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Courses for learners with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND)

Foundation Learning: includes many highly successful, high-quality, programmes for learners aged 16-24 with SEND.

Our ethos is to put the learner first in everything that we do, and this is extended to all of our students. Over the last few years, we have created specialist facilities for learners on the autism spectrum and learners with profound and complex learning difficulties/disabilities to provide our students with the best possible environment to support their learning. 

Foundation Learning is for students with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND) and barriers to learning. Weston College is a highly supportive, ambitious and inclusive environment for all of its students, and we pay particular attention to the development of personalised curriculum.

We create an individual programme of study, which considers each student’s needs and aspirations. We take a holistic and learner-focused approach to ensuring that our students’ experiences, achievements and outcomes are outstanding and sustainable. We celebrate each one of our students, and encourage them to reach their potential, enabling independence through innovative programmes.

All students on a Foundation Learning programme will have an assigned personal tutor who will work with the student to co-create their timetable.

Study programmes are diverse, with flexibility to support learners to work towards their intended outcomes and aspirations, including:

  • A range of vocational, creative and sporting options
  • Personal and social development
  • Employability skills
  • Work placements
  • Independent living
  • Maths and English Development.
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Level 1

Aspirations at Weston Bay

1 Year
Sep 2025
WESTON BAY HOTEL
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Aspirations is a programme of study specifically developed for 17 – 24 year olds on the autism spectrum, delivered at Weston Bay. Many of the students on the course already have academic or vocational qualifications, but have found accessing employment, higher education or independent living very difficult. Aspirations allows students to exp...

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Level 1

Extension Studies

1 Year
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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The aim of the programme is to support learners with moderate learning difficulties, specific learning difficulties and/ or social emotional and mental health difficulties, to progress into employment, higher level courses and/or independent living. We will work with learners to help them recognise and value their strengths, while developing a...

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Level 1

Preparation for Life

1 Year
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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The aim of the Preparation for Life curriculum area is for learners with a range of Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) to develop independence and successfully transition into adulthood. The programme aims to provide a differentiated and individualised approach to each learner’s study programme at college in order to work t...

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Level 1

Sensory Learning

10 Weeks
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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A purpose-built, safe, self-contained, specialist facility at Weston College’s Knightstone Campus for students with Profound and Complex Learning Disabilities (PCLD). Where appropriate to the individual, students will also be able to access the many other student facilities across the College, including the library and Bistro. The provision ...

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Level 1

Supported Internship: Into Work

1 Year
Sep 2025
KNIGHTSTONE CAMPUS
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Supported Internships provide an individualised programme of study for 16 to 24 year olds with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) with an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP), who want to move into employment and need extra support to do so. The programme has one primary aim which is to: wherever possible support young people t...

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WHAT IS FOUNDATION LEARNING?

Our Foundation Learning programmes are courses that offer a flexible curriculum that enhances our students' learning experience and provides them the strong 'foundations' that will benefit them as they prepare for adult life towards outcomes for working life, independent living and good health.

The inclusive programmes are delivered by our professionally qualified and specialist SEND staff who aim to instil self-belief and confidence in our students. The tutorial element is an integral part of the programme’s philosophy, encompassing the development of individual strategies, empowering learners to take responsibility for their own learning. This learner-centred approach uses the College setting to provide pathways to further study.

Why study Foundation Learning at Weston College?

Our Foundation Learning programmes have a 100% success rate.

At Weston College, students have access to a wide range of excellent, high-quality vocational experiences, specialist resources and accommodation across all Weston College campuses, giving learners the opportunity to learn in appropriate contexts, for example, the hairdressing and beauty salons, Grove Restaurant, Badgworth Arena, Sports Centre and the professional kitchens.

The programmes of study are further enhanced throughout the year with opportunities for learners with SEND to participate in additional sporting events, overnight and week-long residential stays, educational visits, lunch-time activities and the end-of-year celebration events.

Ofsted

Comments from Ofsted, 2013

"Learners with learning or physical disabilities make outstanding progress and can live more independent and enriched lives through the support, education and training they receive at college."

"Learners with identified additional learning support needs are supported well through differentiated classroom activities"

HOW TO APPLY

Thank you for your interest in applying for one of our courses for students with SEND.

Please click on the courses above and apply online using the Apply button.

