As we approach the end of 2025 and proudly celebrate 180 years of the Weston College Group, we take a moment to reflect on the journey that has brought us here. Over nearly two centuries, countless individuals have learned, worked, and grown within our community. This milestone offers the perfect opportunity to look back at some of the stories, experiences, and achievements that have helped shape who we are today. 

James McGuinness  

I studied at Weston College from 2000 to 2002, completing a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Music Technology. I look back on my time at the college very fondly - the supportive environment and dedicated tutors played a crucial role in shaping my career in music. 

The two-year BTEC course was intensive and highly practical, providing the perfect foundation for my progression to a degree at Bath Spa University. The combination of practical music and business skills firmly set me on the right path for the music industry. 

Since leaving the college, I have built a career in artist campaigns, label relations, and digital platform strategy. I now work as a Label Relations Manager at YouTube Music, collaborating with global artists such as Ed Sheeran, Central Cee, Dua Lipa, and Oasis. 

Ray Stewart 

I worked in Engineering Fabrication for most of my career and fully expected to retire when I closed my business. However, I soon realised I still had more to give, particularly to the younger generation. In 2018, I was given the opportunity to give something back by joining Weston College, where I supported the matching of learners on the new T Level courses with employers for their industry placements. 

It was a fantastic journey, full of challenges and achievements, including working through the pandemic. I knew I had truly connected with my learners when I once bumped into a small group of them during a lunch break and they spontaneously applauded me. 

That moment confirmed a belief I have held for many years - that young people are kind, hardworking, and thrive with a little guidance from those who have experience. I loved every minute of my time at Weston College and will always be grateful for the opportunities the college gave me. 

Georgia Ferdinando 

At Weston College, I completed a BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Science followed by a Level 3 Community Sport and Health Officer Apprenticeship. During my apprenticeship I worked as the Women’s Football Development Officer before progressing into a full time role as a Sport and Wellbeing Engagement Officer.  

My studies at Weston College gave me a strong foundation in coaching and sport development, combining theory with practical experience. They helped me build confidence, professionalism, and the skills I use every day in my current role as School Coordinator for the City Football Group, representing Manchester City Football Club in Abu Dhabi.  

I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone at Weston College who supported and believed in me throughout my journey. You’ve played a key role in my growth; not only in my professional development but also in my personal confidence and self-belief.   

Anthea Youens 

I began my time at Weston College in 1969 at Knightstone, before moving to the new building which opened in 1970. It was an exciting time moving to the new building with the new state of the art facilities. The only distraction was the beach and shops in the town centre! There was a huge variety of courses, either academic or vocational with so many opportunities. 

I have fond memories of a secretarial tutor named Mrs Staines who had endless patience and supported me throughout my time at the College. All the tutors and teaching staff were lovely and built-up great relationships with the students. We all had a fun time, worked hard and made great memories! 

After College, I went on to work in a museum and in later life after my children grew up I managed to get a good job in administration. I still keep in touch with the friends I made at College. 

Take a look at the full history timeline of the Weston College Group here.  If you'd like to check out more alumni stories, click here.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career. 

Last month, our Level 3 Year 2 TV, Film & Creative Production students immersed themselves in the fast-paced world of live television through this multi-cam event. From planning and scripting, to rehearsing and refining every detail, they worked collaboratively to produce a high-quality project that reflected their creative ideas.

A multi-camera event involves producing or recording a live event using multiple cameras at the same time. This approach captures a variety of angles, such as wide shots, close-ups, and audience reactions which results in a dynamic, polished experience that feels similar to professional television broadcasts.

As part of their recent assessment, students were challenged to operate as a professional production teams and deliver their own 30-minute live TV shows. The result was two fantastic productions: ‘Real or AI’, a thought-provoking programme exploring the boundaries between reality and artificial intelligence, and ‘Film Watch’, a dynamic show for people passionate about film, featuring reviews, insights, and discussions.

This project was a fantastic opportunity for the students to develop their skills within the industry in a hands-on environment but also gain a deeper understanding of the technical demands of live broadcasting. 

Not only did it have a positive impact on their professional development, but it also benefitted their personal growth, improving their teamworking skills, problem-solving under pressure, and communication skills by meeting strict deadlines and organising each role within their groups. The students demonstrated creativity, resilience, and professionalism throughout the process.

Aimee Gourlay, Deputy Head of Media, Games & Animation at Weston College, said, “This type of exercise is an excellent way for students to work together and apply their classroom knowledge to a real-world project. It is projects like this that engage our students, teaching them a range of techniques and giving them a glimpse into the diverse roles within the Media. In such a dynamic and growing industry, it is important that students get a taste for the possible career pathways they could consider once they have completed their course.”

Well done to every group involved for getting stuck into this project and producing high-quality work!

This project forms part of the Media and Communications Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys. 

Progress to the next level in Art, Film, Game and Graphic Design! At University Centre Weston (UCW) our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. Click here!

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

As we approach the festive break, we want to make sure you have access to support if you need it while the college is closed. 
Please find below a list of contacts and organisations who can offer help over the holidays:

📞 Hopeline UK – 0800 068 4141 

📱 Text SHOUT – 85258 

☎️ Samaritans – 116 123 

🏥 NHS Medical & Mental Health Support – 111 
 

Click here to see more safeguarding resources

Have a wonderful break and see you in January