Creating brighter futures

Yesterday, a group of dedicated ESOL learners gathered in the Weston College kitchens, to celebrate their hard work and accomplishments with a delightful cooking session.

The event, organised by their tutor, provided a fun and interactive experience for the students after their exams and a year of dedicated study.

The cooking session served as a platform for the students to share their culinary expertise, representing the diverse cultures and cuisines from where they come from.

Their tutor, Liam O’Callaghan, said: "We wanted to do something fun for the students after their exams and a long year of working so hard.

"They're always talking about their food from their respective countries, and although the class is very close, we've never actually broken bread together. So, we thought it would be a good chance for them to showcase their talents and strengthen our bonds as a class.

"We're always looking for things that empower our learners and put them in the driving seat in terms of knowing what to do and how to do it. Cooking is another way of doing that.”

Throughout the term, the learners had been working on various language skills related to food and cooking. They explored vocabulary such as names of foods, adjectives to describe flavours, cooking verbs, and quantifiers.

Liam added: “Combining their linguistic prowess with their culinary expertise, the students created a cookbook as a testament to their hard work. It is worth noting that English is the second, third, or even fifth language for some of these learners, making their achievements all the more remarkable.

“As unaccompanied refugees, the learners possess few sentimental souvenirs. To commemorate the day and strengthen their bonds further, a section was dedicated in the cookbook for each student to sign for one another. This heartfelt gesture served as a meaningful reminder of the friendships formed and the support they have received throughout their journey.”

The cooking session not only showcased the students' talent and cultural diversity but also fostered a sense of camaraderie within the class.

It exemplified the inclusive and supportive environment fostered by the ESOL program, highlighting the transformative power of education and the value of celebrating achievements collectively.

For more information about the ESOL programme, click here. 

The United Kingdom has been experiencing a nursing shortage for several years, which has led to increased pressure on healthcare services.

However, there is some hope in the form of apprenticeships, which are being used to help tackle the nurse shortage issue in the country. In particular, Weston College and the University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust (UHBW), who are leading the way with 25 new degree apprentices starting earlier this year.

Nursing apprenticeships provide an opportunity for individuals to earn while they learn, gaining valuable skills and experience on the job while also receiving a qualification. The apprenticeships are funded by the government, which means that the cost of training is covered, and apprentices receive a salary while they work.

This is a win-win situation for both the healthcare sector, which gains skilled and motivated staff, and for the individuals themselves, who have the opportunity to enter a rewarding career and gain valuable qualifications without the burden of student debt.

Weston College Principal and Chief Executive, Sir Paul Phillips, said: “We are delighted to work closely with UHBW, and provide opportunities for people to join the National Health Service.

“The partnership offers an innovative approach to nurse training, combining academic learning with hands-on experience in a real-world setting. The curriculum was created in partnership with our colleagues at UHBW and in collaboration with University West of England, being delivered at the Bristol Training Institute.

“This approach ensures that apprentices are well prepared for the challenges of working in the healthcare sector and have the practical skills and knowledge needed to make a positive impact on patients' lives.”

The nursing apprenticeships offered by Weston College and UHBW are open to individuals of all ages and backgrounds, including those who may not have considered nursing as a career path before.

Rich Francis from Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire (BNSSG) and Victoria Howells from UHBW, shared: “BNSSG Integrated Care System (ICS) are developing a ‘grow your own’ approach to increasing the nursing workforce. We are delighted to be working collaboratively with one of our local university centres, Weston College (UCW) to support this educational training initiative.

“In March, over 25 Trainee Nursing Associate apprentices from University Hospitals Bristol and Weston (UHBW) enrolled on the nursing associate apprenticeship based in Bristol which is all part of the range of apprenticeships to tackle the shortage of nurses across the region. Weston College has been delivering this apprenticeship in Weston for the last 2 years but we’re excited to expand this offer to meet the needs of our local NHS health and care organisations and start to deliver in Bristol. The delivery schedule was a joint curriculum partnership with our colleagues at UHBW and overall, this degree has been developed in collaboration with UWE and delivered at our Bristol site.

“As part of this work, across the region, the ICS are also increasing the number of Apprentices across all areas including clinical, facilities, administration, and management careers.”

For more information on apprenticeships within the health industry, click here.

In a heart-warming gesture, Level 2 Hair and Beauty learners provided a range of mini treatments for the dedicated NHS staff at the Wellbeing Centre in Weston Hospital.

The learners wanted to express their gratitude for the workers’ tireless efforts and provide a well-deserved moment of relaxation and pampering.

The Wellbeing Centre at Weston Hospital has been the perfect spot for NHS staff to unwind, de-stress, and recharge. Recognizing the immense dedication and selflessness exhibited by healthcare professionals, the hair and beauty learners wanted to contribute to their wellbeing by providing a series of indulgent treatments.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors, the learners skilfully carried out an array of mini treatments, including hand massages, file and polish services, and expertly applied makeup. These treatments were specifically designed to uplift the spirits of NHS staff and give them a much-needed respite from their demanding roles on the front lines.

The event was a resounding success, with NHS staff members expressing their gratitude for the thoughtful initiative. Many shared that the experience not only helped them relax but also boosted their morale, reminding them of the unwavering support they receive from their local community.

Jenna Ratcliffe, Divisional Lead of Service Sectors, expressed her pride in the learners' dedication and commitment to making a positive impact. She stated, "Our learners were thrilled to have the opportunity to give back to the incredible NHS staff who have been working tirelessly to keep us safe. This event allowed them to showcase their skills and demonstrate the power of beauty and self-care in promoting overall well-being."

Jodie Alden, HR and Management Assistant at Weston Hospital, commented: “It was a real treat to have the beauty students join Weston General Hospital to provide mini hand treatments and make-up. I opted for the hand massage, which was excellent, but all of the treatments looked fantastic! It was lovely to see the Hospital staff taking time to relax and chatting away with all of the students.”

If you would like to find out about Beauty Therapy courses, click here!