LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES
There is always so much going on across our various campuses and courses.
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Our Year 2 students also started on a high, completing a 1-night residential in the Brecon Beacons.
There was a reintroduction to map reading and a canoeing serial on Glyn. The learners camped overnight in wet conditions, which assisted in the development of resilience.
As part of T Level Celebration week, we caught up with some learners in their second year of the Construction T Level course.
When asked about the process behind choosing a T Level, one learner told us “I’d heard a lot about T Levels while I was doing my A Levels and once I finished, I was fairly directionless as I knew I didn’t want to go to university. I thought I may as well give them a go and find out, and I’m so glad I did – the mix between the theory and practice works so well for me! Putting what you’ve learnt into context in the wider world is so rewarding, and something you don’t get on your average construction course.”
One of the key elements that learners study on the T Level course, is sustainability in construction; adapting to the new environmentally-friendly ideas and building techniques that are being introduced. However, they know that with time and practice, these new ideas will become second nature. The learners pointed out that one of the many benefits of completing a construction qualification, is that these new techniques are taught to the new generation of tradesmen and become the norm.
The learners emphasised how lucky each of them were with the placements they were able to secure: “All the people I work with are great, and have taught me so much about the day-to-day realities of working on site – things you wouldn’t necessarily learn in a classroom. I also think it’s so important to feel part of the team and valued for the work that you’re contributing.”
Having high quality construction learners is so important and furthermore, having learners with a focus on being environmentally friendly is ideal.
We can’t wait to see the successes our T Level learners have, we know they’re going to have very bright futures!
Here at Weston College, we want to ensure that our students are completely ready to progress onto higher levels – both in terms of having the knowledge and skills, but also having the confidence and self-belief that they can succeed when progressing. Therefore, the Progression programmes we offer are the ideal way to give a little extra support, in a variety of modules.
As well as providing extra support, the Progression programme is also designed to allow learners to have a preview of the course before dedicating themselves to the full T Level course. Maria said: “after doing my GCSEs, I had 2 options: either I wanted to go into a job involving computers or become a beautician. I know they are completely different industries, but I couldn’t decide which one to choose”. After applying for both and having interviews, Maria decided to start on the Digital T Level progression journey.
Since starting the full T Level course, Maria has had the opportunity to work with a local company as part of the industry placement on the T Level course. With this involving learning new skills such as PHP programming and website design. Within the course, Maria was able to learn areas such as “programming, web development, cyber security and emerging technology and also take part in an employer set project. In my programming lessons I’m learning python library’s NumPy, Pandas, Tkinter.”
Megan, another learner who has transitioned onto the Digital T Level from the Computing Transition Programme, said that she was “incredibly excited to be progressing to study a T Level course." She continued, "I have thoroughly enjoyed the last year of my T level program course, and the opportunities and skills which I have developed in the programme. The course has really reinforced my passion for working in data analysis. Before this course I was not sure what sector I wanted to work in. I'm looking forward to my next steps where I will be studying a T Level in Digital, Production, Design and Development where I can improve my knowledge within computing subjects.”
We are so proud that Weston College has been one of the first providers in the country to offer both the T Level and Transition programmes, and that they’ve both already seen such success in the learner’s journey towards their respective industries, particularly the computing industry in Maria and Megan’s case.
If you are interested in learning more about T Levels, click here!
Jack, a former sports student at Weston College, has recently made his debut in this year’s Royal London Cup at the Oval. At just 18 years old, Jack impressed in the match against Surrey, claiming two for 33.
There was a great crowd out to support Jack, and despite the downpour, Jack was still able to enjoy himself, claiming this as the “high point of his career so far, hopefully with more to come.”
Starting his Cricket career at Congresbury Cricket Club at just 6 or 7 years old, he moved to Clevedon Cricket Club at the age of 13 where he has played ever since.
Jack told the Somerset County Cricket Club about how he felt when he was told he was in the squad for this year’s Royal London Cup: “I’ve played a lot of Second XI cricket for Somerset, so when I was told that I was in the squad for the Royal London Cup I was overjoyed. I really couldn’t explain it to be honest. It was amazing and to get my chance was even better.
