Weston College has a wide range of courses to suit all learning styles
Weston College is an award-winning college of further and higher education in Weston-super-Mare. It provides education and vocational training to nearly 30,000 learners across the country.
We put the learner first and are entrepreneurial in our approach and innovative in our thinking. As a college, we are ambitious and aspirational and are responsive to the needs of students, staff, businesses, and the community.
Latest News
There is always so much going on across our various campuses and courses. Stay up to date on our latest news.
There have rarely been more employment opportunities in the UK construction industry than there are at present.
Companies are crying out for a new generation of qualified workers due to a skills shortage driven by new infrastructure projects, the government’s plans to build 300,000 homes a year, digitalisation of the industry and a rate of retirement that’s outstripping recruitment.
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has reported that the industry will need to find 157,000 new recruits by 2021.
This skills shortage brings with it a host of opportunities, including great employment prospects, job security and an exciting and varied career.
Weston College is at the forefront of this drive to create the next generation of skilled workers. Our South West Skills Campus, based at Locking Road in Weston-super-Mare is a hub for younger learners entering the industry, with courses such as: bricklaying, site carpentry and general construction skills, among others.
This year we will also be opening our Construction Training Centre, which expands on the existing construction training facilities by offering training and qualifications in three areas where the skills gap is at its widest – scaffolding, plant operations and groundworks. This Centre is based just off the M5 at Weston-super-Mare. For more details on training in these areas, please click here.
So, now you know there are a host of relevant courses on your doorstep, here are some more reasons to choose a career in the construction industry.
Employment opportunities
Around 157,000 new construction jobs are expected to be created over the next four years, as new projects are announced and a generation of workers retires.
The government has pledged to build 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s, which in itself, presents huge opportunities for aspiring construction workers.
Plus, the government has committed to an additional 3,000,000 apprenticeship ‘starts’ across all industries in England by 2020, with a substantial proportion of the opportunities likely to be within the construction sector.
This demand for workers also means that the sector boasts strong job security.
Job satisfaction
Few careers are as rewarding as those in the construction industry.
The satisfaction of seeing your work develop in front of your eyes is one of the most fulfilling aspects of working in construction. You can watch a building transform and grow into the finished product, knowing you have made an important and lasting contribution to the landscape.
Competitive pay
The construction industry is highly competitive, meaning that the salaries are, too. Most technical trainee roles can start on £25,000 a year, while more experienced technical workers can earn £48,000 and above. Trades roles also pay well, generally, with higher skilled workers earning from £15-£25 per hour.
Variety and choice
The construction industry is extremely varied and offers something for everyone – from carpenters, plasterers, plumbers and bricklayers, to engineers, surveyors and project managers. What’s more, no two jobs are the same or in the same location. This means you can work in a huge variety of projects during your career, and will have the opportunity to work across the country and, possibly, abroad.
You’re always being challenged – physically and mentally – and required to find solutions for new problems.
Progression opportunities
The wide variety of roles and projects brings many opportunities to progress. Construction is also viewed as a very meritocratic industry where hard work pays off – after all, many company CEOs started out at the bottom. And, unlike other sectors, construction workers are frequently presented with opportunities to gain new skills and move into different roles.
Innovation rewarded
The construction industry is constantly evolving, as client expectations grow, projects become more complex, and technology improves. Companies continuously need to find more innovative ways to design, build and deliver, which creates opportunities for new employees with fresh ideas and methods.
For more information on our construction courses, please click here.
Today the College’s Hospitality and Hair and Beauty sectors had an end-of-year celebration and competition in the theme - The Mad Hatters Tea Party.
The day ran from 14.00-17:00, with competitions starting at 11 in the kitchens and 14.00 on the main floor, and the awards presentation took place at 16.00.
The competition was open to all learners from the areas who are studying full programmes and apprenticeships. Two learners from each group progress from the heat to the final on the day.
Those not taking part in the competitions arrived at 3pm for mocktails.
