On Thursday 10th of July, we held another successful ‘Takeover Day’ at the Weston Job Centre Plus. Thanks to the hard work put in the event went very well, drawing an impressive 282 customers.

Tutors and support staff across a wide range of faculties were available to have personalised one-on-one conversations with attendees, offering tailored career advice and guidance on the steps needed to achieve their professional goals, as well as information on the courses available at Weston College to help make these goals a reality.

The feedback from the Job Centre Plus customers has been overwhelmingly positive. Many attendees expressed how beneficial they found the day, praising the valuable advice and guidance they received. The additional services, such as haircuts and nail treatments, were also a huge hit, adding a special touch that made the event even more enjoyable and memorable.

The strength of our partnership with Job Centre Plus and DWP was evident throughout the day. This collaboration is the cornerstone of our ability to organise events like these, which have a profound and positive impact on our customers. By working together, we can continue to put on events which provide comprehensive support that addresses various needs, making a real difference to people’s lives.

Over the next week, our course advisors will be collaborating closely with Job Centre Plus customers who have expressed interest in our courses. They will assist these customers with their enrolment forms, ensuring they have everything necessary to embark on their new journey towards employment and personal development.

In November, we will be hosting another 'Weston College Takeover Day' at the Weston Job Centre Plus. Stay tuned for more details coming soon!

Two of our media learners, Joshua and Harvey, have been given the exciting opportunity to edit video content for Somerset FA, allowing them to put the skills they have learned throughout their course into practice. As part of this hands-on experience, the students will attend Somerset FA's Premier Cup final on July 31st, where they will create engaging content to highlight the event.

The experience of this collaboration so far has been both a fun and educational experience in sports media production, enhancing the learners skills and portfolios. Working closely with Somerset FA, the learners are set to gain valuable insights into professional video editing and sports event coverage, paving the way for their future careers in the media industry!

Rob Allan, Football Development Manager at Somerset FA:

"Somerset FA are really pleased to be working with Weston College media and production students. Conversations have been taking place with various department for a number of weeks and we’ve now taken the first steps with some really enthusiastic students helping us to edit many hours of our cup final footage. There are lots more plans for future collaboration and we’re hopeful this is the start of a promising partnership that will benefit all parties for years to come." 

Harvey:

“It’s been an amazing opportunity for me to work with the Somerset FA and I am grateful that they put their trust in us as well. I found the experience really interesting as it’s almost working for a client in the field of work I want to get into and it’s the first time I have been able to put my own creative vision across. I have learned how to edit on a software I have never used before and it’s taken some great adaptability skills to do that. It’s going to massively help me with my work as it will boost my skills when editing for clients and give me that confidence to go on to do other projects in the future.”

Joshua:

“It’s a great experience to work alongside my biggest passion in football and especially for something as big as the Somerset FA , I am finding the experience really fun whilst also learning how new software's work such as the Veo Cams which are used a lot in football.”

If you would like to follow in the footsteps of Harvey and Joshua, check out our Media courses here. This partnership with Somerset FA is part of our ever-expanding Careers Excellence Hub (CEH).

Dandara Living and Richard Hanney, Head of Construction, have answered your questions and provided guidance on starting and advancing your career in the construction industry from both an employer and college perspective. Our courses, ranging from entry-level to degree apprenticeships, are designed to align with industry needs and support your development in technical and essential personal skills.

What Career Options Are There in Construction?

Richard (Head of Construction):

The construction industry offers a wide range of career paths, including:

• Craft and Trade Roles: Bricklayer, carpenter, plumber, electrician, painter, and decorator.
• Technical and Professional Roles: Site manager, quantity surveyor, project manager, civil engineer, architectural technologist.
• Specialised Areas: Environmental engineer, health and safety manager, construction lawyer.
• Support Roles: Procurement officer, logistics manager, human resources specialist in construction firms.
• Careers in Construction: Overview of Over 170 Job Roles | Go Construct

Dandara:

• There is an array of career options in construction!
• The industry is really broad and varied; you could be office or site based. You could work in one specific area of the industry (for example; groundworkers) or work across different project stages (e.g Quantity Surveyor).

How Can I Start a Career in Construction?

Richard (Head of Construction):

You can start a career in construction through various pathways:

• Entry-Level Courses: Begin with foundational courses at Weston College to acquire basic construction skills and knowledge.
• Apprenticeships: Enrol in apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with academic learning, allowing you to earn while you learn.
• Full-Time Courses: Complete full-time courses that provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills, preparing you for advanced roles or apprenticeships.
• Industry Placements: Gain practical experience and make industry connections through placements.

