Earlier this week, our A Level students took part in a series of engaging workshops led by employers from a wide range of industries, giving them valuable insight into potential career pathways and the opportunity to connect with professionals.

Held over two days, this enriching event welcomed employers and industry representatives to deliver interactive sessions, answer questions, and share advice on career progression, application processes, and workplace expectations.

On Monday, students heard from a diverse range of employers, including DoubleTree by Hilton Cadbury House, Octavius Infrastructure, Bristol City FC, Pure Start-up, Visit Somerset, and Great Western Railway. Throughout the day, students took part in practical activities designed to develop their communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, while learning more about the opportunities available in different sectors.

The programme continued on Tuesday with further sessions from representatives at University of South Wales, University of Exeter, Thatchers Cider, Womble Bond Dickinson, John Hodge, the Ministry of Defence, Octavius Infrastructure, and Great Western Railway. These workshops focused on progression after college, offering practical advice on university and job applications, interview preparation, and the skills employers value most.

By hearing directly from employers and education providers, students gained a clearer understanding of the routes available to them after completing their A Levels. The event also gave them the chance to ask important questions, explore different industries, and begin building professional connections that could support their future ambitions.

Maria Miles, Head of Sixth Form at Weston College, said, “Enrichment opportunities like this are a fantastic way for students to learn directly from industry professionals, giving them valuable insight into the wide range of opportunities available after college. It helps them build confidence, develop key employability skills, and make informed decisions about their next steps, whether that’s university, apprenticeships, or employment.”

A huge thank you to all the employers for taking the time to share your insight and deliver invaluable sessions with our learners.

These workshops form part of the A Levels 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. 

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.

Over the last few months, our Level 3 Animal Management students have been working hard to raise money for the animal charity Animal Advocacy and Protection (AAP) through Noah's Ark Zoo as part of the students’ Social Action Enterprise project. Their efforts will help the charity continue its vital work supporting animals and providing safe, spacious environments for those in need.

AAP is a European animal welfare organisation dedicated to protecting exotic animals, including primates, lions, and tigers. The charity rescues animals from suffering, advocates for stronger welfare laws and regulations, and works to find them safe and suitable homes.

The Social Action Enterprise project gives students the opportunity to engage with the community and support charitable causes through hands-on fundraising while gaining a deeper understanding of the important role charities play in improving animal welfare and living conditions.

To raise funds, students sold handmade birdhouses and lip balm keyrings at craft fairs, including events at Noah's Ark Zoo and the Rotary Club Dog Day. They also organised raffles within the college, offering a range of prizes to boost ticket sales.

In total, the students raised an impressive £500 - a fantastic achievement for their first large-scale fundraising project.

Initiatives like this provide valuable opportunities for students to engage with the community, build confidence, and develop transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These experiences not only prepare them for future education and employment but also help them understand the importance of giving back and making a positive impact.

Laura Link, Head of Animal Management at Weston College, said: “The Social Action Enterprise project is a fantastic enrichment opportunity for our students, giving them the chance to work together for a meaningful cause. It was great to see how involved and engaged they were throughout, and we’re looking forward to running the project again next year, building on this year’s success to raise even more for this fantastic charity.”

Well done to all the students and staff involved in this incredible fundraising effort.

This initiative forms part of the Animal Management 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 Animal Management! 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.

With 22 years in the Royal Air Force and almost two decades at Weston College, Neil’s career shows how military experience can lead to a fulfilling and long-term career in Further Education (FE), continuing a strong sense of service beyond the Forces.

Discovering a Passion for Teaching in the RAF

Neil’s move into education began while he was still serving. Stationed at RAF Cosford, he worked as an Armed Forces Subject Specialist Tutor, giving him his first opportunity to support others to develop technical skills.

“I really enjoyed that part of my service career,” Neil explains. “As I approached the end of my time in the RAF, I knew I wanted to explore teaching further.”

As part of his resettlement, Neil gained additional qualifications to prepare for civilian life. With family based in the South West and Midlands, he explored opportunities along the M5 corridor and successfully applied for a role within Weston College’s Electrical Installation team. Nineteen years later, he remains a proud member of the College.

Why Further Education?

For Neil, FE offered a natural continuation of what he valued most in the RAF: developing people.

“The biggest draw was very similar to teaching in the military – helping others build skills,” he says. “FE also gave me the opportunity to teach learners across a wide range of ages. Over the years I’ve taught people from 16 to 72, and that variety is something you don’t get in the military.”

Skills That Transfer Perfectly

Neil believes his RAF career equipped him with a strong set of transferable skills that fit naturally into education, including resilience, leadership, communication, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving and technical expertise.

“Experiences during service really shaped how I approach challenges,” he reflects. “They built resilience and problem-solving skills that I still rely on today.”

A Strong Sense of Team

Life in the RAF taught Neil the importance of teamwork, trust and looking out for others – values he has carried into Weston College.

“That sense of belonging stays with you,” he says. “I’ve tried to bring the same commitment into my department and the wider College.”

This approach led Neil to become a staff mentor, supporting new colleagues as they settle into College life – something he describes as one of his proudest achievements.

Changing Lives Through Education

Neil has seen many examples of how FE can open new doors. One that stands out involved adult learners retraining on electrical courses and going on to build successful new careers, including one learner who later returned to Weston College as a member of staff.

“That’s what FE is about,” Neil says. “Giving people the opportunity to change direction and improve their lives.”

Advice to Fellow Veterans

Neil’s message to those leaving the Forces is clear:

“The transition can be challenging, but the rewards are worth it. You get to pass on your knowledge, build new teams and friendships, and genuinely make a difference.”

For Neil, FE offers the same sense of purpose he felt in uniform.

“Serving Queen and Country becomes serving your local community. Helping people develop skills and confidence – that’s a privilege.”

If you’re a veteran looking for a meaningful second career, Weston College could be the perfect next step. Take a look at the latest job vacancies available at here.