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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
Level 2 & Level 3 Uniformed Public Services students spent the morning on Weston seafront, taking part in engaging exercise drills with the Royal Marine Commandos.
After dusting off the sand, students listened to a presentation and then had the opportunity to ask the Lympstone based Marines questions about the armed forces and how they might be able to give themselves the edge if they wish to follow related careerpaths.
One student added: "This was my first time ever meeting a member of the marines. It was really inspiring and they made me realise how I can push myself make the most of the opportunities in front of me."
Thank-you to the Marines for coming in, passing on their knowledge and inspiring our students!
The group of Geography A-level students took a minibus down to the attraction near St Austell, and after a welcome lecture were given a tour of the Mediterranean and Tropical Biodomes.
Humidity was very high in the Tropical Biodome, adding to the authenticity of the experience. The students were given the opportunity to climb up to a viewing platform 30 metres from the ground so they could see the flora and fauna from above.
College lecturer Richard Hall, who accompanied the students, said: “This was a great experience of learning first hand and close up about Biodiversity, and with the combination of lectures, guided tour and free time to explore, it certainly enhanced enjoyment of this aspect of the course.”
* Pic shows students (left to right) James Savage, Charlie Cox, Luke Flannigan, Will Payne, Josh Hoare-Matthews, Vanessa Wall, Leanne Bryant.
A FEW hours of tropical conditions were enjoyed by Weston College students on a recent field trip to Cornwall’s Eden Project.
Former Weston College student Bradley Ash has become a professional footballer after signing with SkyBet League One club Barnsley.
The 19-year-old, who studied BTEC Level 3 Sport at Weston College from 2012 to 2014, signed for an undisclosed fee on the opening day of the transfer window.
He had been watched by scouts from a number of Football League clubs after scoring 14 goals from 13 starts for Vanarama National League South side Weston-super-Mare.
Paul Taylor, Sports Development and Performance Manager at Weston College said: “We are very proud of Brad, particularly of his latest achievement of signing professionally for Barnsley Football Club.
“His determination, technical ability and incredible work ethic will I’m sure enable him to realise his dream.”
Barnsley Football Club, managed by former Bristol City midfielder Lee Johnson, snapped up Bradley without first taking him on trial.
During his time at Weston College, Bradley represented Weston College Football Academy throughout and was awarded ‘Sports Performer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Male Academy of Sport Athlete’ in 2014.
While in his second year, Bradley was nominated by Weston College to attend trials for the England Colleges National Team.
After three trials he was selected to represent England Colleges, making his debut against Australia, and going on to play a further eight times including matches against Wales, Scotland, Italy and San Marino during the season. In addition, Bradley represented England in an International Tournament in Italy.
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