“The Pathway at Somerset has helped me massively. I have been involved since a young age and all of the coaches have helped me along my way and given me different ideas to help me to get to where I am now.”
Jack was a sports student at Weston College, completing his course last year, and now on a gap year to figure out what his next steps are for his future. His aim, however, is to have a Somerset contract, commenting: “Somerset Cricket is in my heart, and I wouldn’t want to play anywhere else.”
Huge congratulations to Jack, we can’t wait to see what you achieve in the future!
In September, our Year 1 students visited Wimbleball Lake Exmoor, to take part in a range of activities including high ropes and canoeing.
These types of adventurous activities are a pivotal part to all our courses, as they promote the development of confidence, teamwork and vocational skills e.g. working at heights.
Students experienced a busy, but exhilarating day followed by a barbecue. This trip was a great opportunity for students to meet other students and staff across the whole provision.
This past week we had over 30 different students engage with the Esports Academy with trials that we ran in 3 different games to determine which students would be involved with the British Esports Student Championships (BESC). Every student showed excellent professionalism and “good manners” to each other whilst competing for places with each student commenting on how much they enjoyed themselves and wanting to do it again!
On Tuesday we did our first set of try outs on Overwatch and had 12 students join in for 3 hours! Every single person played their very best and impressed with excellent displays of skill and high levels of communication. It was so difficult to make a final decision on the final team of 5 starters and 2 substitute players. In the end we decided to shortlist some candidates that we wanted to have another look at and give the other 4 players, who were unable to show up for the day, a fair chance to show off their skills. Roll on Thursday 29th for round 2!!
On Wednesday we had Valorant and an incredible 17 students showed up to try out! We split the students up into 3 teams as they all had two rounds against each other. Over the course of the 3 hours+ try out, the students gave us the opportunity to assess their skills, communication and teamwork. All of the students were impressive, and the games were highly entertaining, with our final game where we mixed the teams up for a second time being an extremely close match!
We had the difficult task again of choosing 5 starters and 3 substitutes and on Friday we announced our decisions after some considered assessments and consultation with each other. It wasn’t easy letting 9 students know that they hadn’t made it, but we anticipate that they will be back after the Winter split ends. The Valorant team has already spent 2 evenings training with each other and getting to know each other better, their passion and determination to improve and perform well in the BESC is inspiring to see.
Thursday was Rocket League day! We had another 7 students show up and try out for the team. The games were very exciting to watch with each player showing why they should be on the team. We spent a little over an hour and a half putting the students through their paces and eventually we managed to have a decision on the 5 students who would be representing us for the Winter split.
We are excited to see our Valorant and Rocket League teams in action this Wednesday within the BESC first round of the Swiss stage and we’re looking forward to the second round of trials for Overwatch on Thursday to determine the team that will be competing for us in our pursuit to get to Nationals in the spring, and hopefully the in person (LAN) Grand Finals at the British Esports Performance Center in June!
Internationally acclaimed public realm artist Morag Myerscough made her mark in Weston-super-Mare last week as painting began on a new public art shrine for the town’s High Street.
The temporary artwork, designed and co-created by the artist with the local community, is part of a pioneering heritage project called ‘21st Century super Shrines’, managed by Culture Weston in collaboration with North Somerset Council.
21st Century super Shrines was launched in May 2021. It is part of a four-year High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) cultural programme, funded by Historic England, in partnership with Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Before it is installed, the bandstand-shaped shrine design will be injected with the artist’s signature colour and pattern as students from Weston College work alongside her and local creatives to help apply the patterns and paint the structure.
The timber-built outdoor structure, featuring a small external performance area and sheltered seating, will be erected in the pedestrianised space outside 30 High Street - an area known locally as Big Lamp Corner.
Installation is planned to take place next month (October 2022) and the artwork will remain in situ for the duration of the 21st Century super Shrines programme, which finishes in 2024.