After the competitions, the Mad Hatters Tea Party took place, and high tea was served. Prizes were then be awarded:
Hair and Beauty Learner of the Year - Natasha Bryant
Hospitality and Catering Learner of the Year - Georgia Perry-Wilkinson
Apprentice learner of the year - Hannah Handsford, Beautylicious in Taunton
The competitions that took place today included (all one hour):
Level 1 Hair and Beauty (open to entry level also) – Cheshire Cat-themed face paint. Model to be in costume. Judged by Lyndsey Fiddler, Inspire
Level 1 Hair (open to entry level also) – Mad Hatter-themed plaiting and twisting. Accessories should be used and model in costume. Judged by Lyndsey Fiddler, Inspire
Level 2 Hair and Media Make-up – Mad Hatter-themed hair and make-up. Accessories and costume are compulsory. Hair preparation can begin before but must be dressed during the hour. Make-up preparation base can also be applied. All models must have costume. Judged by Adam Thomas, Weston Hair Studios
Level 2/3 Barbering – Create an image to a Mad Hatters theme. Hair can be pre-coloured and model dressed for the tea party. Judged by Lyndsey Fiddler, Inspire
Level 2 Hairdressing – Mad Hatter-themed fantasy hair (to include a pre- colour). Hair preparation can be started prior but is required to be dressed in the time. Model must be in full costume. Judged by Adam Thomas, Weston Hair Studios
Level 2 Beauty – A manicure and finish suitable for a party. Model dressed for a tea party. Glitter and jazz encouraged. Judged by Carol Goodhind, Beauty Retreat
Level 2 Food and Beverages – A mocktail fit for Alice, with decoration. Judged by Nikon Baker, The Winter Gardens
Level 3 Hairdressing – Create an image to a Mad Hatters Tea Party theme. Colour can be applied prior to the day. Model must have a full costume. Judged by Adam Thomas, Weston Hair Studios
During the first week of induction, our English and Maths team were busy putting together creative challenges for GCSE and Functional Skills English and Maths Learners to take part in.
At our South West Skills Campus, learners took part in ‘English is Everywhere’. This engaging workshop involved multiple activities such as inserting correct punctuation into jokes and seeing who can build the tallest towers by answering revision questions.
Furthermore, at our Loxton Campus, learners put their heads together to complete teambuilding activities such as English revision Jenga and a penalty shoot-out in our Health and Active Living Skills Centre sports hall where one correct answer = one shot at the goal.
Similarly, maths skills were also put to the test. Learners were tasked with creating questions for their fellow students from a 3D exhibition! Real life scenarios e.g. Glastonbury Festival and FIFA were used in order to inspire an interest in maths and utilise their maths skills to relatable situations.
The aim of this was to positively reinforce English and maths skills outside of the classroom in a wider context. By using an alternative approach, learners become more relaxed and engaged with the work at hand, thus making it more engaging and fun to learn. Moreover it was an opportunity for vocational staff and the English and maths team to work together collaboratively and demonstrate to learners the seamless and integrated relationship.
Dr Paul Phillips CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College Group visited the sessions. He commented: “The passion and enthusiasm that our staff put into their work never ceases to impress me. At Weston College the learners come first and adapting our teaching to their needs is just one of the ways we go above and beyond to inspire them.
“Some of these learners might have previously had negative experiences with these core subjects, therefore it’s essential that we give them a fresh start, capture their interest and continue to support them to achieve success with their maths and English GCSEs.”
This type of work is an example of why last year, Weston College was named among the first 21 colleges to establish a maths centre of excellence.
The new centres were announced in response to Sir Adrian Smith’s review of post-16 maths education, which recommended improving basic maths for people over 16.
The chosen colleges, which will share £40 million of funding over five years, are spread across the country. Weston College is one of only two centres in the South West.
As well as improving the quality of basic maths provision for low-attaining young people over 16, the new centres will design new teaching approaches, develop high-quality resources, build teachers’ skills and spread best practice.
We know it’s not about the course you take, but the career you’ll start your journey towards. Your study programme is built from the ground up with your future in mind, focussing on employability and developing the skills you need to have a successful career within your chosen industry, making
connections and gaining experiences through local and national employers we work with:
≈
As a Weston College student, you will become part of one of our exciting new Career Excellence Hubs.
This means our courses aren't just courses... your study programme is built from the ground up with your future in mind, focussing on employability and developing the skills you need to have a successful career within your chosen industry...
"The college organised lots of amazing experiences for us with specialist guest lectures on sepsis, home care, nutrition and bee therapy"
Chloe
Health and Social Care, Level 2 & 3
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One Message, Different Voices
Take a look at this powerful film made by the staff of Weston College to show how important it is for everyone from different backgrounds to be included. The film shares heartfelt stories and interviews with a diverse group of staff, showing how accepting different identities and backgrounds can make a big difference. Its purpose is to encourage viewers to think about their own biases and work towards making our community more welcoming to all. We invite everyone, regardless of their background, to join us and be a part of our journey toward a more inclusive future.