If you are unable to complete your application online please email SENDadmissions@weston.ac.uk.

If you need any assistance completing your application form, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01934 411175.

Once we receive the application, we will make some preliminary enquiries to your school and to Learning Partnership West to find out a little more about you.

We will then invite you in for an interview where we can discuss the best options for you and tell you more about what you can expect from the course.

When you come to your interview, please make sure you bring the completed forms which will be sent to you with your interview invite letter, along with information on your medical history (such as GP name and address and any medication you are taking), your expected qualifications and any certificates you have.

OUR SEND VIDEOS

YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Hopefully, you found the information you were looking for in this section, however if you still have some queries, please take a look at the frequently asked questions below, or give us a call on 01934 411 575.

Students are assessed on an individual basis to determine their support needs, and a support programme will be developed if appropriate. Group sizes are deliberately kept small to enable the tutor and support worker(s) in each session to target the learning needs of each student. Individual support will also be provided outside of the classroom environment to include work placements, breakfast and lunch club and break times.

Students should discuss their concerns with their tutor or a member of the Specialist Support team. All of our staff offices operate an open-door policy so students are more than welcome to drop in at any time.

Our Foundation Learning courses are all offered for an initial one-year period which will be reviewed towards the end of the year. Students studying on Extension Studies may be able to continue for more than one year if deemed appropriate. Students studying on Preparation for Work and Life may be able to continue for a further two years if it is deemed appropriate.

All students will take part in a group tutorial where you will learn about various aspects of personal and social development. All students also attend lessons in ICT, English and Maths, but, these lessons are catered to each student’s ability and group sizes are small so you can learn in the best possible environment.

All students can then freely choose from a variety of vocational subjects.

Yes, all students get an opportunity to go on a residential and there are also many day trips organised throughout the year. Students may be able to get financial support to pay for these trips through the bursary scheme.

Many learners may choose to go out into town at lunchtime with their friends which is absolutely fine, but some learners who don’t feel confident going out can have lunch in the Bistro. Here, there are members of staff to support you and there are also a number of lunchtime activities students can get involved in.

Students who require support at break times and lunchtimes will receive it, including support to enable access to the various lunchtime activities and enrichment opportunities.

For students on the Preparation for Work and Life course, we aim for you to achieve an Asdan qualification in either Employability, Personal and Social Development or Personal Progress depending on how long you stay with us and what is appropriate in working towards your agreed outcomes.

For students on Extension Studies, we aim for you to achieve an NOCN Step up qualification which is a very flexible qualification, enabling you to work towards units in a number of different subject areas.

Students on both courses will achieve NCFE functional skills qualifications in English, maths and ICT where it is appropriate.

Many students will purchase a termly bus pass when they come to enroll which is offered at a reduced price. However, for some students, getting to College on public transport can be really difficult and some students are eligible for North Somerset’s Home to College transport scheme. For more information on this, please see our transport information page.

Students will be provided with many of the relevant materials for their classes which will include paper, craft supplies for art, protective clothing and wood for DIY, food for budget cookery or anything else you might need which is relevant to your session. Students will however be asked to pay £25 at the beginning of the year to help cover the costs of this and will be asked to bring in a pen and folder.

All students will be allocated a personal tutor and will have a tutorial at least once-a-week but some students might need them more frequently. The tutorial time will be agreed between the student and tutors at the start of the course. Of course, if there is anything you need to urgently talk to your tutor about, they will be more than happy to see you at any time. The tutorial programme is an integral part of the students programme.

Based at Knightstone campus with use of specialist facilities across the Weston College campuses.

Moving onto Further Education is a big step for all young people, particularly for those with SEND. At Weston College, we arrange thorough and individualised programmes to ensure the transition is seamless. Our transition programmes could include meetings with the learner, parents, carers, school staff and external agencies, to establish a close liaison and a partnership approach:

- School or specialist provider observations
- Attending school review meetings and multi-agency meetings
- Planning a personalised transition programme with the learner
- Familiarisation days and taster sessions
- Collaboration with relevant agencies
- Access to Entry and Level 1 Link programmes as appropriate
- School visits
- Specialist support
- Initial Needs Assessments to gather full information
- Diagnostic assessments

Transition periods can last from a month to as much as a year. Each programme is arranged and agreed on an individual basis with each school, specialist provider, or external organisation. It is our experience that this planned transition into College plays a significant role in learners being able to access Weston College successfully.

