Emma, the owner of Unique hair salon in Weston-super-Mare, has been a Career Excellence Hub Endorser for our Hair and Barbering Department for over a year now. As a solo artist in the world of hairdressing, Emma does it all. She not only styles and transforms hair but also manages the intricate details of her salon's operation.  

Emma recently led a masterclass with hairdressing learners here at the College, in which she taught and demonstrated using effective and safe working methods when perming and neutralising hair, as well as the necessary preparation and aftercare. 

We were lucky enough to catch up with her and reflect on her experience with the college so far. 

Working with the college is an opportunity to share her love for hairdressing and ignite the same passion in the next generation of hairstylists. Over the past year, Emma has had the pleasure of hosting numerous students from Weston College for work experience in her salon. These students are often a mixture of excited but nervous, but are gaining the hands-on experience in the industry that will be a huge help in their future careers. 

Emma shares that having these students at her salon has been an opportunity to witness the remarkable transformation of their confidence. Their evolution is something Emma is proud to show her clients, who can see first-hand the impact of her mentorship. 

The highlight for Emma is watching the incredible growth in these students. Many arrive uncertain, but by the end of their work experience, they have blossomed into more confident individuals. Emma's guidance and expertise create an environment where these training stylists can put into practice what they’re learning at college, and excel in the world of hairdressing. 

Emma's excitement for the future knows no bounds. She eagerly anticipates working even more closely with Weston College, nurturing fresh talent, and helping them find their unique style in the world of hairdressing. With her continued support and the college's education, we can expect to see even more incredible hairstylists emerging from Weston College. 

Unique Hair Salon forms part of the Hair & Barbering Careers Excellence Hub. At Weston College our approach goes beyond the traditional classroom setting. Through industry speakers, workshops, employer projects, and more, we equip our learners with the real-world experiences and insights that set them apart in the competitive job market. It's not just about getting a job; it's about standing out from the crowd when they embark on their job searches.

Find out more about our Hair and Barbering courses, here.

Weston College are delighted to announce that Bristol Sport Foundation are partnering with the

College’s Sports & Fitness faculty to offer opportunities to students. Bristol Sport Foundation has a mission to use the power of sport to create active, healthy and happy communities in the greater Bristol area. The foundation works in communities to facilitate physical activity and delivers sports coaching to a range of people, including at after school clubs and holiday camps, with 3,878 children attending their holiday camps in July and August.

The College, which offers Sports & Fitness courses including BTEC Fitness and Sports Exercise Science, Apprenticeships and Higher Technical Qualifications in Community Coaching, has award-winning Career Excellence Hubs for each faculty subject area across the College with several industry partnerships in place. The purpose of Career Excellence Hubs is for College subject areas to work closely with employers to deliver a curriculum designed by industry, inspiring students with a skills focused curriculum. The Sports & Fitness Career Excellence Hub has key industry partnerships that highlight the breadth of careers available to students, offer work placements, develop the skills of learners beyond the qualification they are studying, supporting their progression to higher education and employment.

David Crew, Head of Business Growth & Employer Partnerships commented “Bristol Sport Foundation are a committed employer partner of the College, providing guest lectures to sports students and various work experience opportunities alongside their coaches who deliver inspirational activity in the greater Bristol area. Weston College, through our Career Excellence Hubs, are building collaborative employer partnerships aligned to our curriculum areas, creating a high-quality learner experience at our College and learners ready to progress to employment and higher education when they complete their course. We’re looking forward to having Bristol Sport Foundation as part of our employer community.”

Hannah Davis-Coward, Partnerships and Workforce Manager at Bristol Sport Foundation commented “We are committed to creating active, healthy and happy communities through our work in the region. Partnerships are key to the foundation, as is developing the pipeline of skilled talent that we need in the future to deliver our mission. We’re delighted to be partnering with Weston College, a large forward-thinking further education college with an established sports faculty, and we look forward to supporting students to gain experiences of work.”

To view our sports courses click here. Employers looking to work with Weston College can email employers@weston.ac.uk.

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.

Callum is currently completing his first year of the T Level in Design: Production Design and Development, following the Level 2 course in computing, which acted as a crucial step in laying the foundation for his T Level aspirations. This choice was born out of the need for flexibility and skill-building, especially since Callum had received home education during his final years of secondary school due to medical conditions. The Level 2 course not only provided him with valuable education but also allowed him to regain essential skills, such as punctuality and professionalism, which are crucial in a professional environment. 
 