Dandara:

• Enrol for and attend post-secondary school training at a university or further education college.
• Register as an apprentice and combine on-the-job training with class based learning and get a recognised qualification.
• Try to get work experience days / attend career days etc.

What Are the Benefits of Starting a Career in Construction Through an Apprenticeship?

Richard (Head of Construction):

Apprenticeships offer several benefits:

• Earn While You Learn: Gain practical experience and earn a salary simultaneously.
• Industry-Relevant Skills: Develop skills that are directly applicable to the job market.
• Career Progression: Create a clear pathway for career advancement with opportunities to specialise or take on managerial roles.
• Professional Networking: Build relationships with industry professionals, which can lead to future job opportunities.

Dandara:

• It’s a great way into the industry. You can start earning money while learning more about the area of work and industry to see if it is for you. You can avoid student debt too and there are lots of options to choose from.
• You will get to work alongside experienced staff and gain job-specific skills.

If I Study a Full-Time Course First, Can I Then Do an Apprenticeship Once I Complete My Course?

Richard (Head of Construction):

Yes, completing a full-time course can make you a more competitive candidate for apprenticeships. Many students pursue an apprenticeship after their studies to gain further practical experience and specialised skills.

Dandara:

There are many apprenticeships available within the industry, and at a range of levels from level 2 through to degree level. Depending on your existing qualifications, everyone is eligible for an apprenticeship regardless of age and experience.

Are There Any Opportunities to Gain Experience Which Will Help Me Stand Out from the Crowd?

Richard (Head of Construction):

Yes, you can gain valuable experience through:

• Industry Placements: Structured placements as part of your course curriculum, which often lead to apprenticeships or job offers from the same companies.
• Work Experience Programs: Short-term work experience during holidays or weekends.
• Volunteer Work: Participation in construction-related projects or community initiatives.
• Part-Time Jobs: Part-time work in the construction sector to gain additional experience.
• Help out at home: Apply your accrued skills at home, on DIY projects (remember to speak with your tutor to ensure you are following the correct procedure, and regulations).

Dandara:

• Lot of companies offer work experience. Dandara Living is starting to do that.
• You can arrange work experience yourself or it can be arranged as a placement as part of a training course. It can last anywhere from a few days, to a few weeks or more.

What Support Would I Receive When Starting an Apprenticeship or Work Placement in Construction?

Richard (Head of Construction):

At Weston College, we provide extensive support, including:

• Mentoring and Guidance: Experienced tutors and assessors to guide you through your apprenticeship or placement.
• Skills Development: Training in both technical skills and personal skills such as communication, problem-solving, and resilience.
• Academic Support: Assistance with coursework and exam preparation.
• Career Services: Help with resume building, interview preparation, and job placement.

Dandara:

• You will be supported by a number of people as you complete your apprenticeship.
• You will have a team around you of experienced and knowledgeable colleagues who will provide valuable mentoring.
• You will be supported by your line manager who will review your progress regularly and provide constructive feedback to support your ongoing development.
• You will be supported by a Training Provider, possibly a Further Education College, who will provide your knowledge based learning and set activities and tasks for you to complete to evidence the application of your learning. You can expect to be taught by a skilled tutor and guided by a trainer who will ensure you complete all the required elements of the apprenticeship.

Are There Opportunities for Career Progression?

Richard (Head of Construction):

Absolutely. The construction industry offers numerous opportunities for career progression. Starting with entry-level roles, you can move up to supervisory, managerial, and even executive positions. Continuous learning and professional development can lead to specialization in areas such as project management, quantity surveying, or civil engineering.

Dandara:

• There are a number of ways in which you can progress your career, this could be through gaining further qualifications or experience in your chosen area, progressing into leadership and management roles or moving to other areas of the business.
• As you gain further knowledge and experience, you might even choose to transfer your skills into a new role/area. For example, you may start as a bricklayer and then decide to progress into site management or surveying.

What Can I Expect During a Construction Apprenticeship?

Richard (Head of Construction):

During a construction apprenticeship, you can expect:

• Hands-On Experience: Practical training on real construction projects.
• Academic Learning: Classroom-based learning to complement your on-the-job training.
• Skill Development: Both technical and personal skills, including communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
• Assessment and Feedback: Regular assessments and feedback to track your progress.

