Previous
Next

Courses for 16 to 18-year-olds

COURSES FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS

With hundreds of unique, exciting and inspiring programmes to choose from, everything you need to create your brighter future is waiting for you at Weston College.

From the minute you walk through the door, the experience and the environment that we create is all about maximising your potential. It’s about preparing and motivating you for a fresh and focused career pathway.

Every Weston College student becomes part of one of our exciting new Career Excellence Hubs. This means you will take part in a study programme with lots of career boosting benefits, all with the aim of help you to go further, giving you the opportunity to become career ready with the skills, knowledge and expertise you need to be successful in your next step and reach your ultimate goal - whatever that may be!

Whether you are looking for the next step after school or the next step in your career, we're bound to have a programme for you. Take a look below at the different types of qualifications available for school leavers and young people between 16 and 18 years old.

Did you know we also run English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)?

Start your brighter future by selecting a subject you're interested in below, and don't forget - you can apply online and it only takes 5 minutes!

 

Discover our range of courses for school leavers aged 16-18 using the search options below...

Select a Course Subject:

Search courses by keyword:

Search by Keyword:

Select a Career:

Scroll down to view our courses
or select a section to jump to:

Scroll down to view our courses
or select a section to jump to:

ucw logo
WeIoT Logo
You can progress onto degrees and higher apprenticeships with UCW...

Qualifications Explained

At Weston College we know that everyone learns differently. That’s why we deliver a variety of different qualification types - to give you the chance to learn in the way that suits you the most.

A Levels

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.

 

Check out A-Levels Here

Apprenticeships

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..

 

Check out Apprenticeships Here

Professional and Technical Qualifications

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.

Traineeships

Traineeships are a great way for 16 to 24-year-olds who haven’t yet gained the skills and experiences necessary to apply for jobs and apprenticeships. They are taught mostly in the workplace and include a mixture of personal and social development, and employability skills. The aim of a traineeship is to train you within a company so that you are more likely to be offered an apprenticeship or a job.

 

Check out Traineeships Here

T-Levels Logo

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.

 

Check out T-Levels Here

CHOOSING WHAT TO STUDY

We are all about CAREERS NOT COURSES and pride ourselves on being able to offer a huge range of programmes to ensure you develop the skills and knowledge employers and universities are looking for. As the only education provider in North Somerset that enables you to work your way up from an entrylevel programme to a degree, we’re here to help you choose the right programme for you.

We can help you choose your study programme or apprenticeship by accessing the following support:

School Liaison Team

Working with local schools we help you find out about college life and programmes of study, and we provide you with advice and guidance about what programmes will best suit you. We will either visit your school, attend careers fairs and parents’ evenings or coordinate campus and virtual events such as our taster days, holiday workshops and tours.

Events

We put on a number of events over the year, which will be a mixture of face-to-face and virtual events. These provide you and your family with the opportunity to explore our facilities, speak to our lecturers, find out about the support on offer and choose the right programme for you. Our events also give you the opportunity to engage with a number of employers to find out about careers in their industry and why they value the calibre of candidates that come from Weston College.

CAREERS ADVICE

  • On our website you can access a wealth of career guidance, such as:
  •  All the programmes you can study.
  • What our alumni have gone on to achieve.
  • Labour Market Intelligence (LMI) that will help explain what relevant careers and jobs are available, including salaries.
  • NEW – Subject careers roadmaps, so you can map your journey with us and ensure it will get you into your chosen career. Also, check out Career Coach - this provides you with the opportunity to:
  • Take an assessment that matches you with careers.
  • Explore broad career pathways that match your strengths and interests.
  • Compare careers within a pathway - including salaries, required education and more.
  • Explore our programmes that will set you on the path to your desired career.
  • Take a career assessment - and receive an in-depth report that can help you identify the best programme and career path for you!

We’re here and happy to help – if you would like more advice and guidance, contact our school liaison team by emailing schoolteam@weston.ac.uk. - they you can arrange a one-to-one careers appointment with our specialist staff.

LATEST NEWS

Beauty learners posing for a photo together on trip to Beauty Rooms Medi Spa

<p>Learners studying Level 2 and 3 courses part of our Career Excellence Hub in Hair and Beauty, embarked on a thrilling trip last week to Beauty Rooms Medi Spa, where they had the opportunity to see a health spa in action.</p><p>Guided by Amanda from Beauty Rooms Medi Spa, our learners were treated to a tour of the spa, and were also able to gain hands-on experience with Caci and Guinot machines, as well as discovering all about franchising opportunities.</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Divisional Lead for Service Sectors at Weston College, said: “It was fantastic for our learners to be able to visit Beauty Rooms Medi Spa.</p><p>“The feedback from learners has been overwhelmingly positive, with several expressing how they feel more motivated since visiting the spa.</p><p>“At Weston College we are all about careers, and not courses, and this is the perfect example of our Career Excellence Hub in action. A big thank you to Amanda for the tour, we look forward to working closely with you over the coming months.”</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… out more about our Beauty courses, by clicking here.</a></p>

