<p>To celebrate<strong> International Women’s Day,</strong> we spoke with some of our inspiring colleagues to learn more about their lives both inside and outside the workplace, and to discover the women who have inspired them the most. 🌟</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2>Tiffany</h2><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a4ab51db-e8c7-4c68-a405-64a69abea9fe" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_650x650&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Can you tell us about yourself and what you do at Weston College / UCW?</strong></em></p><p>I lead Talent Acquisition at Weston College Group, which means I help shape the teams that deliver everything we do for our students.</p><p>I’m very values-led in how I work. Honesty, clear communication and integrity matter to me. But I’m also motivated by innovation and improvement. I don’t believe in doing something a certain way just because it’s always been done that way. I’m naturally curious and often asking, is there a better way? Can we work smarter? Can we simplify? Can we try something different?</p><p>For me, recruitment isn’t just about filling roles, it’s about transformation. It’s about building strong systems, creating better experiences and continuously improving so we stay relevant and effective.</p><p>Outside of work, I compete in powerlifting. I started two and a half years ago out of pure curiosity, with no experience at all. Since then, through consistent training and a willingness to keep learning, I’ve progressed to competing at the British Championships alongside some of the strongest women in the UK.</p><p>What I love about the sport is its simplicity. You put the work in, you show up, and you improve. You don’t get every lift, and that’s part of it. You learn, you try again, and over time you get stronger. It’s a reminder that growth is built over time, and that failure is part of the process – in fact it’s often the quickest way to succeed!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Who are the women who inspire you most, and why?</strong></em></p><p>One woman who has always inspired me is Maya Angelou.</p><p>She was an extraordinary poet, memoirist and civil rights activist, and her writing reached far beyond literature. She had a remarkable ability to connect with people, to educate, to challenge perspectives and to build understanding through her words.</p><p>Her work also played a part in shaping my own passion for writing poetry and spoken word. I’ve always been drawn to the way she used language with intention to create connection and to give voice to lived experience.</p><p>What I admire most is the way she combined truth with compassion. She spoke openly about race, identity and injustice, but always in a way that invited reflection rather than division. Her work created space for empathy and learning.</p><p>Her words, “People will forget what you said… but people will never forget how you made them feel,” have always stayed with me. That belief in the power of honest, thoughtful communication, and in the emotional impact of how we show up, is something I value deeply.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>What’s one piece of advice you would give your younger self at the start of your career?</strong></em></p><p>It’s okay if people see things differently to you.</p><p>Differences in opinion aren’t something to worry about, they’re a reflection of the range of perspectives and experiences people bring. Diversity of thought strengthens teams. It challenges assumptions and leads to more rounded decisions.</p><p>I would tell my younger self to stay humble, stay curious and be willing to step outside her comfort zone. When you don’t understand something, lean into it rather than away from it.</p><p>The first step of growth is being open to it.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Emily</strong></h2><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce6426e3-5e48-43ea-9f46-3ad1045fba29" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Can you tell us about yourself and what you do at Weston College / UCW?</strong></em></p><p>I am currently a Teaching, Learning and Assessment Manager in the Quality Improvement/Assurance team and I have worked at Weston College for almost 10 years! During this time, I've been a Lecturer of English, TLA Coach, and manager. The part of my job that I enjoy the most is supporting staff develop their TLA and how this can positively impact the culture and practice of colleagues around them. I mentor staff who are on our Initial Teacher Education programmes, and I am constantly in awe of their creativity so early on in their careers.</p><p>Outside Weston College, I am also a published writer. My proudest achievement is having written a chapter in an academic textbook focused on working class women in academia, which was discussed on Woman's Hour. (Although I feel a little rusty these days!) I am a Welsh speaker and had the majority of my education through the medium of Welsh - something I took for granted at the time!</p><p><em><strong>Who are the women who inspire you most, and why?</strong></em></p><p>My daughter, Indie, is a huge inspiration to me. Her confidence to try new things and assertiveness in social situations are qualities and skills which I hope only strengthen over time. To watch a human grow and be unapologetic in who they are is truly a phenomenal experience. Her empathy at such a young age astounds me every day.</p><p>My mum, Jane, is unfortunately in the final stages of dementia. As a result of this disease, so much of who she is has been stripped away. However, this means it's even more vital to remember who she 'was' and in many ways still is. My mum spoke five languages, she was a teacher, a confidant to many, and was incredibly creative. She embarked on woodwork courses, taught people how to ski (with my sister on her back...although this was the early 1980s!), and stood up for what she believed in even if this wasn't shared by the majority. I am grateful for opportunities now where I can talk about the inspiration that she is.