<p>On Tuesday 1st July, learners from Weston College’s Ready to Work programme participated in a successful collaborative event with <a href="https://www.congresburycoffee.org/">Congresbury Community Café</a>, delivering a traditional cream tea service to members of the local community.</p><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d202ba5e-0606-454a-8489-907674311b3f" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The event provided an invaluable opportunity for learners with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) to apply and demonstrate the hospitality and customer service skills they have developed as part of their college programme. Taking place in a supportive yet commercial environment, the experience allowed learners to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in a real-world setting.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="946b7807-a3e5-4812-b965-b41bf9f13990" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This collaboration forms part of the Ready to Work programme’s broader aim:<strong> to support learners with SEND to develop the employability skills, confidence, and practical experience required to progress into sustainable, paid employment. </strong>The professionalism, enthusiasm, and capability demonstrated by the learners throughout the event was commendable and reflective of the hard work and dedication they have shown this year.</p><p>As these learners look ahead to September, many will be seeking <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/create-a-diverse-and-inclusive-workforce?utm_s… Internship</a> opportunities to continue their journey into the world of work. Supported Internships play a vital role in helping individuals develop further skills, build independence, and secure long-term sustainable paid employment.</p><p><strong>We invite local businesses and organisations to consider offering a </strong><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/create-a-diverse-and-inclusive-workforce?utm_s… Internship</strong></a><strong> placement.</strong></p><p>If you are able to provide a valuable opportunity to a learner and be part of their employment journey, please contact Weston College’s Supported Employment Team.</p><p>Together, we can create inclusive employment pathways and help shape a more <strong>diverse</strong> and<strong> skilled workforce.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Contact: <a href="mailto:Amy.Harding@weston.ac.uk"><strong>Amy.Harding@weston.ac.uk</stro…;

<p>Weston College recently launched our very own Community Choir, led by Susannah Leitch, HE Programme Co-ordinator and Lecturer in Popular Music. The choir has had a brilliant first term, meeting every week at 5.45pm to warm up, loosen up, and sing a wide range of songs together. From upbeat tunes to more relaxed melodies, each session brought something new and fun.</p><p>Before getting into the music, the choir took time to look after their voices with gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and posture work, which were perfect after a day spent at desks or in cars. These warm-ups helped everyone relax, improve their vocal techniques, and get into the right headspace for singing.</p><p>The group practiced singing both with and without sheet music, using memory and listening skills to learn harmonies, while also brushing up on music reading along the way. There was something for everyone, whether they were a confident singer or completely new to choirs.</p><p>Each session encouraged teamwork and a real sense of community. There were opportunities for solos for those who wanted to, and Susannah made sure it was a supportive space to have a go and enjoy the experience. The focus of the choir was on having fun, building confidence, and boosting mental wellbeing through music.</p><p>All in all, it’s been a fantastic start for the Weston College Community Choir, and it’s clear that this new programme has made on impact on everyone involved.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/seYYJ9nAz90?si=1G2qRpNz8slQPP_B&quot; title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Choir Feedback:</strong></p><p><em>“Thank you so much for what you did for us. I am so grateful for meeting you and learning from you! Best teacher ever!”</em></p><p><em>“Susannah is a great teacher, very pleasant and we’ve had some laughs. Very enjoyable course. Singing makes you feel great.”</em></p><p><em>“Thank you, Susannah, you are so kind and positive, it helped a lot with my nerves!”</em></p><p><em>“I found the experience very positive, coming together to have fun, meeting new people and learning music. No-one is wrong and everyone is welcome”</em></p><p><em>“I enjoyed meeting new people, learning new songs and it was fun singing at the open day”</em></p><p><em>“The camaraderie especially in the last few weeks as we got to know each other more”</em></p><p><em>“I loved being able to sing and be musical without any pressure. Very stress relieving, a great outlet.”</em></p><p><em>“The warmups were great, and especially when they linked to the song we were doing without us realising!”</em></p><p><em>“I would very much like to return to Choir in September. Please!”</em></p><p><em>“Thank you so much – Susannah was fab. Hope it continues next term.”</em></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/music/communit… your interest for the next Community Choir here.</a></p>

<p>We spoke with David Price, Firefighter at <a href="https://www.avonfire.gov.uk/">Avon Fire and Rescue Service</a> working out of the Children and Young Persons Department, about how <a href="https://www.avonfire.gov.uk/">Avon Fire and Rescue</a> collaborate with Weston College through a range of programmes designed to help learners launch careers in the firefighting industry!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>1. What is your relationship with Weston College? e.g. what services do you offer to our students?</strong></p><p>At Avon Fire and Rescue Service we support Weston College with many different areas from <strong>Education/Personal Safety</strong> to <strong>Project Ignite</strong>. Our Education Packages can be bespoke to the courses that Weston College are running i.e. <strong>Early Years Learners</strong> or more in-depth <strong>Road Safety, Water Safety, Personal </strong>and <strong>Electrical Safety </strong>for the College and University Candidates.</p><p>As part of Avon Fire and Rescue Service, we work in close partnership with Weston College to support the delivery and quality assurance of <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships/protective-se… Apprenticeship programmes</strong></a>. Our relationship is built on a shared commitment to developing the next generation of firefighters through high-quality, structured learning that reflects both academic standards and the operational demands of the fire and rescue sector.</p><p>We collaborate with Weston College to ensure apprentices receive the right support at every stage, from induction to End-Point Assessment, while also contributing to the continuous improvement of the programme. Together, we’ve created an environment where learners can grow in <strong>confidence, capability,</strong> and <strong>professionalism</strong>.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>2. Can you tell me about the work you do with our pre-employment learners, such as Ignite?