<p>We spoke with David Price, Firefighter at <a href="https://www.avonfire.gov.uk/">Avon Fire and Rescue Service</a> working out of the Children and Young Persons Department, about how <a href="https://www.avonfire.gov.uk/">Avon Fire and Rescue</a> collaborate with Weston College through a range of programmes designed to help learners launch careers in the firefighting industry!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>1. What is your relationship with Weston College? e.g. what services do you offer to our students?</strong></p><p>At Avon Fire and Rescue Service we support Weston College with many different areas from <strong>Education/Personal Safety</strong> to <strong>Project Ignite</strong>. Our Education Packages can be bespoke to the courses that Weston College are running i.e. <strong>Early Years Learners</strong> or more in-depth <strong>Road Safety, Water Safety, Personal </strong>and <strong>Electrical Safety </strong>for the College and University Candidates.</p><p>As part of Avon Fire and Rescue Service, we work in close partnership with Weston College to support the delivery and quality assurance of <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/protective-se… Apprenticeship programmes</strong></a>. Our relationship is built on a shared commitment to developing the next generation of firefighters through high-quality, structured learning that reflects both academic standards and the operational demands of the fire and rescue sector.</p><p>We collaborate with Weston College to ensure apprentices receive the right support at every stage, from induction to End-Point Assessment, while also contributing to the continuous improvement of the programme. Together, we’ve created an environment where learners can grow in <strong>confidence, capability,</strong> and <strong>professionalism</strong>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>2. Can you tell me about the work you do with our pre-employment learners, such as Ignite?</strong></p><p><strong>Project Ignite </strong>was a venture instigated by <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-work-pension… for Work and Pensions</a> who then reached out to Weston College. Weston College then reached out to Avon Fire and Rescue Service to see if we could support.</p><p>The general idea is that 18-25yr olds who are not achieving in general day to day life can get the help and support that they need. The main focus being that Weston College would support the academic side of the course and Avon Fire and Rescue would support the practical side with activities to enhance the candidate's<strong> self-esteem, confidence, teamwork</strong> and <strong>communication skills</strong> through activities that Fire Service Personnel do on a day-to-day basis.</p><p>The other part to this is<strong> varied locations </strong>for carrying out the training rather than being in the same place all the time. The information that the candidates gain from Project Ignite can also enrich their lives and the lives of others around them with regards to safety.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>3. What impact do these courses have on the learners, and on Avon Fire and Rescue?</strong></p><p>The apprenticeship courses delivered in partnership with Weston College have a significant and lasting impact on both the learners and Avon Fire and Rescue Service. For the learners, these programmes provide a <strong>clear</strong>, <strong>structured pathway</strong> into the fire service, equipping them with the <strong>technical knowledge, operational competence</strong>, and <strong>professional behaviours</strong> needed to succeed in a demanding and dynamic role. The blend of <strong>academic learning</strong> and <strong>on-the-job experience</strong> helps build their <strong>confidence, resilience,</strong> and <strong>decision-making skills</strong>.</p><p>For Avon Fire and Rescue, the impact is equally powerful. These courses help to develop highly capable and well-prepared firefighters who are trained to national standards and aligned with our organisational values. The apprenticeship model supports <strong>workforce planning, succession development,</strong> and a <strong>culture of continuous improvement.</strong> Ultimately, it strengthens our ability to serve our <strong>communities safely, effectively, </strong>and with <strong>professionalism.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>4. Can you tell me about the work you do with our Firefighter apprentices?</strong></p><p>Working with firefighter apprentices at Avon Fire and Rescue Service is a <strong>rewarding</strong> and<strong> vital </strong>part of our service. From the moment they join us at Training School, we support their development through a carefully structured programme that blends operational training with academic learning, in partnership with Weston College. This includes mentoring, providing formative feedback, and helping them embed the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required of a competent firefighter.