Earlier this week, a very special event took place within the 16–18 ESOL programme, as our courageous students ran their very own version of Dragon's Den.

The project began last term, initiated by the dedicated ESOL staff as part of an employment-focused programme covering a wide range of workplace-related topics.

Students explored local businesses, examined various workplace roles, and learned about CV writing and job interviews. For their formative assessment, they worked collaboratively in groups to generate innovative business ideas, allowing their creativity to shine. These ideas were then presented to a panel, which included John Robertson, David Crew (Managing Director of Somerset Chamber of Commerce), and Mir Sadat, an Afghan refugee and founder of Noor Creatives - a business dedicated to illuminating ideas and inspiring growth.

Alexia Sporidis, Head of ESOL, said, “I cannot express the pride I felt in our learners, as they stood in front of their peers, and an external panel and presented their ideas. They had created logos, included the structure of the business and the rationale for their innovative ideas.

“The winners received tablets, with thanks to funding from the Virtual Schools here in North Somerset, and the runners up will receive awards at the end of the academic year. In my mind, EVERYONE was a winner, the ideas were great, the presentations were high calibre, and the teamwork was outstanding. Thank you to everyone who supported this ambitious project.”

Dean Owen, a Year 2 Level 3 Uniformed Protective Services (UPS) student at Weston College, has secured a fantastic scholarship to become an Officer in the British Army, an ambition he’s pursued since the age of 14. This scholarship not only allows him to complete a university qualification, but also sets him on a direct path to leadership within the Army. 

Once he has completed his UPS course at Weston College, Dean will begin studying a Business Management Degree at the University of Exeter, where he will also complete the University Officer Training Course, a consistent programme involving weekly evening sessions, eight weekends, and a two-week training camp. This will prepare him for the full-time Officer Training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst which he will progress to following his degree. 

His journey into the Army will include two years of officer development, followed by 20 weeks of Regiment training in Infantry. Dean then hopes to join the elite Ranger Regiment, which requires an additional 22 weeks of specialist training. The Rangers form part of the Army's Special Operations Capable battalions, and entry is highly competitive. 

Dean’s achievement is very impressive due to the determination and effort he has invested to secure this scholarship, acquiring his success completely independently based on his own hard work.  

Throughout his college years, Dean has been involved in residential trips, rigorous training, and consistently maintained a high level of fitness to pass the physical assessments. The scholarship selection process was intense, requiring a fitness test, medical screening, paperwork, and participation in a 3-day selection board. 

Out of around 800 applicants, only 150 were awarded the scholarship, and Dean secured his place. He believes his success was due to his embodiment of the Army's disciplines and core values. Dean added, “just from the application process, fitness tests and selection board, it showed me what I was really capable of. I was working at 100% effort, and it made me realise what I could do—and that made me really proud.” 

The scholarship provides a structured seven-year path: three years at university and four years of Army service, although recipients can begin military service straight out of college if they choose. Dean will receive an annual bursary starting at £2,000, with the potential to rise depending on performance during training. Once he completes his education and training, Dean will enter the Army as a Commissioned Officer. 

Dean’s ambition is to serve a full 22-year career in the Army, ideally in the Rangers, and rise through the ranks. For him, the scholarship is more than financial support, it’s the gateway to a meaningful and fulfilling career. He sees it as an opportunity to lead, to challenge himself, and to make a lasting contribution. 

Dean’s story is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with focus, resilience, and a clear career path. His future in the Army is bright, and his journey is only just beginning. Good luck in the future Dean! 

If you’re interested in a Protective Services course, click here. 

Students and staff from the Faculty of Inclusive Practice have successfully completed their first international SEND residential training programme in Canada, made possible by the Turing Scheme, a fantastic initiative designed to break down financial barriers and open doors to global learning opportunities.

The Turing Scheme provides vital funding to education providers, helping ensure students of all backgrounds can access international study and training opportunities. The programme supports a more inclusive and globally-minded educational experience that empowers students to gain practical skills, global awareness, and lifelong memories.

The group travelled across western Canada, starting in Vancouver. They visited major landmarks such as Stanley Park, the Capilano ‘Bessant’ Bridge cliff walk, Grouse Mountain, and experienced local culture through food and city life, sampling local favourites like poutine, moose burgers, and towering stacks of maple syrup-covered pancakes.

The group then travelled to Hudson’s Hope in British Columbia, where they spent time living in a rural community. They visited sites such as the Peace Canyon Dam, took part in fossil hunting, campfire cooking, and school-based activities. Each student also completed work experience placements and contributed to daily tasks such as preparing meals.

During the trip, the group visited several lakes, hiked local trails, explored caves, and took part in activities including baseball training. Many tried new foods and saw wildlife including moose and bears.

For many students, this was their first time leaving the country or flying. They adapted well to the challenges of international travel and unfamiliar environments, building confidence and learning practical skills, from navigating airports and ordering transport to interacting with local communities and managing daily routines.

The experience provided valuable personal and professional development, giving students the opportunity to grow their independence, expand their cultural understanding, and develop new workplace and life skills in a completely different setting.

Thank you to the staff who attended, this trip would not have been possible without your efforts and support!

Weston college is one of three SEND Centres for Excellence, click her to find out more.