What truly ignited Callum's desire to pursue a T Level was the resounding praise he heard from a friend who had recently completed her own T Level. Intrigued by her positive experience, he embarked on an investigation into what Weston College's T Level had to offer. After conversing with his tutors and considering the incredible work experience, high-quality education, and professional atmosphere that awaited him, Callum knew that the T Level was the path he wanted to follow. 
 
The transition from the Level 2 course to the T Level brought with it exciting challenges and opportunities. One particular highlight for Callum was the coursework focused on data analysis. It was demanding, but it allowed him to engage in a real and time-consuming project, preparing him for the rigors of the T Level program. 
 
However, the real gem of Callum's T Level journey lies in the work placement component. Callum eagerly anticipates gaining real-world working experience and skills, a prospect made possible by Weston College's support in finding suitable placements. He has set his sights on securing a work placement with Lloyds Bank, a company renowned for its commitment to T Level students and for its investment in their development. Hearing about a friend's successful transition into an apprenticeship at Lloyds Bank post-T Level further motivated Callum to pursue this opportunity. 
 
The support from Weston College's staff has been instrumental in Callum's success so far. From academic guidance to a brilliant resource for seeking support when needed, the college has been a constant pillar of assistance. As a student with ADHD, Callum has been particularly appreciative of the support provided by the college's ADHD support teams. They have not only made him feel comfortable but also offered practical solutions to navigate challenges effectively. 
 
Callum's journey at Weston College exemplifies the transformative power of T Level programs. His story serves as an inspiration for those considering embarking on their own educational journey. To those contemplating joining the T Level transition course, Callum offers valuable advice: it's an excellent starting point, whether you're looking to bolster your grades or overcome personal challenges. The transition course provides the flexibility and time needed to prepare oneself for the enriching T Level experience that Weston College offers. With dedication and the right support, students like Callum can thrive in the professional world, ready to make a meaningful impact on society.

Last Thursday, we welcomed over 350 enthusiastic Key Stage Four school learners and their guests to our highly anticipated 'What Next?' Careers Showcase!  

This dynamic event provided a unique platform for school leavers to explore a multitude of exciting career opportunities, with participation from more than 50 local and national employers including Wessex Water, Ministry of Defence, Ashton Gate Stadium, Boeing, Jet2, and Thatchers Cider! 

The 'What Next?' Careers Showcase was a resounding success, empowering young individuals to make informed decisions about their future careers.  

Attendees had the opportunity to engage with representatives from a diverse range of industries, gaining valuable insights into the various career paths available to them. This immersive experience allowed students to envision their future possibilities and connect with potential employers who are actively seeking new talent. 

James Shakespeare, Founder of EVO Agency commented: “There were so many people the queue went out of the door, and down the road! We’ve been exhibiting at these fairs for years and this was the busiest one we’ve seen. We hope to have inspired young people that a career in tech and digital has so much more to offer than ‘just coding’, and that there are alternative training routes, such as apprenticeships, available with further education providers such as Weston College.” 

One of the highlights of the evening was the insightful talks on what Weston College can offer school leavers and the varied study options we offer including the new T Level qualifications, as well as our award-winning apprenticeship offer, having just been named the 2023 best apprenticeship provider in the whole of the South West! 

Furthermore, the event facilitated one-on-one interactions between attendees and Weston College staff, enabling school leavers to receive personalised guidance on choosing the right courses that align with their career aspirations.  

Our dedicated team of educators and advisors were on hand to provide valuable insights and assistance, ensuring that every student was equipped with the information they needed to embark on their chosen career path. 

Ben Knocks, Vice Principal at Weston College, said: “Our ‘What Next?’ event was a resounding success, and it was great to welcome and inspire so many young people from across the region on their next steps. 

“The energy in the room was electric, I couldn't be prouder of our college community and the opportunities we provide to inspire, educate, and empower our future leaders. 

“At Weston College we are passionate about careers, not courses, and I think this event is the perfect example of putting that into action.  

“A big thank you to all of the employers that attended as well, they play a critical role in our Career Excellence Hubs, which are having such a positive impact on our learners.” 

Find out more about our Programmes for School Leavers starting next September here. 

Come along to our October Open Evening and visit our campuses, see our facilities, meet our amazing staff and learn more more about the courses we have available to start in 2024. Register your place here.

Last week twelve first year T Level learners, studying Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, went on a site visit to the Ashcombe Primary School Construction project, which is being built by John Perkins Construction Limited.

Before entering the site, learners were issued with all the correct Personal Protective Equipment and given a Health and Safety Site Induction by Richard Mann, the Site Manager for John Perkins Construction.

Once ready to enter the site, learners were then treated to a comprehensive site tour from Richard, which included visiting the new classrooms, reception area, school hall and other back-up facilities.

