<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">This month, our </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Music and Production</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> students had the incredible opportunity to take a 12-day trip to Nashville due to the generous funding from the <strong>Turing Scheme</strong>. The trip offered students the chance to explore the city whilst giving them a better understanding of the music industry, further developing their personal and professional growth. &nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">The <strong>Turing Scheme</strong> is an amazing initiative that provides financial support for education providers, enabling students to take part in international study and work placements. This support opens the door to global learning experiences that not only enrich education but also provide cultural awareness and career growth. For many of the students on this trip, it was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, with some having never left the UK before, let alone travelled across the world. The scheme made the adventure extremely accessible, with some students even attending completely free of charge. &nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Despite an unexpected delay caused by airport closures that pushed their departure back three days, and weather warnings during their stay, the students remained upbeat and resilient. They took everything in stride, embracing every moment with positivity and maturity. &nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">After arriving in Nashville, the group’s itinerary was jam-packed! They visited world-renowned music landmarks such as the <strong>Johnny Cash Museum</strong>, and the <strong>Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum</strong> where they got to immerse themselves in the history and evolution of different genres. However, the most beneficial visits included <strong>Full Circle Music</strong> and <strong>WeiRock Entertainment</strong> as they gave the students valuable industry and studio experience, giving them the chance to network and build connections with Music industry professionals.</span></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Group of students sat smiling on a stage&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c9bd119f-7529-41a8-9729-6524c4ae7b05" 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;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;">&nbsp;</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">They also got the chance to attend tours of iconic locations such as the old and new <strong>Grand Ole Opry</strong>, <strong>Musicians Hall of Fame</strong>, various recording studios, and the <strong>Ryman Auditorium</strong> which allowed students to see first-hand the spaces where music history was made. This gave them a behind-the-scenes look into their future careers with the chance to ask questions. &nbsp;</span></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Students watching a live performance in the Ole Red&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="214acb0b-54a9-4920-81ca-e6d60c492aa4" 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;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;">&nbsp;</p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Workshops also played a vital role in the educational value of the trip. Students took part in a marketing workshop led by <strong>Rick Barker</strong>, best known for managing Taylor Swift in her early career, and a vocal training session with <strong>Brett Manning</strong>, an industry-renowned coach. Peer songwriting sessions encouraged collaboration, with students sharing their work and receiving feedback in a supportive environment. Some even performed on a public piano in one of the museums, capturing the attention of visitors with their music. The final workshop offered a chance to present their songs to a panel of professionals, giving them an invaluable taste of real industry feedback. &nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">On top of this, the trip also offered a range of cultural experiences. Students enjoyed street performances, a fantastic evening show at the <strong>Grand Ole Opry</strong>, visits to <strong>Madame Tussauds</strong>, and free time exploring the famous Broadway strip. They stopped at the world-renowned <strong>Carter Vintage Guitars</strong> which gave them a hands-on look at top-tier instruments, and they also enjoyed lots of delicious food during their trip which was definitely a highlight!&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">This trip made a lasting impact, allowing students to gain perspective on what a career in music really looks like. By meeting professionals, exploring legendary venues, and participating in practical workshops, they developed a clearer understanding of the dedication, creativity, and perseverance required to thrive in the industry. It also boosted their independence and confidence, providing them with essential life skills of navigating life in a city. &nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">None of this would have been possible without the dedication and support of staff members Oz Cahill, Tom Manning, and Laura Trace, who went above and beyond to ensure the trip was well-organised, safe, and unforgettable. Thanks to their efforts and the incredible funding from the Turing Scheme, this Nashville trip was an unforgettable opportunity that has helped shape our future </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Music</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> industry professionals. &nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">This curriculum trip forms part of the </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Music</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> 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;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:16px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;"><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></span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;"><strong>here</strong></span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"><strong>. 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;</span></p>

<p><a name="_Hlk195000405">Weston College&nbsp;</a><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</span></a><span> and&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; students have teamed up with <strong>Avon and Somerset Police</strong> to produce a powerful new short film to educate young people on bystander intervention in situations involving violence against women and girls (VAWG).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p>Led by Adrian Harris, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</a> Lecturer at the College, the project brought together FE Performing Arts students from the Acting Pathway and Year 1 FE Media students. The collaborative piece, filmed in April following months of weekly planning sessions, seeks to raise awareness of how members of the public, particularly young people, can safely and effectively intervene in violent or abusive situations.<o:p></o:p></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Media students filming performing arts students working on a scene&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1517e4fc-6aea-4052-9dcd-b04b18ec6cb9" 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><o:p></o:p></p><p>Avon and Somerset Police delivered a briefing on the sensitive topic, sharing the project’s aims but offering students creative freedom. With professionalism and maturity, learners devised different approaches to intervention, enabling the Police to tailor the message to specific audiences and scenarios.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Rehearsals took place at Weston College’s Knightstone campus, with filming completed in the picturesque setting of Grove Park to lend authenticity and impact to the final production.