Creating brighter futures

Weston College Sports students held a successful primary school football event at Weston College’s Health and Active Living Skills Centre. This event showcased the outstanding efforts of our dedicated Sports Coaching & Physical Education, Level 3 learners, who played a pivotal role in organising and executing a memorable day for all participants.

The Sports students demonstrated teamwork and commitment throughout the entire process, working collaboratively with the North Somerset Schools Partnership for Educational Athletics (NSSPEA) and the Education Learning Alliance Network (ELAN). Their efforts included reaching out to school staff before the event, coordinating various activities for the day, and ensuring the seamless running of the event.

The objective of this initiative was to provide the Sports students with valuable opportunities to take charge in organising events, fostering connections with local businesses and schools, and enhancing their coaching skills. By engaging in the planning and execution of the football event, students gained hands-on experience in event management, teamwork, and community collaboration. By actively participating in the planning and execution of the primary school football event, these students gained practical insights into organising sports events, enhancing their leadership skills in the process.

"We are thrilled to see our students taking initiative and actively contributing to the success of this primary school football event," said Dan Lomax, Curriculum Co-ordinator of Sport and Health at Weston College. "This experience goes beyond the classroom, providing them with practical skills and a sense of responsibility that will undoubtedly serve them well in their future careers."

The College remains committed to providing students with opportunities that not only enhance their academic knowledge but also empower them to become confident, capable, and community-minded individuals.

This student-led event formed part of the Sport and Fitness Careers Excellence Hub; Weston College is committed to preparing learners for success in a rapidly evolving job market which is reflected in our offer via our bespoke Career Excellence Hubs, which form an integral part of all college programmes. In a world where professional networks and industry-specific skills are integral to landing employment, these hubs provide a unique solution to bridge the gap between education and industry demands.

For further information about Weston College courses, please click here.

Throughout the month of October, Weston College’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee, along with the Health & Social Care staff, organised activities and talks for learners at the College to engage in celebrations for Black History Month: Saluting our Sisters!

The month featured a diverse group of individuals who shared their unique insights and personal experiences, creating a valuable educational experience for staff and learners at Weston College. The central focus was on Allyship (the quality or practice of helping or supporting other people who are part of a group that is treated badly or unfairly, although you are not yourself a member of this group), Anti-racism, and developing knowledge about the women of colour who paved the way for progress and Black history and culture.

One of many speakers throughout the month was Korede, the Founder & Operations Director at the Vemoye Foundation, who provided a contemporary and enlightening perspective on Africa's future. Korede emphasized the importance of challenging stereotypes and encouraged the audience to think critically about preconceived notions. The interactive and engaging discussion left attendees with a renewed understanding of Africa's rich and dynamic history.

The feedback from the guest talks was overwhelmingly positive, with learners expressing their appreciation for the engaging and informative presentations. Learners and staff at Weston College found the event to be both enlightening and thought-provoking, sparking meaningful conversations about the significance of Black history and the crucial role of women in this narrative.

One learner told us: “The session was a great way of relaying fun stories and activities! I’ve learned a lot, particularly how I can help and how Africa isn’t just how it’s commonly perceived!”

In addition to the enlightening talks, the event also celebrated the vibrant and diverse culture of West Africa through its cuisine. Yemmy from Yemmy’s Kitchen, a skilled caterer, served traditional West African dishes including Jollof Rice, Chicken Gizzards and Puff Puff, that delighted the taste buds of everyone in attendance. The authentic flavours and aromas transported attendees on a culinary journey that complemented the educational aspect of the event.

Jo Philpott, Senior Vice Principal at Weston College, expressed her enthusiasm about the success of the event, saying, "Our Black History Month celebration has been a resounding success. We are immensely grateful to our guest speakers, educators, artists, and caterer for their valuable contributions, as well as our Health and Social Care Lecturer, Louise Hill-Davis who co-ordinated every event that has taken place. This experience has been a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and culturally aware educational environment at Weston College."

Weston College plans to continue organising and hosting events to demonstrate its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We have future talks planned with guests, such as Sope Wolffs PhD - Clinical Trials Manager and Research Facilitator who will be coming to the college in the new year to discuss her journey as a Black Female researcher working in a white male dominated field.

Earn while you learn, at global engineering organisation, GKN Aerospace.

We have teamed up with GKN Aerospace to offer 23 vacancies, with roles including:

• Aerospace Engineer Degree Apprentice
• Engineering Production Apprentice
• Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice
• Engineering Technical Support Technician Apprentice.

BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION HERE

GKN Aerospace design, manufacture and service systems and components for manufacturers around the world. This opportunity will give you the chance to not only gain a qualification but also get experience from some of the best engineers in the country.

This exclusive apprenticeship programme starts in September 2024 and will allow you to be in paid employment from as young as 16 year old, whilst also studying towards one of three professional and recognised engineering qualifications.

As a GKN Apprentice your time will be split between the real-world production facilities (Filton) or Western Approach (Bristol) and Weston College’s engineering campus on Locking Road (Weston-super-Mare). 

It's easy to apply, fill in the form below and we will be in touch to discuss your application, answer any questions and support you with your next steps.

The closing date for applications is 23rd February 2024, which will be followed by an initial assessment for successful candidates.