Fiona Matthews, creative director at Culture Weston, said: “The painting of the Shrine is a key moment in the project, as Morag’s co-ordinated jigsaw of pattern and colour brings the design to glorious multi-coloured life! Weston-based master joiner Simon Birtwistle has done an amazing job in crafting the structure and we are excited to be moving on to the next stage in creating this unique and vibrant landmark.
“A 21st Century take on the traditional bandstand, the celebratory public artwork represents the combined vision of the artist and local community, shining out pride in Weston and capturing the cultural zeitgeist that is thriving in the town.”
Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Placemaking and Economy, said: “The 21st Century super Shrines cultural project will be a fantastic addition to Weston’s High Street. It’s exciting to learn that it’s now being painted, ready for installation next month. What an opportunity for the Weston College students too to work alongside an acclaimed world-renowned artist.
“As we continue to focus on the recovery of our town centre, our investment into the cultural sector continues to support local artists, tradespeople and businesses. Weston is alive with cultural activity as never before.”
The project has been supported by organisations and businesses in the area including Weston College, Cuppa Architects, the Sovereign that has provided the painting space and YesColours for supplying eco-friendly paints.
Features of the bandstand-shaped shrine design include:
- An external and open space
- A small performance ‘stage’ area which will be accessed by ramps on two sides with the remaining perimeter of the structure featuring a sheltered seating area
- Made entirely from recycled and/or sustainably sourced timber approved by the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
- Built offsite by a local artisan carpenter and master joiner
- Painted facades and features in Morag Myerscough’s signature multi- coloured style, carrying slogans and affirmations from local people.
During the 2021 consultation period, led locally by visual artist and social maker Megan Clark-Bagnall, artist Morag Myerscough engaged with the local community in a series of public sessions. The activity included in-person word and pattern workshops to online discussion forums, capturing local responses to help inform the design process. The result is a co-created artwork that reflects and builds upon the town’s identity, with leading themes emerging such as the importance of pets and animals.
The public artwork is the first in a series of innovative ‘shrines’ planned to appear on Weston’s High Street. From art installations to live arts experiences, the aim is for the work to capture the vitality and values of the local community.
For more information about 21st Century super Shrines, click here.
At Weston College, we understand and emphasise the importance of planning your dream career, and helping you take all the steps needed to reach that goal.
Making connections with employers is a great way of securing plans for your future, so creating opportunities for learners to meet guest speakers from the industry is a highly valuable part of the courses, particularly the programmes endorsed by the Career Excellence Hub (CEH). When a course is endorsed by the CEH, it means the qualifications have been developed in conjunction with local and national employers, and they have a proven record of helping students gain relevant jobs.
Our Animal Management learners had a great introduction to employers from the industry, through an Animal Careers Fest, held at the Puxton Park campus. Throughout the day, multiple animal-related professionals met the learners to explain their journey to where they are now, answering questions and giving the inside scoop of how to succeed in the animal industry. Pete, from the Reptile Zone in Bristol, was one of the visitors, who bought along Ali G the alligator, and Frank the chameleon. Staff (and guinea pigs!) from Barnaby’s Bunny Barn also gave talks on their experience, as well as the RSPCA.
The learners fully utilised their time with each professional, asking in depth and detailed questions about how to follow in their footsteps. The professionals all explained their advice, following along the similar mantra of “know your stuff!”
Each learner even had the opportunity to hold and interact with Ali G the alligator, as featured in the photographs, which, though daunting, was the highlight of the day!
Click here if you’re interested in looking into animal management, and click here to find out more about the Career Excellence Hub.
Mollie’s Motel and Diner have just been welcomed as Future Talent Business Partners of Weston College, in association with the Catering and Hospitality Career Excellence Hub (CEH). The CEH allows learners to take part in many career boosting benefits, and work alongside professionals to pick up skills and knowledge to impress employers looking to recruit the best talent.
