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...
Select a Course Subject:
Search courses by keyword:
Search by Keyword:
Select a Career:
Scroll down to view our courses
or select a section to jump to:
Scroll down to view our courses
or select a section to jump to:
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>Two of Weston College’s Construction Professions students are gaining invaluable real-world experience through their involvement in the project to restore <strong>Birnbeck Pier</strong> in Weston-super-Mare. Through our strong partnership with <a href="https://n-somerset.gov.uk/">North Somerset Council</a> and leading industry contractors, these learners have secured exciting opportunities to contribute to this landmark scheme as part of their 315-hour industry placement.</p><p>Students studying the T-Level in <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve…, Surveying and Planning for Construction</a> benefit from a blend of classroom learning and practical, on-site experience. At Birnbeck Pier, this includes guided technical site walks and the chance to engage directly with experienced construction professionals, helping to bring their studies to life.</p><p>Following a competitive selection process, two of our students were chosen to undertake extended placements with the council’s appointed contractors. These placements form a core part of the T-Level qualification, and are essential in equipping learners with the technical knowledge and industry experience needed to launch successful careers in construction.</p><p>One of our students, Fin, joined the project in mid-December after being appointed by Bristol-based contractors <strong>Smith and Brenson, </strong>who are delivering the landside phase of the development. Over the past four months, Fin has become an integral part of the on-site team, gaining experience in both site operations and project coordination.</p><p>Our second student, Ashton, recently began their placement with <strong>Mackley,</strong> a specialist civil engineering contractor leading the restoration of the Grade II* listed pier structure. This work offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a complex marine and heritage project of national significance.</p><p>Finton said:<em> “I’ve learnt a great deal since starting my placement. The hands-on work I’ve done has been very helpful as it’s given me a strong understanding of the project and the challenges that come with it. Working in the site office and joining project meetings has been especially beneficial for my college course as it’s allowed me to see the different roles people take on within projects and how they contribute to the overall outcome. This is also helping me to develop a clearer understanding of what I might like to do in my future career and the different options available to me."</em></p><p>Ashton said:<em> “I’m gaining real hands-on experience alongside classroom learning, which makes everything feel more relevant and exciting. It’s helped me build confidence in my skills and given me a clear path towards a future career in the industry. Considering how important the pier is historically, it’s great to be playing a small role in its restoration. It closed before I was born, so I’m looking forward to being able to access it for the first time once work is complete.”</em></p><p>Daniel Comerford, Lecturer in Construction Professions, said: <em>“We are extremely grateful to North Somerset Council and their contractors - Smith and Brenson, and Mackley - in allowing two of our learners the opportunity to work on the Birnbeck Pier project. This will allow them to put into practice the skills that we teach them in college, to a real-life, complex project, which in turn will increase their learning and understanding of the complexities of the construction industry.”</em></p><p>We are incredibly grateful to <strong>North Somerset Council </strong>and their contractors, <strong>Smith and Brenson </strong>and<strong> Mackley, </strong>for their ongoing support in providing these placements. Collaborations like this are key to creating meaningful career pathways for our students and supporting the development of the next generation of construction professionals.</p>
<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This week, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave… and Tourism</a> students took part in a series of live interviews with Swissport, a global leader in aviation services supporting airports and airlines around the world, and one of our Careers Excellence Hub employers that work closely with our students. The sessions took place on campus and provided students with a valuable opportunity to engage in real recruitment processes, giving them first-hand experience of the expectations and standards required to succeed in the industry.</p><p>Swissport delivers a wide range of ground handling and air cargo services, operating at airports across the globe. With a strong focus on efficiency, safety, and customer service, the company plays a key role in ensuring smooth airport operations and positive passenger experiences.</p><p>In total, seven interviews were conducted, with students responding to a variety of typical interview questions. They discussed their career aspirations, achievements, relevant experience, and the personal qualities they could bring to roles within the travel and aviation sector. This experience not only allowed students to demonstrate their skills but also gave them a realistic insight into professional interview environments.</p><p>We are delighted to share that four students were successfully offered positions with Swissport as Customer Service Agents, an exciting opportunity that will further their careers within the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave…; industry.</p><p>Through this experience, students not only gained full-time employment following their course, but they also gained a clearer understanding of employer expectations while further developing their communication skills and confidence in interview settings. The sessions also created valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to build connections with industry professionals and open doors for future career progression.</p><p>Hannah Forrest, Curriculum Co-ordinator and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave… and Tourism</a> lecturer at Weston College, said, “This opportunity was an incredible experience for our students, allowing them to take part in real interviews and showcase their skills in a professional setting. While our Travel and Tourism courses equip students with the knowledge needed to succeed, it is employer engagement like this that provide our students with incredible opportunities and experiences to truly prepare them for the workplace and help them take the next step in their careers.”</p><p>A huge thank you to Swissport for giving our students this opportunity to progress their career further in such a high-profile organisation.</p><p>This employment opportunity forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave… and Tourism</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 data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This week, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor…; students took part in a series of mock interviews with <strong>Plantforce</strong>, a leading heavy machinery hire company supporting a wide range of construction operations. The sessions provided students with a valuable opportunity to experience real interview scenarios, helping them understand the types of questions employers ask and how best to present themselves.</p><p><strong>Plantforce Rentals</strong> is a UK-based provider of plant hire machinery and operated plant services, offering a diverse fleet of modern equipment for construction, rail, and infrastructure projects. Founded in 1999, the company specialises in both self-drive and operated machinery, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and delivering high-quality service.</p><p>During the 20-minute interviews, students responded to a variety of typical interview questions. They discussed their career goals, achievements, previous industry experience, and the personal qualities they could bring to a team. These sessions not only helped students build confidence but also gave them a realistic insight into professional interview environments.</p><p>Following the interviews, each student received detailed, constructive feedback from the Plantforce team. This guidance highlighted strengths as well as areas for improvement, ensuring students are better prepared for future opportunities. Such feedback plays a crucial role in student development, supporting their transition from education into the workplace.</p><p>Through this experience, students gained a clearer understanding of employer expectations while developing their communication skills and building confidence in interview settings. The sessions also created valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with industry professionals and potentially position themselves for future roles within Plantforce. In addition, students were able to ask meaningful, industry-specific questions, helping to deepen their knowledge and reduce anxiety around real interview situations.</p><p>Felix Coles, Deputy Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor…; at Weston College, said, “This opportunity was a fantastic way for students to develop their communication skills and refine their responses to stand out in an interview setting. While our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor… Vehicle</a> courses are highly practical and equip students with the technical knowledge needed to succeed, it is employer engagement like this that is essential in preparing them for professional environments and meaningful interactions with employers.”</p><p>Fay Hill, HR and Payroll Manager at Plantforce, shared her feedback, saying, "We certainly enjoyed the sessions and are pleased to hear that the students found it useful. Their approach to the mock questions, receptiveness to interview feedback, and the way in which they presented themselves throughout was fantastic. All the learners we met will do well in whatever role they might choose next."</p><p>A huge thank you to Plantforce for taking the time to meet our students and provide invaluable feedback.</p><drupal-entity alt=""Plantforce employees smiling for a selfie after the mock interviews"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="56511083-291b-4030-971b-75b68d8134f6" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_650x650","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity><p> </p><p>This employer engagement forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor…; 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>
