This month, The Grand Pier hosted a Cyber Security Awareness event, CSIDES, to educate individuals, students, and employers about the importance of Cyber Security and provide them with the tools to protect themselves and their organisations. Our Digital students attended the event to build on their knowledge and network with professionals in the industry. 

Cyber Security is a growing risk within the digital world and as more aspects of daily life move online, the risk of cyberattacks grows significantly. Strong cybersecurity measures help to protect sensitive data, prevent identity theft, and maintain trust in digital platforms. Without solid safeguards in place, organisations and individuals are left vulnerable to fraud and exploitation. Ultimately, cybersecurity is not just about technology but about ensuring safety and privacy in the online sphere. 

CSIDES is the UK’s first cyber security event built by and for a coastal community. This event took place throughout the Grand Pier, with industry professionals discussing a range of approaches to cyber security, holding discussions with attendees, and hosting hands-on workshops to engage the audience and ensure they have a practical understanding of cyber security and the importance of it. 

This event gave our Digital students the chance to chat to employers, engage with workshops, and learn more about online security from professionals. They also learnt more about potential careers in cyber security, gaining a deeper understanding of what the role and responsibilities would entail, as well as the importance of this career to organisations and a society.  

During these talks, experts discussed how to stay safe online, the common misconceptions and mistakes people make, protocols to follow, vulnerabilities online, and top tips to protect and encrypt your data. Not only this, industry professionals also discussed their personal experiences and journey into cyber security, with many of their routes being non-linear and having evolved over time. 

Joe Abdulgani, Assistant Principal Curriculum at Weston College, said, “This event was an excellent way for students to gain a deeper understanding of cyber security and the important role it plays in securing data across organisations. Not only this, hearing from a range of industry professionals within the field was a great opportunity for students to network and explore the different progression routes they could pursue after they complete their course.” 

Hazel McPherson, CEO of 4FOX Security experienced CISO, and the founder of CSIDES, said: “CSIDES was built to prove that coastal towns like Weston-super-Mare can lead the way in digital innovation. Seeing hundreds of students and local residents explore cyber security on the Grand Pier was a moment of pride, not just for us as organisers but for the whole community. Events like this open doors, spark careers, and show that the future of cyber can be inclusive, creative, and open to everyone, because we need to defend together.” 

Thank you to CSIDES for welcoming our students and educating them in an engaging and interactive way. 

This curriculum visit forms part of the Computing & Digital Technologies 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.  

Progress to the next level in Computing & Digital Technologies! At University Centre Weston (UCW) 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. Click here! 

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 here. 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. 

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. 

We caught up with Georgia, to find out about her journey, and what she is doing now:  

What did you study at Weston College? 

I completed two courses at Weston College; first, a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science, followed by a Level 3 Community Sport and Health Officer Apprenticeship.  

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. 

How has that helped you get to where you are today – what has your journey been like? 

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. 

What is your favourite thing about your role? 

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. 

What piece of advice would you give to people looking to follow in your footsteps? 

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. 

Is there anything else you’d like to add? 

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. 

This alumni story forms part of the Sport & Fitness 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.  

Progress to the next level in Computing & Digital Technologies! At University Centre Weston (UCW) 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. Click here! 

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 here. 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. 

This National T Level Week, we want to share how industry placements not only benefit learners, but also hugely benefit businesses by allowing them to seamlessly integrate fresh, dynamic talent into their workforce.

We spoke to Beard Construction and UHBW to find out about their experiences of taking on industry placement learners.

BEARD CONSTRUCTION:

1. What is your name and your role at Beard Construction?

My name is Bev Parfitt, and I am the Social Value Co-ordinator at Beard Construction based in Bristol. Having been in education for 30 years I am happy to be the student lead at Beard ensuring that all students have a great experience whilst with us.

2. For how long has Beard Construction been taking on industry placements for T Levels?

This is our second year of taking on T Level students and we are pleased to be working and supported by Weston College.

3. What types of roles can our learners take on when they do their industry placement with Beard Construction?

Whilst with Beard the students will cover and shadow various trades and job roles. They will learn how to do a Health & Safety check around the site with our H & S team. They will learn about the job from the ground up and be involved in looking at drawings and having the extra value of working alongside the design team, the quantity surveyors and site managers.

4. How does the industry placement prepare students for the working world?

Whilst being on site the students learn the importance of working as a team and understanding how different people work within the group. Time keeping and being able to communicate with their peers is key in the workplace and as the students grow in confidence you can see a real difference when they leave from when they arrived.

5. How do industry placements benefit Beard Construction?

Industry placements are a low-risk, high return way for Beard Construction to attract future talent, strengthen its reputation, and infuse projects with fresh energy and ideas – all while contributing to the wider construction skills pipeline.

6. Can you name any standout moments from our industry placement learners?

I love to see the students taking on board what they have learnt on site and then having the confidence to give a presentation to their class back at college. Listening to them use the right terminology and have full understanding of a particular area of study.

7. Is there opportunity for our learners to progress onto apprenticeships or any other paid employment following the completion of their industry placement?

Yes, Beard Construction offers apprenticeships and is always looking for the students that stand out and impress them throughout their T Level and work experience time.

8. What would you say to employers who are considering taking on industry placement students?

Do it – Taking a T Level student isn’t just about helping the next generation – it’s a smart business move that supports growth, innovation and the construction industry’s future

9. Is there anything else you would like to add?

Having a T Level student on site enhances leadership coaching skills and demonstrates commitment to industry sustainability.

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust:

What is your name and your role at UHBW?

Our names are Emma White and Denise Knight and we are part of the Practice Based Learning team. We support learners on various nursing programmes whilst they are on placement within the trust, along with supporting the clinical placement areas to provide positive placement experiences.

For how long has UHBW been taking on industry placements for T Levels?

UHBW has been taking industry placements for T levels for 2 years.

What types of roles can our learners take on when they do their industry placement with UHBW?

The learners take on a clinical health care support worker role where they work directly with Senior Health Care Support Workers to enhance their knowledge and practice their care certificate skills that they complete in college.

How does the industry placement prepare students for the working world?

At UHBW we run a week long induction prior to the learners starting their placements. This involves talks from different professionals within different teams, such as the audiology, resuscitation and leadership teams. They have the opportunity to practice clinical skills within our simulation suite and reflect on the expectations and professional values required for an industry placement.

During the placement, learners are exposed to the organisation of the trust, a day-to-day running of a ward/clinical area and can meet and talk with patients and professionals about their healthcare experiences. Through this, they practice their communication, teamwork and professional skills which will help them prepare for the working world.

How do industry placements benefit UHBW?

Industry placements are a great way for UHBW to showcase all the different roles within healthcare that young people can get involved in and give learners the opportunity to experience these. They bring a new set of skills and enthusiasm to UHBW and often go on to apply for our apprenticeship programmes.

Can you name any standout moments from our industry placement learners?

Last year UHBW was nominated for an Industry Placement Partnership Award by one of our learners. It was an honour to be nominated and observe how much the learner had thrived in their industry placement and how much they recommended UHBW for an industry placement.

Is there opportunity for our learners to progress onto apprenticeships or any other paid employment following the completion of their industry placement?

Yes there are options to apply for clinical apprenticeships such as our Student Nurse Associate programme or Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship that if a learner has enjoyed their placement and is interested in healthcare or paid employment.

What would you say to employers who are considering taking on industry placement students?

I would say that it’s been a pleasure to play a role in helping the T level learners experience industry placements and witness them thrive within these placements and build valuable skills and relationships with staff.

To find out more about taking on an industry placement learner, click here.