Mollie’s is a growing family of motel-diners with big ambitions. In spirit, Mollie’s was born in America – an offspring of the classic roadside motel and drive-in diner, a welcome stopover on a route to somewhere. They borrowed the inviting red neon signs and the easy-going vibe, the burgers, the shakes, the bottomless coffee, a dash of nostalgia, but there’s nothing old-school about Mollie’s. Expect innovative digital check-in, EV chargers, designer rooms with a fresh Soho House look and affordable prices.
Mollie’s reached out to Weston College as part of their career pathways project, hoping for support in their current team’s growth and development, as well as an exciting welcome into the hospitality industry. The company as a whole want to support their people, the communities they serve, and playing a part to reinvigorate the industry.
Trudi Parr, People and Development lead from Mollie’s, spoke about what being part of the Career Excellence Hub means to them: “The Career Excellence Hub helps us provide additional support and structure and gives us an additional platform to reach and enrich the future lives of people joining the hospitality sector and at Mollie’s.
“We want all our team to have a clear career pathway and for us to be able to provide the tools that enable this. Being part of the Career Excellence Hub will help us achieve our goal and promise our team the investment and support in building a longstanding career.”
Once the CEH has been fully embedded into Mollie’s career pathways programme, drop in events will be held for their own team, as well as external events for freshers’ and apprenticeships, to engage with as many people as they can. Trudi explained, “We have a responsibility to invest in the future of hospitality employees and we are looking forward to working with our partners at the career excellence hub to do this.
“We encourage other businesses considering it, to join us! It gives the opportunity to reinvent the narrative, support the development of talent and support the community in an industry that we love.”
Sandra Bull, the Dean of Faculty of Service Sectors, commented, “We are so thrilled that Mollie’s has joined our Hospitality and Catering Career Excellence Hub. Our mission statement is ‘creating brighter futures’ and we passionately believe in helping all our students reach their ultimate goal, focussing on their future employability and developing the skills they will need to have a successful career, and we are confident that Mollie’s will be able to support our learners in this way. We’re so excited to see what happens from this partnership.”
If you’d like to learn more about the Career Excellence Hub, click here!
Marketing and Communications
The marketing department is responsible for promoting Weston College to the public, by promoting the Colleges courses, achievements and events.
Our aims are to attract learners to study within the Weston College Group, build and grow the College’s brand and highlight its reputation, and promote the College Group’s success, student progression and outstanding support for our learners.
The marketing department manages the College’s websites and official social media accounts, runs advertising campaigns, creates press releases, and manages many of the College Group’s events, such as Graduation, the Celebration of Success and the Business Awards.
We produce a wide range of publications including our full-time, Higher Education and part-time prospectuses, course leaflets and posters, and other documents such as the College’s annual report, magazines and newsletters, course brochures and the student handbook.
Weston College is committed to providing accurate and timely information for local, regional and national media, and the general public.
The marketing team is available between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Thursday and 8.30am to 4.30pm on Fridays. You can get in touch with us by emailing marketing@weston.ac.uk.
All of our press releases are uploaded to the news section of our websites. News from the academies we sponsor, including the North Somerset Enterprise and Technology College, can be found on the news section of the Inspirational Futures Trust’s website. News pertaining to our Higher Education Provision can be found on www.ucw.ac.uk.
The marketing department produces most imagery and film in house, and keeps an extensive archive of the photographs it takes. If you would like a copy of an image featuring you or a member of your family, please contact us at photography@weston.ac.uk.
Our photos of graduation and many other events can be found on the College’s Facebook page. High quality images can be found on the College’s Flickr account.
Weston College is able to accommodate many requests to provide locations for film and photography. The College has a range of attractive, modern and adaptable facilities which can be viewed on our youtube channel.
We also are able to provide heritage facilities such as the Victorian Hans Price designed Conference Centre and, from September 2017, the 1927 Winter Gardens Pavilion.
For booking details, contact marketing@weston.ac.uk.
For enquiries about sponsoring key events such as Celebration of Success, Business Breakfast, Business Awards and Graduation, please contact the marketing team by email at marketing@weston.ac.uk.
