer service expertise</strong>, learning <strong>key terminology</strong> relevant to hospitality roles, practicing how to <strong>take orders efficiently,</strong> and getting hands-on experience using <strong>card machines.</strong> To build their confidence and practical skills, they have engaged in <strong>role-play exercises</strong>, taking turns as customers and waiters/waitresses to simulate real-life working environments.</p><drupal-entity alt="ESOL learners using card machine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d6b2f92b-82a6-4829-b0a8-5269c3462258" 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> </p><p>Beyond customer service, the learners have also gained valuable knowledge in <strong>food hygiene, food allergies, reading menus,</strong> and <strong>processing orders</strong>. In the coming weeks, they will have the exciting opportunity to enhance their skill set further with <strong>barista training</strong>, delivered by<strong> </strong><a href="https://radicalroasters.bigcartel.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooh-KpucGabfU4bt2vP… Roosters Bristol Coffee Roasters</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p><p>One of our learners, Glenn, joined the course with the ambition of securing his first role in hospitality. Through his hard work and dedication, he has grown significantly in confidence, and he is now planning to apply for a Hospitality course at Weston College to further develop his skills and take the next step in his career.</p><p>Meanwhile, Romina has demonstrated incredible personal growth throughout the course. Her commitment and passion for both learning and contributing to the community were recently recognised when she won the <strong>‘Above and Beyond’</strong> award at our Student Conference!</p><p>We are excited to see our learners continue to integrate and develop their skills throughout the rest of this course!</p><p><strong>(below is an example of a worksheet which helped the learners with learning key phrases in hospitality!)</strong></p><p> </p><drupal-entity alt="Example of ESOL learner's work" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02c3c9ed-5311-4d5a-b8f2-6cc62bd699eb" 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>
