<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This week, one of our Electrical Apprentices, Marcus Pan, competed in the <strong>SPARKS Learner of the Year</strong> <strong>2026</strong> competition, working on an electrical build against other learners from across the UK. After winning the South West Regional competition in January, Marcus progressed to the final against 6 other regional winners and placed 2nd overall. A fantastic achievement and reflection of his hard work and dedication to his apprenticeship.</p><p>The SPARKS competition brings together individuals from across the UK to compete for the title of Learner of the Year award and showcase their talent amongst other students within the industry. This is a prestigious and well-known competition sponsored and endorsed by several industry professionals, making this a fantastic networking opportunity as well as providing various career-enhancing prizes to support our students’ professional development.</p><p>Marcus is a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/electrical-co… 3 Electrical Installation and Maintenance Apprentice</a> with <strong>Holden Electrical</strong>, and is a hardworking and determined student who demonstrated an outstanding approach, attitude, and standard of work throughout the competition.</p><p>The finals were a demanding two-day installation involving multiple systems and components, all completed against strict industry criteria in a time-sensitive environment. Competitors were required to install, power up, test, and fault-find their work under pressure, demanding both technical excellence and resilience.</p><p>Not only was his result a reflection of his attention to detail, dedication, and precision, but it also displayed the fantastic support and teaching within our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; team at Weston College.</p><p>Marcus received multiple job offers as a result of his success, however, he remains focused on completing his apprenticeship and continuing his journey with Holden Electrical.</p><p>Marcus said, “The build was challenging as I’ve not done much metal work but overall it was good and I feel I timed it well. This competition has also given me connections to many people and companies which may be helpful in the future, but it has also built my confidence knowing that my standard of work is good enough to win such a huge achievement. Thank you to my lecturers who has supported and helped me throughout my time at college!”</p><p>Richard Hanney, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; at Weston College, added, “We are incredibly proud of Marcus for the professionalism, confidence, and skill he demonstrated throughout this competition. Competing in an unfamiliar environment alongside other highly talented students is never easy, yet Marcus remained composed and self-assured from start to finish. He applied his abilities with precision and professionalism, ultimately achieving an outstanding result.”</p><p>“Providing students with opportunities like this not only strengthens their confidence, but also gives them a valuable advantage within the industry. Experiences of this standard help students build meaningful professional networks, develop essential career skills, receive professional-standard tools and equipment that support their development, and enhance their portfolios by competing in such prestigious competitions.”</p><p>Well done to the competition winner, Samuel Stevely of HRUC Uxbridge, and all of the students who took part, and a massive well done to Marcus for this fantastic achievement and for representing the college with an amazing display of professionalism and maturity throughout both competitions!</p><p>This competition forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; 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><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 week, one of our third-year <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/plumbing-cons… &amp; Heating Technician apprentices</a>, Jack Winstone, has been awarded a prestigious £1,000 bursary for tools from the <strong>Worshipful Company of Plumbers</strong> in partnership with <strong>Monument Tools</strong>. This bursary is one of only six awarded nationally, making Jack’s achievement particularly remarkable.</p><p>These bursaries are awarded annually to <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; apprentices in order to reward them for their hard work within their trade and assist them with expenses as they progress through their apprenticeship qualification. Not only does this support the next generation of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; by providing them with high-quality tools to kickstart their careers, but it also gives them more confidence in their ability. Being one of the select few chosen is a fantastic achievement and a reflection of the hard work of our students.</p><p>Jack has shown exceptional dedication, professionalism, and technical ability throughout his apprenticeship at <strong>Swift Renewables</strong>. His enthusiasm for the trade, combined with his commitment to developing both his practical and theoretical skills, has consistently set him apart. This recognition is a testament to Jack’s hard work and character, but also to the high standards and support provided by the plumbing team here at Weston College.