Bristol Airport Take Off Programme Success

Weston College recently celebrated the achievements of students who completed the Bristol Airport Take Off Programme, an 11-week initiative delivered in partnership with Bristol Airport and North Somerset Council. The programme has successfully supported adults who were not in employment, education or training, helping them to develop the skills, confidence and experience needed to progress into meaningful employment opportunities.

Over the course of the programme, students benefited from mentoring, employability workshops and tailored skills development designed to prepare them for the workplace. Students gained valuable hands-on experience through work placements at Centreline – Aviation Services, Boots, WHSmiths and Apcoa Car Park. The students also had an industry talk from Easyjet, a tour of Bristol Airport, and received personalised one-to-one support and took part in mock interviews with employers, helping them to build confidence, improve their communication skills and gain a greater understanding of employer expectations.

The programme provided training in customer service, employability and industry-specific skills, alongside confidence-building activities that enabled students to recognise their strengths and aspirations. As a result, students left the programme with enhanced workplace skills, increased self-belief and improved prospects for securing employment, including opportunities with Bristol Airport's Business Partners and other local employers.

The positive impact of the programme has already been demonstrated through its employment outcomes, with 25% of the cohort successfully offered employment, and we are continuing to support the remaining learners in preparing for further work experience and interviews. This achievement reflects both the dedication of the students and the effectiveness of the support provided throughout the programme, helping participants take an important step towards sustainable employment and future career success.

The achievements of the students were celebrated at a graduation event held at the Winter Gardens, where students, partners and supporters came together to recognise the progress made throughout the programme and the positive impact it has had on the lives of those involved.

Pat Jones, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College, said: "We are delighted to partner with Bristol Airport on the Take Off Programme. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing inclusive education and training opportunities, ensuring individuals from all backgrounds can develop the skills needed to thrive in the workforce."