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Programmes for School Leavers
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...
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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 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
<p>In a resounding testament to educational excellence, Weston College's <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/t-lev… Level</a> learners have achieved an extraordinary 100% pass rate this year – outshining the national pass rate of 90.5%.</p>
<p>T Levels, introduced as a new technical qualification pathway, emphasise a blend of classroom learning and practical experience, making Weston College's achievement even more noteworthy.</p>
<p>The achievement of a flawless pass rate is a reflection of the dedication put forth by students and the unwavering support provided by staff at Weston College.</p>
<p>Sandra Bull, Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Cross College T Level Lead, at Weston College, said: “We are so proud of our T Level learners, and the amazing results that they have achieved – bucking the national trend!</p>
<p>“The results demonstrate the hard work and commitment of our students, staff and also the employer partners who play such an important role in the T Level journey for our learners.</p>
<p>“Our learners are now progressing onto their next stage, which looks different for each learner, with some progressing to university, some going on to complete degree apprenticeships and others going straight into their chosen industry.</p>
<p>“These results, and the feedback we are receiving, demonstrate the impact that T Levels can have and is having on creating the next generation of skilled employees for the evolving demands of the modern workforce.”</p>
<p>One of the driving forces behind this remarkable success is the college's emphasis on putting the learner first. Weston College is renowned for its student-centred approach, ensuring that each individual's unique strengths are harnessed and that support is on hand to support learners in any way that is needed. The dedicated teaching staff, equipped with a wealth of expertise, have played a pivotal role in shaping students into confident, knowledgeable professionals ready to make a meaningful impact.</p>
<p>Hear from some of the learners, and the impact T Levels has had on them, below.</p>
<p paraeid="{bb51a2f5-0bbe-4c92-bbc7-231b8acb99d6}{173}" paraid="725993375">We are so thrilled to celebrate the outstanding success of a Weston College Fashion and Textiles A Level learner, Tom, who recently completed an exciting work experience opportunity at the renowned tailoring establishment <a href="https://www.anderson-sheppard.co.uk/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Anderson & Sheppard</a> on Savile Row, London. </p>
<p paraeid="{bb51a2f5-0bbe-4c92-bbc7-231b8acb99d6}{199}" paraid="1287351323">Tom's journey to this exceptional experience began with his proactive approach. He took the initiative to contact Anderson & Sheppard, a 117-year-old tailoring house located at Mayfair’s historic No. 32 Old Burlington Street. Tom reached out to the Managing Director and, after careful consideration of his CV, he was granted the opportunity to participate in a day of hands-on learning on July 11th. </p>
<p paraeid="{bb51a2f5-0bbe-4c92-bbc7-231b8acb99d6}{227}" paraid="185259735">During his time at Anderson & Sheppard, Tom delved into the intricate world of tailoring, gaining insights into various aspects of the craft. He told us, "I began with the trimmer, who taught me about his role within the business: ordering and stock-checking in all materials...We then assembled what is called a tailor’s parcel, which contained the threads, facing felt, buttons, zippers and buckles rolled in the suiting patterns that had been cut and then wrapped in the canvas.” </p>
<p paraeid="{bb51a2f5-0bbe-4c92-bbc7-231b8acb99d6}{253}" paraid="1518003692">Throughout the day, Tom had the privilege of working with skilled tailors, including both the trouser cutter and jacket cutter. He even had the chance to try on a piece of history – Daniel Craig’s electric pink velvet jacket, worn on the red carpet at the 2021 James Bond Premier. Tom told us how excited he was to spend the day somewhere with such rich history, with the most iconic clientele such as Fred Astaire, Charlie Chaplin, Laurence Olivier, and more. </p>
<p paraeid="{b88d5ba6-0115-4924-91e1-9ff0890a2fe4}{20}" paraid="505641237">Reflecting on the experience, Tom emphasised the significance of his time at Anderson & Sheppard for his future pursuits. "This experience has introduced me to the fundamentals of tailoring and all the materials involved. My hope is that with a few more visits, I can take measurements and draft an exquisite jacket. My next step is to begin enrolment on the University of the West of England’s BA Fashion course, local to me this autumn." </p>
<p paraeid="{b88d5ba6-0115-4924-91e1-9ff0890a2fe4}{42}" paraid="1639355408">Tom also shared advice for fellow Fashion and Textiles learners: "Fashion’s a harsh game. But so long as one is prepared to carry on and go out to new places, meet new people, and learn new things, even without having any confidence, the world is your oyster." </p>
<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{f415bf94-75e9-42f1-b22b-669c75b7df89}{194}" paraid="1378734704" xml:lang="EN-GB">Throughout his time at Weston College, Tom has demonstrated exceptional commitment and passion – continuously investing in his future in the fashion industry. He even hosted his very own debut fashion show, which featured 15 bespoke looks designed and styled by him. Read more <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/news/fashion-learner-organises-exclusive-fashi…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">here</a>. </p>
<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{4fc7c0c4-b4c4-4146-be6f-ddd6219d5015}{75}" paraid="1582794661" xml:lang="EN-GB">We commend Tom for his dedication, enthusiasm, and proactive approach, which led to this remarkable opportunity. We are confident that his experience at Anderson & Sheppard will continue to shape his journey in the world of fashion and textiles, and we eagerly anticipate the future accomplishments that lie ahead. </p>
<p paraeid="{b88d5ba6-0115-4924-91e1-9ff0890a2fe4}{66}" paraid="2017551073">To find out more about our A Level in Fashion and Textiles, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/art-d…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">click here</a>. </p>
<p paraeid="{b88d5ba6-0115-4924-91e1-9ff0890a2fe4}{72}" paraid="1418277766">To find out more about other A Level options, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/level…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">click here</a>. </p>
<p>"My name is Josh and I just completed the level three <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu… at Weston college and have just been offered a job with <a href="https://www.swfc.co.uk/">Sheffield Wednesday Football Club</a>!</p>
<p>I found out about the job when they wanted to bring me in as a Content Creator for streaming. They found my studies interesting and then asked me to apply for the job. The application was pretty straight forward as they knew me already but the trip up to the stadium was amazing and I loved that part of it!</p>
<p>Studying at Weston College was great; the classroom was kitted out with high-end equipment, and we definitely made the most out of it. I learnt a lot from the course about how to build both mine and other peoples brand online.</p>
<p>In my first year, the support team at Weston College helped me with my dyslexia by guiding me to the dictator function on Word. For me, it’s easier to get my ideas down by speaking them instead of writing. I found it challenging and it has always been difficult trying to understand things more than once, but I finished the course with top marks which is brilliant!</p>
<p>The wait for the phone call confirming the job was incredibly long, and truthfully when they told me I had got it, I didn’t believe them, but I was relieved and couldn’t wait to get started! I officially start my job on the 7th of August and I’m both nervous and excited. Moving away from everything I know is the worst bit, but I know I’ll learn and adapt to new surroundings and hopefully it will be a good few years!</p>
<p>I’m looking forward to starting a career I’m passionate about and also getting paid for it. As well as this my office is in the football stadium which is awesome! I can’t wait to get started!"</p>
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<p>The <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu… </a>Course at Weston college explores both the theoretical and practical areas of the industry. On the course you cover a variety of subjects including Business, Sport and Creative media. 69% of parents believe that the Esports Course at Weston college teaches their children skills that cannot be learnt by traditional learning. Alongside the course you can join our Esports Academy, train for national competitions and become an ambassador for our area.</p>