Similarly, transition programmes support learners to transition out of College and into the next phase of their development - further training, higher education, supported or paid employment, and independent living.

Some learners may be entitled to free transport to College provided by the local authority, if they're under 19 years old and live more than three miles from Weston College.

For learners over 19 they can apply for the Vacant Seat Payment Scheme (VSPS) which provides access to this transport at a concessionary price. VSPS is not guaranteed and learners may have to be transported to a pick-up point. It costs around £450 a year.

Transport options are discussed during the application and interview process. Weston College liaises closely with the local authority and parents and carers are kept up to date with arrangements, priority learners commencing their course.

By bus - discounted bus travel

Learners who can travel independently can buy a bus pass (£70 a term) which allows them to travel five days a week, within North Somerset and Bristol.

Learners should bring a folder and stationery with them when they start college. Lockers are provided for files and equipment. They can buy drinks, snacks and hot meals from the College Bistro or alternatively bring a packed lunch.

Foundation Learning programmes encourage learners with SEND to take part in challenging sports events, overnight and week-long residential stays, educational visits, lunchtime activities, and end-of-year shows. Overnight stays cost between £35-£50, and summer residentials (3-4 nights) cost between £150-£300, depending on chosen activities.

These additional enrichment activities are real confidence boosters and, so far, every full-time learner has said they enjoyed their additional trips and residentials.

Learners can apply for the bursary to get help with costs, if their household income is below £32,000 a year. We can help your son or daughter apply for the bursary over the summer or in September when their course starts. If successful, they'll receive money once a term, and have their Spring and Summer term bus pass paid for. Learners from families with an income below £11,999 a year will also get help with buying lunch.

Your application will need to be accompanied by evidence of your household income (letters from the Inland Revenue, pay slips, or bank statements etc).

"Learners with learning or physical disabilities make outstanding progress and can live more independent and enriched lives through the support, education and training they receive at college."

"Learners with identified additional learning support needs are supported well through differentiated classroom activities"

Learners are invited to interview with one of the Foundation Learning team. Many learners who attend our Foundation Learning provision have an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) and we work with the Local Authority through a formal consultation process to ensure we have everything needed to help you succeed on a course.

We work with all learners to identify positive pathways into further educational programmes, work opportunities or into packages of support provided locally that will ensure you make a smooth transition into adult life.

Details of your son or daughter’s Personal Tutor will be given to you at the beginning of the year, along with their email address and telephone number. Our tutors do try to keep in regular contact with all parents as a matter of course and many parents like to use a communication book which the tutors can write in for the students to take home with them. Regular parent / carer meetings will take place throughout the year.

WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY

Amber collecting award
Amber
Amber has shown remarkable resilience and determination this year. After transitioning to Supported Internships from Level 2 TLA, she fully engaged in the programme. 
Focusing on the WorldSkills competition, she excelled in the regional finals and won a bronze medal in the national finals for health and social care foundation skills. 
Her dedication inspires peers, proving that determination leads to success. 
Studied:

Into Work - Supported Internships

headshot of andrea
Andrea
Andrea is a dedicated professional with over 30 years of experience supporting autistic young people. Keen to acquire official qualifications and enhance her skills, Andrea started her journey as an adult learner at Weston College by enrolling on the Level 2 Autism Distance Learning Course.
Studied:

