<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">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.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Thomas began his academic journey at Weston College in 2021, pursuing a </span><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><span style="font-size:inherit;"> 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.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">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.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">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.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">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:&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">“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.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">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.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Grateful for the support he received from both Weston College and the NCC, Thomas encourages others to consider apprenticeships:&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">“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.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">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.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">We’d like to congratulate Thomas for his hard work, and we wish you all the best in the future.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><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></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan, a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; target="_blank">Hospitality and Catering Apprentice</a>, has been working hard during his placement at COR Restaurant, where his dedication and growth have not gone unnoticed. Over the past six months, Ewan’s efforts and professionalism have impressed the team at COR so much that they took to social media to celebrate his achievements.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">In a glowing post, the restaurant described Ewan as a polite professional and highlighted his enthusiasm, team spirit, and hunger to learn. They praised his initiative, noting his ability to create a delicious tiramisu and expressing excitement for his continued development in 2025.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan is in his second year of a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; target="_blank">Level 2 Hospitality and Catering Apprenticeship</a> with Weston College and shared insights about his journey so far. He described his apprenticeship as highly educational and credited COR Restaurant for providing a welcoming environment where the team’s kindness and support have helped him grow. One of his favourite aspects of the experience has been learning from the talented chefs he works alongside, an opportunity he believes has significantly boosted his skills, knowledge, and confidence.</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Hospitality and Catering Apprentice, Ewan, at COR restaurant&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8bf39fa6-be4a-44be-b9d6-cf49274cdda9" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">&nbsp;</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan chose his apprenticeship because it offered the practical, hands-on experience he needed to thrive in the catering industry. He values the supportive nature of his workplace and colleagues, who have helped him navigate any challenges that arise. Reflecting on his time at Weston College, he commended the staff and praised the excellent kitchen facilities, which have further enriched his learning experience.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">For those considering an apprenticeship, Ewan emphasised the importance of having a genuine passion for the field. He encouraged future learners to pursue apprenticeships if they are clear about their interests and career aspirations, as the experience provides invaluable real-world learning and growth opportunities.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Ewan’s journey so far stands as a testament to how dedication, curiosity, and the right support can set the stage for a bright future in the hospitality industry.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;">Thank you to COR Restaurant for giving Ewan this opportunity and providing him with a supportive, hands-on environment that is encouraging his growth and building confidence in his ability.</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;"><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi…; target="_blank">If you are interested in applying for a Hospitality and Catering Apprenticeship, click here.</a></p>

<p>Hi, I’m Nick, and I am a Maintenance Controller in the Operational Engineering Department at <a href="https://www.bristolport.co.uk/">The Bristol Port Company</a>.</p><p>I joined <a href="https://www.bristolport.co.uk/">The Bristol Port Company</a> in 2015 as a mechanical engineer. I was employed primarily as a crane engineer but also maintained and repaired other kit such as conveyors, blenders and roller/hammer mills. After years of working as a production engineer on FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) production lines this was my first foray into heavy engineering, but I relished the new challenge.</p><p>After approximately 5 years as an engineer, I applied for the role of Maintenance Controller and was successful! I have now been in this role for over five years. My responsibilities now include managing a team of engineers, planning maintenance, sourcing spares, liaising with OEM (original equipment manufacturer) suppliers, issuing permits-to-work and writing risk assessments and method statements.</p><p>This was my first experience as a manager, so the head of Operational Engineering (my boss) told me about the <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/leadership-and-management">ILM Leadership and Management apprenticeship</a>, then encouraged me to do it, as he felt it would be beneficial to me in my new role as a manager.</p><p>The apprenticeship has helped me in the workplace significantly. I am now better equipped to deal with all the trials and tribulations that are thrown at you as a manager. During my apprenticeship I learnt many new methods and was given proven models to use in my everyday life at work. These help me manage people, my time and my tasks more efficiently and enable me to be more emotionally intelligent when dealing with personnel issues.</p><p>An example of a standout moments from your apprenticeship was the outward-bound course in the Lake District. It was fun and challenging at the same time. Also, spending time with employees from other departments of the company really improved our working relationships. I was able to learn about effective leadership in a hands-on environment.</p><p>Weston College provided robust support throughout the apprenticeship. Before starting, they guided me through the enrolment process and outlined what to expect. During the program, I had access to a dedicated mentor, regular check-ins, and resources tailored to my role. After completing the apprenticeship, they continued to offer workshops and networking opportunities to ensure I stayed updated with best practices.</p><p>After my apprenticeship, transitioning fully into my Maintenance Controller role felt seamless. The knowledge and skills I had gained during the programme gave me confidence in managing my team, planning maintenance tasks, and handling supplier negotiations. I felt more prepared to take ownership of my responsibilities and lead effectively.</p><p>My time at Bristol Port has brought unexpected opportunities, such as being invited to participate in high-level strategic planning sessions. Additionally, I’ve had the chance to mentor newer engineers and apprentices.</p><p>Working at Bristol Port comes with several benefits, including job stability, opportunities for professional growth, and a supportive work culture. The company also provides competitive pay, training programmes, and access to resources that help in both personal and professional development.</p><p>My future aspirations are to continue learning, and to shadow the Head of Operational Engineering to enable me to effectively stand in for him in his absence. I also hope to play a more significant role in shaping long-term maintenance strategies and mentoring young engineers and apprentices at Bristol Port.</p><p>I would highly recommend doing a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/leadership-and-management">leadership apprenticeship</a>! The apprenticeship not only equips you with practical skills but also builds your confidence and emotional intelligence as a manager. It’s a worthwhile investment in your career and offers tools that can be applied immediately to improve your professional performance.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs"><strong style="-webkit-text-stroke-width:0px;background-color:transparent;border-width:0px;box-sizing:border-box;color:rgb(97, 97, 97);font-family:&quot;Hco Gotham&quot;, &quot;Open Sans&quot;, Arial, sans-serif;font-size:18px;font-style:normal;font-variant-caps:normal;font-variant-ligatures:normal;letter-spacing:normal;margin:0px;orphans:2;outline:0px;padding:0px;text-align:start;text-decoration-color:initial;text-decoration-style:initial;text-decoration-thickness:initial;text-indent:0px;text-transform:none;vertical-align:baseline;white-space:normal;widows:2;word-spacing:0px;">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&nbsp;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.</strong></a></p>