University Centre Weston (UCW), in partnership with the University of the West of England (UWE), is celebrating the approval of its first new Degree Apprenticeship for Weston College’s new campus in Filton: the BEng (Hons) Electronics Engineering and Embedded Systems Design programme.

The approval marks an important milestone for UCW, and Weston College as a new Advanced Manufacturing Technical Excellence College (TEC), strengthening opportunities for learners and employers while responding directly to the evolving needs of industry.

Developed through collaboration with employers, the programme has been carefully designed to ensure that apprentices graduate with the practical and technical skills increasingly required across engineering and technology sectors. Its approval follows months of planning, consultation and curriculum development, creating a programme that reflects both current and emerging industry requirements.

The degree apprenticeship has been designed to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world application, providing apprentices with the opportunity to gain industry experience while developing specialist engineering expertise.

For prospective students, the programme offers a compelling route into a high-growth sector. Apprentices will have the opportunity to earn while they learn, gain a recognised honours degree, and develop highly sought-after technical skills in electronics engineering, embedded systems and digital technologies. Through hands-on, practice-based learning, students will work with industry-relevant technologies and challenges that mirror real workplace environments.

The programme also supports learners who may be seeking an alternative pathway to a traditional university experience by combining academic achievement with practical experience and professional development.

For employers, the apprenticeship provides access to a pipeline of skilled talent tailored specifically to business and sector requirements. Organisations increasingly require engineers capable of operating across multiple disciplines; combining electronics, software, systems thinking and emerging technologies. The programme has been developed with these needs in mind, enabling employers to upskill existing staff and attract new talent equipped with practical, workplace-ready capabilities.

The benefits extend across the wider engineering and technology sector. As industries continue to evolve through digital transformation, automation, smart technologies and connected systems, demand for professionals with expertise in embedded systems and electronics continues to grow. Developing these skills locally helps address workforce shortages, strengthen innovation and support long-term economic growth.

The programme also reflects the increasing importance of industry and education partnerships in creating a workforce prepared for future challenges. By aligning learning outcomes with employer requirements, UCW is helping to ensure that graduates and apprentices are equipped with the skills needed to make an immediate impact.

This achievement represents another significant step forward for UCW and the Weston College Group as a TEC and creates opportunities for continued growth, stronger employer engagement and expanded educational pathways for future learners.

As technology continues to shape industries worldwide, the launch of this degree apprenticeship positions Weston College Group at the forefront of delivering skills that matter - for students, employers and the future of the engineering sector. 

Find out more about this course by clicking here!

Earlier this month, our Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, and Media Makeup and Prosthetics students, alongside learners from the UCW BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production degree, competed in the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) National Final in Blackpool after successfully progressing from the South West Regional competition.

The national event gave students the opportunity to showcase their talents against learners from across the country, applying their skills across a wide range of treatments, styles, and creative disciplines.

Students competed in a variety of categories, from classic blow-dries and intricate hairstyling themes to body painting, makeovers, and nail art. Each category challenged competitors to combine creativity, technical precision, and professionalism to produce high-quality work under pressure.

Following outstanding performances in the regional heats, several students advanced to the national final and achieved impressive results:

• Elora, a Level 3 Theatrical, Special Effects, Prosthetics and Make-up Extended Diploma learner, achieved 1st place in TV and Film Character Makeup.
• Yana, a UCW BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production student, achieved 1st place for her Banksy-inspired half body painting, as well as 3rd place in both Butterfly Body Paint and Magazine Front Cover Makeup.
• Aimee, a Level 2 Beauty Therapy learner, secured 2nd place in Nails.
• Janis, a Level 3 Hairdressing Adult learner, achieved 2nd place for her 1960s-inspired evening hairstyle.

These fantastic results reflect not only the students’ talent and dedication, but also the hard work and preparation that went into the competition. Taking part in events like this helps students build confidence, develop resilience and adaptability, and gain valuable networking opportunities – all essential skills for working successfully with clients in the industry.