Autism Level 2 & 3

LATEST NEWS

Extension Studies students playing on the Esports computers

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">As part of Competitions Week, our </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Esports</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> students hosted an exciting and immersive event inspired by </span><em><span style="font-size:inherit;">Marvel Rivals</span></em><span style="font-size:inherit;"> for learners in </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Extension Studies</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;">.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">The event space was transformed into a themed experience, with the walls being decorated in Marvel Rivals hero profiles and posters and live LED lighting to add atmosphere, this created an engaging environment for all participants.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">From a production standpoint, the students set up a fully equipped classroom featuring spectator systems, a dedicated streaming PC, and a professional shoutcasting stage. The event was broadcast live on the Weston Esports Twitch channel, offering a viewing experience to audiences beyond the classroom.&nbsp;</span></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;2 students in the observation production room&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="120fa5a6-b5ef-449e-a114-b50b59cb9768" 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;">In the lead-up to the event, students demonstrated their marketing skills through strategic posts on the Weston Esports Twitter/X account, building excitement and encouraging public engagement with the live stream on the day.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Behind the scenes, the event showcased outstanding communication, teamwork, and planning between the production team, social media managers, admins, and shoutcasters. This seamless collaboration resulted in a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Beyond the fun and competition, the event served as a valuable learning opportunity, highlighting the wide range of roles within the Esports industry and the importance that each role plays in delivering professional-level events. Teachers and students who attended were full of praise, not only for the energy and execution of the stream, but also for the thoughtful consideration of individual learner needs throughout.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Across two hours, five matches were played, and three lucky learners walked away with Marvel-themed prizes.</span></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Esports stuffed dragon mascot toy posing with three marvel prizes&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="54c1326f-9aa6-4cdd-93da-a24fac8635f3" 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;">This event gave our </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Esports</span></a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> students the chance to collaborate with different learners and design an inclusive event experience. It offered invaluable real-world experience, and a deeper understanding of the dedication and coordination required to deliver a successful Esports production.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">A huge well done to all the students who organised the event, and thank you to the players who participated and helped bring the day to life with some fantastic gameplay!&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:16px;margin-left:0;margin-top:16px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">This Event Project forms part of the </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; target="_blank"><span style="color:#37797B;font-size:inherit;">Digital</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:0px;">&nbsp;</p><p style="margin-bottom:16px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><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>

Learner Harry Driving Coach

<p>This <strong>National Supported Internship Day</strong>, we wanted to share how impactful <strong>Supported Internships</strong> are on both businesses and learners. <a href="https://www.bakersdolphin.com/">Bakers Dolphin</a> and one of our supported interns, Harry, have shared their internship experiences in their blogs – read below to find out what they said!</p><p><strong>Bakers Dolphin -</strong></p><p>My name is Derek, and I work at <a href="https://www.bakersdolphin.com/">Bakers Dolphin</a>. My role is quite comprehensive; I am a Quality &amp; Compliance Manager, but I also take on responsibilities within HR and recruitment. This means I am involved in various aspects of the business, from maintaining standards to ensuring we have the right team in place.</p><p>My experience of working with supported interns has been very positive. I was initially unsure of what to expect, but having a supported intern on board has been a rewarding experience. I’ve gained a loyal, supportive, and committed individual who has integrated well as part of the team.</p><p>Having a supported intern has provided the business with greater flexibility. Harry has added efficiency to our operations, and I know I can rely on him when things change. His adaptability has been a great asset, allowing us to adjust to different situations smoothly.</p><p>One of the standout moments was seeing Harry’s confidence grow when working on the coach. At the beginning of the week, he was just getting used to the environment, but by the end, he was confidently greeting and onboarding customers. His progression throughout the internship has been remarkable.</p><p>I would say the main skills supported interns gain from their work experience are:</p><ul><li>Confidence – They learn to interact with colleagues and customers, which builds self-assurance.</li><li>Social Skills – They improve their ability to communicate and work within a team.</li><li>Industry Knowledge – They gain valuable insights into how a business operates within their chosen field.</li></ul><p>Supported interns have made our business more efficient. They contribute to daily tasks and help keep operations running smoothly.</p><p>I am very positive about Harry’s future within <a href="https://www.bakersdolphin.com/">Bakers Dolphin</a>. We take pride in helping him build a career and providing him with the foundation he needs to be successful. Seeing his growth and development makes us confident in his potential.</p><p>We have required little support from the college overall while working with supported interns, but knowing that Weston College were there if needed was reassuring. The regular reviews of the internship were beneficial, as they allowed open discussions between me, Harry, and Weston College about his progress and journey.</p><p>To anyone considering taking on a supported intern, I would say to give it a go – you may be surprised! It has been a great experience, and I would encourage other businesses to consider it.</p><p><strong>Supported Intern, Harry -</strong></p><p>My name is Harry, and I completed my supported internship at <a href="https://www.bakersdolphin.com/">Bakers Dolphin</a>.</p><p>One of my favourite moments of my supported internship was after the summer holidays when I was told I had secured an internship at <a href="https://www.bakersdolphin.com/">Bakers Dolphin</a>. Another highlight was being informed in my first week that I had a driving assessment booked, which was exciting and motivating.</p><p>During my internship I have learned that you can always ask for help at <a href="https://www.bakersdolphin.com/">Bakers Dolphin</a>. “Every day is a school day” – I have learned that there is always something new to pick up and improve on.</p><p>I contribute to the day-to-day workload of the business by making myself available to work flexibly; I was adaptable when plans changed and ensured I could assist wherever needed.</p><p>My supported internship has given me the confidence to ask for help when I need it, which has made me feel more comfortable in a work environment.</p><p>Weston College played a key role in helping me secure my internship. One of the most significant moments was getting a driving role within my first week, which gave me a strong start in the role.</p><p>To any businesses considering taking on a supported intern, I would say to give the student time, as they need to adjust. With the right support and patience, supported interns can grow into valuable members of the team.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Amy Harding, Supported Employment and Careers Assessor, quoted:</p><p><em><strong>"</strong><span data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody"><strong>Harry’s Internship with Bakers Dolphin is a fantastic example of what true career investment can look like for learners with SEND. In addition to offering Harry a part-time job, Bakers are committed to supporting his driver training and future career development”.</strong></span></em></p>

