In a heart-warming gesture, Level 2 Hair and Beauty learners provided a range of mini treatments for the dedicated NHS staff at the Wellbeing Centre in Weston Hospital.

The learners wanted to express their gratitude for the workers’ tireless efforts and provide a well-deserved moment of relaxation and pampering.

The Wellbeing Centre at Weston Hospital has been the perfect spot for NHS staff to unwind, de-stress, and recharge. Recognizing the immense dedication and selflessness exhibited by healthcare professionals, the hair and beauty learners wanted to contribute to their wellbeing by providing a series of indulgent treatments.

Under the guidance of skilled instructors, the learners skilfully carried out an array of mini treatments, including hand massages, file and polish services, and expertly applied makeup. These treatments were specifically designed to uplift the spirits of NHS staff and give them a much-needed respite from their demanding roles on the front lines.

The event was a resounding success, with NHS staff members expressing their gratitude for the thoughtful initiative. Many shared that the experience not only helped them relax but also boosted their morale, reminding them of the unwavering support they receive from their local community.

Jenna Ratcliffe, Divisional Lead of Service Sectors, expressed her pride in the learners' dedication and commitment to making a positive impact. She stated, "Our learners were thrilled to have the opportunity to give back to the incredible NHS staff who have been working tirelessly to keep us safe. This event allowed them to showcase their skills and demonstrate the power of beauty and self-care in promoting overall well-being."

Jodie Alden, HR and Management Assistant at Weston Hospital, commented: “It was a real treat to have the beauty students join Weston General Hospital to provide mini hand treatments and make-up. I opted for the hand massage, which was excellent, but all of the treatments looked fantastic! It was lovely to see the Hospital staff taking time to relax and chatting away with all of the students.”

If you would like to find out about Beauty Therapy courses, click here!

As part of T Level Takeover week, we’ve been lucky enough to catch up with one of our incredible alumni, Brandon, who completed his T Level in Digital Production, Design and Development last year. As one of the first people in the country to take this course, Brandon impressed his tutors and employers alike, with his dedication and work ethic. As a result of this, he won Industry Placement Learner of the Year at the 2022 Business Awards!

Here’s what Brandon had to say on his experience of T Levels:

"My name is Brandon, and I completed the Digital Production, Design and Development T Level last year. I am now studying Aberystwyth University, after receiving a scholarship!

Reflecting back over the course, my favourite part was definitely the work placement aspect. I completed my industry placement at Spacebar, which is a digital hub located in the heart of Weston-super-Mare, which assists local businesses in their online presence, particularly in the creation of their website.

However, another highlight of my time at Weston College was being nominated for, and winning, Industry Placement of the Year at the Business Awards! Having my hard work celebrated with my classmates, teachers and employers was an indescribable feeling, and one of my proudest achievements.

This placement allowed me to develop many practical skills to an advanced level, that I would not have learnt inside the classroom, as well as skills such as customer service when communicating with the client, leadership when delegating tasks to my peers, and professionalism within the workplace.

The course itself had so many real-world applications, which was fantastic for knowing how the course material will benefit me in the future world of work. In particular, the assessment methods were very practical and real-world based which I think is highly important for a course of this nature.

If you are considering a T Level, I would say absolutely go for it. The experience and skills you gain are second to none, and you result in a qualification equivalent to 3 A Levels! I loved my time doing the course, and I would go back and do it again if I could!"

With Weston College's Annual Business Awards rapidly approaching, we’re excited to be bringing you another employer award nominees articles!

In this article we’ll be talking through our nominees for the Work Experience Employer of the Year award. Nominated are: Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, Visit Somerset and PaoloR.

Good luck to all that have been nominated! Award winners will be announced on Thursday 15th June. Stay updated by following our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages or by following #WestonCollegeBusinessAwards2023. 

My name is Sam Matthews and I’m an Accounts manager at Brooking Ruse. My role consists of running my own client portfolio which includes a wide range of businesses, as well as assisting the directors with their more complex clients. I also line manage our accounting apprentices.