</p><p>As they progress, we monitor their performance through regular reviews, support their workplace assessments, and ensure that their training aligns with both service expectations and the national apprenticeship standard. We also contribute to their preparation for the End-Point Assessment, guiding them through <strong>mock scenarios, professional discussions,</strong> and <strong>final reviews</strong> to ensure they’re confident and ready.</p><p>The goal is not just to help them pass the EPA but to help them become <strong>capable, reflective, </strong>and <strong>resilient firefighters </strong>who can make a positive difference in their careers and in the communities they serve.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>5. What types of skills do the Firefighters leave the apprenticeship with?</strong></p><p>Firefighter apprentices leave the programme with a strong blend of practical, technical, and professional skills. They’re trained in operational firefighting, community safety, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication ready to protect life, property, and the environment with confidence and professionalism.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>6. How does taking on apprentice's benefit Avon Fire and Rescue?</strong></p><p>Apprentices bring <strong>fresh energy, diversity</strong>, and a <strong>strong foundation </strong>of <strong>skills</strong> into the service. They help us grow a future-ready workforce, tailored to the demands of modern firefighting supporting succession planning, resilience, and continuous improvement across Avon Fire and Rescue.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>7. Can you tell me about any success stories of Weston College learners who can come to Avon Fire and Rescue for a pre-employment course or an apprenticeship?</strong></p><p>After the first Project Ignite we have heard that <strong>2</strong> candidates went on into employment and the rest signed up for <strong>further education.</strong> We have seen that 1 candidate from the second Project Ignite has reached out to Avon Fire and Rescue Service. Project Ignite is not a way into the Fire Service but more of an insight into the way industry works throughout the Country/World.</p><p>There have been many success stories of our apprentices - below is a snippet of a success story of an apprentice firefighter who has proved that you can switch careers at any point in your life if you feel it is right for you:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Outstanding Achievement: Andy Dolman Earns Distinction in Firefighter Apprenticeship</strong></em></p><p><em>We are proud to celebrate the success of Andy Dolman, our latest apprentice to achieve Distinction across all areas of his End-Point Assessment. Andy’s journey began as an on-call firefighter at Chew Magna while also working as a property maintenance contractor. After successfully navigating the recruitment process, he commenced his wholetime career in April 2022, enrolling in the Firefighter Apprenticeship scheme.</em></p><p><em>Through two years of dedication, commitment, and hard work, Andy successfully completed his End-Point Assessment, earning an overall grade of Distinction. Now serving at Southmead on Blue Watch, Andy continues to uphold the highest standards in his role, consistently demonstrating the values and behaviours essential to being an effective firefighter. His achievement is a testament to his professionalism, perseverance, and passion for the fire service.</em></p><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="977fc658-5067-4685-a80c-56771db81363" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_400x400&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>8. What would you say to someone considering a career as a Firefighter?</strong></p><p>Being a Firefighter is a highly skilled job that takes on many roles. Day to day training to keep your competencies up together to keep you and your colleagues safe on an incident and to assist with any eventuality that may be put in front of you. Caring for the local community, commuters and businesses through ongoing prevention work.</p><p>Hardly ever are two days the same. If you want a career that challenges you, makes a real difference and builds skills for life, becoming a firefighter is one of the most rewarding paths you can take. You’ll grow, you’ll be part of a team, and you’ll help protect and serve your community every day.</p>

<p>Weston College learner, Gracie Donaghy, recently won the <a href="https://www.sparks-magazine.co.uk/sparks-female-skills-competition-2025… Female Skills Competition 2025</strong></a>! This intense competition challenges participants to complete a live electrical installation from start to finish, testing their knowledge, accuracy, and time management under pressure.</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Gracie standing between two SPARKS Professionals holding two large cheques&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1cd8ad7-51af-4a30-b662-07f3f3cd63bf" 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>&nbsp;</p><p>Gracie is currently in her third year of an <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/electrical-co… Level 3 Diploma in Electrical Installation Apprenticeship</a> with Wessex Water. This apprenticeship has allowed her to develop skills in installing and testing cabling systems, containment, and a range of electrical components.