Dandara:

• You can expect to gain your knowledge and skills in a variety of ways; classroom based, on the job learning and also through practical application of your skills.
• You will be paid throughout your apprenticeship.
• You will gain a nationally recognised qualification.
• You will be expected to commit to learning throughout the duration of your apprenticeship.
• You will be trained on relevant safety processes and procedures.

What Are Your Top Tips for Someone Looking to Start Their Career in Construction?

Richard (Head of Construction):

• Gain Experience: Seek out internships, placements, and volunteer opportunities to build your skills and network.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with industry trends and developments.
• Be Persistent: The construction industry can be competitive, so stay focused and persistent.
• Network: Build relationships with industry professionals and peers.
• Continuous Learning: Always seek opportunities for further education and skill development.
• Register on the government apprenticeship website and receive notifications of apprenticeship opportunities.

Who Can I Contact About Starting a Career in Construction?

Richard (Head of Construction):

You can contact the Construction Department, the college apprenticeship team, or previous tutor/lecturer at Weston College for personalised advice and information. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Dandara:

Weston College and the apprenticeship website.

How Do I Apply for an Apprenticeship in Construction?

Richard (Head of Construction):

To apply for an apprenticeship in construction:

• Research Opportunities: Look for apprenticeship vacancies on job boards, Gov.uk/apprenticeships, and company websites, and through Weston College’s career services.
• Prepare Your Application: Create a strong resume and cover letter highlighting your skills and experience.
• Apply: Submit your application through the relevant channels.
• Prepare for Interviews: Practice common interview questions and be ready to discuss your experience and why you’re interested in the apprenticeship.
• If you are at college currently build a strong portfolio using Navigate, this can be shared as a PDF with potential apprentice employers.

To see what construction pathway might be best for you, click here!

Hi, I'm Paul, and I have recently completed the Level 2 Electrical Installations course. This course has massively increased my confidence, and has been incredibly rewarding, especially thanks to the amazing teachers who guided me every step of the way. Here’s a bit about my experience:

I started this course because I've always wanted to learn more about electrics, especially as a property owner. Understanding electrical work is such a valuable skill in everyday life.

The practical evenings of this course were the best part for me, as I was able to fit the course into my normal working weeks without a problem. I'm definitely a hands-on learner, so getting to practice what we learned in real time was very engaging.

I was surprised by how much theory was involved. Keeping up with all the coursework was challenging, but I now understand how crucial that theoretical knowledge is.

The course was well-equipped with all the tools and facilities we needed. Everything was available to help us complete the course successfully.

In my job as a maintenance worker, this course has given me a solid foundation to build on. I'm even considering moving on to Level 3!

This course will have a positive impact on my career and daily life as I’m constantly around electrical work, so the knowledge I've gained from this course helps me handle simple tasks confidently.

The teachers were absolutely fantastic. Lee's extensive knowledge and excellent people skills made a huge difference. He went above and beyond to help us achieve our goals, and his teaching methods really boosted our confidence.

Andy was always there to help anyone stuck on a part of the course. His attention to detail and willingness to explain everything thoroughly was incredibly helpful.

Neil's extra science lessons were a lifesaver for me when prepping for exams. His dedication to helping us understand the material was much appreciated.

Thanks to these teachers, I feel so much more confident than when I started. This past year has truly been a great experience for me!

My advice to anyone thinking about doing this course is to just go for it! Be prepared to put in a lot of effort both in class and at home – but it's totally worth it in the end.

I’m Jackson, and I recently completed a Motor Vehicle course at Weston College.

My time at the college was transformative, and I'm thrilled to share a bit of my journey with you.

When I enrolled in the motor vehicle course, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect.

What I found was a stimulating experience that went far beyond just understanding how vehicles work.

The course offered me a hands-on grasp of both the mechanical and electrical systems that power our daily rides. There were challenges, of course, but each hurdle gave me a clearer view of the intricacies between gears and circuits.

The lecturers and staff at Weston College were phenomenal. Their support pushed me to expand my horizons and strive for greatness. Without their guidance and unique teaching styles, I wouldn't have achieved the success I did.

They didn't just teach; they inspired and mentored, making the learning process a collaborative and encouraging journey.

I have always struggled with Maths, but I knew it was essential for my future career goals. Weston College offered the perfect environment to tackle this challenge.