Competitions like this allow our learners to identify their strengths while receiving constructive feedback and guidance from industry professionals and peers. Experiences like these encourage students to explore new techniques, styles, and creative approaches that will help them stand out in their future careers.

Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, said:

“Our students have excelled throughout this competition, applying their classroom knowledge to exciting new categories while stepping outside their comfort zones and thinking creatively. Opportunities like this give our students the confidence to experiment, develop their own style, and prepare for the challenges and unique requests they may face when working with clients in their future careers.

“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to all of my colleagues in the Hair and Beauty team. These results wouldn’t have been possible without your continued support and encouragement.”

Congratulations to all our learners who competed in the finals, these achievements are a reflection of your talent, creativity, and hard work!

This competition forms part of the Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy Careers Excellence Hubs. 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 Hair and Makeup! 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.

Earlier this month, our Electrical Installation Apprentice, Gracie Donaghy, was named joint winner of the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 Award alongside another apprentice Petra O’Flaherty. Competing against more than 3,000 apprentices from across the UK and Ireland, Gracie successfully progressed through several challenging stages before being crowned one of just two winners.

The Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 Award is an annual competition celebrating the most promising new talent within the trade industry across the UK and Ireland. The competition encourages apprentices to push themselves beyond their comfort zones, showcase their skills, and stand out among some of the industry’s brightest emerging professionals.

Throughout the application process, Gracie completed a series of written submissions, interviews, and practical workshops with major brands including DeWalt, Google, and Lego. She then advanced to the final stage, where she faced an interview panel made up of six industry specialists. Impressing the judges with her extensive knowledge, professionalism, and hands-on experience within the trade, Gracie secured the title of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026. Alongside this prestigious achievement, she received a prize package worth £10,000, including tools, training, and technology, as well as £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers for Weston College.

This latest success adds to an already impressive list of achievements for Gracie, who was also named SPARKS Female Skills Winner 2025. These accomplishments are a reflection of her dedication, precision, and strong work ethic. Taking part in competitions has also enabled her to network with employers, receive valuable feedback, and further develop her practical skills and industry knowledge. Competing alongside other talented apprentices has broadened her perspective and introduced her to new approaches within the trade, helping her continue to grow both personally and professionally.

Gracie Donaghy said:

“Winning this prestigious award is such a huge honour, and I am incredibly grateful to the team at Screwfix for giving me this opportunity. Earning the title of Screwfix Trade Apprentice, alongside the fantastic prizes, will massively benefit my career going forward, not only throughout the remainder of my apprenticeship, but also in my future career. It has also shown me that all my hard work is paying off.”

“I have always felt supported and encouraged throughout my time at Weston College to produce my best work. My lecturers have consistently motivated me to enter competitions to help build my confidence and allow me to recognise both my strengths and the areas where I can continue to improve. Without their ongoing support and encouragement, I would never have realised what I was capable of achieving.”

“I would encourage any apprentice considering entering a competition to go for it. You never truly know what you’re capable of until you put yourself out there. Competitions open up incredible opportunities, help you grow in confidence, and are hugely beneficial both personally and professionally.”

Richard Hanney, Head of Construction at Weston College, added:

“Gracie continues to amaze us with everything she has achieved throughout her time at Weston College. The work she produces is consistently of an exceptionally high standard, and she is always a pleasure to work with. We are incredibly proud of how far she has come and excited to see what she achieves next.

We always encourage our learners to step outside of their comfort zones and take part in competitions to build confidence and showcase their talents. Seeing how much they gain from these experiences, both personally and professionally, is fantastic.”

Thank you to the Construction Trades Team at Weston College for their ongoing support and dedication to push their learners beyond the classroom, these achievements wouldn’t be possible without your care and encouragement.

Finally, a huge congratulations to Gracie on this outstanding achievement, and a massive thank you for securing £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers for Weston College, helping to support future talent and invest in high-quality equipment for our learners.

This competition forms part of the Construction 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.