</strong></p><p><strong>Project Ignite </strong>was a venture instigated by <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/department-for-work-pension… for Work and Pensions</a> who then reached out to Weston College. Weston College then reached out to Avon Fire and Rescue Service to see if we could support.</p><p>The general idea is that 18-25yr olds who are not achieving in general day to day life can get the help and support that they need. The main focus being that Weston College would support the academic side of the course and Avon Fire and Rescue would support the practical side with activities to enhance the candidate's<strong> self-esteem, confidence, teamwork</strong> and <strong>communication skills</strong> through activities that Fire Service Personnel do on a day-to-day basis.</p><p>The other part to this is<strong> varied locations </strong>for carrying out the training rather than being in the same place all the time. The information that the candidates gain from Project Ignite can also enrich their lives and the lives of others around them with regards to safety.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>3. What impact do these courses have on the learners, and on Avon Fire and Rescue?</strong></p><p>The apprenticeship courses delivered in partnership with Weston College have a significant and lasting impact on both the learners and Avon Fire and Rescue Service. For the learners, these programmes provide a <strong>clear</strong>, <strong>structured pathway</strong> into the fire service, equipping them with the <strong>technical knowledge, operational competence</strong>, and <strong>professional behaviours</strong> needed to succeed in a demanding and dynamic role. The blend of <strong>academic learning</strong> and <strong>on-the-job experience</strong> helps build their <strong>confidence, resilience,</strong> and <strong>decision-making skills</strong>.</p><p>For Avon Fire and Rescue, the impact is equally powerful. These courses help to develop highly capable and well-prepared firefighters who are trained to national standards and aligned with our organisational values. The apprenticeship model supports <strong>workforce planning, succession development,</strong> and a <strong>culture of continuous improvement.</strong> Ultimately, it strengthens our ability to serve our <strong>communities safely, effectively, </strong>and with <strong>professionalism.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>4. Can you tell me about the work you do with our Firefighter apprentices?</strong></p><p>Working with firefighter apprentices at Avon Fire and Rescue Service is a <strong>rewarding</strong> and<strong> vital </strong>part of our service. From the moment they join us at Training School, we support their development through a carefully structured programme that blends operational training with academic learning, in partnership with Weston College. This includes mentoring, providing formative feedback, and helping them embed the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required of a competent firefighter.</p><p>As they progress, we monitor their performance through regular reviews, support their workplace assessments, and ensure that their training aligns with both service expectations and the national apprenticeship standard. We also contribute to their preparation for the End-Point Assessment, guiding them through <strong>mock scenarios, professional discussions,</strong> and <strong>final reviews</strong> to ensure they’re confident and ready.</p><p>The goal is not just to help them pass the EPA but to help them become <strong>capable, reflective, </strong>and <strong>resilient firefighters </strong>who can make a positive difference in their careers and in the communities they serve.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>5. What types of skills do the Firefighters leave the apprenticeship with?</strong></p><p>Firefighter apprentices leave the programme with a strong blend of practical, technical, and professional skills. They’re trained in operational firefighting, community safety, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication ready to protect life, property, and the environment with confidence and professionalism.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>6. How does taking on apprentice's benefit Avon Fire and Rescue?</strong></p><p>Apprentices bring <strong>fresh energy, diversity</strong>, and a <strong>strong foundation </strong>of <strong>skills</strong> into the service. They help us grow a future-ready workforce, tailored to the demands of modern firefighting supporting succession planning, resilience, and continuous improvement across Avon Fire and Rescue.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>7. Can you tell me about any success stories of Weston College learners who can come to Avon Fire and Rescue for a pre-employment course or an apprenticeship?</strong></p><p>After the first Project Ignite we have heard that <strong>2</strong> candidates went on into employment and the rest signed up for <strong>further education.</strong> We have seen that 1 candidate from the second Project Ignite has reached out to Avon Fire and Rescue Service. Project Ignite is not a way into the Fire Service but more of an insight into the way industry works throughout the Country/World.</p><p>There have been many success stories of our apprentices - below is a snippet of a success story of an apprentice firefighter who has proved that you can switch careers at any point in your life if you feel it is right for you:</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><em><strong>Outstanding Achievement: Andy Dolman Earns Distinction in Firefighter Apprenticeship</strong></em></p><p><em>We are proud to celebrate the success of Andy Dolman, our latest apprentice to achieve Distinction across all areas of his End-Point Assessment. Andy’s journey began as an on-call firefighter at Chew Magna while also working as a property maintenance contractor. After successfully navigating the recruitment process, he commenced his wholetime career in April 2022, enrolling in the Firefighter Apprenticeship scheme.</em></p><p><em>Through two years of dedication, commitment, and hard work, Andy successfully completed his End-Point Assessment, earning an overall grade of Distinction. Now serving at Southmead on Blue Watch, Andy continues to uphold the highest standards in his role, consistently demonstrating the values and behaviours essential to being an effective firefighter. His achievement is a testament to his professionalism, perseverance, and passion for the fire service.</em></p><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="977fc658-5067-4685-a80c-56771db81363" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_400x400&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>8. What would you say to someone considering a career as a Firefighter?</strong></p><p>Being a Firefighter is a highly skilled job that takes on many roles. Day to day training to keep your competencies up together to keep you and your colleagues safe on an incident and to assist with any eventuality that may be put in front of you. Caring for the local community, commuters and businesses through ongoing prevention work.</p><p>Hardly ever are two days the same. If you want a career that challenges you, makes a real difference and builds skills for life, becoming a firefighter is one of the most rewarding paths you can take. You’ll grow, you’ll be part of a team, and you’ll help protect and serve your community every day.</p>