</p><p>Within our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; courses, our learners are pushed to compete in many enriching competitions and opportunities to encourage growth within their trade and network with professionals and like-minded students in the industry. This allows them to learn from others to develop their skills and prepares them for the future competition in the industry.</p><p>Jack shared his reaction to receiving the tools, saying, "I was very surprised, and overwhelmed with joy when I received the good news. I love investing my wages back into my work and was extremely excited to find out I had won so many things I was holding off buying. It was a massive surprise."</p><p>"These tools will impact my career massively. Tools are a very costly investment to an apprentice but paramount for their progression. Knowing I had been given all of these high-quality, professional level tools from a company of which I’m a big fan of was brilliant. That day I filled my tool bag with as much that I could cram in there! Thank you to my lecturer, Chris Sampson, for pushing me to apply. I doubt I would have gone for it if it wasn’t for Chris encouraging us to do it."</p><p>Richard Hanney, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; at Weston College, added, “Seeing one of our students win such an exclusive competition and come away with rewards to excel in their trade and kickstart their career is fantastic and a reflection of, not only their hard work throughout their apprenticeship, but also the dedication of the staff who put in the effort to ensure they succeed. It is opportunities like this that nurture the future talent of the industry and give them the opportunities to overcome barriers and succeed no matter the adversities.”</p><p>A huge well done to Jack for this achievement and we look forward to seeing you continue to grow within the plumbing industry.</p><p>This fantastic opportunity forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; 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/engineering-and-construction/"…;! 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>This month, we’re celebrating Joshua Fiddler, a former Weston College learner who’s now making waves as a Business Analyst at BT. Joshua first gained recognition as our Business Administration Apprentice of the Year in 2017, and his journey since then has been inspiring.&nbsp;</p><p>We caught up with him to learn more about his path and what he’s up to now.&nbsp;</p><p>Joshua completed consecutive Business Administration apprenticeships at Levels 2 and 3 at Weston College. After finishing, he stayed with his initial employer Brabantia for six years, building a strong foundation before moving to BT.&nbsp;</p><p>Over the past four years, he’s taken on various business improvement roles, driving transformation and championing change across the organisation. He chose the Business Administration apprenticeship because it offered a hands-on way to earn while learning and develop practical skills. Reflecting on his college experience, Joshua describes it as “excellent,” highlighting supportive instructors and guidance.&nbsp;</p><p>A standout moment was participating in WorldSkills, which pushed him beyond his comfort zone. He also credits his instructor, Lyndsey Lawrence, for mentorship that left a lasting impression. College gave Joshua both the business skills and the confidence to navigate daily operations effectively. Through his apprenticeship, he gained insights into the logistics industry and began to explore career possibilities.&nbsp;</p><p>While his path wasn’t fully defined at the time, the experience laid a solid foundation for future growth. After leaving college, Joshua progressed within his first company before seeking opportunities in larger organisations. When BT came calling, he embraced the chance to move into the telecoms sector and focus on large-scale business improvement.&nbsp;</p><p>One pivotal moment in his career came during a business restructuring, where he was asked to run daily operations after senior management departures. This intense challenge accelerated his management skills, supported by a mentor who helped him navigate complex organisational change. Agility and adaptability have been central to Joshua’s career, especially in roles driving change.&nbsp;</p><p>He believes these qualities provide a competitive edge and allow success in unpredictable situations. Joshua’s advice to students? Keep an open mind, stay true to yourself, and connect with people – friends, family, and colleagues alike – because opportunities often come from unexpected conversations.</p><p>If he could speak to his younger self, he’d say: “Smile more and don’t leave assignments until the last minute!” Joshua credits Weston College with shaping his journey: it gave him the skills, confidence, and opportunities to reach where he is today.&nbsp;</p><p>His advice to current and prospective students is simple: <strong>embrace every chance, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to try new things – you never know where it might lead.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Interested in an apprenticeship? Take a look at our apprenticeship opportunities <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships?utm_source=ma… data-pm-slice="1 1 []">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 <a 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.</p>