<p>AICO, the European market leader in home safety, came to Weston College recently to deliver industry Continuing Professional Development (CPD) training to our apprentices and full-time learners in electrical. The CPD training session delivered by Peter Price-Higgott at Weston College was met with enthusiasm from learners, who were eager to learn more.</p>

<p>The interactive presentation showcased AICO's range of home safety products, highlighting their advanced features and functionality. Through practical demonstrations and informative discussions, our learners gained valuable insights into integrating these devices effectively into electrical systems.</p>

<p>Alex Jackson, Electrical Lecturer at Weston College, said: “It was great to welcome Peter to South West Skills Campus, who delivered a fantastic session for our learners.</p>

<p>“Our learners relished the opportunity of hearing from an industry leader, gaining insights into real-world applications of safety products and solutions. This exposure to cutting-edge technology and best practices has enhanced their skills and improved employability prospects.</p>

<p>“Working in partnership with local and national companies is a key part of the student journey at Weston College, and we look forward to working closely with AICO over the coming months.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan… out more about our Electrical courses, by clicking here.</a></p>

<p>Recently, we welcomed construction company Tica Acad to South West Skills Campus, to deliver an informative session to our plastering students, on the importance of thermal insulation.</p>

<p>The interactive product demonstration captivated the learners, who were delighted to discover the future earning potential associated within the industry.</p>

<p>At Weston College, learners are treated to unrivalled access from employers, as part of the Career Excellence Hub. Learners can gain work experience, get insight from industry leaders and complete a study programme that has input from the industry.</p>

<p>The visit by Tica Acad proved to be an invaluable experience for the students. The session commenced with an engaging presentation that emphasised the significance of thermal insulation in modern construction and highlighted its positive impact on energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort.</p>

<p>They also shared progression opportunities within the company, particularly through apprenticeships. Operations Manager for Construction, Richard Hanney, said: "We were thrilled to have Tica Acad visit South West Skills Campus and share their expertise with our plastering learners.</p>

<p>"The interactive product demonstration provided our students with valuable hands-on experience and deepened their understanding of the importance of thermal insulation. Tica Acad's commitment to offering apprenticeship opportunities was especially exciting for our learners, as it opens doors to a prosperous future in a growing sector."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/const… out more about our construction courses, by clicking here.</a></p>

<p>Carpentry is an exciting trade, which is in high demand! It is a very skilled trade, with carpenters using natural materials (wood/timber) to cut, shape and install wooden structures, fittings and furniture.</p>

<p>In the UK there are more than 5,000 organisations who recruit carpenters, with an estimated turnover of nearly £4 billion.</p>

<p>With so much demand, you might be wondering how to become a carpenter? Well, you’ve come to the right place!</p>

<p>There are several different routes you can take to become a carpenter or joiner. You might be someone that is looking to earn while they learn, and the good news is, you can do this through an apprenticeship. Or you might be someone that wants to complete a course to learn some skills before entering the carpentry – whether this be full-time or part-time with evening courses.</p>

<p>Let’s look at the options in a little bit more detail.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Apprenticeships</strong></h2>

<p>An apprenticeship is a fantastic way of entering the industry, and can be a great way to get your foot in the door with a local organisation that is looking to grow and develop their workforce.</p>

<p>Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16, so you could be a school leaver, or someone that wants to turn their passion into a career. As an apprentice you will be employed by the company, and complete training at college – you will be expected to work at least 30 hours a week, with the rest of your hours being training.</p>

<p>You can complete apprenticeships at a number of Levels, depending on your experience and skill level. At Weston College, we offer several different carpentry apprenticeships, click the course below to find out more:</p>

<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/carpentry/carp… and Joinery Level 2</a> – 14 months</li>
<li><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/carpentry/site… Carpentry Level 2</a> – 14 months</li>
<li><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/construction/c… and Joinery Level 3</a> – 12 months</li>
<li><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/construction/s… Carpentry Level 3</a> – 12 months</li>
</ul>

<p>Once you have completed your apprenticeship, you can either further your development by studying the next level, or go into full-time work.</p>

<p>Before you work on a construction site, you will need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>College Courses</strong></h2>

<p>If you would prefer to study at College, there are a range of options available, from full-time courses to shorter part-time courses.</p>

<p>We offer courses for <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/i-wan… 1, Level 2 and Level 3</a>, which all aim to develop your skills and prepare you for life as a carpenter.</p>

<p>On our full-time courses you will be part of our Construction Career Excellence Hub, which means that you will get unrivalled access to employers, with opportunities for work experience, master classes and hearing from industry insiders. Our construction courses are all endorsed by organisations from industry.</p>

<p>We also offer <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/construction/s… adult courses in Carpentry</a>, which allow you to sharpen your skills and are a great opportunity to change careers.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you'd like to find out more about a career in carpentry, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/news-and-events/events?utm_source=main-menu&am… along to one of our open evenings</a> and chat to the team, they will be more than happy to help!</p>