Our workplace champions the right of staff to embrace all Afro-hairstyles. We acknowledge that Afro-textured hair is an important part of our Black employees’ racial, ethnic, cultural, and religious identities, and requires specific styling for hair health and maintenance. We celebrate Afro-textured hair worn in all styles including, but not limited to, afros, locs, twists, braids, cornrows, fades, hair straightened through the application of heat or chemicals, weaves, wigs, headscarves, and wraps. In this workplace, we recognise and celebrate our colleagues’ identities. We are a community built on an ethos of equality and respect where hair texture and style have no bearing on an employee's ability to succeed.
There have rarely been more employment opportunities in the UK construction industry than there are at present.
Companies are crying out for a new generation of qualified workers due to a skills shortage driven by new infrastructure projects, the government’s plans to build 300,000 homes a year, digitalisation of the industry and a rate of retirement that’s outstripping recruitment.
The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has reported that the industry will need to find 157,000 new recruits by 2021.
This skills shortage brings with it a host of opportunities, including great employment prospects, job security and an exciting and varied career.
Weston College is at the forefront of this drive to create the next generation of skilled workers. Our South West Skills Campus, based at Locking Road in Weston-super-Mare is a hub for younger learners entering the industry, with courses such as: bricklaying, site carpentry and general construction skills, among others.
This year we will also be opening our Construction Training Centre, which expands on the existing construction training facilities by offering training and qualifications in three areas where the skills gap is at its widest – scaffolding, plant operations and groundworks. This Centre is based just off the M5 at Weston-super-Mare. For more details on training in these areas, please click here.
So, now you know there are a host of relevant courses on your doorstep, here are some more reasons to choose a career in the construction industry.
Employment opportunities
Around 157,000 new construction jobs are expected to be created over the next four years, as new projects are announced and a generation of workers retires.
The government has pledged to build 300,000 new homes a year by the mid-2020s, which in itself, presents huge opportunities for aspiring construction workers.
Plus, the government has committed to an additional 3,000,000 apprenticeship ‘starts’ across all industries in England by 2020, with a substantial proportion of the opportunities likely to be within the construction sector.
This demand for workers also means that the sector boasts strong job security.
Job satisfaction
Few careers are as rewarding as those in the construction industry.
The satisfaction of seeing your work develop in front of your eyes is one of the most fulfilling aspects of working in construction. You can watch a building transform and grow into the finished product, knowing you have made an important and lasting contribution to the landscape.
Competitive pay
The construction industry is highly competitive, meaning that the salaries are, too. Most technical trainee roles can start on £25,000 a year, while more experienced technical workers can earn £48,000 and above. Trades roles also pay well, generally, with higher skilled workers earning from £15-£25 per hour.
Variety and choice
The construction industry is extremely varied and offers something for everyone – from carpenters, plasterers, plumbers and bricklayers, to engineers, surveyors and project managers. What’s more, no two jobs are the same or in the same location. This means you can work in a huge variety of projects during your career, and will have the opportunity to work across the country and, possibly, abroad.
You’re always being challenged – physically and mentally – and required to find solutions for new problems.
Progression opportunities
The wide variety of roles and projects brings many opportunities to progress. Construction is also viewed as a very meritocratic industry where hard work pays off – after all, many company CEOs started out at the bottom. And, unlike other sectors, construction workers are frequently presented with opportunities to gain new skills and move into different roles.
Innovation rewarded
The construction industry is constantly evolving, as client expectations grow, projects become more complex, and technology improves. Companies continuously need to find more innovative ways to design, build and deliver, which creates opportunities for new employees with fresh ideas and methods.
For more information on our construction courses, please click here.
Today the College’s Hospitality and Hair and Beauty sectors had an end-of-year celebration and competition in the theme - The Mad Hatters Tea Party.
The day ran from 14.00-17:00, with competitions starting at 11 in the kitchens and 14.00 on the main floor, and the awards presentation took place at 16.00.
The competition was open to all learners from the areas who are studying full programmes and apprenticeships. Two learners from each group progress from the heat to the final on the day.
Those not taking part in the competitions arrived at 3pm for mocktails.
