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
I was happily working in radio when I stumbled across the advert for an Environmental Health Apprentice, if I’m honest, I hadn’t even considered a career in the field. I did lots of research before I applied for the position and knew I would absolutely love it! I work in the Environmental Protection Team at North Devon Council, while I study, part-time at UCW. The course takes 4 years, studying one day a week and working the rest, and I find that balance is just right!
My role within the council involves dealing with Environmental issues, such as fly-tipping, littering, abandoned vehicles, dog control, stray dogs, and much more. I am out daily in North Devon and get to appreciate the beauty of where I live, alongside educating people to keep it that way! Education and awareness are a big part of my role, and mostly, the public receives this well. No two days are the same, and I love the variety.
Studying alongside the job can be hard work, you must be prepared to commit some spare time, but once you find the balance that fits your life, it becomes manageable. The apprentice opportunity is a pathway to a promising new career, studying as an older student sets a great example to my children, that it’s never too late to pursue a goal. Many people associate apprenticeships with people of school or college leaving age, but they are available for everyone. I can earn as I learn and have the support of my colleagues to help with anything I need.
If you’ve ever considered taking the apprenticeship route, I would highly recommend it. The skills you gain while working, complement the learning criteria, and by the time you graduate, you will have years of experience in the field, which will help you to hit the ground running. I haven’t looked back, and I’m so pleased I applied when I did!
My name is Alex and I am undergoing an apprenticeship in Operational Firefighting.
Becoming a firefighter is something that I always wanted to do, so I decided to apply, and I did this through the Avon Fire and Rescue Service website.
It wasn’t an easy process, but it was rewarding as you went though and completed each step.
The college were really supportive through the process; I received frequent emails, they provided me with vital information and were very quick at replying to any questions I had. Now on station, I have a line of contact to the college through my assessor.
There is a lot to learn when becoming a firefighter, so having a large educational institute like Weston College involved gave me confidence in the education and training I would receive, and ultimately allow me to be successful in this career.
This apprenticeship has allowed me to gain real world experience and give me insight into what life is like as a firefighter. Something that I have really appreciated is the experience I gain from firefighters on station.
There are challenges too, with the most challenging part being the wide range of techniques and equipment we have to learn in order to be effective in the many types of incidents we attend.
If you’re considering an apprenticeship then I think you should go for it! They are a mix between real world practice, as well as engaging in some theory from lectures and lesson style learning. There is a demand for being physically practical as well as being able to computer-based college work.
Apply to become a Firefighter through an apprenticeship, by clicking here.
Our collaboration with AAT provides the perfect blend of learning, between Online and On-Campus, to allow you to gain your qualification in Accounting. Another great delivery of this course is through the Apprenticeship, where you'll spend time both in the classroom and in the workplace. This flexible approach means apprentices can choose how, when and where they want to study.
We heard from Michelle, who completed the AAT Apprenticeship, and told us about her experience!
Why did you decide to study an AAT?
After my daughter was born (I was 28 at that time) I had an opportunity to work as an accounts assistant carrying out basic bookkeeping. I knew if I wanted further my career in the accounting industry I would require a qualification. Weston College was offering Level AAT courses which I attended during one day each week. I completed Level 2,3 and 4 at Weston college with the encouragement from my tutor, Sarah. Even during the pandemic, Weston college helped support us with online sessions.
Did your employers offer you the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship or was this something you decided to complete?
It was my own decision to pursue the AAT qualification as I had self-doubted and low self-esteem when it came to my education. But, I knew there was more for me out in the world and AAT would open so many doors for my future.
How did you find the apprenticeship?
From the support & encouragement from both my tutor Sarah and class friends it felt like a great achievement. I’m really proud to have completed my AAT however it was down to my hard work and dedication. I also have made friends for life through the classes.
How long did it take to complete?
I completed level 2,3 & 4 over 3 years.
How often did you have to complete apprenticeship work?
I juggled all my study time around family life, especially considering I had a new born, and it was tough. I spent the majority of my evenings and weekends revising, but I made sure to make time. Each AAT exam will test your knowledge and it’s not just multiple selection boxes, AAT want you to know the understanding behind the question and how you have come to the decision you’ve made. Working in an accounting environment, it’s really important you have the understanding and knowledge to be able to advise and back up your decisions with the correct information.
How have you utilised the skills you developed during the apprenticeship?
All the skills that I developed on the course have been utilised, from double entry bookkeeping, payroll, Excel and accounting software.
Since completing the apprenticeship, has it helped you to progress your career?
Since completing my AAT, and becoming MAAT, all thanks from the support of Weston College, I have set up my own bookkeeping practice called Michelle Clarks Advanced Bookkeeping Services, as well as working for a really cool accounting firm in Weston Super Mare called “Neil’s Data Consultancy”. Having the support from not only an employer and as well as being my own boss, I have the best of both worlds that works for me. I enjoy meeting new clients and being able to encourage them to grow their own business.
Were there any specific highlights of the apprenticeship?
Attending my Graduation at Weston College was the biggest highlight and made me reflect on the hard work I put in to the AAT course. Wearing the gown and having a day of celebration felt amazing. Weston College went above and beyond for our graduation, celebrating everyone’s achievements.
What would you say to someone considering following in your footsteps?
Do it, don’t hold back. I recommend the apprenticeship to anyone to gain their AAT qualification at Weston College, it can open so many career paths for your future.
Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your dreams. If the dreams for your future don't scare you, they aren’t big enough!
Michelle
If you're interested in learning more about AAT qualifications, click here!
WHICH LEVEL IS RIGHT FOR ME?
