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 month, Weston College’s <strong>Esports Academy</strong> celebrated a historic achievement as its students secured their first-ever tournament victory at the <strong>Radiant Rumble 2026</strong> event, organised by South Devon College.</p><p>Hosted at <strong>Arena Torquay</strong> and delivered by South Devon College students, the tournament brought together the four teams that had successfully progressed through the online qualification stages earlier in the academic year. The finalists represented <strong>South Devon College</strong>, <strong>Exeter College</strong>, <strong>Teignmouth Sixth Form</strong>, and Weston College, creating a highly competitive showcase of Esports talent from across the South West.</p><p>Throughout the event, the Weston Waveriders demonstrated exceptional teamwork, communication, leadership, and resilience, combining these qualities with their passion and skill for competitive gaming. The tournament also provided an excellent opportunity for students to network with like-minded peers from other institutions, share experiences, and gain insight into different approaches to gameplay and team strategy.</p><p>The day began with Exeter College defeating South Devon College to secure their place in the Grand Final. Weston College then faced Teignmouth Sixth Form in a semi-final, where the Waveriders held-up under pressure to achieve a 13–11 victory and secure their place in the final alongside Exeter College.</p><p>The Grand Final was played as a Best-of-3 series. Exeter College claimed the opening map despite a determined Weston comeback attempt, but the Waveriders responded brilliantly in Map 2 to level the series and force a deciding map. Due to time constraints, the final map was played as a Swiftplay, with the first team to win five rounds crowned champions.</p><p>Weston College endured a difficult start, falling 1–4 behind and facing elimination. However, the team displayed remarkable composure and determination, surviving match point on four separate occasions before completing an incredible comeback to win 5–4. The victory secured the team's first tournament title and trophy, crowning the Weston Waveriders champions of the Radiant Rumble 2026.</p><p>Experiences such as these provide students with far more than competitive success. Participating in high-pressure tournaments helps learners develop confidence, communication skills, leadership qualities, and resilience, while reinforcing the importance of teamwork and adaptability. The Waveriders’ performance throughout the competition was a perfect demonstration of their ability to remain calm under pressure and perform at the best of their ability.</p><p>The Weston College Esports Academy brings together students from a wide range of curriculum areas, including <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan… Installation</a>, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Levels</a>. Despite their varied academic backgrounds, they have built a close-knit and highly effective team, demonstrating the collaborative skills that are essential both within Esports and the wider workplace.</p><p>Will Price, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; Lecturer at Weston College, said: “This year has been a fantastic one for our Esports Academy, and it has been incredibly rewarding to watch the team grow and achieve the success they have. I would like to say a special thank you to the six students who have helped shape this team and kept it not only running, but winning. They have demonstrated the value of participation, proving that hard work, perseverance, and dedication lead to success and help develop resilient individuals.</p><p>“Their mentality throughout the year has been outstanding. Even when faced with setbacks, they never panicked. Instead, they continued to push forward, adapt, improve, and trust the process until they achieved the results they deserved. A huge thank you goes to Harry Blake, Harry Lister, Taylor Kelly, Lucas Rodgers, Jayden Rnjak, and Brian Ridley for their commitment and dedication to the team this year. We would not have achieved this result without their efforts.”</p><p>Congratulations to the Weston Waveriders and everyone involved in the Esports Academy on this fantastic achievement to conclude the academic year.</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 month, learners from our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…; provision took part in a 10-day trip to Canada through the <strong>Turing Scheme</strong>, giving them the opportunity to experience a different culture, visit some of Ontario’s most well-known attractions, and spend time together outside the classroom. </p><p>During the trip, students visited a range of locations across Ontario, including the South Simcoe Railway, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Amazon Fulfilment Centre. They also spent time in Algonquin Provincial Park, where they enjoyed a picnic before continuing their journey to Niagara Falls. </p><p>A major highlight of the trip was the visit to Niagara Falls. Students travelled on the Falls Incline Railway before taking part in Journey Behind the Falls, which offers visitors a unique view of the waterfalls from tunnels carved into the rock behind them. They also explored the Niagara Parks Power Station and learned more about the area's history and hydroelectric power generation. </p><p>The group continued to explore the Niagara region with a ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car, which crosses above the Niagara Whirlpool and rapids, followed by the White Water Walk, where students were able to experience the force of the river from a close distance. They also took a boat tour to the base of the falls, providing a different perspective of one of Canada’s most famous landmarks. </p><p>Other activities included a visit to the Maple Leaf Chocolate Factory Educational Experience, a day trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake, and the CN Tower Experience in