Last month, our A Level Art and A Level Fashion students took a trip to London to enrich themselves in famous exhibitions, with Fashion students visiting Arches London Bridge exhibition space to see the Gianni Versace Retrospective exhibition, and the Art students visiting the Tate Modern Museum.  

During the visit, the Fashion students browsed the Versace exhibition which blended history, culture, and iconic designs, showcasing over 450 rare and original vintage pieces, many never-before displayed in the UK. Featuring elegant ensembles worn by Princess Diana and bold statements modelled by Kate Moss, to stage outfits styled for Elton John, this exhibition combines fashion with pop culture.  

Gianni Versace redefined fashion, creating bold designs that celebrated culture, individuality, and personal expression, challenging norms and building relationships between people and their clothes. This exhibition allowed our students to engage with his designs and immerse themselves in his choices, inspiring them to think creatively and create fashion with meaning and purpose.  

Not only this, the Art students also browsed the Tate Modern where they got the chance to explore modern and contemporary art from across the world, from paintings and photography, to sculptures and large-scale installations. This was a great opportunity for students to explore displays from world-renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse, and experience a wide variety of styles, expressions, and interpretations of art. This inspired our students to express their creativity in a range of ways, trialling mediums and different expressions to further their skills and development.

This enriching trip was an excellent opportunity for our students to explore new techniques and approaches to art and fashion, broadening their interpretations and creativity to design not just attractive designs, but also creations with depth, meaning, and symbolism.   

Nicola Stent, Lecturer in Textiles at Weston College, said, “I was so impressed with the attitudes of the students for embracing and making the most out of each piece of work on display. They took the time to read the background for each exhibit in order to gain an in-depth understanding of the meaning and decisions behind the designer’s work.  Students were excited and inspired after experiencing the wide range of designs and I’m excited to see how this trip will reflect in their upcoming work!”  

A huge well done to the students for engaging and interacting with the exhibitions so professionally.  

This curriculum trip forms part of the Sixth Form 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 Art and Design! 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.

We caught up with Nigel almost 2 years after our previous catch up (UCW Award Winner Nigel’s Remarkable Growth – University Centre Weston), to find out how he has been getting on with his Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship after completing a Nursing Associate Foundation Degree!

Nigel’s Blog –

Progressing from my Nursing Associate foundation degree into the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (RNDA) felt like a natural next step in my career. The foundation degree gave me a strong clinical base, so moving into the RNDA has allowed me to build on that knowledge while taking on more responsibility. My understanding of the nurse’s role has grown significantly, and I now feel I am developing into a more confident and capable practitioner.

One of the biggest surprises for me has been how closely academic learning connects with day-to-day practice. Topics discussed in university sessions often appear in real clinical situations, which really helps to reinforce my learning and make it more meaningful. Being able to see theory applied in practice has strengthened my confidence and helped me understand the “why” behind what we do.

My previous experience as a Nursing Associate has helped me settle into the RNDA programme. I already felt confident within my clinical setting and in communicating with patients and multidisciplinary teams. This has meant I can focus more on developing my leadership and decision-making skills, as well as becoming more inquisitive about why care is delivered in certain ways, rather than simply carrying out tasks.

What I am finding most rewarding about the RNDA is developing deeper clinical knowledge and becoming more involved in-patient assessment and care planning. Being able to contribute more meaningfully to patient care and see the direct impact on patient outcomes is incredibly motivating.

I have also developed stronger assessment and critical thinking skills, which are already influencing my clinical practice. These skills help me make more informed clinical decisions and contribute more confidently during handovers and multidisciplinary discussions. They also support my colleagues, as I am able to provide more comprehensive background information and assessments when handing over patients, saving valuable time for others such as GPs.

Learning at UCW continues to support my confidence and clinical decision-making. The teaching encourages reflective practice and evidence-based decision-making, which has really helped me grow. I feel more confident with patient assessments and now have a deeper understanding of my own limitations. UCW are also very proactive in ensuring we are aware of the support available, which has been reassuring throughout my studies.

Since starting the degree apprenticeship, my long-term career goals have become clearer. I have developed a strong interest in specialising in long-term condition management and taking on expanded clinical responsibilities. I am increasingly focused on the impact of what we do and why we do it, rather than seeing my role as purely task-based.