Hydrogen cannister in car

<p>Weston College's Automotive Careers Excellence Hub recently hosted Block Automotive for an engaging workshop. Lee Trussler showcased a cutting-edge Hydrogen Fuel Cell Training vehicle, inspiring both staff and students alike.</p><p>Lee showcased their innovative Hydrogen Fuel Cell Training vehicle, modeled after the renowned Toyota Mirai. This demonstration not only provided an invaluable learning experience for Automotive and Engineering staff but also offered an exciting glimpse into essential green technology for learners.</p><p>Block Automotive has over 40 years of manufacturing experience and is the market leader in innovation and design providing automotive, HGV, and agricultural vocational training equipment.</p><p>The collaboration between Weston College and Block Automotive highlights a commitment to staying at the forefront of automotive education and sustainable technology. By introducing this cutting-edge training vehicle, Weston College aims to equip its staff and students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving automotive industry.</p><p>This demonstration not only served as a professional development opportunity for staff but also provided learners with firsthand exposure to eco-friendly automotive technologies. As the world shifts towards greener solutions, Weston College remains committed to preparing its students for the future of the automotive industry.</p><p>Chris Priest the Subject Area Manager for Automotive at Weston College, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Welcoming Lee Trussler and the Hydrogen Fuel Cell Training vehicle to Weston College is an exciting milestone for our Automotive Department. This demonstration aligns with our mission to provide cutting-edge education that prepares our students for success in a rapidly changing world."</p><p>Justin Lavery, Finance Director at Block Automotive, added: "Lee Trussler, National Sales Manager for Block Automotive Limited travelled to Weston College last week to provide a full demonstrate our new Hydrogen trainer to Weston College. "Weston College’s team made Lee feel very welcome, the level interest and excitement was marvellous. The demonstration allowed learners to inspect the training rig exacting parallels between education and Industry through the provision of cutting edge education in the Hydrogen and Electric Vehicle space. "We are very grateful to be working with Weston College and are excited to be contributing to the further evolution of their Automotive Department. Our thanks to Chris Priest, Ross Hawkins and their TEAM for hosting us at their amazing premises in Weston-Super-Mare." &nbsp;</p><p>This workshop forms part of the Automotive Careers Excellence Hub. The College has fourteen sector-specific Career Excellence Hubs, which evidence our dedication to supporting both employers and learners in achieving their future goals. By creating a seamless connection between industry and education, we enable learners to acquire not only the essential skills and knowledge but also the professional networks necessary to excel in their chosen fields.</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor… see more about our Automotive courses, click here</a>.</p>

Two students looking at an engine

<p>Weston College Automotive students received a generous donation from Avon &amp; Somerset Police this week when they contributed three Vauxhall car engines. The donated engines are set to enhance the hands-on learning experience for our automotive students, providing them with valuable opportunities for skill development and practical application.</p><p>As the engines had reached the end of their fleet life, rather than allowing them to go to waste, Avon &amp; Somerset Police decided to donate them to the education of our future automotive professionals.</p><p>The hands-on aspect of our Automotive courses is fundamental to developing well-rounded and skilled automotive professionals. With the addition of these engines, students will have a further opportunity to work with real-world equipment, gaining practical knowledge that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. The engines will be integrated into the curriculum, allowing students to apply theoretical concepts to actual engine repairs and maintenance tasks.</p><p>A massive thank you goes to Avon &amp; Somerset Police for their thoughtful contribution, which will undoubtedly have an impact on the education and future careers of our Automotive students.</p><p>As we celebrate this contribution, we also extend an invitation to other potential donors or supporters who may wish to contribute in similar ways. Whether it be spare parts, equipment, or industry expertise, we welcome partnerships that enrich the educational experience of our students and prepare them for successful careers. For any enquiries regarding donations or partnerships, please contact Louise Greene at louise.greene@weston.ac.uk</p><p>For those interested in exploring Automotive courses at Weston College, please visit <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/motor… Vehicle | Weston College</a></p>

Got a question?

Whatever you'd like to know, we're here to help...

Apply or find out more

Marketing Permissions

Once we have your booking we would love to keep you informed of other, similar events you may be interested in. You can unsubscribe at any time. Your personal information will be processed in line with our privacy notice available on our policy page. Is this ok (please tick)?

Email
WhatsApp

By submitting this form you are consenting to Weston College recording and processing the personal information on this form, for any purposes of the college associated with the provision of advice and guidance to potential students on the range of courses available to them, college facilities and any other associated information. In accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018, the information will only be used for the above mentioned purposes.

You will need to complete a full enrolment form prior to starting your course.

CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether or not you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.