</p><p>I am inspired by women who advocate for others and make change - even if it doesn't directly benefit themselves or their current situation. To be empathetic and notice that you can be a catalyst for change is incredible. Gisele Pelicot, a French woman who waived her right to anonymity as the survivor in the Pelicot case showed courage, dignity and vulnerability by speaking out about her unimaginable experiences. An incredible woman who carries out important and life changing work for people across the world.</p><p><em><strong>What’s one piece of advice you would give your younger self at the start of your career?</strong></em></p><p>"A leader is best when people barely know he exists. When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves." - Lao Tzu. Fostering confidence and empowering others is something that I strive to do and embed in my life both personally and professionally. You don't have to be the loudest person in the room to be a leader. To champion, coach and celebrate so that others are empowered to believe in their own abilities are powerful tools which have lasting impact - on the individual and beyond.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h2><strong>Katie</strong></h2><drupal-entity alt="Katie on bike" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc8d2303-e141-4dd4-9848-d8be544eea15" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Can you tell us about yourself and what you do at Weston College / UCW?</strong></em></p><p>I’m Katie, a Lecturer in Initial Teacher Education. I’m an ex-art teacher, I have a three-legged cat called Archie and I love cycling.</p><p>Cycling is an incredible sport - it brings people together and creates a sense of freedom and adventure. However, it is also a sport that lacks parity. As a female cyclist, I’m underestimated. I’ve been patronised. When I’ve out-performed men, I’ve had comments made about my weight and physique in an attempt to explain why. These aren’t isolated incidents. Thankfully, female professional cycling is growing year on year and with that come more and more role models who are changing the face of the sport.</p><p><em><strong>Who are the women who inspire you most, and why?</strong></em></p><p>For me, the person who changed the game was Annemiek van Vleuten. Van Vleuten was the first pro female to train with the pro men. She argued for harder races so the women could show their true abilities, for more TV coverage for their events and for fair prize money. In 2022, one month before her 40th birthday, she raced the World Championship Road Race. She was one of the race favourites, but broke her elbow a few days before. Instead of going home, she raced in support of her Netherlands teammates. With 1km to go of the 160km race, she was the best placed Dutch rider. She put everything on the line, and rode away solo from a group of 13 riders. She crossed the line first, in utter disbelief at what she’d achieved. That moment encapsulated how powerful women are, what we can achieve against all odds and why we should never be underestimated.</p><p><em><strong>What’s one piece of advice you would give your younger self at the start of your career?</strong></em></p><p>The advice I would give my younger self is to have belief in my opinions and decisions and acknowledge my successes.</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Recently, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Protective Services</u></a> students took a trip to <strong>RAF Brize Norton</strong> in Oxfordshire, giving them the opportunity to explore an operational RAF Station and gain first-hand experience and insight into a career within the RAF.&nbsp;</p><p>During the visit, students received an in-depth guided tour of the operational air base and were introduced to members of different teams, including the Physical Training Instructor, the RAF Fire Service, the Load Master, the Intelligence Engineer, and the RAF Police. This provided them with a broad understanding of the potential careers within the RAF and the roles and responsibilities they hold.&nbsp;</p><p>The <strong>Royal Air Force (RAF)</strong> is the UK's primary air and space force, responsible for protecting British skies and international interests. It was founded in 1918 as the world's first independent air force; it acts as a separate service alongside the British Army and Royal Navy. Our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a> students often aim for a career in the armed forces or emergency services, aspiring to help and protect the community by being part of a team.&nbsp;</p><p>Students came away feeling inspired and began considering the potential career routes into the RAF, gaining a better understanding into the starting wage, the potential opportunities and adventures available, and the personal and professional benefits of working in the Royal Air Force.&nbsp;</p><p>This trip was invaluable in providing the students with first-hand experience into an armed forces career, giving them a glimpse into the day-to-day life which they could potentially experience in the future. Students got to ask questions about different specialisms, learn the qualities and attributes that the RAF look out for, and understand the best pathways to get into the career.&nbsp;</p><p>Dave Beresford, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a>, said, “Going to the Brize Norton base was a fantastic experience for our students to get a better idea of their future careers. They learnt key skills and gained a better understanding of what it takes to work in the armed forces. Getting to talk to a range of professionals and witness them in action was invaluable for our students’ personal and professional development, inspiring them to push their limits within the course and achieve their dream career.”