<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Weston College has welcomed new and returning students for the 2026/27 academic year, with each Career Excellence Hub hosting a range of induction activities designed to help learners settle into college life, meet their peers and staff, and get to know their new learning environment.</p><p>The year began with Welcome Talks led by the College Executive Team. These sessions introduced students to the College’s leadership team and outlined key expectations for the year ahead, alongside important policies and procedures to help learners make a confident start to their studies.</p><p>Across the campuses, faculties also organised a variety of activities combining fun, creativity and practical learning.</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></strong></a> students toured the Puxton Park campus, met the animals, and took part in hands-on team-building activities.</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave…; learners took part in human bingo and a range of icebreakers, while <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… &amp; Design</u></strong></a> students created a collaborative ‘Class of 2027’, using collages and personalised playing cards to showcase their creativity.</p><p>For some learners, induction provided an early opportunity to get hands-on with their future careers. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… &amp; Catering</u></strong></a> and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… &amp; Beauty</u></strong></a> learners began developing essential kitchen and salon skills, while <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students completed practical diagnostic activities, becoming familiar with the equipment and techniques they will use throughout their studies.</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Levels</u></strong></a> students explored their campus through a scavenger hunt before taking part in introductory subject sessions. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… &amp; Social Care</u></strong></a> learners worked with interactive simulation dummies during practical assessments and observations, while <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; students got active with team-building and multi-sport challenges.</p><p>Meanwhile, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… Arts</u></strong></a> students were introduced to the course through choreography sessions and fun group challenges, including a creative competition to create a wedding dress using toilet paper.</p><p>Learners across <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor…;, <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/const…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… &amp; Animation</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… Design</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…;, <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/prote… Services</u></strong></a> also took part in icebreakers, problem-solving challenges and team activities, helping them build relationships while tackling challenges linked to their chosen subjects.</p><p>These Welcome Days play an important role in helping learners make a positive transition into college. Alongside introducing students to their courses and learning environments, they provide an opportunity to build confidence, develop friendships and start creating a sense of belonging from day one.</p><p>At Weston College, we know that starting a new chapter can feel daunting, so we are committed to creating a welcoming and engaging experience for every learner.</p><p>It has been fantastic to see our new and returning students make such a positive start to the year, and we can’t wait to see everything they go on to achieve throughout 2026/27!</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&amp;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>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Weston College is proud to announce the launch of its <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; Foundation Apprenticeship</strong>, starting in October 2026, designed to support both local businesses and young people to thrive in the sector.&nbsp;</p><p>The programme offers a unique opportunity for employers to build their future workforce early, while supporting young people in gaining meaningful experiences and confidence in a real working environment.&nbsp;</p><p>Foundation Apprenticeships are employed roles with structured support, combining practical, on-the-job experience with one day per week of college-based learning.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Benefits to Hospitality Businesses</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>With the busy autumn and Christmas trading period approaching, Weston College is calling on hospitality businesses to take advantage of this time to train and develop new talent during peak operational periods, as well as identify&nbsp;high-potential individuals ahead of future recruitment cycles&nbsp;and build a sustainable pipeline of skilled staff ready for Summer 2027.</p><p>Employers will&nbsp;benefit&nbsp;from supporting apprentices to develop essential skills including:&nbsp;</p><ul><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e8beea55d40371f3d99417019e729088a">Customer service and communication&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e0534fbde778c946a2a953e6a1cc76602">Food preparation and service&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e4e414303a4bc5f3a9ccb3bb15d882612">Teamwork and workplace behaviours&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e8131741a90711cc3138a87bae0ed6714">Stock management and food safety&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e3f00742ce9d115ee65d9546419f55221">Health and safety awareness&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Supporting Young People into the Industry</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>The Foundation Apprenticeship is specifically designed for young people who&nbsp;benefit&nbsp;from:&nbsp;</p><ul><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e02f73240518f88c5430e00befe383f91">A broader introduction to the workplace&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e5a0768f1c0adbfbfd27c09642dfd024a">Additional&nbsp;support and structured development&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e3d2c64db4af2f82223f22d9c79950f5f">Clear progression routes into employment or further apprenticeships&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e9b968386a3b5cb28601f9d3f515c969c">This approach helps learners build confidence, capability, and career direction, while enabling employers to shape talent from an early stage.