'What Next?' 2026 - Careers Showcase for School Leavers

23 September 2026 16:30 – 19:30

‘What’s Next?’ isn’t just a careers fair — it’s your opportunity to start shaping your future.

Taking place at the iconic Winter Gardens, this exciting event brings together leading local and national employers, Weston College staff, and current students to help you explore your options, discover new opportunities, and find the pathway that’s right for you.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

Meet employers from across the country and discover exciting career opportunities, placements, and future pathways.
Hear from Weston College students and get a genuine insight into college life and what you can achieve.
Speak with expert college staff to explore courses, career routes, and the qualifications that can help you reach your goals.
Make an early application and take the first step towards securing your place at Weston College.

We look forward to welcoming you and supporting you as you take the next step in your educational journey.

Quiet Slot

We understand that attending a busy event can feel overwhelming for some prospective students and their families. That’s why we’ve introduced a dedicated Quiet Slot from 4:30pm, designed to provide a calmer, more relaxed environment where you can explore your options at your own pace.

During this time, our friendly team will be available to offer guidance, support, and reassurance, helping everyone feel comfortable and confident throughout their visit.

The Quiet Slot is ideal for:

Learners who would prefer a quieter, less crowded environment.
Individuals with sensory sensitivities or who may experience anxiety in busy settings.
Anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed experience when exploring their future options.

Employers Attending

A full list of employers attending will be announced closer to the event date. Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates and the latest announcements.

Booking Your Tickets

Tickets are now on sale! Choose the time slot that works best for you:

4:30pm – Quiet Slot (Limited tickets)
5:15pm
5:45pm
6:15pm
6:45pm

Please book one ticket for each prospective student attending. There is no need to book a ticket for accompanying guests - you’ll have the option to add guest details during the booking process.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is this event for me?

For Year 11s - If you're not sure what you want to do after school, What Next will help you to find out about different roles from local businesses. You can then talk to the college staff to find out the right course to get you onto the career path that inspires you! If you do know what you want to go into, you might not know about some of the more specific roles that you can learn about from an employer that interests you.

For Year 10's - Now is the time to get ahead and find out more about the career paths that are open to you so that once once September rolls around you can make an informed decision in Year 11. You can talk to the college staff about the the right course to get you onto the career path that inspires you! If you do know what you want to go into, you can gain more insight about some of the more specific roles from an employer that interests you. We'll also have School Liaison staff on hand to answer questions about how the application process works and other relevant events that might help you in the decision making process.

What will I be able to learn at this event?

- Learn more about different industries
- Discover jobs you didn't know existed
- Talk to employers about the roles within their company
- Find out what qualifications and experience is needed for certain jobs
- What courses can get me to where I want to be.

Is this a college open evening?

No, whilst there will be College staff available to speak to at the event, the big difference is the presence of employers. This event has a larger focus on careers and inspiring decisions that will then lead to enrolling on a course that will lead to the desired destination. That being said, there will be team of friendly faces manning an application station where you can apply on the night. Our next Open Evening is in October, to book your place visit www.weston.ac.uk/open-evenings

What should I ask employers?

Not sure what to ask? Here are a few conversation starters and questions you may wish to use:

- Can you tell me more about a career in ‘X’ and what a typical working day may include?
- How did you get into that role?
- What skills are you looking for from future employees?
- What has been the most enjoyable part/biggest success within your role?
- What should I be looking to do when I finish school to stand the best chance of securing a career in ‘X’?
- Where do you think the company or the sector is headed in the next five years?

Want to find out the best programme that will lead you to the career you're interested in? Talk to Weston College staff about our programmes - Just look out for individuals who have a blue Weston College lanyard on.

Can I make an application on the night?

Yes, absolutely! Our friendly Admissions Team will be available on the night to guide you through the application process and answer any questions you may have.

We recommend applying early to secure your place on your chosen course and take the next step towards your future.

If you’re not quite ready to apply yet, that’s no problem. You can still speak with our Admissions Team, ask any questions, and get the advice and support you need to make the right decision.