After the competitions, the Mad Hatters Tea Party took place, and high tea was served. Prizes were then be awarded:
Hair and Beauty Learner of the Year - Natasha Bryant
Hospitality and Catering Learner of the Year - Georgia Perry-Wilkinson
Apprentice learner of the year - Hannah Handsford, Beautylicious in Taunton
The competitions that took place today included (all one hour):
Level 1 Hair and Beauty (open to entry level also) – Cheshire Cat-themed face paint. Model to be in costume. Judged by Lyndsey Fiddler, Inspire
Level 1 Hair (open to entry level also) – Mad Hatter-themed plaiting and twisting. Accessories should be used and model in costume. Judged by Lyndsey Fiddler, Inspire
Level 2 Hair and Media Make-up – Mad Hatter-themed hair and make-up. Accessories and costume are compulsory. Hair preparation can begin before but must be dressed during the hour. Make-up preparation base can also be applied. All models must have costume. Judged by Adam Thomas, Weston Hair Studios
Level 2/3 Barbering – Create an image to a Mad Hatters theme. Hair can be pre-coloured and model dressed for the tea party. Judged by Lyndsey Fiddler, Inspire
Level 2 Hairdressing – Mad Hatter-themed fantasy hair (to include a pre- colour). Hair preparation can be started prior but is required to be dressed in the time. Model must be in full costume. Judged by Adam Thomas, Weston Hair Studios
Level 2 Beauty – A manicure and finish suitable for a party. Model dressed for a tea party. Glitter and jazz encouraged. Judged by Carol Goodhind, Beauty Retreat
Level 2 Food and Beverages – A mocktail fit for Alice, with decoration. Judged by Nikon Baker, The Winter Gardens
Level 3 Hairdressing – Create an image to a Mad Hatters Tea Party theme. Colour can be applied prior to the day. Model must have a full costume. Judged by Adam Thomas, Weston Hair Studios
During the first week of induction, our English and Maths team were busy putting together creative challenges for GCSE and Functional Skills English and Maths Learners to take part in.
At our South West Skills Campus, learners took part in ‘English is Everywhere’. This engaging workshop involved multiple activities such as inserting correct punctuation into jokes and seeing who can build the tallest towers by answering revision questions.
Furthermore, at our Loxton Campus, learners put their heads together to complete teambuilding activities such as English revision Jenga and a penalty shoot-out in our Health and Active Living Skills Centre sports hall where one correct answer = one shot at the goal.
Similarly, maths skills were also put to the test. Learners were tasked with creating questions for their fellow students from a 3D exhibition! Real life scenarios e.g. Glastonbury Festival and FIFA were used in order to inspire an interest in maths and utilise their maths skills to relatable situations.
The aim of this was to positively reinforce English and maths skills outside of the classroom in a wider context. By using an alternative approach, learners become more relaxed and engaged with the work at hand, thus making it more engaging and fun to learn. Moreover it was an opportunity for vocational staff and the English and maths team to work together collaboratively and demonstrate to learners the seamless and integrated relationship.
Dr Paul Phillips CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College Group visited the sessions. He commented: “The passion and enthusiasm that our staff put into their work never ceases to impress me. At Weston College the learners come first and adapting our teaching to their needs is just one of the ways we go above and beyond to inspire them.
“Some of these learners might have previously had negative experiences with these core subjects, therefore it’s essential that we give them a fresh start, capture their interest and continue to support them to achieve success with their maths and English GCSEs.”
This type of work is an example of why last year, Weston College was named among the first 21 colleges to establish a maths centre of excellence.
The new centres were announced in response to Sir Adrian Smith’s review of post-16 maths education, which recommended improving basic maths for people over 16.
The chosen colleges, which will share £40 million of funding over five years, are spread across the country. Weston College is one of only two centres in the South West.
As well as improving the quality of basic maths provision for low-attaining young people over 16, the new centres will design new teaching approaches, develop high-quality resources, build teachers’ skills and spread best practice.
By submitting this form you are consenting to Weston College recording and processing the personal information on this form, for any purposes of the college associated with the provision of advice and guidance to potential students on the range of courses available to them, college facilities and any other associated information. In accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018, the information will only be used for the above mentioned purposes.
You will need to complete a full enrolment form prior to starting your course.
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By submitting this form you are consenting to Weston College recording and processing the personal information on this form, for any purposes of the college associated with the provision of advice and guidance to potential students on the range of courses available to them, college facilities and any other associated information. In accordance with the Data Protection Act 2018, the information will only be used for the above mentioned purposes.
You will need to complete a full enrolment form prior to starting your course.
