A significant portion of your timetable will be dedicated to you achieving academic, vocational or technical qualifications in your chosen subject area.

A work or industry placement enables you to gain the first-hand experience you need to stand out from the crowd in the employment market. Many students have gained employment directly from an industry placement. The number of placement hours varies by sector area - however, these are the minimum numbers:

Level 2 study programme
Minimum of five days or 37 hours.

Level 3 year 1 study programme
Minimum of five days or 37 hours.

Level 3 year 2 study programme
Minimum of 315 hours over 45-60 days.

All learners have a regular one-to-one tutorial with a personal tutor. The aim of the tutorial is to monitor your progress and give you the support you need to achieve your personal and academic targets.

All learners have full access to Microsoft Office 365, including FREE downloads for the entire Microsoft Office suite on up to five devices. Throughout your study programme, you will use Microsoft Teams (available on Windows, Android and Apple devices) to access digital learning resources, collaborate with others on your course and communicate with your tutor. You can enhance your study programme package by completing Microsoft Certifications during your time at Weston College and show employers evidence of your digital skills.

English and maths are two of the most important skills for people looking to find a job or apply for university. Most employers look for a good understanding of English and maths, supported by at least a Level 2 qualification. If you didn’t get a grade 4 at GCSE in maths and/or English you will complete GCSE or a functional skill in these subjects as part of your study programme.

The College ID and Futures Academy programmes are differentiated by level and subject area. Their aim is to build the behaviours, attitudes and personal skills you will need to thrive in both work and society. The programmes develop a core set of skills such as communication, time management and team work through a range of activities and learning opportunities that include:

• Careers information, advice and guidance
• Health and well being
• Digital skills development
• Volunteering
• Social action projects
• Competition work.

Learners on Level 3 programmes will complete Futures Academy. The core principals are the same but underpinned with technology to further prepare learners for higher study or employment.

You will take part in dedicated independent study skills sessions which you will use for research and revision, and to complete tasks set by your teachers. Some of these sessions will be supervised and facilitated by teaching staff or learning mentors.

Outside the classroom, all learners have access to a range of learning spaces and resources in our vibrant LibraryPlus learning centres at each campus. Each LibraryPlus is supported by our dedicated Learning Advisor team and includes a variety of spaces for group work or individual study. You will also find self service laptops, tablets, PCs and more, to help you stay on track with your study programme.