Creating brighter futures

Weston College recently concluded T Level Week; a week of celebration and awareness dedicated to T Levels. This showcased the success and impact of these innovative vocational qualifications, featuring stories from current students, insights from employers, and discussions on key themes linked to the courses. T Level Week at Weston College has not only celebrated the achievements of its students but has also highlighted the pivotal role these courses play in shaping the future of education and the workforce. 

T Levels, a relatively new addition to the British education landscape, are two-year technical courses designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for their chosen career paths. Unlike traditional A Levels, T Levels provide a more hands-on and practical approach to learning, which is highly valuable in today's competitive job market. 

One of the cornerstones of T Level Week at Weston College was the first hand accounts of students who are currently pursuing T Level courses. Their stories served as inspirational testimonies to the benefits and impact of these qualifications. Through articles on the college's website and social media channels, students shared their experiences, from the initial decision to enrol in a T Level program to the exciting opportunities they've encountered along the way, plus what they hope to go on to achieve next. 

By sharing their personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs, these students provided invaluable insights into the real-world application of T Levels and how they are preparing for their future careers. This not only encouraged prospective students but also allowed current students to reflect on their own growth and development. 

Another integral aspect of T Level Week was the involvement of employers. Videos featuring discussions with local businesses, such as Suez, highlighted the tangible benefits of employing T Level students. Employers discussed how T Level students bring a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills to the workplace, making them valuable assets to their businesses. 

These employer testimonials emphasized the crucial role T Levels play in bridging the gap between education and the job market. They also illustrated how T Level graduates are better prepared to step into their chosen careers and contribute meaningfully from day one. 

Throughout T Level Week, key themes like Progression Routes and T Level Foundation Day were explored, where insight was given into what steps can be taken to begin a T Level, and what can be achieved following completion of it! 

T Level Week played a pivotal role in raising awareness about T Levels and celebrating the achievements of both the students and the college. It demonstrated how T Levels are not just qualifications but a path to success and growth, ultimately contributing to a brighter and more promising future for young learners and the workforce. Weston College has shown that T Levels are not just the future; they are the present, shaping the next generation of skilled and employable professionals. 

In a heartwarming initiative to combat stress and promote well-being, Weston College welcomed two furry friends, Alfie and Diesel. The visit of these four-legged friends brought joy and relaxation to students, creating an unforgettable experience for both humans and canines.

Alfie and Diesel, accompanied by their owners, spent the day at Knightstone campus, engaging with learners who may have been feeling the pressures of the new academic year. As the students interacted with the dogs, they could feel their stress melt away, replaced by smiles and laughter.

The canine visitors proved to be a hit with the students, who relished the opportunity to take a break from their studies and enjoy in a little furry therapy. Students said that Alfie and Diesel’s presence brightened their day and provided a much-needed reprieve from their schedules.

Not only did the learners enjoy the visit, but the dogs also seemed to relish the attention and affection showered upon them. The wagging tails and happy barks were clear signs of their enjoyment.

Alfie and Diesel will be visiting the South West Skills campus on Thursday, bringing their therapeutic magic to even more students seeking stress relief and a dose of canine happiness. The initiative has undoubtedly left a lasting paw print of positivity on Weston College.

Weston College has always been a breeding ground for creative talent, and it's about to witness a remarkable reunion as former student and accomplished singer-songwriter, Alex Lipinski, returns to record a brand new album.

On October 12th, alongside his band, the Crown Electric, Alex will step back into the familiar surroundings of Weston College to embark on a musical journey that not only captures his own evolution but also offers aspiring students a chance to learn and create alongside him. This album, considered a retrospective of his songwriting journey, symbolises a union between past and present, mentorship, and creative growth.

Alex's musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Having honed his skills at Weston College, he has gone on to release popular albums such as Lonesome Train and For Everything Under the Sun, establishing himself as a gifted songwriter and performer.

His decision to return to the place where it all began reflects his deep connection to the college and his desire to give back to the institution that played a pivotal role in his artistic development.

One thing that sets this album recording apart is the active involvement of Weston College students.

From production to filming, students will have the opportunity to work alongside external professionals and their experienced tutors, on a live album recording. This hands-on experience is invaluable for aspiring music industry professionals, providing them with real-world exposure and the chance to learn from the best in the business – a key part of Weston College’s Career Excellence Hub.

Alex Lipinski, said: “I wanted to curate a ‘document’ of the songwriting journey, from my first collection of songs, ‘Lonesome Train’ recorded in Weston, through ‘Alex’ which we did in Berlin - to the recent ‘For Everything Under the Sun’ which was crafted in London’.

“I wanted to give something back; so, we’re bringing the band, a professional sound engineer, and top-flight videographer to work collaboratively with students at the college, in a real, and incredibly important piece of work.

“I’ve seen the enthusiasm, and high standards to which this next generation of technicians work, and couldn’t be more confident of a successful outcome.

“The finished live album, and concurrent performance video will be available around Christmas 2023 through www.alexlipinski.com as a limited edition, signed, numbered CD. We will limit the run to 250, and this will sit alongside my existing body of work, as the first look at my entire career, across one album.”

This guest artist forms part of the Music Careers Excellence Hub. The College has fourteen sector-specific Career Excellence Hubs, which evidence our dedication to supporting both employers and learners in achieving their future goals. By creating a seamless connection between industry and education, we enable learners to acquire not only the essential skills and knowledge but also the professional networks necessary to excel in their chosen fields.

The recording session on October 12th will be a memorable event. Music students and the up-and-coming band, the Like Minded, will open the evening, setting the stage for Alex Lipinski and the Crown Electric to take centre stage.

This promises to be a night filled with music, creativity, and inspiration, where the past and future of music come together in perfect harmony.

You can find out more about our Music courses, by clicking here.