Throughout the tour Richard explained what materials were used and methods of construction. It was a fantastic interactive session, where learners asked multiple questions, allowing them to delve deeper into the techniques used, in more detail.

At the end of the tour, Richard kindly offered to host the T Level learners on site again in Spring next year, to see the progress on the build and experience the internal fit-out works of the project.

Daniel Comerford, Lecturer in Construction Professions at Weston College, said: “I would like to say a big thank you to everyone that made our recent possible – our learners found the site visit extremely beneficial.

“On the back of the visit, learners are writing up a technical report, which includes items such as health and safety, timber frames and foundation details.

“We look forward to working closely with John Perkins Construction Limited over the coming academic year.”

This employer project forms part of the subject Careers Excellence Hub; Weston College is committed to preparing learners for success in a rapidly evolving job market which is reflected in our offer via our bespoke Career Excellence Hubs, which form an integral part of all college programmes. In a world where professional networks and industry-specific skills are integral to landing employment, these hubs provide a unique solution to bridge the gap between education and industry demands.

In a thrilling event that combined innovation, education, and hands-on learning, ESOL learners at Weston College had the unique opportunity to welcome representatives from Dyson for an enriching guest lecture. The event, which took place recently, provided ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learners with insights into Dyson's cutting-edge inventions, their competitive edge in the market, and the intricate journey of developing and testing new products. Furthermore, Dyson introduced their exciting degree apprenticeship opportunity, emphasizing its value to the ESOL learners, who found the entire experience both enlightening and inspiring.

Dyson's reputation for innovation precedes itself, and this lecture provided an invaluable opportunity for students to witness firsthand the mind behind some of the world's most groundbreaking inventions.

Innovations Beyond the Competition

During the visit, the representatives delved into the ways Dyson stays ahead of its competitors. They highlighted the company's relentless pursuit of innovation and the importance of thinking differently. Dyson products are known for pushing the boundaries of technology, from bladeless fans to cordless vacuum cleaners, and the development of efficient and hygienic hand dryers.

The Development Stages of Creating and Testing New Products

Dyson offered a behind-the-scenes look at the development stages of their products. From initial concept to rigorous testing, Dyson engineers follow a meticulous process that ensures quality and reliability. Students gained valuable insights into the importance of problem-solving and attention to detail when it comes to product development. It was a lesson in perseverance and the drive to make things better.

The Value of Dyson's Degree Apprenticeship Opportunity

One of the highlights of the lecture was Dyson's introduction to their degree apprenticeship program. This program offers students the chance to earn while they learn, gaining hands-on experience and a university degree simultaneously. The guest lecturers emphasized how this unique opportunity could be especially valuable for ESOL learners, who bring diverse perspectives and a wealth of talent to the table.

Hands-On Experience with Dyson Robots

The lecture wasn't just about theory; it was about practical learning too. After the informative session, students were given the chance to interact with Dyson robots. They had the opportunity to control and code the robots to follow routes on a map. This hands-on experience allowed students to apply what they had learned, further cementing their understanding of technology and innovation.

Inspiring Progression Opportunities

The entire experience was invaluable for the ESOL learners at Weston College. It not only exposed them to the world of innovation but also showed them potential progression opportunities after they finish their studies. Many students were inspired to consider a career in technology and engineering, seeing a clear path through Dyson's apprenticeship program.

Moreover, the event served as an excellent team-building exercise for the class. Working together to code and control the robots fostered collaboration and problem-solving skills, while also making learning fun and engaging.

In conclusion, Dyson's visit to Weston College's ESOL learners was a remarkable occasion that left a lasting impact. It opened doors to a world of innovation, encouraged students to think creatively, and provided them with a tangible path towards a promising career. It was a lesson in seizing opportunities, embracing diversity, and striving for excellence—an experience that will undoubtedly shape the future endeavours of these aspiring learners.

Hey! I'm Maisy, and I recently completed my Digital Marketing Level 3 apprenticeship with Weston College, working for Visit Somerset.

After completing my apprenticeship in March, I was offered the role of Social Media Manager at Visit Somerset, which wouldn’t have been possible without my apprenticeship.

Let me take you through my apprenticeship journey, the highs, the lessons learned, and the growth I've experienced along the way.

Choosing the Apprenticeship Path

Why did I choose an apprenticeship? Simply put, I wanted to learn by doing. I've never been the most academically inclined, so the idea of working on the job while learning was the perfect balance for me. It allowed me to reach my full potential without the pressures of traditional education.

Gaining Unique Skills

One of the most significant benefits of my apprenticeship was developing my interpersonal skills. I had the chance to interact with customers and partners regularly, which boosted my confidence and communication abilities.