The decision to complete my maths GCSE was driven by my career aspirations and the supportive teachers who believed in me. Their dedication made all the difference, transforming what once seemed impossible into an achievable goal.

Studying maths in college was a breath of fresh air compared to my school days. The mature classroom atmosphere and the passionate teachers created a space where learning was not only easier but also enjoyable – allowing me to gain the skills and qualifications I needed.

I recently received my Maths qualification, which was not only a huge relief, but also a fantastic moment.

So, what's next for me? I'm gearing up to join the army, specifically the REME Regiment as a Vehicle Mechanic. The skills and knowledge I've gained at Weston College have equipped me for this exciting journey, and I can't wait to serve and continue learning in such a dynamic field.

Jackson

If you would like to follow in Jackson’s footsteps, you can study one of our course in the Career Excellence Hub in Motor Vehicle. Find out more, by clicking here.

On the 15th of April, we launched our first Sector Based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) with UHBW (University Hospitals Bristol & Weston) and it has been an overwhelming success!

The first two weeks covered a wide range of subjects and an insight into the various roles that are available within UHBW. The group learned how to work within a team, were introduced to the NHS Trust values, discussed equality and inclusion, and looked at the job roles that would best suit them.

At the start of Week 3, 22 learners gathered at the Education Centre in Bristol and were given interesting, fun and informative presentations by the UHBW Team. We learnt what it’s like to work in a busy hospital environment, the skills and behaviours required and the process for submitting a quality application.

Everyone fully engaged with the sessions, which resulted in some fantastic discussions, sharing of personal experiences and some amazing stories and reasons for wanting to work for UHBW!

We hope that many of the learners will go on to have a long and successful career within the NHS and we are already excited to welcome our next cohort, which begins on Monday 5th August.

We received an array of positive feedback from those who attended:

“I think the course is brilliant and is a great insight to the NHS. The information is really useful for getting a job within the NHS.”

“I loved my course. Two weeks just flown by. Our Tutor was very patient with us. I felt more confident in myself and was inspired to work for the NHS.”

“All the Tutors are a great help in ensuring you understand. Niki has been very patient with everyone. Nike Taylor has provided a brilliant course and I feel very grateful to participate. I would highly recommend this course to other adults.”

“A short and detailed course run by Niki Taylor, who delivered the course so you have a full understanding and gain confidence in yourself.”

“The course is wonderful. I have got plenty of new information. I like and really enjoyed the rapport which Teachers built up with students. Thank you for these 2 incredible weeks.”

“Five Stars, Great Job Niki!”

“It was an interesting course, I enjoyed it and the tutor was helpful as well. It also created an avenue for meeting new people and socialising.”

“The course has been a great ‘across the board’ introduction of what goes on within the NHS and the topics that become more prevalent and relevant. It was well structured, and I felt supported throughout. It has been great to switch my brain on in a new way. It’s been excellent for my mental health.”

“The course is wonderful. I have got plenty of new information. I like and really enjoyed the rapport which teachers build up with students. Thank you for these 2 incredible weeks.”

“Very friendly and good information. Niki is a very helpful Tutor, and she explains everything so well.”

“The course was fantastic! Niki was brilliant and very knowledgeable, and I am so happy to have participated in the programme.”

Hey! I'm Maria, and I have recently completed my Fashion, Business & Retail UAL Extended Diploma at Weston College - and I'm here to tell you all about my experience!

When I was younger, I would always play dress up with my princess dresses and heels. This love for dress up grew up with me and when I got older I would use my mum’s wardrobe to dress up with proper clothes and accessories. I was inspired to start doing fashion in art GCSE and taught myself the basic skills. After GCSE I wanted to continue with fashion, and this was the perfect course for me.

Originally, I was going to do A levels, but I wanted to do a fashion specific course and during my search on Google I came across this course at Weston College.

The first project I did was my work experience. We had a live project working with the Lauriston Hotel and our task was to design a new uniform for their employees. This was my first experience with working with a client and I really enjoyed it. We went to the hotel to interview the manager about what they wanted in a uniform and took pictures of the hotel as primary research. The designing for this project was challenging because it couldn’t be too extravagant as it had to be functional. I had lots of fun adding small but creative elements to my designs to make them unique!

Pattern cutting is by far the most interesting thing I’ve learnt to do! Learning how to turn my ideas into garments and how to put design elements (like pleats) into a pattern is so much fun. I really enjoy the process of creating the pattern and toiling it to see if it’s correct because there’s lots of problem solving. I had to toil my corset so many times to get the perfect fit and look, and it took lots of little tweaks to the pattern to achieve this. Nothing feels better than when you finally make the pattern perfect!

