<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">

<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>