Memorable Moments at Visit Somerset

The highlight of my journey with Visit Somerset was an unforgettable trip to Noah's Ark Zoo.

There, I got to try out new animal experiences and help with filming and social media promotion. Feeding lions, bears, and armadillos was an experience of a lifetime that I'll cherish forever.

A Special Project: 'Dog-Friendly Somerset'

One project that's very close to my heart is 'Dog-Friendly Somerset.' I took it upon myself to showcase how pet-friendly our region is by creating a video at The Eastbury Hotel. The project was a massive success and continues to thrive.

Support from Weston College

I can't emphasise enough the support I received from Weston College during my apprenticeship.

My assessor was exceptional. She guided me, ensured I stayed on track, and relieved any worries about deadlines.

Advice for Future Apprentices

If you're considering an apprenticeship, my advice is simple: go for it!

You'll learn, grow, and get paid for doing what you love. I emerged from my apprenticeship more confident and equipped with skills I wouldn't have gained in a traditional job.

My journey from an apprentice to a Social Media Manager has been incredible. It's shown me the power of hands-on learning and the endless opportunities that come with it. So, whether you're starting your apprenticeship journey or just curious about it, remember that it could be the key to unlocking your full potential, just as it did for me.

Maisy, Social Media Manager, Visit Somerset

If you’d like to follow in Maisy’s footsteps and become an apprentice, you can do so by clicking here.

If you’re an employer that would like to recruit talented new staff through apprenticeships, you can do so by clicking here.

As we explore the incredible journeys of our University Centre Weston (UCW) alumni, we turn our attention to Paul, a talented performer who embarked on his educational voyage with a UAL Extended Diploma in Performing Arts, specifically in the Acting pathway.

His dedication and passion for the craft led him to UCW's BA Hons Performing Arts course, where he continued to hone his skills and develop as an artist. Join us as we dive into Paul's experiences, highlights, and aspirations as he continues his journey in the world of acting.

The Beginnings:

Paul's journey in the performing arts began with a UAL Extended Diploma in Performing Arts at Weston College, where he excelled, earning a well-deserved Distinction. He then progressed onto UCW's BA Hons Performing Arts course.

Lecturers with Distinct Teaching Styles:

One aspect that truly stood out for Paul during his time with us, was the diverse set of lecturers he encountered during his time at UCW. Each lecturer possessed a distinct skill set and teaching style, which not only kept students engaged but also broadened their horizons.

Paull added on his experience: “Due to the patience and people around me, it meant I was able to learn at my own pace. Combined, I believe both courses supported the development of my understanding of the industry I want to break into, but, they also supplied me with the confidence and skills on how to realistically do that.”

Memorable Highlights:

Reflecting on his time at Weston College and UCW, Paul cherishes the memories of various performances: “My highlight at Weston College comes from the end of my first year, when we performed ‘The Wonderful World of Dissocia’, as I wasn't sure if I wanted to do acting when I started the course, but at the point of ‘Dissocia’ I had so much fun that I just knew my answer.

“UCW's highlight on the other hand is a hard one to pick, as I poured my heart into a lot of performances from ‘The Dumb Waiter’, ‘Angels in America’, ‘Tomcat’ and others.

“But the real highlight came just the night before my class’ performance of ‘The Castle’, in which we had raised all the money ourselves to go the Manchester Fringe, perform and stay there for 4 days. We all shared accommodation together and spent the night before playing silly games, laughing and reflecting on everything we had accomplished across the course. We all knew that this would be our last show on the course, but we were all prepared to give our all to round us off.”

The Present and Future:

Currently, Paul is actively pursuing acting opportunities, taking on featured roles and walk-on parts. His dedication to furthering his education is evident as he saves money to pursue an MFA at a Drama School. In addition to acting, he plans to collaborate with fellow student Craig, on writing and filming projects. Paul has also become a certified free running coach, contributing to the community by coaching at the only school offering free running in the area, Hans Price.

Featuring in Wolf:

Paul's journey took an exciting turn recently, when he received a text from Phoenix Casting, a company that presented him with script segments for a self-tape audition for the new BBC show, Wolf.

His talent and hard work paid off, and he was chosen for a role.

On set, he had the opportunity to interact with the cast and crew, gaining insights into their experiences and collecting valuable advice.

The Long-Term Dream:

Looking ahead, Paul's long-term dream is to become a recognised actor who can transport audiences on unforgettable journeys and adventures through his performances. His aspiration is to provide the same magic and inspiration that he found in the actors and movies he admired during his formative years.

If you would like to follow in Paul’s footsteps, and study a Performing Arts course, click the relevant link below:

Courses at Weston College

Courses at UCW