I decided to become an accountant during my second year at university. I had visited Brooking Ruse on work experience whilst at school, which evolved into some paid seasonal work during the summer holidays – so it was a no-brainer when I was offered a graduate trainee role.

Accountancy involves a lot of maths, and this wasn’t something that I was initially interested in, or considered pursuing until I sat my GCSESs when I surprised myself with good grades! My interest in maths certainly developed over time after that.

Being an accountant is challenging but rewarding.

Becoming an accountant gives you access to a wide range of industry sectors and job roles. I knew that if I didn’t enjoy working in general practice then I could look to move into industry as a management accountant. I could also have chosen to specialise within a particular area such as audit, tax, or insolvency, etc.

Once you’ve done your bit it’s then time to communicate with the client. This can be a great opportunity to build professional relationships and meet people you’d have otherwise never met.

There are lots of great things about the job – I really enjoy meeting with clients to understand their goals and working with them to ensure they’re achieved. I’ve taken on a couple of clients recently who found themselves in a spot of bother – seeing the relief on their faces when the matters were resolved was a great feeling.

If you’re thinking of becoming an accountant, my advice is to go for it!

Accountancy qualifications are a passport to anywhere – every business needs someone financially-minded so there are infinite possibilities.

I also think there’s a myth that you need A Level or degree standard maths skills; you really don’t. What’s more important is being able to approach problems with logical and structured thinking…. our calculators do the sums for us!

If like Sam you’d like to become an accountant, you can start your journey with our T Level in accountancy, click here to find out more.

Local attractions have teamed up with respected local music producers and artists to bring a night of entertainment and competition to our seaside town this June.  

Summerfest, a one-night event curated by the Lipinski Brothers in collaboration with the Pier, is set to take place in Weston-super-Mare on Saturday June 30th. 

The spectacular show is expected to draw a crowd of two thousand paying customers, and will feature a selection of well-known local performers, including Senna Weeks. Senna, a former FE learner, has performed alongside many high-end professional Blues artists such as Walter Trout and Joe Bonamassa.  

As well as the live acts, Summerfest will also include a competition open to Weston College learners. Participating acts must perform two live tracks to a respected panel of local guests, who will review the performance and critique it.  

The successful act will be awarded the opening slot at the prestigious event, as well as a cash prize. Organising the competition, alongside the Lipinski Brothers, is Weston College’s Music Instructor and Technician, Oz.  

Oz told us “This is a great opportunity for our Music learners. The Music Industry is notoriously tough to break into, so having the chance to audition in front of the panel is an invaluable experience. As well as the technical and performance skills, learners will also develop their resilience and determination – crucial transferrable life skills, which will support them in future ventures.”  

Summerfest promises to be a highlight event of Weston-super-Mare’s summer season. Lipinski will be headlining centre stage this year at the Grand Pier, supported by a host of wonderfully talented musicians throughout a fun-filled evening of entertainment. With the opportunity for local learners to also take part in the festivities, this truly is an event not to be missed.  

Tickets are on sale here now, so be sure to get yours soon and guarantee yourself a place at this exciting event. 

To find out more about Music at Weston College, click here.

It’s our T Level Takeover Week! To kick things off, we thought we would take a look into the top 5 reasons why you should consider studying T Levels!

If you’re not sure what T Levels are, they are innovative courses designed to bridge the gap between academic and vocational education, and they will offer you a practical and industry-focused learning experience.

Here are our top 5 reasons to study T Levels:

1. They are a Direct Pathway to Employment

One of the most significant advantages of pursuing T Levels is the direct pathway they offer to employment. T Levels are designed in collaboration with industry experts, ensuring that the skills and knowledge acquired during the course align with the demands of the job market. By studying a T Level, you gain valuable practical experience and expertise in a specific industry sector, making you highly employable upon completion. Employers often value T Level qualifications due to their practical nature, making them a great choice for individuals seeking immediate career opportunities.

2. Extensive Industry Placement Opportunities

T Levels provide students with invaluable opportunities to gain real-world work experience through industry placements. These placements, lasting for a minimum of 315 hours, allow you to apply the skills and knowledge you've learned in the classroom to a professional setting. These hands-on experiences enable you to develop a deeper understanding of the industry, establish valuable connections, and enhance your employability. Industry placements also help you make informed decisions about your future career path, allowing you to explore different roles and industries before committing to a specific job.