&nbsp;</p><p>A huge thank you to the team at RAF Brize Norton for their support and for taking the time to share their knowledge with our students.&nbsp;&nbsp;</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/prote… Services</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>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/bsc-hons-criminology-and-public-services/… and Public Services</u></a>! 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>&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>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Weston College was delighted to welcome the <strong>National Youth Theatre</strong> to deliver its <strong>IGNITE Your Creativity</strong> programme, a series of fully funded, industry-led workshops designed to inspire and engage students from across a wide range of creative and technical curriculum areas. Delivered in partnership with and supported by <strong>Netflix</strong>, the programme provided learners with practical, hands-on experiences that introduced them to the wide range of creative and technical roles within film, television, theatre and related industries.&nbsp;</p><p>Taking place over a two-week period, the workshops enabled students to work closely with industry professionals, gaining first-hand insight into how creative projects are developed and delivered in professional environments. Learners explored a variety of roles and responsibilities, from performance and production to technical and behind-the-scenes careers, while developing confidence, teamwork skills and a greater understanding of working on professional film and theatre sets.&nbsp;</p><p>The programme engaged students from <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… Hair and Makeup</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… and Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Levels</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/… Work</u></a> and Creative Media Extension learners with <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…;, and the King’s Trust cohort. Sessions were carefully tailored to meet the needs of each group, ensuring that all participants were able to access meaningful, relevant and inclusive learning experiences, regardless of background or career stage.&nbsp;</p><p>Students were introduced to a wide range of creative disciplines, including acting and performance, directing and assistant directing, producing, research, camera and sound, podcast and audio production, screenwriting and vertical drama. Learners studying fashion, hair and makeup explored costume design, fabrication, set and prop creation, hair, wigs and special effects makeup for productions. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…; learners and those preparing for employment benefitted from accessible delivery, clear progression routes and increased confidence in exploring creative career pathways.&nbsp;</p><p>The practical, short-format sessions had a positive impact on student engagement, motivation and attendance. Fully funded delivery, bursaries and adaptable approaches helped remove barriers to participation, reinforcing the college’s commitment to inclusive education. The programme also strengthened progression by highlighting routes into mentoring, showreel development, industry networks and further specialist training.&nbsp;</p><p>Students who participated in the workshops have been offered to take part in a fully funded, one-week National Youth Theatre course taking place during February Half Term at the <strong>Blakehay Theatre</strong>, Weston-super-Mare. This intensive programme will enable learners to collaboratively create a short film for use in CVs and showreels, while receiving mentoring and guidance from more than ten industry professionals. Students will gain hands-on technical experience across key production areas, including sound, camera, lighting, make-up and design, alongside the opportunity to take part in industry visits that deepen their understanding of professional creative environments.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to work with high-profile employers and gain experience that will enhance their portfolio. It is also a great networking opportunity, giving students the chance to continue to work with the National Youth Theatre in the future and gain hands-on experience in a range of potential career paths.&nbsp;</p><p>Ethan Shi, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Level Media</u></a> Lecturer, added, "Breaking into the creative industries, such as Film and TV, can be challenging. It takes confidence. It takes skills. It takes passion. But even more so, opportunities. When employers and industry speakers step into the classroom, they will demonstrate and support learners by turning their imagination and career prospects into real pathways. They show not just what it takes to gain a foothold, but also demonstrate the diverse roles and potential that can be achieved through the right guidance, access, and progression."&nbsp;</p><p>Lynsey McKinstry, Strategic Business Partnership Manager at Weston College, said, “We are so grateful to the National Youth Theatre for delivering these workshops to our students. It is employer engagement like that is invaluable for our students personal and professional development. Hearing directly from industry professionals helped bring careers in the Creative industry to life and showed learners the wide range of roles available within production. These opportunities allow students from all pathways to build confidence, understand employer expectations and see how their skills can translate into real employment.”&nbsp;</p><p>A huge thank you to the team at the National Youth Theatre who took the time to visit our students and deliver these impactful workshops.&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>