<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last term, Weston College hosted an NFL Flag UK programme for teachers from across North Somerset. During the session, two of our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… &amp; Fitness</u></a> lecturers, Dan Pratlett and Morgan Sealey, took part, giving Weston College the opportunity to become an official NFL Flag School and introduce non-contact flag football to our students.&nbsp;</p><p>The programme is completely free for schools and provides teachers with a strong foundation in the sport, including the basic rules, as well as the tactics and strategies required to succeed. In addition, staff received comprehensive training on the health and safety elements of the game, ensuring students are taught how to participate safely and correctly in NFL-inspired activities.&nbsp;</p><p>NFL Flag UK also delivers ongoing training, development opportunities, and tournament pathways, alongside providing all necessary equipment and teaching resources at no cost. This gives our staff access to structured lesson plans designed to introduce the sport through engaging drills and skills-based activities, ensuring all students have an equal opportunity to take part and develop confidence while learning a new sport.&nbsp;</p><p>By upskilling our staff, we are able to offer students exciting new opportunities that inspire and re-engage them with physical activity. Participation in a new team sport supports students’ personal development by encouraging responsibility, teamwork, and resilience, while also giving them access to experiences they may not otherwise have had.&nbsp;</p><p>Dan Pratlett, Head of <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport…; at Weston College, said, “The NFL Flag Programme equips our staff with the confidence and expertise to introduce this sport to our students, broadening the range of pathways available to them. Through this programme, students develop key skills such as resilience, confidence, and teamwork, supporting both their personal growth and long-term success. This experience extends beyond college, helping students gain a wider understanding of sport and the transferable skills needed to succeed in the industry.”&nbsp;</p><p>A huge thank you to NFL Flag UK for providing our staff and students with this fantastic opportunity.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This programme forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… &amp; Fitness</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. &nbsp;</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 data-pm-slice="1 1 []">This month, we’re proud to feature <strong>Luke Morgan</strong>, a Weston College alumnus who has carved out a career in the world of professional football. Luke is now a <strong>First Team Football Analyst at Bristol City Football Club</strong>, and his journey from classroom to pitch-side is a true inspiration for aspiring sports professionals.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Who are you and what is your current job role?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>My name is Luke Morgan, and I’m currently the First Team Football Analyst at Bristol City Football Club. My role involves watching, filming, and analysing the technical and tactical aspects of the team’s performance. I focus on analysing upcoming opposition teams to help develop game plans and tactics, as well as reviewing our own training sessions and matches. On match days, I’m in the stadium providing clips and information to coaches and players in real time, helping us to review and improve performance.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Can you share a bit about your journey from Weston College to where you are today?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>After finishing my studies at Weston College, where I completed the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science, I achieved the grades I needed to progress to the University of Bath to study for a BSc in Sport and Exercise Science. It was a four-year course, including a placement year that gave me my first real taste of working in professional sport.&nbsp;</p><p>During that placement year, I began working with a company in Durham that provided analysis support for a range of sports, including Durham County Cricket, Scotland Badminton, and England Rugby. That experience sparked my interest in performance analysis. After completing my final year at Bath, I went on to study for an MSc in Sports Performance Analysis at the University of Gloucestershire.&nbsp;</p><p>As part of that postgraduate course, I worked full-time with Bristol City Football Club’s Women’s First Team. After completing my studies, I was fortunate to secure a full-time position with the club, initially working with the Men’s U21 and academy teams. Over time, I progressed into my current role with the Men’s First Team, where I was part of the backroom staff during the club’s first playoff finish in 17 years.&nbsp;</p><p>Weston College played an integral part in that journey. It was the springboard that gave me both academic grounding and personal confidence to move into higher education and, eventually, professional sport.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Many young people feel pressured to have their entire career mapped out early on. How did your own career path evolve over time?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Growing up, I was completely obsessed with sports. If I wasn’t playing, I would be watching it! I knew I wanted to work in sport, but I didn’t have a specific career in mind. What mattered most was following something I enjoyed. Going to Weston College was the first step in turning that passion into a possible career. The course helped me understand the range of opportunities within sport and gave me the platform to progress to university.&nbsp;</p><p>At university, I discovered new areas within sport, especially through practical experience. That’s where I realised the importance of gaining real-world placements and internships. It wasn’t until I began my MSc at 23 that I really started to specialise in analysis. My career path wasn’t mapped out from the beginning, but being open to learning, developing, and exploring different options helped me find the right direction.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Are there any pivotal moments or unexpected opportunities that shaped your career?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>There were definitely several key moments. At Weston College, the support and encouragement I received were crucial in helping me achieve the grades to attend the University of Bath. I was also given valuable career advice, including not specialising too early and keeping an open mind.&nbsp;</p><p>Placements and internships played a huge role, too. Throwing myself into those experiences allowed me to develop the real-world skills needed for a career in professional sports. I also learned the importance of taking initiative and actively seeking opportunities, rather than waiting for them to appear. Of course, there’s always an element of timing and luck, but positioning yourself in the right place and being ready to take opportunities when they arise makes all the difference.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What advice would you give to students who feel uncertain about their future career path?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Strip it back to basics: focus on what you enjoy and what you’re good at. If you’re unsure, ask for support and explore different options. Don’t feel pressured into a fixed path - there are many routes to success. And remember, choosing one path doesn’t mean you’re stuck with it forever. Be open and adaptable; there’s always another opportunity around the corner if something doesn’t feel right.&nbsp;</p><p>In the words of Ted Lasso: <em><strong>“Be curious.”</strong></em>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">This month’s featured trailblazer is Georgia Ferdinando, a former learner, apprentice and staff member at Weston College, who is now a Schools Coordinator for the City Football Group, representing Manchester City Football Club in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;</p><p>We caught up with Georgia, to find out about her journey, and what she is doing now:&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What did you study at Weston College?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>I completed two courses at Weston College; first, a <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science</a>, followed by a Level 3 Community Sport and Health Officer Apprenticeship.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>During my apprenticeship, I worked at the college as the Women’s Football Development Officer, before progressing into a full-time position as a Sport and Wellbeing Engagement Officer.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>How has that helped you get to where you are today – what has your journey been like?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>Studying sport at Weston College provided me with the core knowledge, skills, and behaviours essential for a career in coaching and sport development. It gave me a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of sport, while also helping me to grow in confidence and professionalism. Those experiences have been invaluable in shaping the coach I am today.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What is your favourite thing about your role?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>My favourite part of the job is building meaningful relationships with both staff and students in the schools I work with. I love being able to connect with young players through our shared passion for football and to support them as they develop both on and off the pitch. Seeing their progress and enthusiasm is incredibly rewarding.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>What piece of advice would you give to people looking to follow in your footsteps?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>My advice would be to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Step outside your comfort zone, try new things, and don’t be afraid to take risks. Every new experience is an opportunity to learn. Also, build your network — put yourself in situations where you can meet new people, make connections, and learn from others in the industry.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Is there anything else you’d like to add?</strong>&nbsp;</p><p>I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone at Weston College who supported and believed in me throughout my journey. You’ve played a key role in my growth; not only in my professional development but also in my personal confidence and self-belief.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">This alumni story forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… &amp; Fitness</u></a><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…; </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/computing-and-digital-technolo… &amp; Digital Technologies</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>&nbsp;</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.&nbsp;</strong></p>