<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Earlier this month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; students took part in the <strong>CSIDES</strong> Cyber Security event to give our students a deeper understanding of the different careers within the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; industry and network with professionals to gain valuable advice and guidance following their course.</p><p><strong>CSIDES</strong> is an initiative that embodies Cyber, Coastal, and Community. It is a community-led cyber security event held at The Grand Pier in Weston-super-Mare, designed to make cyber security more accessible to the public, businesses and students. It is the UK's first cyber security event built by and for a coastal community.</p><p>The event brings together cyber security professionals, industry experts, educators and local organisations for a day of expert talks, interactive workshops and networking opportunities. Topics include online safety, recognising scams and phishing attempts, protecting personal and business data, and understanding the different career opportunities available within the cyber security industry.</p><p>The main aim of CSIDES is to improve digital awareness and confidence within coastal communities, helping individuals and businesses protect themselves online while inspiring more people to explore careers in the growing cyber security sector. For students, it provides valuable opportunities to develop their knowledge, gain practical insights from industry professionals and discover potential career pathways.</p><p>Attending the CSIDES Cyber Security event provides <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu… and Computing</u></a> students with a valuable opportunity to explore the rapidly evolving world of cyber security and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing organisations in an increasingly digital society. By engaging with industry professionals and learning about current cyber threats, online safety, data protection and the importance of secure digital systems, students can develop their knowledge beyond the classroom and see how their studies apply to real-world scenarios.</p><p>The event also helps students discover the wide range of career opportunities available within the cyber security and wider digital industries, from ethical hacking and network security to digital forensics and cyber threat analysis. Hearing directly from professionals can inspire students to consider future career pathways, understand the skills and qualifications employers look for, and appreciate the importance of keeping up to date with emerging technologies. Experiences such as this help prepare students for progression into higher education or employment, while highlighting the vital role cyber security plays in protecting individuals, businesses and society.</p><p>Sean Shearing, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; Curriculum at Weston College, said, “Events like this provide our students with valuable, real-world knowledge from experts in the field, giving them first-hand experience of the challenges and opportunities within the cyber security industry. It allows them to build on what they learn in the classroom, gain insight into the latest developments in cyber security, and explore the diverse career pathways available to them. Opportunities like these are invaluable in helping our students develop the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to progress into the digital and computing industries.”</p><p>This curriculum trip forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; 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/computing-and-digital-technolo…;! 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>Weston College and <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">UCW</a&gt; Degree Apprentice Aiden has been gaining valuable hands-on experience in IT and cyber security during his time with <a href="https://ascentflighttraining.com/">Ascent Flight Training.</a></p><p>Aiden joined Ascent’s IT team in September 2025 as a <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/digital-and-technology-solutions-bsc-hons… Security Apprentice</a>, completing his degree apprenticeship alongside his role at the organisation. Ascent provides training for <strong>RAF, Royal Navy</strong> and <strong>Army aircrew</strong> at six sites across the UK, with Aiden based at its Training Hub in Bristol.</p><p>Having originally considered going to university, Aiden decided to explore alternative routes into his chosen career and discovered apprenticeships through the government website. He was particularly interested in the opportunity to work in cyber security while gaining experience within an organisation working closely with the armed forces and major industry partners.</p><p>He said: <em>“I was really interested in the cyber security project that Ascent offered and interested in working with the armed forces. Additionally, I liked the fact that we are constantly working with large companies, such as Babcock and Lockheed Martin. This allows me to have so many different experiences from so many different people.”</em></p><p>Throughout his apprenticeship, Aiden has had the opportunity to get involved in a variety of projects across Ascent’s ICT and Cyber Security teams, allowing him to put the knowledge gained through his degree into practice.</p><p>One of his projects has involved improving IT knowledge and training resources across the business. This has included reviewing and updating internal documentation, training materials and learning platform content, testing links, checking information was accurate and working with colleagues to improve the user experience.</p><p>Through this work, Aiden has developed his documentation, problem-solving and stakeholder communication skills, while helping to create a more effective learning experience for employees across Ascent.</p><p>Alongside his ICT responsibilities, Aiden has also supported a range of cyber security initiatives. These have included investigating security alerts, assisting with vulnerability management, reviewing user access permissions and helping to promote cyber security awareness among colleagues.</p><p>These opportunities have helped Aiden strengthen his understanding of cyber security operations and risk management, while giving him the chance to apply his degree learning in a real-world environment.</p><p>For Aiden, one of the biggest benefits of an apprenticeship is being able to combine academic study with practical experience. He said: <em>“Learning and working inside industry can provide skills and experiences not found elsewhere.</em></p><p><em>“The benefits are that you gain real-world experience with the same accreditation as a university degree. You can meet and work with people who have vast experiences and are experts in their field and you can learn physical skills, not found in a classroom.”</em></p><p>Aiden spends one day a week at Weston College alongside his full-time role at Ascent, giving him the opportunity to develop academically while continuing to build his professional experience.</p><p>Since joining Ascent, Aiden has continued to grow in confidence and capability, becoming an increasingly valued member of the IT team.</p><p>Ascent’s Head of IT, Edward Anderson, said: <em>“Aiden has become a fully integrated and valued member of the team during his first year at Ascent. His confidence has grown considerably, and he now makes a meaningful contribution across the business, bringing fresh thinking, innovative ideas and practical support, particularly through the use of AI-driven automation.</em></p><p><em>“It has been a pleasure to see his development and the positive impact he continues to make.”</em></p><p>Aiden’s manager, IT Operations Manager, Ed Morgan, said: <em>“By investing in apprenticeships, Ascent aims to build a strong learning culture that promotes mentorship and leadership development. It will support community and open opportunities to people from varied backgrounds, and strengthens our reputation as an employer that attracts high quality talent and partners, while helping close the Digital divide.</em></p><p><em>“Setting up and managing an apprenticeship requires some upfront planning and ongoing guidance, but once the structure is in place it becomes a manageable part of daily operations, as the apprentice grows in capability and contributes more to the team. Anything that has value requires effort, we spend half a day per week in support as minimum.”</em></p><p>For Aiden, his apprenticeship is providing a strong foundation for his future career, with plans to continue developing his skills across IT, cyber security and AI.</p><p>His experience highlights the opportunities available through degree apprenticeships at Weston College, combining higher-level study with valuable industry experience and the chance to develop skills within a real working environment.</p>

<p>Weston College has been recognised as a <strong>Microsoft Showcase School</strong> for 2026–2027, joining a global community of schools and education providers leading innovation and digital transformation in education.</p><p>The <strong>Microsoft Showcase School</strong> programme recognises institutions demonstrating a strong commitment to using technology, including Microsoft tools and artificial intelligence (AI), to enhance teaching, learning and the wider educational experience.</p><p>As a <strong>Microsoft Showcase School</strong>, Weston College will have opportunities to connect with education leaders and educators from around the world, share best practice and engage with Microsoft programme and product teams. The College will also have access to community calls, events, newsletters and professional learning opportunities throughout the 2026–2027 programme year.</p><p>As part of the programme, Weston College will also have the opportunity to access up to five Microsoft Certiport certification exam vouchers, supporting staff professional development and helping to further strengthen digital skills across the College.</p><p>The recognition reflects Weston College’s continued commitment to ensuring its staff and students develop the digital skills and experience needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven and AI-powered world.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Microsoft%20Elevate%20-%20Showcase%202026-27.png" data-entity-uuid="b0cd35d3-b71b-4520-b5a3-6f20af50ab0e" data-entity-type="file" alt="Microsoft Showcase School Logo" width="340" height="340">