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 []">Our Year 1 Level 3 <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</u></a> students are showcasing their hard work with a Winter Showcase, performing over two evenings for their family and friends at Knightstone Campus’ Berkoff Theatre, whilst the Year 2 Level 3 Performing Arts students are touring local primary schools across Weston-super-Mare to give younger students the chance to see a pantomime of <em>Cinderella Eco Warrior</em> just before they break up for Christmas. </p><p>Not only does performing in primary schools improve our students’ confidence, but it also gives younger students a free and accessible pantomime performance that may not be regularly available to them. This Cinderella interpretation also promotes recycling and sustainability, giving them a fun and informative show to enjoy outside of the classroom which will hopefully spark an interest in Performing Arts in the future. </p><p>Our Level 2 Performing Arts learners also performed a matinee showing at Knightstone Campus’ Berkoff Theatre, of a shorter and more traditional <em>Cinderella</em>. This showcase reflected their hard work and the progress they have made throughout this term. </p><p>Within the Year 1 Level 3 showcase, students performed a variety of pieces from each pathway, including <strong>Dance</strong> such as Jazz, Tap, Commercial, and World Dance; <strong>Acting</strong> including Physical Theatre and Musical Theatre; and <strong>Singing</strong> including Show choir and Musical Theatre. This creative ensemble showcases their wide variety of skills and the progress the students have made during their first term on their course. </p><p>Students performed a range of numbers, including musical and dance numbers from Annie, Matilda, and Grease, dances with popular songs such as Levitating, Houdini, and My Own Best Friend, and dance blocks from Street Dance, Tap, Flamenco and Tango. Show Choir also performed Christmas songs, and Physical Theatre students performed scenes from Othello. </p><p>In addition, students had the opportunity to create their own pieces for the show, showcasing their hard work and professional development while strengthening their teamwork, communication, and leadership skills. By listening to feedback and building on it, they improved their technique, adaptability, and overall confidence which they can apply to future performances and will be invaluable to their careers in the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</u></a> industry. </p><p>This wide range of acts reflects the diverse and dynamic <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</u></a> courses, encouraging students to step out of their comfort zone and try a variety of career paths which helps students find their style and develop their skills. </p><p>A huge well done to the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</u></a> students who have worked hard to perfect this high-quality performance. This performance also wouldn't have been possible without the tireless efforts and invaluable professional insight from the amazing <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</u></a> lecturers Joe Miller who choreographed the dances, and Lisa Frost and Fiona Philp who directed the production. </p><p>This Winter Showcase forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</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 SUBJECT! 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="1 1 []">This months featured <strong>Alumni Trailblazer</strong> is <strong>James McGuinness</strong>, a former learner who is now a Label Relations Manager for <strong>Youtube</strong>! </p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">James was also our Alumni Impact Laureate winner at this year's Celebration of Success, this celebrates our former students who exemplify the very best of the college community and recognises alumni who have achieved excellence in their chosen career path </p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">We caught up with James, to find out a bit more about his journey and what he is doing now: </p><p data-start="121" data-end="539">I studied at Weston College from 2000 to 2002, completing a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music… 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Music Technology</a>. I look back on my time at the college very fondly – the supportive environment and dedicated tutors played a crucial role in shaping my early ambitions and future career in the music industry. They encouraged creativity, independence, and confidence, which helped me grow both personally and professionally.</p><p data-start="541" data-end="924">The two-year BTEC course was intensive and highly practical, offering hands-on experience across key areas of music production. The skills I gained, from studio techniques to business understanding, provided the perfect foundation for my progression to a degree at Bath Spa University. That grounding firmly set me on the right path to navigating the realities of the music industry.</p><p data-start="926" data-end="1365" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="">Since leaving the college, I have built a career in artist campaigns, label relations, and digital platform strategy, working alongside major record labels and management teams. I now work as a Label Relations Manager at YouTube Music, collaborating with global artists such as Ed Sheeran, Central Cee, Dua Lipa, and Oasis – a role that continues to challenge and excite me, and one that traces its roots back to my time at Weston College.</p><p> </p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><strong>This alumni story forms part of the </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/ceh-creative"><strong>Creative Arts</strong></a><strong> 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. </strong></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>
<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Earlier this month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave… and Tourism</u></a> learners were visited by members of the <strong>Jet2</strong> team from <strong>Bristol Airport</strong>, delivering an insightful talk that gave students a deeper understanding of the roles and responsibilities within a career in aviation. </p><p>During the guest lecture, the team shared their career journeys, explained what it’s like to work in aviation, and discussed the wide range of opportunities available within the sector. Learners also gained an understanding of Jet2’s flight routes and company operations, as well as hearing personal stories that highlighted the passion behind the profession. </p><p>Following this, the Jet2 team completed mock interviews with the Level 3 Year 2 learners, using real questions from Jet2’s recruitment process. Each learner received scores and detailed feedback to help refine their interview techniques and build their confidence. This was a fantastic opportunity for students to gain experience in a real-world interview scenario, preparing them for future careers in travel and aviation. </p><drupal-entity alt=""Jet2 interviewing travel student"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7ffb6d1e-4bd6-4a11-bb3f-33f42135b74f" 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>In addition to this, Jet2 returned the following week to complete the remaining interviews and offered some learners a second opportunity, enabling them to act on feedback, demonstrate growth, and strengthen their professional skills. This was fantastic for learners to not only improve their interviewing skills, but also see the impact that professional insight can have on the students’ personal and professional development. </p><p>These sessions provided learners with first-hand experience of real-world recruitment, constructive feedback to support future job and UCAS applications, and increased confidence for progressing into aviation roles or higher education. One of our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave… 3 Travel and Tourism</u></a> Year 2 learners, Emily, said: “I was nervous at first, but once the interview started, I felt relieved. It was a fantastic experience that’s boosted my confidence and prepared me for future interviews.” </p><p>At Weston College, we are committed to creating opportunities that connect learners with industry, providing them with essential networking opportunities, and helping them develop the skills and resilience needed for successful careers. </p><p>A huge thank you to the Jet2 team who took the time to visit our students, outline their career journeys, and engage in interviews to help improve our students’ communication and confidence. </p><p>This interactive session 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</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><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>