WorldSkills

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Last month, three learners from our Into-Work and Welding programs achieved exceptional results at the National Finals of the prestigious WorldSkills Competition. This event was held in Manchester and tested students’ problem-solving, employability, and creativity skills, and our learners rose to the occasion with remarkable performances.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Amber Hinton, a second-year </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; target="_blank">Into-Work</a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> student with aspirations in childcare, competed in the Foundation Health and Social Care category. Despite being self-taught in this field, Amber’s performance was extraordinary. Competing against Level 2 students, she demonstrated NHS-standard handwashing techniques and tackled complex questions with confidence. Amber’s efforts earned her a well-deserved Bronze medal and 3rd place overall in her category—a testament to her determination and talent.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Amber outside the WorldSkills building in Manchester&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="18419677-5ca3-4341-b2e8-8c6503b38551" 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 style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Amber said, “my favourite part of the competition was meeting new people as I got to make friends with people in my category. I would do it all again 1000 times over and I feel like everyone should go through and experience it.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Jack Stevens, an </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; target="_blank">Into-Work</a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> learner who transitioned from an internship to paid work at Uncle Paul’s Chilli Charity, competed in the Foundation Horticulture category. Tasked with creating six planters—three indoor and three outdoor—and merchandising his display with a seasonal garden centre theme, Jack showcased incredible creativity and precision, earning a fantastic 4th place within his category.&nbsp;</span></p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Jack with his final Horticulture products&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61fb6a0e-7d84-409e-be3f-fff54ce81e48" 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><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Jack holding his 4th place certificate&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bca0a75b-022f-4520-b7e7-c7ae4995e77e" 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>Aidan Pocknell, a Level 3 Plate Welder Apprentice, faced intense competition in a challenging category that tested both his skill and his composure under pressure. His impeccable welds and strong work ethic earned him a Highly Commended award, highlighting his dedication and craftsmanship.</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Aidan welding with a mask on&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ad28170-99aa-48ca-b3a7-416c4565bfee" 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><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Aidan holding his Highly Commended award shaking someone&apos;s hand&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01e60958-0c3e-4e11-9fca-2fde71c82741" 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>Aidan said, “it went very well! I was awarded Highly Commended and placed 6th out of 10 participants. I’m very happy with how I performed overall! There were a few moments where I felt overwhelmed during the competition, but I overcame them. In the end it was all worth it and it was a great experience that I would encourage anyone to participate in if they get the chance.”</p><p>These achievements demonstrate the impact of the Into-Work and Welding programs. From providing the skills necessary to excel in competitive environments to inspiring personal growth, these programs are empowering learners to reach their full potential.</p><p>For Jack and Amber, the experience was even more remarkable as it marked their first visit to a major city, making their accomplishments at the WorldSkills Finals a milestone in their educational and personal journeys.</p><p>Congratulations to Amber, Jack, and Aidan for their outstanding achievements. Their success is a shining example of what’s possible when passion, hard work, and support come together.&nbsp;</p>

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