To work towards these ambitions, I am actively seeking learning opportunities in practice that focus on long-term condition management and specialist care. I am also planning future study that will enable me to progress onto a prescribing course once I qualify as a registered nurse and meet the required enrolment criteria. More recently, I have also developed an interest in becoming a contraceptive implant fitter once qualified. Spending time alongside implant fitters introduced me to a role I had not previously considered and showed me how valuable clinical exposure can be in shaping future career interests.

For anyone considering the RNDA route or a degree apprenticeship at UCW, I would strongly encourage you to pursue it. While balancing work and study can be challenging at times, the support available and the practical experience gained make the journey highly rewarding. The apprenticeship route offers the best of both worlds: real-world clinical experience alongside academic learning.

The RNDA pathway has given me an excellent opportunity to grow professionally while continuing to deliver patient care. I’m excited to see where this journey leads and what new skills I can learn along the way. Thank you, UCW, for the opportunity.

To celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, we caught up with three of our apprentices to hear all about their apprenticeship experiences.

What is your name and what apprenticeship are you currently doing?

Tautvyde: My name is Tautvyde Kudarauskaite, though I’m also known as Toad. I am currently in the first year of my Level 4 Technical Apprenticeship with Airbus, specialising in Quality.

Joshua: My name is Joshua Reynolds‑Hailing. I am a Marketing Apprentice at Elborough Care Services, and I am studying a Level 3 Multi‑Channel Marketing apprenticeship with Weston College.

Marcus: My name is Marcus Pan and I’m doing an electrical apprenticeship. I work for Holden electrical.

What type of tasks are you required to do in your current role?

Tautvyde: This apprenticeship is built on four years of continuous, fast-paced learning. I rotate placements every 3–6 months, which means as soon as I’m comfortable in one area, I’m moving on to the next challenge. While moving teams frequently might seem daunting, Airbus ensures we have the time to integrate properly before we’re expected to contribute. This structure offers me new learning every single week, which I’d never give up for something repetitive.

Joshua: In my role I help with a range of marketing tasks. This includes collecting data, creating content, supporting campaigns, and using Customer Relationship Management and analytics to keep everything organised. It’s a mix of creative, analytical, and practical work that all supports my multi‑channel marketing.

Marcus: I do mainly domestic electrical work like rewires and extensions but I’ve also done some commercial jobs in schools and offices.

What are some of the main skills you have learned so far, and how will they help your future career?

Tautvyde: The biggest lesson so far has been patience. In an industry as massive as aerospace, it takes time to get the "knack" of how things work. By being patient, I’ve learned not to over-promise on tasks I can’t yet deliver, which makes my progress feel stable and authentic, while also learning not to feel disappointed when I can’t master everything during a single placement.

This patient approach feeds directly into my work with teamwork and problem-solving. In Quality, we are at the center of complex, evolving issues that don't have easy answers. By understanding my own current strengths and being honest about my weaknesses, I can contribute more effectively to the team rather than feeling like I have to carry the weight of a solution all by myself. Aerospace is never as straightforward as it seems, it’s a giant puzzle, and developing that analytical, collaborative mindset early on is invaluable for tackling the issues that arise on the shop floor.

Joshua: I have learnt strong project management skills, using planning tools to organise tasks, manage timelines, and work with different teams. This has shown me how important clear communication and structured planning are when delivering campaigns.

Data has also been a big part of my learning. I have built skills in analysing performance, preparing reports, and using insights to improve future work. I have also used survey and research tools to gather audience feedback, such as running monthly quizzes and engagement surveys.

Creatively, I have improved my copywriting and learnt how to adapt tone and messaging for different audiences. Working on Elborough Care Services YouTube channel has helped me develop skills in content planning, scripting, and understanding how people engage with videos. I have also gained experience designing marketing materials using specialist software, making sure everything is visually engaging and on brand.

I have supported multi‑channel campaigns across social media, websites, email, and video. Using a content management system, I have published text, images, and videos while making sure everything is accurate, accessible, and aligned with campaign goals.

Marucs: Some of the main skills I’ve learned so far is communication, problem solving and planning. Throughout my apprenticeship I’ve had to communicate with colleagues and customers so my communication skills have improved. While working you sometimes face problems and have to think quick on how to overcome the problems.

Are there any standout successes you’d like to describe?

Tautvyde: The standout for me is the sheer volume of opportunities available outside of my primary job description. I’ve volunteered for college open evenings, the Airbus-led Flying Start Challenge, and various career talks. Most notably, I am currently the only Apprentice Ambassador at Weston College, where I represent my entire cohort by providing direct feedback to improve the apprenticeship experience. Being able to represent both my peers and the company while showing future students that engineering is a feasible, exciting career path brings me a lot of fulfillment.

