Creating brighter futures

Every year, University Centre Weston holds a photography competition, open to entries both in an international ‘open call’ and to entries from Weston College students. This year’s theme for photos to follow was around ‘Embrace’. This photography award is produced and organised by the BA Hons Photography & Visual Cultures students from UCW, with support from Royal Photographic Society. The awards were presented alongside the Dirigo International Student Film Festival at the Cube Microplex.  

Our student winner for this year was the very talented Lucy Kenchington, who is currently studying the UAL Level 3 Photography course. You can see her impressive work below. 

The runners up for the students category are below: 

Runner up - Tanya Fairall 

Runner up - Viktorija Chvirago 

We caught up with Lucy to get her reaction to her impressive win. Lucy said: "I was a little surprised when I discovered I had won the Embrace competition, especially when I found out how many other photographers had entered.  

“It was a very nice shock. I hope to have a career in photography one day and this feels like a positive first step. Not only did I gain some valuable work experience during the actual shoot, but I am also lucky enough that my photo has been published and displayed in galleries in Bristol and Weston which is great for publicity.”  

The award was also open to an international open call for submissions. The winner in this category was Farid Barari from Tehran, Iran for the incredible piece; Shoemaker!  

The runners up for the open category are as follows:  

Runner up - Amir Farhoud, Modernity Against Modernism, London, UK  

Runner up - Elaine Cristina Melo, The Miracle of innocence, Sao Paulo, Brazil 

Commended - Tony Jordan, Stroud, UK 

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.

We proudly celebrate Fiona's remarkable tenure of over 31 years of continuous full-time service. Fiona, currently serving as College Registrar and Lead Safeguarding Officer, embarked on her journey with the College in a different role, starting as an Information Officer during a pivotal transition period.

Reflecting on her enduring commitment, Fiona expressed, "Quite simply, I feel that my job is not yet finished. The education sector is like sand dunes, constantly shifting with the winds of government initiatives and funding. Despite the challenges, I've never found the grass to be greener elsewhere."

Throughout her tenure, Fiona has been instrumental in numerous initiatives and achievements. Notably, she was elected to represent the further education sector on the original Metropolitan Police National Counter Terrorism Advisory Board, conducting research on radicalisation in coastal communities. Additionally, Fiona's unwavering dedication to supporting learners through safeguarding disclosures has been pivotal in guiding them toward brighter futures. 

When asked about the culture and atmosphere at Weston College, Fiona emphasized the institution's steadfast focus on learners and their individual journeys.

Fiona's dedication to students has been the foundation of her experience at Weston College. "Without learners, the College has no heartbeat," she noted, highlighting the pride she feels in seeing alumni succeed in various fields.

Regarding staff support and development, Fiona believes Weston College stands apart due to its culture of opportunity, optimism, and genuine encouragement. As a staff member, she emphasized the importance of seizing every opportunity and embracing discomfort as avenues for personal and professional growth.

In offering advice to new staff members, Fiona imparted three key principles: cherish time, embrace growth opportunities, and foster camaraderie with colleagues, who become like a second family. 

As Fiona's journey continues, we extend our deepest gratitude for her unwavering dedication and profound impact on the College and its community.

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.

Our Performing Arts learners recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to the heart of London, immersing themselves in the vibrant world of professional theatre. The trip proved to be an invaluable experience, encouraging independence, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the theatrical craft among the students. 

Students from both Level 2 and Level 3 Performing Arts programs, spanning pathways of Musical Theatre, Dance, and Acting, were treated to a mesmerizing performance of the renowned musical Back to The Future at the prestigious Adelphi Theatre in London's West End. Witnessing the magic of live theatre first-hand, the learners were inspired by the production's excellence, igniting a passion to excel further in their training. 

"This new and exciting musical gave our learners the opportunity to experience a professional production and inspire them to continue working hard in their training" remarked Joe Miller, Lecturer in Performing Arts at Weston College. "This also gave students the opportunity to further their skills in professional etiquette and witness professionals at their best. " 

Following the show, the learners spent a night in London, preparing for an equally thrilling day ahead. The itinerary included a spine-chilling visit to the London Dungeons, offering both entertainment and educational value. Here, students had the unique opportunity to observe live actors up close, acquiring their improvisation skills and learning from seasoned professionals in an immersive environment. 

The adventure continued with a ride on the iconic London Eye, providing breath-taking views of the city skyline. Additionally, students were granted free time to explore London independently, to take in all the sights and see iconic landmarks. 

"Overall, the trip was a huge success and allowed all our learners to build on their skills, build their confidence and experience professionals working in the theatre industry”, Joe added. 

The London theatrical adventure not only enriched the students' academic pursuits but also served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. As they return to Weston College, these budding performers carry with them memories and lessons that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavours in the performing arts. 

This journey to London forms part of the Creative Arts 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. 

To find out more about our Creative Arts courses, please click here.