Toronto, where students enjoyed panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. </p><p>The Turing Scheme provides an invaluable opportunity for our students to participate in international educational experiences that promote inclusion, independence, and personal growth. A trip to Canada allows students from our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…; provision to develop confidence by navigating new environments, engaging with different cultures, and taking part in activities that may be outside their usual comfort zone. These experiences help students build resilience, improve communication and social skills, and develop a greater sense of self-belief in their abilities. </p><p>For many <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…; students, opportunities to travel abroad can be limited, but thanks to the funding and support available through the Turing Scheme, it has helped to remove these barriers and ensure that international mobility is accessible to all learners. </p><p>By participating in a structured and supported overseas programme, students gain valuable life and employability skills, increase their independence, and broaden their understanding of the world. The experience also helps to raise aspirations, encouraging students to pursue their course, training, and employment opportunities with greater confidence. </p><p>Well done to the students who went on this trip and stepped out of their comfort zone to take part in the various activities, and thank you to the staff who supervised the trip, it wouldn’t have been possible without your support. </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/cours…; 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 data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… </a><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Media Makeup</a> students came together for an exciting collaborative project, giving them valuable hands-on experience of working on a professional photoshoot inspired by the unique style of Marie Antoinette.</p><p>Working from a creative hair and makeup brief, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Media Makeup</a> students showcased their skills by designing elaborate hairstyles, intricate headdresses, and striking makeup looks that blended historical influences with contemporary beauty trends. To complete the modern interpretation of Marie Antoinette’s extravagant aesthetic, students also styled their models in modernised corsets and lace garments. The project provided an excellent opportunity for students to experiment with new techniques, explore their creativity, and develop their own unique interpretations of the brief.</p><p>Students approached the project from a variety of perspectives. Some chose to portray Marie Antoinette through a regal and aristocratic lens, creating elegant and refined looks, while others focused on her dramatic downfall, incorporating prosthetics and special effects makeup to reference her execution. This creative freedom allowed students to push their boundaries, develop their technical skills, and express their individuality.</p><p>The project also provided <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students with the opportunity to work directly with clients and capture the stunning creations produced by the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Media Makeup</a> students. Through careful consideration of lighting, composition, and posing, they brought the concepts to life, creating high-quality images that reflected the vision of the brief while showcasing the artistry of their peers.</p><p>Collaborative opportunities such as this are invaluable in helping students work alongside peers from different disciplines and gain an appreciation for the diverse talents across the college. These experiences also build confidence, adaptability, and communication skills by exposing students to a range of creative briefs and working styles, which are essential qualities for success in client-facing and fast-paced industries. In addition, projects like this strengthen students’ portfolios, broaden their creative experience, and open doors to future career opportunities.</p><p>Paul French, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; Lecturer at Weston College, said: “Collaborations with other CEH areas are a great opportunity for our students to step out of their comfort zones and work with new people on a variety of projects. It builds their adaptability whilst giving them the chance to develop their communication skills and capture photographs that both they and the client are proud of. Not only that, but it is also a fantastic way to celebrate the talent of students from other courses and see the amazing work they produce.”</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, added: “Workshops like this are an excellent opportunity for students to express their creativity and develop designs that reflect both the brief and their individuality. They also help prepare students for a wide range of careers within the sector by encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and create more extravagant and intricate designs, enhancing both their portfolios and skillsets.</p><p>“A huge thank you to the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students for capturing such high-quality images of the final looks. This kind of collaboration is invaluable to both groups, and it is wonderful to see all of the students’ hard work documented so professionally.”</p><p>Well done to all the students involved. The exceptional standard of work produced throughout this project is a fantastic reflection of the talent, creativity, and bright future of these industries.</p><p>This collaboration 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 <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut…; 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/">…; or <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/?…, Wigs and Special Effects</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>
