<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This week, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></a> students kicked off the academic year with their annual Careers Fest, welcoming a range of local employers, from animal shelters and charities to wildlife conservation trusts and other animal-focused organisations. The event provided learners with the opportunity to hear directly from industry professionals, explore potential career pathways and gain a greater understanding of the opportunities available to them after completing their course.</p><p>The event welcomed organisations including <strong>Secret World Wildlife Rescue</strong>, <strong>Noah’s Ark Zoo</strong>, <strong>RSPCA</strong>, <strong>Tibbs and Simmons Farm Animal Veterinary Surgeons</strong>, <strong>Maddie’s Pawfect Pooches</strong>, <strong>Reptile Zone</strong>, <strong>Puxton Park</strong>, <strong>Avon &amp; Somerset Police Mounted Section</strong>, and <strong>FPCR Design &amp; Environmental Consultants</strong>. This diverse range of organisations demonstrated the breadth of careers available within the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></a> sector, while giving students the opportunity to ask questions, discover alternative pathways and make valuable industry connections.</p><p>Representatives shared insights into their own career journeys, what their roles involve and the different routes available to enter and progress within their industries. Discussions covered the qualities, attributes and qualifications employers look for, as well as the importance of gaining practical experience through work experience, placements and volunteering. Students also had the opportunity to explore potential placement and volunteering opportunities and gain valuable advice to help them take their first steps into the industry.</p><p>The event also provided a fantastic opportunity for students to hear from four former Weston College and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/animal-environment-and-biologi… Centre Weston (UCW)</u></strong></a> <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></a> students who are now working within the sector. Former <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… 3</u></a> student, Maddie, now runs her own successful dog training service, <strong>Maddie’s Pawfect Pooches</strong>, as a canine behavioural practitioner. Former student Andrew shared his experience of securing a full-time role at <strong>Noah’s Ark Zoo</strong> following a work experience placement, while current <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/animal-environment-and-biologi…; student Frank discussed his role at <strong>Puxton Park</strong>. Former <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/animal-environment-and-biologi…; student Hannah also returned to share her experience working within the <strong>RSPCA</strong>. Their stories provided students with first-hand insight into the variety of careers they could pursue and demonstrated how their studies can provide a valuable foundation for future employment.</p><p>Careers Fests such as this play an important role in supporting students' personal and professional development, helping them understand the skills, qualifications and experience required to succeed within the sector. They also provide valuable opportunities to network with employers and explore work experience, placement and volunteering opportunities, helping students build confidence, develop industry connections and make informed decisions about their future careers.</p><p>Employer engagement also supports the continued development of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></a> curriculum, ensuring that programmes reflect current industry practices, expectations and skills requirements. Following the event, employers may also work with curriculum teams to explore further opportunities for collaboration, creating additional experiences that support students' progression into employment and further study.</p><p>Laura Link, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</u></a> at Weston College, said, “Welcoming local employers is a fantastic way for our students to engage with real-world organisations, gain valuable insight into potential career pathways, and understand the impact these roles can have on animal welfare and conservation. It encourages students to start thinking about their future careers and, where possible, consider volunteering opportunities that can help them build valuable experience and enhance their employability. It is always fantastic to see the range of employers who get involved with us and are so committed to supporting and nurturing the career progression of our students.”</p><p>A huge thank you to all the employers in attendance for taking the time to interact with our students and share their knowledge from their sector.</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/anima… Management</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.</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/animal-environment-and-biologi… Management</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></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 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 []">Over the last few months, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… 3 Animal Management</a> students have been working hard to raise money for the animal charity <strong>Animal Advocacy and Protection (AAP)</strong> through <strong>Noah's Ark Zoo</strong> as part of the students’ Social Action Enterprise project. Their efforts will help the charity continue its vital work supporting animals and providing safe, spacious environments for those in need.</p><p>AAP is a European animal welfare organisation dedicated to protecting exotic animals, including primates, lions, and tigers. The charity rescues animals from suffering, advocates for stronger welfare laws and regulations, and works to find them safe and suitable homes.</p><p>The Social Action Enterprise project gives students the opportunity to engage with the community and support charitable causes through hands-on fundraising while gaining a deeper understanding of the important role charities play in improving animal welfare and living conditions.</p><p>To raise funds, students sold handmade birdhouses and lip balm keyrings at craft fairs, including events at <strong>Noah's Ark Zoo</strong> and the <strong>Rotary Club Dog Day</strong>. They also organised raffles within the college, offering a range of prizes to boost ticket sales.</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Students selling lip balms in the Bistro&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3d502772-6448-4ddd-b16a-d3854970421a" 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>In total, the students raised an impressive £500 - a fantastic achievement for their first large-scale fundraising project.</p><p>Initiatives like this provide valuable opportunities for students to engage with the community, build confidence, and develop transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These experiences not only prepare them for future education and employment but also help them understand the importance of giving back and making a positive impact.</p><p>Laura Link, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/anima… Management</a> at Weston College, said: “The Social Action Enterprise project is a fantastic enrichment opportunity for our students, giving them the chance to work together for a meaningful cause. It was great to see how involved and engaged they were throughout, and we’re looking forward to running the project again next year, building on this year’s success to raise even more for this fantastic charity.”</p><p>Well done to all the students and staff involved in this incredible fundraising effort.</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/anima… Management</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/animal-environment-and-biologi… Management</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</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/">Click here!</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>