Do you feel like you have missed your chance to go to university? Maybe you didn't get the necessary grades first time around, or maybe you feel it's too late? You can still go to university, at any age, by studying an Access to HE course!

WHAT IS AN ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION (HE) COURSE?

It is a part-time course for adults to get the skills and qualifications to apply for university. Whether you are interested in animal science, sport, medical or social sciences, nursing and midwifery, law and criminology or computing, we have a course for you.

IT'S NEVER TOO LATE TO GO TO UNIVERSITY!

A degree can improve your employability and teach you a variety of skills that employers are looking for, such as analysis, research, managing time and budgets, networking and writing and communication skills. Having a degree also means you're more likely to get a higher-paid job.

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT ADDING TO LOANS AND DEBT, THERE IS NO NEED TO WORRY!

Student Finance England will ‘write off’ the loan you take to pay for an Access to HE course, provided you go on to successfully complete a university-level qualification. Plus, if you are looking at the getting a nursing qualification you can apply for a £5,000 a year maintenance grant/bursary.
 

Here are some snippets of what our Access to HE learners have to say about the courses...

"I wanted to enter into a veterinary nursing programme but required higher-level qualifications. The Access course provided me with equivalents to the required A Level science subjects without having to attend daily classes."

"Through the course, I achieved the maximum number of distinction points and managed to secure a placement in Veterinary Science at the University of Bristol. I’m now on my way to becoming a veterinary surgeon. This wouldn’t be happening without the Access course."

Richard

"The course reaffirmed my knowledge but also taught me much more about relevant legislation and up-to-date study material."

"It provided a definite connection between the work I do and the learning, allowing me to feel more confident within my practice."

"If it hadn’t been for my lecturer believing in me and encouraging me, I would never have felt confident enough in my abilities to pursue the master’s degree which I love.”

"If it hadn’t been for my lecturer believing in me and encouraging me, I would never have felt confident enough in my abilities to pursue the master’s degree which I love.”

Andrea

"Being able to complete this course has increased my skill set and will benefit my work in the future."

"The welding facilities are fantastic, with modern welders, equipment, and PPE comparable to my current workspace – so highly relevant."

"I have been able to make contacts through this course with other individuals who work in complementary areas – these contacts are already proving fruitful."

James

"With aspirations to become a qualified beauty therapist/masseur, I saw Weston College as the perfect avenue to advance my career,"

"The programme is well-structured, the faculty are knowledgeable and supportive, and the resources available are excellent. Take advantage of networking opportunities, seek out internships or work placements, and don't hesitate to ask for help when needed.”

Martia

Click here to find out more about our Access to HE Courses!

Weston College has successfully been awarded the matrix Standard, demonstrating outstanding information, advice and guidance (IAG), to learners of all levels, from across the College.

The matrix Standard is delivered by the Growth Company on behalf of the Department for Education, and is the international quality standard for organisations that delivers IAG.

The accreditation report recognised how impactful the IAG is at Weston College, stating:

Feedback from the full range of Weston College students demonstrated how IAG is making a difference to their learning, work, career and life goals. All students described a student environment where they felt safe and able to be themselves. IAG delivery is viewed as pivotal to students being ‘ready to learn; ready to work and ready for life’, with these desired outcomes informing the overarching staff approach.

This is reflected across the whole college, with interviews being conducted with members of staff from areas such as: College Information Services, Adult Recruitment Team, Apprenticeship Recruitment Team, Additional Learning Support, Welfare and Pastoral Support, Specialist Mental Health Team, and the Careers and Employability Team. 25 learners were also interviewed as part of the process and various external stakeholders.

The report showcased how dynamic the IAG is at Weston College, always looking to improve and remain relevant to the changing needs of learners:

Over the last three years Weston College has proven to be agile and responsive to reflect the changing education and skills landscape and the needs of its community. For instance, an English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) programme for students aged 16-18 has been introduced whilst the growth of modular and smaller qualifications reflect key industrial sectors’ expectations. The IAG offer too has changed to ensure it remains relevant to the broad range of student needs. With a high profile placed upon student centred support, the senior leadership team has continued to ensure that Student Support Services remains well-resourced and is managed with a clear vision.

Vice Principal for Student Experience and Communications at Weston College, Ben Knocks, said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded the matrix Standard, which reflects our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional IAG to our learners.

“This accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff across all departments, ensuring that every learner feels safe, supported, and prepared for their future. I am really proud of what we do in this field and having now held the standard for over 12 years, shows that never stand still and continue to evolve and enhance our IAG services to meet the needs of our students and the wider community.”

Weston-super-Mare's prestigious Winter Gardens venue played host to the highly anticipated annual Weston College Business Awards last night. 

The event brought together 250 distinguished guests for an inspiring celebration of learners and local employers who have worked closely with the college to offer work-placed opportunities to people taking their first steps in their career. 

The Winter Gardens was transformed into a hub of excitement and anticipation as attendees, including prominent figures from the local business community, educators, and local dignitaries, gathered to honour the outstanding achievements and commitment of individuals and businesses alike. 

This year we have revamped our awards and rather than separating out learner and employer awards, we celebrated partnerships – with both the learner and employer being recognised for the same award.   

The event was hosted by Bristolian Actor and BBC Radio Bristol Host, Joe Sims.

Interim Principal, Jacqui Ford commented: 

“It was fantastic to celebrate and showcase not only the exceptional talent and dedication of our learners but also the invaluable support and collaboration of our esteemed employer network, at the Weston College Business Awards. 

"The overwhelming number of nominations we received is a testament to the high standards and relentless commitment demonstrated by our learners. Each learner showed exceptional drive and ambition, making us immensely proud of their accomplishments. 

"Equally, our partnerships with key employers have proven to be vital for the growth and prosperity of our local community. It is through their unwavering support and collaboration that our learners can excel and thrive in their respective fields.  

"Congratulations to all the winners and nominees. Your hard work, dedication, and passion have truly set you apart. We are honoured to play a part in your journey and celebrate your successes with you." 

Winner of the Luke Wheaton Engineering and Automotive Partnership Award, Damien Pearcey from AmeyBriggs, commented on the evening: “Just to be nominated and shortlisted for these awards has been an achievement in itself, it’s been a fantastic opportunity from day 1 right up to today and i couldn't be more thankful to the college and AmeyBriggs. From here on out the sky is going to be the limit!” 

Additionally, Darcey Winter from North Somerset Council won the Business, Finance and Professional Services Partnership Award commented:  "To come to something like this tonight, it feels really nice to be recognised within the workplace and see all the other Weston College learners. I have my parents here, my colleagues and my apprenticeship assessor and it has been really nice to bring everyone together! 

Additionally, employers were acknowledged for their unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of learning and providing valuable opportunities to their workforce. 

Winners of the Into Work Partnership Award, Elborough Care Services, said: “We are so thrilled that we have won the into work partnership award tonight at the Weston College Business Awards. We are so proud of Josh and feel very lucky to have him in our team!” 

A huge thank you to our headline sponsor CJ Hole and sponsors, Honeyfield Property Services, DPL Partnership, Mindful Education, Image Sign Systems, Pace, Michelmores, Mendip Activity Centre and Skylight. 

A huge congratulations to all of our finalists and winners!