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Adrian Harris, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</a> Lecturer, explained:<o:p></o:p></p><p><em><strong>“The students have been brilliant. After watching the short films by Avon and Somerset Police, they expressed what worked and what didn’t, whether the message was clear or not, and offered original ideas and points of view to make it relevant to the younger generation.”<o:p></o:p></strong></em></p><p><em><strong>“The film will be shown to secondary school students - to help them deal with issues they come across and to show the different ways that, instead of being bystanders, they can be active contributors and help prevent violence against women and girls.”</strong></em><strong><o:p></o:p></strong></p><p>This project forms part of the <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</a> and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/creat…; Careers Excellence Hubs. The College has fourteen sector-specific Career Excellence Hubs, which evidence our dedication to supporting both employers and learners in achieving their future goals. By creating a seamless connection between industry and education, we enable learners to acquire not only the essential skills and knowledge but also the professional networks necessary to excel in their chosen fields.<span style="font-family:&quot;Arial&quot;,sans-serif;"> </span><o:p></o:p></p><p>Participating students described the project as both educational and empowering.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Brooke, a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</a> Acting Pathway student, shared:<o:p></o:p></p><p><em><strong>“I think it’s important for this type of film to be portrayed by young adults like us because relationships are so common in teens, and it’s critical to show that it’s not okay to display certain behaviours, and to get that message across early on because it could prevent serious situations from happening. It’s so important that young people learn about consent and respecting people’s boundaries.”</strong></em><strong><o:p></o:p></strong></p><p>Patrick, a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Theatre</a> student, added:<o:p></o:p></p><p><em><strong>“This project teaches people how to not be a bystander in a situation where you may see violence against women. If I was in a real-life violent situation, I might have struggled knowing how to intervene but now I’ve gained an understanding of the different ways I can get involved and help.”</strong></em><strong><o:p></o:p></strong></p><p>The project also offered invaluable professional development for students, many of whom were engaging in a professional filming environment for the first time. Working with a crew of directors, sound technicians, and photographers gave them real-world experience in following a brief, taking direction, and collaborating under pressure.<o:p></o:p></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Media students filming performing arts students working on a scene&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c3d79a3-68df-4ea4-a83e-456d137b4754" 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><o:p></o:p></p><p>This collaboration highlights the power of creative education in tackling real-world issues. By engaging with challenging topics like VAWG, our students are building professional skills and becoming advocates for positive change in their communities.<o:p></o:p></p><p>Thank you to Avon and Somerset Police for giving our students this fantastic opportunity!</p><p style="background-color:white;line-height:150%;margin-bottom:12.0pt;margin-left:0cm;margin-right:0cm;margin-top:12.0pt;"><span style="font-size:inherit;"><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&nbsp;</strong></span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…; target="_blank"><span style="font-size:inherit;"><strong>here</strong></span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"><strong>. 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></span></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Last month, Guthrie Kennard, an American singer-songwriter from Texas, visited our </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Music Performance and Production</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> learners, offering invaluable insight into the world of songwriting and performance. With over 60 years of experience in Old Blues and Southern country music, Guthrie brought not only his talent but also his wisdom, sharing stories from a lifetime dedicated to music.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Guthrie has played bass for six decades and performed alongside legendary musicians like Larry Graham, Buddy Miles, Rocky Hill, and Ray Wylie Hubbard. From playing gigs in small intimate settings to massive crowds of 50,000 people during the peak of the blues movement, Guthrie had many amazing stories to share with our learners about his journey.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">His passion for music has never faltered, “I have more stories than I do money,” he admitted, and even at 74, he continues to play because it brings him joy and fulfilment.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">During his visit, Guthrie shared insights into the songwriting process. He emphasised the importance of originality in lyrics, advising students to avoid repetition and make every line unique. His songwriting process is also largely organic—he starts with chords and a melody, often relying on drum patterns to guide the rhythm.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">While he doesn’t always plan albums in advance, he claims that he has a clear sense of the sound he wants to achieve. “I usually have a feeling of what an album will sound like, and I will write a song and decide that I need to keep it in that genre,” he explained.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Guthrie finds inspiration for his songs originates from the world around him. “I listen to stories, so if I hear a line that inspires me, I will use it as a lyric,” he shared. However, he also admitted to struggling with writer’s block, encouraging the students to keep writing, whether it’s serious songs or silly and fun, every bit of creativity is progress.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">The students were captivated when Guthrie performed in our Michael Eavis music Suite at Loxton Campus. Many of our learners aspire for a lifetime career in music in the future, giving them a lot of encouragement and insight into their chosen industry.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Guthrie acknowledges that his age has slowed him down a bit and discussed the challenges he has faced over time, but his love for music has always outweighed the negatives and he doesn’t want to stop playing. “I love doing it, and it keeps me going. It’s something I’ve done since I was a kid. Even though it’s been hard, it’s also kept me alive.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">During his visit, Guthrie praised Weston College’s facilities and the warmth of the students and staff, admitting that he was actually a bit nervous to be there.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Guthrie’s insights and experiences provided the students with an honest, unfiltered look at the realities of being a musician. From handling criticism to navigating the financial struggles of the industry, he offered an abundance of knowledge that will undoubtedly help shape the future generation of artists.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">We’d like to say a huge thank you to Guthrie Kennard for taking the time to visit us all the way from Texas and share his amazing journey and wisdom with our students.&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/music…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">If you’re interested in applying to one of our Music and Production courses, click here.</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;">&nbsp;</span></p>