COURSES FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS
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QUALIFICATIONS EXPLAINED
A Levels develop the knowledge, skills and study habits to excel at university, as well as the attributes recognised by employers.
Your academic studies will be complemented with enrichment opportunities such as trips, mentoring and work experience, providing the perfect springboard for your future career.
A Levels are assessed through exams at the end of two years of study. Most learners study three subjects - some choose four.
With an apprenticeship you’ll go straight into the workplace and be shown clear routes to progress straight into employment within a specific occupation. You can achieve nationally recognised qualifications, earn a wage, and gain skills that will see you get ahead. On average you will spend 20% of your learning time in the college and 80% within the workplace
Professional and technical qualifications are designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to gain employment within specific industries or occupations. They provide a balance between theory and practical skills development. They are suited to those who want to get hands-on experience within a particular vocational area. These programmes include work placements. Assessment is more varied and will include exams, coursework and practical work.
T Levels give you the chance to learn what a real career is like while you continue your studies. T Levels have been designed with leading businesses and employers to give you the knowledge and skills you need, including a minimum of 45 days on an industry placement – this means you will spend 80% of your learning time in College and 20% within the workplace.
LATEST NEWS
We recently caught up with Caitlin, our wonderful Health and Social Care assessor, who told us about her experience in completing her Level 3 qualification, and how it resulted in a full time job here at Weston College. Here's what she told us!
My role at Weston College is as a Health and Social Care assessor for 16–19-year-olds and adult learners studying Health and Social Care qualifications. I observe and assess learners either on work placement or in their work setting.
I recently completed a Level 3 Diploma in Adult Care while continuing my previous employment as a senior care worker at a local care village, and predominantly supporting those living with dementia.
I found out about the course through Facebook and had been keen to gain the qualification for a while. I was also promoted to apply as the course was free for me as I did not already hold a Level 3 qualification.
While on the course, we had lessons on the SIM room, learning how to catheterise patients and a lesson in the lab dissecting pig lungs to learn about the respiratory system. The SIM room and lab are both fantastic spaces for learning and developing practical skills which are invaluable to 16–19-year-olds who are preparing for work placement.
Without this qualification, I would not have been able to apply for my role at Weston College. The course also helped me prepare for interviewing. Not all criteria were met though assignments, some were assessed on professional discussions which helped me develop my communication skills on a professional level. The course also helped me with my digital skills, which was fortunate as I had to create a PowerPoint presentation for interview.
I would really recommend and encourage others to study as an adult. I found I was more focussed and committed to the workload and qualification. I initially studied to further my career in the industry and to progress in my previous employment. I never thought that my knowledge and skills could support those in further education. I feel privileged to be able to support those in further education to become fantastic health care workers.
Alongside the Level 3 qualification, I was also able to compete a Level 2 in Safeguarding which was a bonus as I managed to gain another qualification while studying one. Since joining Weston college as an employee, I am being enrolled in a certificate in Vocational Assessing to further my knowledge in supporting through assessing.
This would never have been possible if it wasn't for the completion of my Level 3 qualification and the support of Weston College - I'm so grateful to everyone who was involved in my journey!
The Level 2 and 3 Public Services learners journeyed to Ilfracombe during late November to brave the Bristol Estuary by jumping into the Sea donned in wet suits and helmets.
This activity developed ID skills such as teamwork and resilience as well as confidence in working and operating in a strange environment.
The trip allowed learners to prepare for long hours whilst being cold and wet, making it essential for vocational preparation for future careers.
The Level 2 and 3 Public Services learners journeyed to Ilfracombe during late November to brave the Bristol Estuary by jumping into the Sea donned in wet suits and helmets.
This activity developed ID skills such as teamwork and resilience as well as confidence in working and operating in a strange environment.
Are you ready to build a career in the health and care industry, but not sure how to start?
We've got you covered!
With our partnership with Sirona Care & Health, you'll learn the skills and qualifications that will give you a great foundation for your career with us in our FREE 3-week training programme—and we'll even guarantee an interview, so there's no risk involved!
You'll be able to work flexible hours and on your own schedule, meaning you can set your own pace as well as provide stability for your future employer. This means that whether you're looking for a part-time job or full-time commitment, we have something in store for everyone.
The programme also offers fantastic career progression opportunities; once you've completed the training programme, you'll have the opportunity to transfer into one of our Level 3 Apprenticeships, to gain a qualification as you work.
The course starts on 23rd January, in Bristol.
Contact traineeships.enquiries@weston.ac.uk or employment.support@weston.ac.uk to register your interest!
WHICH LEVEL IS RIGHT FOR ME?
