SUPPORTING YOU

At Weston College, we understand how daunting it can be starting something unfamiliar, so we want to ensure you feel as supported as possible when you start with us in September.

Click the buttons below to find out more about the support available to you when you start Weston College:

Learning Support

Our college is committed to supporting you no matter your course or background. We offer personalised learning support across all campuses to tailor to individual needs, delivered by specialist staff with expertise in areas such as autism, ADHD, mental health, SpLD, hearing loss, and sight loss. Using a graduated response and the Assess–Plan–Do–Review process, we provide support in and out of the classroom. This may include assistive technology, learning adjustments, or wellbeing support, helping students progress towards their future goals.

Welfare

At Weston College, we have a friendly Welfare and Wellbeing Team who will provide support and guidance about any concerns or issues you face throughout your time at college.

Financial Support

To ensure you have equal opportunities throughout your time at college, we offer financial support to students who are eligible depending on your individual circumstances, providing you with bursaries for essential kit, required equipment, and trips to further your learning.

Travelling to College

At Weston College, we have excellent transport links to all three main campuses. Each site is accessible by road, train, and bus, with two train stations in Weston-super-Mare and nearby bus stops serving all campuses. As part of our commitment to environmental sustainability, we encourage staff and students to choose more eco-friendly travel options, helping to reduce environmental impact and benefit both the college community and the wider area.

Support with Careers

Our Careers and Employability Team provide you with guidance on university, apprenticeships, CV writing, and next steps. They support industry placements, including T Level work placements, helping you find, prepare for, and reflect on opportunities. The team also ensures that you gain valuable experience, skills, and confidence for future careers.

Important Dates

Getting Ready for College, from: April 2026
Discovery Day: 3rd July 2026
GCSE Results Day: 20th August 2026
Enrolment Week*: 24th – 28th August 2026

*Your enrolment appointment will take place at the College in the week beginning 24th August 2026. This is when you’ll come in with your GCSE results, collect your student ID and complete your final enrolment steps. You will receive an invite nearer the time.

Your Student Experience

At Weston College, we have many extra-curricular activities for you to involve yourself in outside of the classroom.

Whether you are interested in joining the Students’ Union (SU), taking part in a club or society that interests you, or joining the Sports Academy, we have opportunities for everyone.

Every student deserves to feel like they belong here. Whether it’s mental health resources, cultural representation, or financial accessibility, I will work tirelessly to make our campus a place where no one is left behind – regardless of background, identity, or circumstances.

If you are a full-time student, you will have many opportunities to go on trips throughout your time at Weston College. We encourage you to apply your classroom knowledge to real-world settings, meet industry professionals, and create memories and experiences that last beyond your college years.

Not only do you have opportunities to go on trips within your course, but Weston College has also been awarded a bursary through the Turing Scheme for next year to provide students with international opportunities. This is a global programme for studying and working abroad which enables students—especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds—to gain the confidence, skills, and international experience that employers value.

The funding will support placements this academic year in Canada, the USA, Indonesia, and Thailand, giving students the chance to immerse themselves in new cultures, develop global citizenship skills, and gain hands-on industry experience.

Last year, students had the opportunity to go to fantastic countries such as New York, Nashville, and Canada, providing them with unforgettable memories and developing their skills both personally and professionally.

The Students' Union (SU) is made up of Student Representatives and Student Executives to help drive improvements across the college, putting students first when important decisions are made and representing the student body.

This elected team of students work together to create a diverse and inclusive community, encouraging engagement in trips, events, clubs & societies.

Find Out More

Niya Thomas

SU President, Loxton Campus

Every student deserves to feel like they belong here. Whether it’s mental health resources, cultural representation, or financial accessibility, I will work tirelessly to make our campus a place where no one is left behind – regardless of background, identity, or circumstances.

student about to kick football on astro turf

We offer high quality provision in four main sports; these sports provide our learners with coaching and games programmes in the following sports:

Netball
Football
Rugby
Cricket

Find Out More

Each faculty at Weston College has their own Career Excellence Hub (CEH), meaning that you will take part in a study programme with lots of career boosting benefits, all with the aim of giving you the opportunity to become career ready!

We have so many employer partnerships that you can work with to excel in your career, build your skills, and get your name into the industry. Not only this, but we also have many great trips, guest lectures, and workshops that take place throughout your course.

Each faculty works closely with several key employers, including:

Upcoming Events

As part of our recruitment process, we’d love to invite you in to an open evening so you can see the facilities and meet the lecturers ahead of starting in September. We want to give you the opportunity to ask questions, get to know the course in more detail, and discuss any other issues that you might have when starting.

Register now to attend Open Evening or book a Campus Tour with our friendly School Liaison Team to take a tour of the facilities and ask any questions that you may have.

OPEN EVENING SCHOOL LIAISON TOURS DISCOVERY DAYS - coming soon Parent Learner Info Evening (PLIE)

Latest News

There is always so much going on across our various campuses and courses. Stay up to date on our latest news.

