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, our Year 2<strong> </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Protective Services (UPS)</strong></a> learners were privileged to receive an incredibly impactful guest lecture from <strong>Firefighter Richard Welch</strong>, who served as Lambeth Borough Commander during the <strong>Grenfell Tower fire</strong>.</p><p>As part of their course, learners are required to evaluate emergency response strategies, making Richard’s first-hand insights into operational decision-making and crisis management invaluable to their studies.</p><p>Our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote…; learners often aspire to join the <strong>armed forces</strong> or <strong>emergency services</strong>, pursuing careers as <strong>Police Officers</strong>, <strong>Firefighters</strong>, or within the <strong>Royal Army</strong> or <strong>Royal Navy</strong>. These are highly disciplined and community-focused professions, and opportunities to learn directly from experienced professionals help our students understand the realities, responsibilities, and human impact of protective service careers.</p><p>Richard began by outlining his impressive career journey. Having joined the London Fire Brigade in 1996, he progressed through a range of operational and leadership roles across the capital before becoming the Assistant Chief Fire Officer for Service Delivery Support at <strong>Avon Fire and Rescue Service</strong>.</p><p>During his lecture, Richard reflected on his role on the night of 14 June 2017, when he led the response as Borough Commander to the <strong>Grenfell Tower fire</strong>. He described the procedures and protocols followed, the scale of the operation, the efforts to rescue residents, and the devastating speed with which the fire spread through the building.</p><p>This visit was particularly emotional and thought-provoking. Having spoken at the college previously, Richard tailored this talk to include more in-depth context about responding to major emergencies, focusing on the techniques and strategies used during high-pressure incidents and how to manage the emotional and mental health challenges that can follow.</p><p>He shared deeply personal reflections on what it was like to make difficult, life-saving decisions under extreme pressure, offering candid advice on how emergency responders can care for their own wellbeing while supporting others in times of crisis.</p><p>Nicola Stent, one of our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Protective Services</a> Lecturer, expressed her appreciation for Richard’s honesty and the students’ professionalism, saying, “Richard’s first-hand accounts were incredibly powerful and moving and the learners engaged with maturity and genuine curiosity. His reflections on Grenfell Tower and his advice on resilience and emotional wellbeing offered invaluable lessons for the students. It is these honest insights and advice that make guest lectures so important for students personal and professional development.”</p><p>Learners left the lecture inspired, with a clearer understanding of what it takes to serve their communities with resilience and compassion. Many commented on how the session made their career ambitions feel achievable and meaningful, providing them with guidance on how to succeed and thrive in the face of future challenges.</p><p>A big thank you to Richard Welch for sharing his first-hand experiences, professional expertise, and personal reflections — offering our learners a profound lesson in leadership, courage, and humanity within the protective services.</p><p>This guest lecture forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</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/bsc-hons-criminology-and-public-services/… Services</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 []">Year 1 learners from the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve… in Design, Surveying and Planning in Construction</u></a> recently enjoyed an exciting day at <strong>Uncle Paul’s Chilli Farm</strong> in Butcombe, North Somerset, as part of their induction to the course. </p><p>The experience began with students collecting tools and equipment before being guided by the farm’s staff to a site in need of a new shelter. The group received a briefing and set to work digging eight holes for large wooden posts, which were then concreted in place. Although the task of digging by hand proved challenging, the students persevered, successfully installing the posts and ensuring they were upright and level. </p><p>Students then took a walk back across the farm and had a well-earned lunch by the fire, complete with hot chocolate and marshmallows. This hands-on experience in a different environment reinforced the value of learning outside the classroom and created a core memory for the students due to building their skills and giving back to the community whilst being surrounded by animals on the farm including pigs, goats, and sheep. </p><p>A highlight of the day was the “Chilli Challenge”, where students sampled a range of chillies under the guidance of the farm staff. This light-hearted competition encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones, demonstrating resilience and a willingness to try new things—qualities that are invaluable both personally and professionally. </p><p>Throughout the day, students developed essential skills such as communication, teamwork, and collaboration. The practical task of building a shelter required them to listen, share ideas, and support one another, mirroring the collaborative nature of the construction industry. The experience also revealed emerging leaders within the group, as some students naturally took on responsibility and guided their peers. </p><p>By the end of the trip, the students had gained not only practical <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; experience but also a sense of achievement and stronger group cohesion. Their lecturer, Daniel Comerford, praised the group’s behaviour, responsibility, and teamwork, noting how well they worked together to complete the task. </p><p>This trip exemplified how hands-on learning can foster both personal growth and professional development, equipping students with the confidence and skills they will need in their future careers. </p><p>A big thank you to the staff at Uncle Paul's Chilli Farm for welcoming our students and getting them involved with hands-on tasks around the site.</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/"…;! 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> </p>
<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Year 1 learners from the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve… in Design, Surveying and Planning in Construction</a> course recently received an inspiring and informative guest lecture by Architect Irene de Miguel Lopez from <strong>AWW Architects</strong>, a leading architectural practice based in Bristol.</p><p><strong>AWW Architects</strong> operate from studios in Bristol, London, and Plymouth and are known for their collaborative, design-led approach that places people at the heart of every project. The practice prides itself on creating sustainable, inclusive, and meaningful architecture that improves how people live, work, and interact with their surroundings.</p><p>Irene delivered a talk titled “A Day in the Life of an Architect,” giving students a first-hand insight into the varied and dynamic nature of architectural work. She discussed her day-to-day responsibilities, which range from creating design drawings and attending client meetings, to visiting construction sites to monitor project progress.</p><p>To make the session more interactive, Irene brought along a selection of material samples that <strong>AWW Architects</strong> use when designing buildings. Students were able to handle these samples and explore how different materials influence the look, feel, and performance of a building.</p><p>Irene also explained that an architect’s role is incredibly diverse, involving the design of a wide range of environments including homes, workplaces, schools, sports facilities, and performance spaces. She highlighted that while the path to become a fully qualified architect can take up to seven years, the profession offers a rewarding and creative career for those passionate about designing and building future communities.</p><p>The talk made a clear impact, with many students expressing renewed enthusiasm for pursuing careers in architecture.</p><p>Daniel Comerford, Weston College <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const… Professions</a> lecturer, said: “We’re extremely grateful to Irene for taking the time to visit our learners and share her experiences. Her talk offered invaluable insight into the profession and has clearly inspired the next generation of architects and designers in the construction industry.”</p><p>Guest lectures like this provide our students with a deeper understanding of alternative career paths that students can pursue following their <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve… Level</a>. It allowed them to ask questions to industry professionals, gave them clarity on the journey required to become an architect, and the benefits of pursuing this career. It allowed them to network with a professional, increased their confidence by reducing future ambiguity, and provided them with real-world insight as well as discussions of industry standards and values.</p><p>A big thank you to Irene for taking the time to visit our students and engage with them to ensure they were fully informed regarding their future opportunities.</p><p>This guest lecture 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/"…;! 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>
