<p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{187}" paraid="385857061">Recently our ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learners took part in an exciting exercise hosted by our LibraryPlus team. The class was given an immersive demonstration of the latest virtual reality (VR) technology, opening a gateway to a new dimension of learning. The students, many of whom had never experienced VR before, eagerly donned headsets to explore innovative tools that could one day revolutionise their educational journey.&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{205}" paraid="1882773131">Weston College aims to integrate VR into its curriculum, recognising its potential to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment. The initiative reflects our commitment to preparing students for the challenges of the modern workforce, where technology plays an increasingly vital role. The students enthusiastically embraced this cutting-edge technology.&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{233}" paraid="1907290390">The VR experience was a hit with the ESOL learners. Student Mohammed said: “It was amazing! Very different, and a strange feeling but something very new.” Learner Tony particularly enjoyed the experience saying: “I really enjoyed it; it was super fun!”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{251}" paraid="1139757022">ESOL lecturer John said: “It was an amazing immersive experience. Students were able to explore with focus.”&nbsp;</p><p paraeid="{49de4cae-fe41-44b2-a745-3ccfb0813a53}{251}" paraid="1139757022">&nbsp;</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Learner using VR technology&quot;" data-align="center" data-langcode="en" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a0ad876-135c-47dc-8c3f-a3e85fd7e9fe" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_750x750&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity>

<p paraeid="{73222705-1f78-4f4a-87d2-ac97c1bad9ce}{218}" paraid="823180263">Weston College is proud to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Bosang Humphrey, an Access to HE student who has demonstrated exceptional resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his education. Bosang, originally from Cameroon, overcame numerous personal obstacles and adversities to pursue a career in Mental Health Nursing.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{73222705-1f78-4f4a-87d2-ac97c1bad9ce}{236}" paraid="1831274478">Bosang embarked on his educational journey by enrolling in the Access to HE: Nursing, Health, and Midwifery program at Weston College. His story is a testament to the transformative power of education and the ability to overcome challenges, inspiring students, staff, and the wider community.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{73222705-1f78-4f4a-87d2-ac97c1bad9ce}{244}" paraid="1862438248">From the moment he arrived in the UK in 2006, Bosang exhibited a relentless pursuit of excellence. His journey began with overcoming language barriers, but through hard work and a positive attitude, he conquered these obstacles. His academic achievements, initially at a pass level, have since soared to merits and distinctions, showcasing his exceptional abilities and dedication.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{73222705-1f78-4f4a-87d2-ac97c1bad9ce}{254}" paraid="1611578658">One of the most remarkable aspects of Bosang's journey is his determination to improve his IT skills. As a novice in IT upon joining the programme, he persevered, and today, he handles technology with ease. His dedication to self-improvement is an inspiration to fellow students.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{3d2f194e-955a-495e-b4f1-4a0db927845e}{13}" paraid="813345325">Bosang's commitment to his studies extended beyond the classroom, as he frequently stayed late, invested additional time, and sought support to enhance his learning. His extraordinary efforts have made him a role model for all learners, illustrating the power of determination and perseverance in the pursuit of education and personal growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{3d2f194e-955a-495e-b4f1-4a0db927845e}{21}" paraid="141096488">Maxine Park, Subject Area Manager for Access to HE at Weston College, had high praise for Bosang. She stated,&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{3d2f194e-955a-495e-b4f1-4a0db927845e}{31}" paraid="1523725359">"We have been very fortunate to meet Bosang, as he inspires us during every session. He is a shining example of what dedication, resilience, and a thirst for knowledge can achieve. He achieved academic excellence and radiated positivity and a willingness to go the extra mile. He embodies the qualities that this award represents – a relentless pursuit of excellence and a deep desire to contribute positively to society. Bosang is not just a student; he is a role model, and he undoubtedly deserves recognition for his outstanding accomplishments and the inspiration he provides to others."&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{3d2f194e-955a-495e-b4f1-4a0db927845e}{53}" paraid="1294522975">In addition to his academic achievements, Bosang has brought a deeper understanding of his culture to his classmates, encouraging them to explore other cultures and ways of thinking. His warm and infectious energy has earned the admiration of his peers, who often seek his guidance.&nbsp;</p>

<p paraeid="{3d2f194e-955a-495e-b4f1-4a0db927845e}{63}" paraid="1978691930">Weston College wholeheartedly believes that Bosang deserves recognition for his exceptional accomplishments and that his story will continue to inspire others to overcome obstacles and strive for excellence in their own educational pursuits. His future in the Mental Health Nursing sector is undoubtedly bright, and the College looks forward to witnessing his continued success.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Weston College has been shortlisted as a potential national winner for Access to Higher Education Centre of the Year at the AIM Empowering Futures Awards 2023. <img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Empowering%20Futures%20Icon%20Finalist%20resize.png" data-align="right" data-entity-uuid="03539925-be1c-44e1-942e-548f6179957e" data-entity-type="file" alt="Empowering futures icon finalist" width="500" height="410"></p><p>The AIM Empowering Futures Awards celebrate the achievements of end-point assessment organisations, AIM-recognised centres and employers in the past year.</p><p>These inaugural awards will take place during their Empowering Futures Conference on 9 November at the East Midlands Conference Centre, Nottingham.</p><p>AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Kevern Kerswell, said:</p><p>“We’re delighted that for these inaugural awards, we have received so many entries dedicated to celebrating the achievements of AIM’s centres and partners. All the entries are of a really high standard and demonstrate great commitment to supporting and empowering individuals to go on to do amazing things. Congratulations to all finalists. We look forward to celebrating their success as an industry on the 9th of November.”</p><p>Weston College’s Access to Higher Education (HE) courses are designed to give learners the skills and qualifications they need to apply for university. It is a well-established, with consistently high pass rates. Programmes start twice a year in September and January and pathways include Animal Science, Business, Criminology, Medical Sciences, Nursing and Midwifery, Social Sciences and Teaching. You can find out about our courses the financial support available, and a video of student experiences on the Access courses here: <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/access-higher-… to Higher Education | Weston College.</a></p>