<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Weston College has welcomed new and returning students for the 2026/27 academic year, with each Career Excellence Hub hosting a range of induction activities designed to help learners settle into college life, meet their peers and staff, and get to know their new learning environment.</p><p>The year began with Welcome Talks led by the College Executive Team. These sessions introduced students to the College’s leadership team and outlined key expectations for the year ahead, alongside important policies and procedures to help learners make a confident start to their studies.</p><p>Across the campuses, faculties also organised a variety of activities combining fun, creativity and practical learning.</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></strong></a> students toured the Puxton Park campus, met the animals, and took part in hands-on team-building activities.</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/busin…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/trave…; learners took part in human bingo and a range of icebreakers, while <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… &amp; Design</u></strong></a> students created a collaborative ‘Class of 2027’, using collages and personalised playing cards to showcase their creativity.</p><p>For some learners, induction provided an early opportunity to get hands-on with their future careers. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… &amp; Catering</u></strong></a> and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… &amp; Beauty</u></strong></a> learners began developing essential kitchen and salon skills, while <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students completed practical diagnostic activities, becoming familiar with the equipment and techniques they will use throughout their studies.</p><p><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Levels</u></strong></a> students explored their campus through a scavenger hunt before taking part in introductory subject sessions. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt… &amp; Social Care</u></strong></a> learners worked with interactive simulation dummies during practical assessments and observations, while <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; students got active with team-building and multi-sport challenges.</p><p>Meanwhile, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… Arts</u></strong></a> students were introduced to the course through choreography sessions and fun group challenges, including a creative competition to create a wedding dress using toilet paper.</p><p>Learners across <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… Years</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/engin…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… &amp; Animation</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… Design</u></strong></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/prote… Services</u></strong></a> also took part in icebreakers, problem-solving challenges and team activities, helping them build relationships while tackling challenges linked to their chosen subjects.</p><p>These Welcome Days play an important role in helping learners make a positive transition into college. Alongside introducing students to their courses and learning environments, they provide an opportunity to build confidence, develop friendships and start creating a sense of belonging from day one.</p><p>At Weston College, we know that starting a new chapter can feel daunting, so we are committed to creating a welcoming and engaging experience for every learner.</p><p>It has been fantastic to see our new and returning students make such a positive start to the year, and we can’t wait to see everything they go on to achieve throughout 2026/27!</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>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last night, our <strong>Creative Arts Summer Showcase</strong> Preview Evening welcomed hundreds of friends, family and members of the public to celebrate <strong>Weston College</strong> and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/"><strong><u>University Centre Weston (UCW)</u></strong></a><strong> </strong>students across multiple creative disciplines, giving them the chance to display their incredible work.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>The exhibition will continue to run every weekday between <strong>9:00am-4:30pm until 26th June at Loxton Campus</strong> so everyone can experience the creativity and achievements in their own time. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Across the showcase, work has been displayed from <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… &amp; Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… Media</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…;, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… &amp; Animation</u></a> students, showcasing their Final Projects in a professional setting and giving them the opportunity to discuss their processes and approaches with others.&nbsp;</p><p>The exhibition has been presented to a professional standard, with each classroom transformed into a gallery space. Artwork and displays are arranged throughout the rooms, giving every student their own area to exhibit their work. The preview event attracted a strong turnout, with visitors taking time to view the displays and speak with students about their projects.&nbsp;</p><p>Throughout the exhibition, a wide range of student work is on display across the classrooms, including sculptures, fashion designs, photography, graphic design, and artwork. The Media faculty also created a cinema-style space, complete with popcorn and a red carpet, to showcase the films and final projects students have produced throughout the year, creating a real cinematic experience for attendees.&nbsp;</p><p>Staff and students worked together to organise the showcase, providing learners from all years, levels, and disciplines with the opportunity to present their work to the public. Many students spoke positively about seeing their projects displayed in a professional setting and were proud to share their work with others.&nbsp;</p><p>Chrissandra Boxley, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… Design</u></a>, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…;, said:&nbsp;</p><p>"The Summer Showcase is a highlight of the year, and this year’s exhibition is a real testament to the creativity, dedication and growth of our students. We are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved, not only in the quality of the work on display, but in the confidence, individuality and professionalism they have developed throughout their studies. Seeing their work presented in a professional exhibition setting is a fantastic opportunity for students to recognise how far they have come and celebrate their achievements."