14 Jan 2025

Recently, our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/art-design-gra… style="font-size:inherit;">UAL Foundation Diploma in Art & Design Pre-Degree</a> students took a trip to London, immersing themselves in the city’s rich artistic history. The visit was designed to broaden their understanding of art and design, offering them a chance to experience first-hand the diversity and creativity displayed in some of London’s museums and galleries. The trip consisted of students from both the <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/art-design-gra…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/art-design-gra…; target="_blank">UAL Foundation Diploma</a> and the <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; target="_blank">Year 1 and Year 2 Extended Diploma</a> programs. During their overnight stay, the learners explored museums and galleries such as the Design Museum, the Tate Modern, and the Tate Britain, which displayed a variety of art forms and mediums, allowing the students to appreciate the subjective nature of art and its many interpretations. <drupal-entity alt=""The back of lecturers, Ronnie and Kelly's heads looking at artwork"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="870fdadd-f1ea-434f-a5c1-68c1a9ecc868" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> The students also visited Southbank and Westminster to make the most out of their trip and experience the busy city atmosphere and unmissable sights and landmarks. This trip also gave our learners the chance to bond further outside the classroom and provided them with invaluable life skills like navigating through cities, both on foot and using public transport like the tube. <drupal-entity alt=""Lecturers Ronnie and Kelly smiling in front of Southbank yellow building"" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="373bfab4-c84a-4acc-9eb7-2a88b0282b93" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity> Rachel Clayton, one of our Art, Graphics, and Fashion lecturers, highlighted the significance of the trip, saying “We run this trip to nourish the cultural elements of the course and to provide inspiration from artists and designers that will inform their creative output.” The trip was organised by tutors Rachel Clayton, Kelly Metcalfe, and Ronnie Houselander-Cook, who accompanied the students and ensured a memorable and enriching experience.  By engaging with art in such a prestigious and dynamic environment, the learners deepened their artistic knowledge and built connections between their work and the art on display which will enhance their creativity and collaboration throughout their studies. <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; target="_blank">If you’re interested in applying to one of our Arts, Design, Graphics and Fashion courses, click here.</a>

Art and Design Students Explore London’s Vibrant Art Scene

13 Jan 2025

Former learner, Thomas, smiling at National Composites Centre (NCC)

Thomas, a former Weston College student, is excelling in the engineering and manufacturing industry. Now working at the National Composites Centre (NCC), Thomas reflects on his journey, from his time at Weston College to being shortlisted for the prestigious Make UK Awards. Thomas began his academic journey at Weston College in 2021, pursuing a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/engineering-a…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/engineering-a…; target="_blank">Level 3 Diploma in Composites Engineering</a> and gaining a solid foundation in the field of advanced materials. Once completed in 2024, Thomas advanced to a Level 4 Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) apprenticeship with the NCC.  At the NCC, Thomas has engaged in a variety of projects, shadowing advanced technicians and gaining hands-on experience. Beyond the technical aspects, he has worked with organisations like BBC Bitesize and the Gatsby Charity to promote engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships. Thomas’ hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. The National Composites Centre nominated him for the Make UK Awards in the Manufacturing and Engineering category for final-year apprentices. To qualify, Thomas compiled a portfolio highlighting his achievements. This was followed by an interview to delve deeper into his apprenticeship experience. Reflecting on the moment he was shortlisted, Thomas said: “When I found out I had been shortlisted, I was shocked but very proud. It was validating to see all my hard work and dedication acknowledged. I was also excited to represent my company at the award ceremony.” Looking ahead, Thomas plans to continue developing his skills and qualifications. He is currently pursuing a Level 4 apprenticeship and hopes to further enhance his practical expertise in the workshop. His focus is on seizing opportunities for training and expanding his ability to operate advanced equipment and machinery. Grateful for the support he received from both Weston College and the NCC, Thomas encourages others to consider apprenticeships: “I’m thankful and feel very fortunate to have been surrounded by such supportive people. Apprenticeships create a great environment for learning new skills and exploring different career paths.” Thomas’ story is a testament to the power of dedication, education, and the opportunities provided by apprenticeships. As he continues to make strides in his career, he serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers and technicians. We’d like to congratulate Thomas for his hard work, and we wish you all the best in the future. <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…; target="_blank">If you’re interested in applying for an Engineering Apprenticeship, click here.</a>

Former Apprentice Gaining National Recognition in Engineering

9 Jan 2025

protective services students at Quantock Hills with mountain bikes

The Level 3 Year 2 Protective Service students had the unique opportunity to take part in a Mountain Bike Day at the end of November, set against the stunning backdrop of the Quantock Hills. The day was a fantastic combination of exercise, outdoor exploration, and team-building activities, all of which are proven to have significant benefits for mental health. The picturesque hills offered the perfect setting for the students to enjoy nature while engaging in physical activity that encouraged both personal development and teamwork. David Usher, Protective Service lecturer at Weston College, commented on the event: “This is a normal day for our students, doing something special whilst conducting a 3 A-level equivalent qualification. It's not just about the academics, but also about building teamwork, resilience, and well-being through practical experiences." <drupal-entity alt=""protective services students at Quantock Hills with mountain bikes"" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="90320c30-06a3-405e-85cb-1773f2465bd7" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity>The Mountain Bike Day served as a reminder of how important maintaining mental health through physical activity and outdoor experience is. The students had an unforgettable day exploring the hills, developing skills that will aid them in their future careers in the protective services sector. This partnership forms part of the Protective Services Careers Excellence Hub. The College has fourteen sector-specific Career Excellence Hubs, which evidence our dedication to supporting both employers and learners in achieving their future goals. By creating a seamless connection between industry and education, we enable learners to acquire not only the essential skills and knowledge but also the professional networks necessary to excel in their chosen fields. To find out about what courses we have to offer for Protective Services, please <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… here.</a> 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 here. 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.

Protective Services Mountain Biking on the Quantock Hills!