I also get the chance to participate in many sustainability talks, which is a topic incredibly important to me. It has really deepened my understanding of the global impact a company of this scale can have. Being involved in these discussions allows me to see how we can make a positive difference in the world, giving me a real sense of pride knowing that my own values align with the company I work for.

Joshua: My apprenticeship has helped me grow into a well‑rounded marketer with strong analytical skills, creative confidence, and technical ability. I have become more independent, reliable, and ready to contribute professionally to the organisation.

Marcus: During my apprenticeship I was given the chance to enter the regional sparks competition and won.

What support have you received during your apprenticeship?

Tautvyde: The support structure is one of the best parts of this route. I have a network of managers, which is a huge advantage-I always know exactly who to go to for specific queries without feeling like I’m "bombarding" one specific person. Between my Assessor for college work, an HR Manager for employment matters, an Apprentice Manager for the overall scheme, and my individual Placement Managers, I am never without a point of contact. This rotation ensures that you’re always supported by someone you connect with.

Joshua: I have received support from my mentors at Elborough Care Services. I also have received specialist support, Autonome Support with my independence, and my tutor Georgie has been a big help through our monthly sessions and regular contact on Teams.

All of this support has helped me stay on track and develop my skills throughout the apprenticeship.

Marcus: I’ve learned a lot with my company and they’ve helped me get to where I am today.

What part of your apprenticeship do you enjoy the most?

Tautvyde: Honestly, it’s the freedom of not having to have my entire life figured out yet. These four years are designed for discovery. Airbus is incredible at providing "extracurricular" growth—whether it’s joining unions, attending high-level training, or participating in company events. You aren't just a number, you’re an investment. The sheer amount of resources Airbus pours into our development makes me incredibly proud to work here and confident that I’ll be fully prepared for a permanent role whatever that may be.

Joshua: I have enjoyed every part of my apprenticeship. Continuing from my internship into an apprenticeship with Elborough Care Services has been a great experience. I have enjoyed working with Georgie as my tutor, Alison as my support specialist, and Autonome for my personal development.

I have also enjoyed learning new skills and taking on projects I never thought I would do, such as branding, advertising, data analysis and learning new skills that will benefit me within the future such as communication, and teamwork.

Marcus: What I enjoy most about my apprenticeship is the people who I work with as we are all close and working feels fun.

Do you have any ideas of what you want to do after your apprenticeship?

Tautvyde: Not yet, and I’ve learned that’s perfectly okay. Being in the first year, there is zero pressure to have a final destination in mind. The whole point of this journey is to spend time figuring out what I enjoy and where I excel.

Joshua: I would like to continue my marketing journey, either by staying with Elborough Care Services or by building a successful YouTube career. My goal is to create content that makes people smile and develop branding that stands out online.

Marcus: After my apprenticeship the main goal is to start my own company.

Would you recommend others to do an apprenticeship?

Tautvyde: I am a huge advocate for this path. If you want a route that leaves you with zero debt, a massive amount of industry experience, and high-standard qualifications, an apprenticeship is the way to go. There is no "catch"—it really is as good as it sounds.

My biggest piece of advice is to not talk yourself out of applying just because you feel you lack experience. At this stage, companies like Airbus aren't looking for a finished product, they are looking for a bright personality, a curiosity for how things work, and a genuine eagerness to learn.

However, don't just take any apprenticeship because of the benefits or the 'no debt' factor. Long-term satisfaction comes from working for a company that brings you fulfilment and aligns with your true self. Research, research, and research again. Look into the company's values, their sustainability goals, and how they treat their people. Never settle for just any role, find the one where you’ll be proud to wear the badge every day.

Joshua: I strongly recommend apprenticeships as they are a great way to develop skills, gain real experience, and progress in your chosen career. They offer hands‑on learning alongside high‑quality training, helping you build industry knowledge while earning a wage.

Apprentices also receive regular support, feedback, and guidance, which is ideal for people who prefer learning by doing rather than only classroom studying.

If you are thinking about doing an apprenticeship, I would recommend researching your options and looking at the resources available on the Weston College website. This will help you decide whether an apprenticeship is the right path for you.

Marcus: I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship as you get paid to learn. Even though the pay might not be a lot it’s still great to be paid for learning.