&nbsp;</p><p>Gina Hele, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…;, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… &amp; Animation</u></a>, said:&nbsp;</p><p>"We are so proud of our students and the commitment they have shown throughout the year. The showcase gives them the opportunity to share their work with friends, family and the wider community, while also talking about the ideas, stories and creative processes behind each project. Watching our students develop both personally and professionally has been incredibly rewarding, and this exhibition is a fitting celebration of their hard work, talent and achievements."</p><p>A huge well done to all the students who have worked hard to ensure this exhibition is filled with high-quality work, and thank you to the staff who have helped to organise this celebration event, it wouldn’t be possible without your ongoing support.&nbsp;</p><p>This end-of-year exhibition forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… &amp; Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… Media</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…;, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat… &amp; Animation</u></a> Careers Excellence Hubs. 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 our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/art-film-game-and-graphic-desi… Arts</u></a> subjects! 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.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Weston College was delighted to welcome the <strong>National Youth Theatre</strong> to deliver its <strong>IGNITE Your Creativity</strong> programme, a series of fully funded, industry-led workshops designed to inspire and engage students from across a wide range of creative and technical curriculum areas. Delivered in partnership with and supported by <strong>Netflix</strong>, the programme provided learners with practical, hands-on experiences that introduced them to the wide range of creative and technical roles within film, television, theatre and related industries.&nbsp;</p><p>Taking place over a two-week period, the workshops enabled students to work closely with industry professionals, gaining first-hand insight into how creative projects are developed and delivered in professional environments. Learners explored a variety of roles and responsibilities, from performance and production to technical and behind-the-scenes careers, while developing confidence, teamwork skills and a greater understanding of working on professional film and theatre sets.&nbsp;</p><p>The programme engaged students from <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… Hair and Makeup</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d… and Design</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Levels</u></a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/… Work</u></a> and Creative Media Extension learners with <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…;, and the King’s Trust cohort. Sessions were carefully tailored to meet the needs of each group, ensuring that all participants were able to access meaningful, relevant and inclusive learning experiences, regardless of background or career stage.&nbsp;</p><p>Students were introduced to a wide range of creative disciplines, including acting and performance, directing and assistant directing, producing, research, camera and sound, podcast and audio production, screenwriting and vertical drama. Learners studying fashion, hair and makeup explored costume design, fabrication, set and prop creation, hair, wigs and special effects makeup for productions. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours…; learners and those preparing for employment benefitted from accessible delivery, clear progression routes and increased confidence in exploring creative career pathways.&nbsp;</p><p>The practical, short-format sessions had a positive impact on student engagement, motivation and attendance. Fully funded delivery, bursaries and adaptable approaches helped remove barriers to participation, reinforcing the college’s commitment to inclusive education. The programme also strengthened progression by highlighting routes into mentoring, showreel development, industry networks and further specialist training.&nbsp;</p><p>Students who participated in the workshops have been offered to take part in a fully funded, one-week National Youth Theatre course taking place during February Half Term at the <strong>Blakehay Theatre</strong>, Weston-super-Mare. This intensive programme will enable learners to collaboratively create a short film for use in CVs and showreels, while receiving mentoring and guidance from more than ten industry professionals. Students will gain hands-on technical experience across key production areas, including sound, camera, lighting, make-up and design, alongside the opportunity to take part in industry visits that deepen their understanding of professional creative environments.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to work with high-profile employers and gain experience that will enhance their portfolio. It is also a great networking opportunity, giving students the chance to continue to work with the National Youth Theatre in the future and gain hands-on experience in a range of potential career paths.&nbsp;</p><p>Ethan Shi, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level… Level Media</u></a> Lecturer, added, "Breaking into the creative industries, such as Film and TV, can be challenging. It takes confidence. It takes skills. It takes passion. But even more so, opportunities. When employers and industry speakers step into the classroom, they will demonstrate and support learners by turning their imagination and career prospects into real pathways. They show not just what it takes to gain a foothold, but also demonstrate the diverse roles and potential that can be achieved through the right guidance, access, and progression."&nbsp;</p><p>Lynsey McKinstry, Strategic Business Partnership Manager at Weston College, said, “We are so grateful to the National Youth Theatre for delivering these workshops to our students. It is employer engagement like that is invaluable for our students personal and professional development. Hearing directly from industry professionals helped bring careers in the Creative industry to life and showed learners the wide range of roles available within production. These opportunities allow students from all pathways to build confidence, understand employer expectations and see how their skills can translate into real employment.”&nbsp;</p><p>A huge thank you to the team at the National Youth Theatre who took the time to visit our students and deliver these impactful workshops.&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>&nbsp;</p>