<p>Last week, our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</a> students took part in a <strong>Reverse Careers Fair</strong>, providing them with the opportunity to showcase their skills, ambitions and career aspirations to local employers.</p><p>Unlike a traditional careers fair, students became the exhibitors, creating displays that highlighted their work, CVs, personal achievements and future career goals. They also introduced themselves to employers, giving valuable insight into their interests, experiences and ambitions within the industry.</p><p>Students demonstrated a wide range of career aspirations, including mental health nursing, midwifery, care work and embalming, reflecting the diverse opportunities available within Health and Social Care.</p><p>We were delighted to welcome employers from <strong>Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust (AWP)</strong>, <strong>University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust</strong>,<strong> Access Your Care</strong>, and other industry professionals, who took the time to speak with students, offer advice and learn more about the next generation of health and care professionals.</p><p>Following the Reverse Careers Fayre, students attended a series of employer presentations and talks. These sessions provided a valuable insight into the wide variety of careers available within the sector and what it is like to work in different health and social care settings. Topics covered included nursing, mental health nursing, dementia care, support work and a range of progression opportunities within the industry.</p><p>The event gave students the chance to develop their confidence, communication and employability skills while building connections with professionals working in their chosen fields.</p><p>A huge thank you to all the employers who attended and supported the event. Their time, expertise and encouragement helped make the day a valuable and inspiring experience for our students.</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last month, our Level 1 <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</a> students became <strong>Dementia Friends</strong> after receiving an engaging session from Dementia Friends Ambassador, Alan Richardson, who explored what dementia is and the impact it has on people’s lives.</p><p><strong>Alzheimer’s Society’s Dementia Friends</strong> initiative aims to raise awareness and deepen people’s understanding of dementia, encouraging them to take small actions that can positively impact those living with the condition in their communities.</p><p>Alan outlined what it truly means to live well with dementia and how small, everyday actions can make a big difference. This gave our learners a deeper understanding of how to support people with dementia, equipping them with a practical understanding of dementia, as well as a level of empathy and confidence to communicate with people suffering with it.</p><p>Following this talk, our learners developed the confidence and communication skills that are essential for careers in the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</a> sector. It was also a powerful opportunity for our students to gain insight into the Alzheimer’s Society and the impact they have on people living with dementia, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate society for the next generation to foster going forward.</p><p>Dale Bond, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</a> at Weston College, added, “Sessions like these are invaluable in helping our students develop a holistic understanding of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</a> industry, equipping them with a well-rounded skill set and preparing them for a wide range of future pathways. We aim to ensure students engage with as many employers as possible, giving them insight into the diverse opportunities available, broadening their knowledge, and nurturing kind, empathetic individuals who will thrive in their future careers.”</p><p>A huge thank you to Alan Richardson for taking the time to visit our students and share your knowledge!</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/healt… and Social Care</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-by-subject/healthcare/">Healthcare</a&gt;! 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&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 data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This month, Weston College celebrated <strong>Raising and Giving (RAG) Week</strong> with the theme of the Wild West. The themed event gave everyone the chance to organise games, activities, and raffles in support of two incredible charities: <strong>Weston Hospicecare</strong> and <strong>UNICEF</strong>.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Weston Hospicecare</strong> provides vital palliative care for individuals with life-limiting illnesses, while also offering essential emotional support to their families. <strong>UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund)</strong> operates in over 190 countries, working to protect children’s rights through initiatives such as vaccinations, education, access to food and clean water, and safeguarding.&nbsp;</p><p>Throughout the week, students from across the college took part in a wide variety of fundraising activities, showcasing teamwork, creativity, and community spirit. RAG Week is held annually at colleges across the UK and is a fantastic opportunity for students to get involved, have fun, and make a difference ahead of the exam season.&nbsp;</p><p>Our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…; learners played a huge role in the week’s success, hosting an exciting lineup of events including a dance-a-thon, Mario Kart tournaments, Buckaroo and Pony Club racing, karaoke sessions, and even a Wild West-themed bar serving snacks and drinks. Their energy and commitment were outstanding, with multiple events taking place each day.&nbsp;</p><p>Other curriculum areas also embraced the challenge, with <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; students going above and beyond by selling scrap wood and organising a raffle featuring high-quality tools. Across the college, staff and students fully embraced the theme, dressing up in cowboy hats, bandanas, and plenty of denim. The Student Engagement Team added to the atmosphere by selling themed accessories, helping to raise additional funds while encouraging participation.&nbsp;</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a> students also organised an impressive 30-mile Wild West-themed stretcher relay challenge along the seafront. This provided a great opportunity for students to have fun, stay active, and support two meaningful causes, as well as prepare them for the upcoming Ten Tors Challenge and future careers in the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></a> industry. &nbsp;</p><p>A highlight of the week was the college-wide raffle, which included a range of popular prizes such as day passes and tickets to local attractions, including restaurants, cinemas, and activity centres. Bake sales were also held to boost fundraising efforts.&nbsp;</p><p>Other curriculum areas across the college also got involved, with <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</u></a> students enjoying a pyjama day, while <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…; students organised a games afternoon and football match. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… and Social Care</u></a> and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; students hosted a Nerf gun tin can alley and a rodeo rush event, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; students led a Pokémon GO raid walk through Weston-super-Mare town centre.&nbsp;</p><p>Overall, the week brought together students and staff from every campus, creating an exciting, inclusive, and impactful celebration of community and charity. In total, RAG Week raised an impressive&nbsp;£3,723.98 for <strong>Weston Hospicecare</strong> and <strong>UNICEF</strong>.&nbsp;</p><p>Thank you to everyone who organised events, took part, or made a donation. Your support made the week such a success and helped raise an incredible amount for these important causes.</p><p data-pm-slice="0 0 []"><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 []">&nbsp;</p>