The facilities and equipment at Weston College are AMAZING!!!!! There are so many facilities that accommodate for different materials and processes. In the 3D workshop you can use metal to make a cage for your garments, in ceramics you can use clay and porcelain to make beads or jewellery and in the print room you can print your own design onto fabric. You’re not restricted to using just fabric, you can use anything to create your garments. For the accessories project I made a porcelain shoulder piece that attached to a sleeve as my final outcome!

The process of pattern cutting, toiling and creating the final garment is quite long and this completely surprised me in my final project. I intended to make more than one garment but finished with just the one. This was a huge learning curve for me as it showed me how long I needed to leave for this process. It was also the start of my journey with becoming comfortable with making mistakes. I’m a bit of a perfectionist and I didn’t respond well to mistakes at the beginning of the year; however this course has taught me how to respond better and what to do with these mistakes.

I displayed my final project work at the Summer Show, and I was given a space that I could decorate with my work. It was really exciting to have your own space filled with your work for others to look at!

After college I hope to go to university to study fashion design. If you want to go into fashion after college I would 100% recommend taking this course! As well as fashion skills, you also gain personal skills like problem solving and mental resilience which are important.

Below are the outcomes of my final major project! Thank you for reading!

There has been great success this year for our Engineering T Level Learners who have all completed their Industry Placements! Our employers are essential to the development of our learners, and we are extremely grateful for their help in driving the future workforce within the engineering world.

The industry placements have led to some learners being offered apprenticeships and employment opportunities, massively helping learners with the transition into working life following their studies.

Here is what Rotamec’s Paul Korb - Health and Safety, Compliance and Sustainability Manager had to say about taking on Industry Placement learners:

“The placement not only benefits the student during their experience with us, but it further allows the business to assess and find the ideal candidate who wishes to pursue a career in our industry. It allows us to ‘try before we buy’ and we will offer an apprenticeship at the completion of their course.

Not only does this benefit the business, but it also allows the student to sample our business and decide if this is a career path they wish to pursue.

Every student that attends our business, could be the future engineer for our industry. They could also be the next supervisor, foreman, or manager. If the student has the attitude for the job, we will assist the student to develop their skills and development. The students assist with the day to day running of the business and has really had a positive impact.”

A big thank you to all of the following employers for providing our engineering learners with placements and giving them the invaluable experience of working in industry:

Rotamec

CFMS

Cornelsen

Dans Engineering

MSeis

Dirt Driver

Syscon

L3 Mapps

Starling Cycles

Suez

Sigma Aluminium

Nickell-Electro

Will Haley Engineering

Bristol Port Company

AIM

Plant Ex Machinery

RJ MotorSPorts

If you would like to enquire about hosting a work placement student within your workplace, please contact emma.nicholls@weston.ac.uk.

Last week saw Weston College and UCW's Creative Arts Summer Show - a vibrant event that showcased the creativity and talent of our learners! This event proved to be a fantastic outing, featuring live music, artwork, fashion, film, and delicious locally sourced food and drinks – demonstrating the artistic spirit and youthful energy of our Creative Arts learners.

The opening night featured a silent disco, live music performances, and food vendors, setting a vibrant tone for the days to follow!

Thursday continued the festivities with the same excitement as the opening night, enhanced by a radio masterclass, a music video showcase, and a Candar radio interview.

Friday, the longest day of the event, featured a media documentary showcase, another radio masterclass, a media short film showcase, community classes in ceramics and print, an LGBTQ+ prom, a pride silent disco and live music, along with the ever-popular food vendors.

Finally, Saturday wrapped up the event with professional industry talks at the Bristol Old Vic by Faye Elvin, who provided invaluable insights into preparing for drama school auditions and navigating the industry as a new graduate.

We received lots of positive feedback from learners, including Finn who expressed that he found the experience fun and was particularly pleased to see Shungite perform.

Dan said he revelled in the nice weather and festival vibes and enjoyed seeing Degree perform at the pavilion!

Festival goer Josh said that he and his family had a wonderful time at the event on Saturday, and he is looking forward to returning next year!

The summer show offered a unique opportunity to immerse in the dynamic arts scene of Weston College and UCW and support the next generation of creative professionals. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the incredible talents of our learners!