<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">On September 30th, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin… Apprentices</u></a> attended a Sustainability Conference in the Winter Gardens Ballroom where they received guest lectures from a range of employers and industry professionals regarding their approach to sustainability in the workplace and how they are incorporating it into their systems. &nbsp;</p><p>The day was kickstarted with guest speaker, Olivia Whittle, a Project Officer at <strong>Celtic Sea Power</strong>. She discussed the company’s work to develop a strong and sustainable workforce for the Floating Offshore Wind (FLOW) sector in the Celtic Sea. This helps to deliver offshore renewable energy at scale, and support upgrades to ports, grid and infrastructure. This gave our learners a deeper understanding into sustainable, offshore renewable energy and the impacts this has on the environment. &nbsp;</p><p>This was followed by guest speaker, Clare Hennessey, the Planning and Sustainability Director at <strong>Bristol Airport</strong>. During her lecture, she discussed the sustainability progression of Bristol Airport in upcoming years, with the new refurbishment and plan for the future, making Bristol Airport one of the leading sustainable airports in the UK. Clare also discussed how Bristol Airport has completed the first successful UK airport trial for the ground-breaking airside hydrogen refuelling trial, led by easyJet. This is a plan to create zero emission aviation and eventually introduce hydrogen-powered aircraft. &nbsp;</p><p>Following this was guest speaker, Matt Whale, the Framework Manager at <strong>Octavius Infrastructure Ltd</strong>, to discuss the leading transport solutions provider and how they enforce sustainability goals within their work. Their organisation ensures efficient transport networks by keeping trains running smoothly and traffic moving on the roads. They discussed their plans to make transport more sustainable by aiming for net zero carbon emissions, more efficient use of resources, as well as their goals for biodiversity net gain. &nbsp;</p><p>After lunch, learners were given a hands-on task to create a bridge with the other students on their tables. They were given a project brief and specifications to follow which they were later marked on. They were asked to create a powered bridge which opened to allow for goods and services to pass through, with other criteria to follow to ensure it was practical for the location. They also had to create a comprehensive and annotated diagram of their designs, show clear calculations based on the figures provided in the specification, and provide a project plan which identified the team roles and responsibilities. &nbsp;</p><p>Students had a range of materials to choose from to create their design, and once they had decided on a design, they collaboratively worked to execute their ideas. Their work was marked on how well they followed the project brief, if their drawings of their designs were detailed, labelled with materials, and explained how they would be manufactured. They were also marked on their calculations to ensure their designs were feasible, as well as how sustainable their products would be by providing innovative solutions. There were 80 points available in total for each team to achieve. &nbsp;</p><p>All groups created innovative designs which closely reflected the brief using the materials available. They all came up with strong sustainability ideas and themes within their designs by considering the impactful solutions that the employers had discussed in their guest talks earlier in the event.&nbsp;</p><p>This project was an excellent way for a range of different apprentices to work together to create a design that followed strict criteria, an excellent reflection of what many of them will be required to do when working with clients and employers. It gave them great experience to think practically and come up with innovative ideas as well as consider alternative solutions for the same conclusion. It is projects like this that prepare our students for the industry and allow them to meet like-minded individuals who will have different ideas and broaden each other's problem-solving skills. &nbsp;</p><p>This event was an excellent opportunity for students to hear about the different sustainable approaches that large organisations are taking to ensure a greener future and improved systems. As the future generation of engineers, it is important for them to learn ways to adapt and develop new structures and approaches to keep moving forward. They also learnt more about the possible career pathways available depending on their interests, so they have a better understanding of their options after their apprenticeships.  &nbsp;</p><p>Thank you to Celtic Sea Power, Bristol Airport, and Octavius for taking the time to visit our students and discuss the sustainable approaches you are taking to improve your organisations. &nbsp;</p><p>This event forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin… &amp; Green Skills</u></a> 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/"><u>University Centre Weston (UCW)</u></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/courses-by-subject/engineering-and-construction/"… here!</u></a>&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>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">This month’s featured trailblazer is Georgia Ferdinando, a former learner, apprentice and staff member at Weston College, who is now a Schools Coordinator for the City Football Group, representing Manchester City Football Club in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;</p><p>We caught up with Georgia, to find out about her journey, and what she is doing now:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What did you study at Weston College?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>I completed two courses at Weston College; first, a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science</a>, followed by a Level 3 Community Sport and Health Officer Apprenticeship.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>During my apprenticeship, I worked at the college as the Women’s Football Development Officer, before progressing into a full-time position as a Sport and Wellbeing Engagement Officer.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>How has that helped you get to where you are today – what has your journey been like?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Studying sport at Weston College provided me with the core knowledge, skills, and behaviours essential for a career in coaching and sport development. It gave me a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of sport, while also helping me to grow in confidence and professionalism. Those experiences have been invaluable in shaping the coach I am today.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What is your favourite thing about your role?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>My favourite part of the job is building meaningful relationships with both staff and students in the schools I work with. I love being able to connect with young players through our shared passion for football and to support them as they develop both on and off the pitch. Seeing their progress and enthusiasm is incredibly rewarding.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What piece of advice would you give to people looking to follow in your footsteps?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>My advice would be to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Every new experience is an opportunity to learn. Also, build your network — put yourself in situations where you can meet new people, make connections, and learn from others in the industry.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Is there anything else you’d like to add?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone at Weston College who supported and believed in me throughout my journey. You’ve played a key role in my growth; not only in my professional development but also in my personal confidence and self-belief.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This alumni story forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… &amp; Fitness</u></a><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; </a>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/computing-and-digital-technolo… &amp; Digital Technologies</u></a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/"><u>University Centre Weston (UCW)</u></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/"><u>Click here!</u></a>&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.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []"><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; is a very versatile and dynamic course with many different routes to specialise in. At Weston College, we offer courses in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const… Professionals</u></a> such as Civil Engineering and Surveying. </p><p>These courses are a great way for students to get hands-on experience in trade subjects. They gain practical skills in the workshop whilst learning theoretical knowledge in the classroom which they can then apply to real-life application.</p><p>This year, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; students have been introduced to new uniforms. This allows both staff and students to identify different trades depending on their colour. For example, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; students are now wearing blue tops and jumpers, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; is wearing green, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; is wearing red, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; is wearing grey, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan…; is wearing black. These new items of clothing were completely free of charge to the learners and allows everyone to easily identify which student is in which cohort.</p><p>At the end of last term, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; learners were challenged to think harder about how they engage with the community, not just because of the positive impact it has on our learners, but because it’s a great way to give back and encourage engagement and meaningful interactions outside of the college.</p><p>During their first week back, our learners have already risen to that challenge. Jack, Plastering, and Alfie, Bricklaying, joined our staff at St. Martin’s Primary School Careers Day for Year 6 pupils. They spoke confidently with the pupils, answering questions about their trades, college life, and their plans going forward.</p><p>We have also invited the Year 6 pupils into college, where our learners will demonstrate their skills across the trades, discuss their career journeys and pathways in construction, and offer hands-on experiences to show learners the options available to them. This is a great way to not only improve the confidence of our learners, but also to help inspire the future generations. It’s a great way for our learners to become positive role models within the community and take pride in their abilities.</p><p>We look forward to seeing what our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…; students get up to for the rest of the year!</p><p>This initiative 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.</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/"><u>University Centre Weston (UCW)</u></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/"><u>Click here!</u></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>