</p><p>Gracie secured her place in the final of the competition after impressing the judges during the South Regional Heats and achieving first-place. Her precision and skill were demonstrated throughout both competitions, gaining recognition from her peers and competitors as well as the judges for her excellent accuracy, time-management and attention to detail.</p><p>Having taken part in the competition last year, Gracie came into this year’s event with a clear goal to beat her previous performance. She dedicated time to practicing installations that she felt less confident with, including lighting circuits and unfamiliar wiring setups.</p><p>After winning the South Regional Heats and securing her place in the final, Gracie added, “During the competition, I felt very nervous as I wanted to do well and demonstrate my best work. After the competition, I felt very proud of the work I had completed. I performed better than I did last year and that was my main aim.”</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Gracie using a screwdriver to secure her electrical installation at the competition&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="113e8e26-ea84-4d56-9acb-7dba27e8c741" 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>&nbsp;</p><p>Not only did Gracie show massive improvements from last year’s competition, but she also did herself and Weston College extremely proud. Gracie was stunned when she not only received the amazing title of <strong>SPARKS Female Skills Winner 2025</strong>, but she also got a range of tools and goodies and a fantastic cash prize to put towards her future.</p><p>The <strong>SPARKS Female Skills Competition</strong> is a great way for young females from all over the country to show their skills and compete with likeminded individuals. Competitions like these encourage future generations to take up trades courses and break down stereotypes in largely male-dominated subject areas.</p><p>Gracie also highlighted the fantastic benefits to the competition, saying, “it gives you a chance to meet others going through the same journey, and to push yourself to see what you can achieve under time constraints.”</p><p>Andy Fisher, one of our Electrotechnical Lecturers, has worked closely with Gracie throughout her time at Weston College, saying "Gracie is an exceptional student who works extremely hard in every task she completes. Her place in the final reflects the quality of work she produces. She is always millimetre perfect and very tidy with her installations and has always been such a pleasure to teach.</p><p>"As a lecturer, it’s an amazing competition to get the chance to attend with them and you can tell it means a lot to them too. Not only this, it’s also a phenomenal thing to put on their CV and Gracie has gone above and beyond with her achievement!"</p><p>Well done to all of the students who took part, and a massive well done to Gracie for this fantastic achievement and for representing the college with an amazing display of professionalism and maturity throughout both competitions!</p><p>If you would like to find out more about our Electrical Installation courses, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan… here</a>.</p><p>If you are interested in apprenticeship opportunities, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships?utm_source=ma… here</a>.</p>

<p>The winners of the 2025 <a href="https://www.somersetbusinessawards.org.uk/">Somerset Business Awards</a> were announced recently, at the prestigious Winter Gardens Pavillion.</p><p>With nearly 400 people from across Somerset in attendance, winners from across industries were announced, including Weston College and University Centre Weston apprentice, Jack Lewis, working at Singer Instruments - who was named as Apprentice of the Year.</p><p>Jack who is studying the<a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/engineering-degree-apprenticeships/"&gt; Level 6 Manufacturing Engineering Degree Apprenticeship</a>, has been impressing throughout his apprenticeship; from streamlining production to improving the design for manufacturability of needle holders.</p><p>Jack’s work has resulted in a significant cost-saving for Singer Instruments, which has allowed them to improve production efficiency and contribute to the scalability of the product.</p><p>Tracie Leahy, Assistant Principal for Apprenticeship and Skills at Weston College, said: “We are so proud of Jack, he has shown that he is an incredible apprentice with some truly impressive achievements already – we can’t wait to follow his career as he continues to progress within the engineering sector.”</p><p>Jack, added: "Winning the Somerset Business Award was a great moment, and it’s been a fantastic journey throughout my apprenticeship. I’m grateful for all the support I’ve had along the way."</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin… you would like to follow in Jack’s footsteps, you find out more about our engineering courses, by clicking here.</a></p>