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><strong>Funding and Progression Opportunities</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Employers may be eligible for up to £2,000 per apprentice to support participation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>At the end of the programme, apprentices can progress into&nbsp;a&nbsp;Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship&nbsp;and sustained employment within the business.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Get Involved</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Weston College is now seeking hospitality employers across the region who are keen to:&nbsp;</p><ul><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e64f2825f0b9c220748a127225704f2c1">Invest in future talent&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="eee514a6caf7c8e878a78c60b2c35c603">Support young people into the industry&nbsp;</li><li class="ProsemirrorEditor-listItem" style="margin-left:32px;" data-list-indent="1" data-list-type="bulleted" data-list-item-id="e2e5490170f752837c9ace9bc33289e3b">Strengthen their workforce ahead of Summer 2027&nbsp;</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Now is the ideal time to recruit, train, and shape your future team.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>For more information or to get involved, please contact:</strong> <strong>01934 411594&nbsp;or email&nbsp;</strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="mailto:apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk"><strong>apprenticeships@weston.ac…;

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last week, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… and Catering</u></a> students welcomed members of the Catering Services Branch from the <strong>Royal Navy</strong>, who delivered an engaging presentation about careers within the service, the opportunities available, and the benefits of working as part of their team. The visit concluded with an exciting <em>Ready, Steady, Cook</em>–style challenge where students tested their culinary skills in groups.&nbsp;</p><p>The <strong>Royal Navy</strong> is the United Kingdom’s naval warfare force, responsible for protecting the nation’s seas, supporting global security, and providing humanitarian aid. Operating ships, submarines, aircraft and elite units, the organisation offers a wide range of career specialisms. Alongside these roles, it provides apprenticeships, technical training and leadership pathways both at sea and on shore.&nbsp;</p><p>During the session, the visiting team shared their own career journeys into the Royal Navy, explaining how they began as apprentices before progressing into full-time roles within the catering branch. They spoke about their experiences and the unique opportunities they have had so far in their careers, including catering for high-profile individuals and travelling as part of their work.&nbsp;</p><p>The team also outlined the application process and the health and fitness requirements needed to join the Royal Navy. They reassured students that the process is far less daunting than many people assume, helping to broaden students’ perspectives and boost their confidence in their own eligibility, ability and talent.&nbsp;</p><p>A career in the Royal Navy offers a wide range of personal and professional benefits. These include a competitive salary, strong support and pension schemes, travel opportunities, access to a variety of sports teams, and a range of discounts across shops, events and leisure activities.&nbsp;</p><p>Following the presentation, the team launched the Ready, Steady, Cook challenge. Students were given recipes and ingredients provided by the Royal Navy to create a fishcake with poached egg for the main course and cookies for dessert. They were encouraged to be creative with both the ingredients and seasonings, as well as the presentation of their dishes. The finished plates were then judged by the Royal Navy team on taste, creativity and presentation to determine the winning group.&nbsp;</p><p>The judges were highly impressed with the dishes produced, praising the students for their professionalism and strong teamwork throughout the challenge. They also highlighted the impressive flavours and the unique approaches each group took when preparing and presenting their meals.&nbsp;</p><p>The workshop provided an excellent opportunity for students to work alongside industry professionals and test their skills by preparing new dishes under time pressure. Experiences like this help students develop their techniques, confidence and adaptability while encouraging them to think creatively with the ingredients available.&nbsp;</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, added, "It was great to have members from the Royal Navy come in and engage with our students, sharing their wide knowledge base and experiences as chefs within the Armed Forces. It's visits like this that help students gain a better understanding of the wide range of career opportunities within the catering industry beyond the traditional kitchen environment. It highlights alternative career pathways that many students may not have previously considered, raising a broader awareness of the opportunities for chefs."</p><p>A huge thank you to the Royal Navy Catering team for taking the time to visit our students, share their career journeys, and deliver such an engaging and hands-on workshop.&nbsp;</p><p>This workshop forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… and Catering</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. &nbsp;</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&amp;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>&nbsp;</p>