We work with some amazing local employers that offer T Level learners placements too, from Hydrock to Suez – they are a fantastic way of developing your skills and CV, ready for your career.

3. Higher Education Progression

While T Levels are a fantastic option for students seeking direct entry into the workforce, they also provide a pathway to higher education. T Level qualifications are recognised by universities, and many institutions offer specific progression routes for T Level students. By completing a T Level, you can accumulate UCAS points, making you eligible for higher education courses. Whether you choose to pursue a degree related to your T Level or explore other fields, T Levels serve as a solid foundation, equipping you with practical skills and knowledge that can greatly enhance your university studies – especially if you are looking at degree apprenticeships.

4. Enhanced Career Prospects

In today's competitive job market, having a qualification that sets you apart is crucial. T Levels offer a unique opportunity to gain industry-recognised skills and qualifications, setting you up for long-term career success. Employers value the practical skills developed through T Levels, as they demonstrate your ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. With T Levels in your arsenal, you'll have a competitive edge over others in the job market, opening doors to a wide range of rewarding career opportunities.

5. Personal and Professional Development

Studying T Levels not only equips you with practical skills but also fosters personal and professional development. T Level courses are designed to nurture transferable skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. These skills are highly sought after in today's dynamic work environments, and T Levels provide an excellent platform to develop and showcase them. Moreover, T Levels instill confidence, independence, and a strong work ethic, preparing you to thrive in your chosen career and face the challenges of the ever-evolving job market.

T Levels offer a refreshing and effective alternative to traditional academic pathways, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the workplace. Whether you're eager to jumpstart your career, gain valuable work experience, or progress to higher education, T Levels provide a versatile and future-ready qualification.

By choosing to study T Levels, you open the doors to a world of opportunities, enhancing your employability and setting the stage for a fulfilling and prosperous professional journey.

Embrace the chance to build practical skills, gain industry recognition, and be prepared for the demands of the modern workforce with T Levels.

Find out more about our available T Levels, by clicking here.

Weston College learners have returned triumphant after a successful day at the Young Enterprise Awards.  

This month, some of our fantastic Sixth Form learners attended the Young Enterprise Awards. One of our teams, ‘Crystals on a String’, secured an impressive three achievements, including the prestigious Award for Best Customer Service.  

All our learners worked incredibly hard throughout the competition to deliver carefully crafted presentations to a large audience.  

We would like to give a special mention to Economics Lecturer, Aaron Wilson, who lead the team through the competition. His expertise, perseverance, and mentorship of the learners throughout the process ensured their success on the day.  

We are so proud of our learners for what they have achieved. This experience has been invaluable for all teams taking part, and it is a great example of where hard work and dedication can get you.  

Congratulations to ‘Crystals on a String’ and the rest of our participating students on their well-deserved success. 

To find out more about opportunities at our Sixth Form, click here.  

Weston College welcomed businesses from across the region to the Winter Gardens for their Employer’s Breakfast this morning (18th May).

The event, which showcased the ways in which Weston College can support local businesses, was attended by over 120 people from within the community. Attendees discovered more about funded upskilling opportunities, development opportunities as well as how they can recruit and inspire their future workforce.

One of the event highlights, was the employer panel, which was chaired by Scott Jenkins from Somerset Chamber of Commerce, and featured: Robert Dyer from Abatec, Grace Harvey from Puxton Park, Sophie Vidler from Thatchers Cider and Ruby who is a current apprentice with Thatchers Cider.

The panel had a dynamic discussion that provided valuable insights into successful collaborations and strategies for growth. Each member of the panel also shared their experiences of working with Weston College, and the positive impact that this has had on their business. 

Head of Business Growth and Partnerships at Weston College, Dave Crew, said: “It was great to see so many employers gather together to discuss how we can inspire and grow our future workforce.

“There are so many opportunities for employers to access the support that they need to impact their teams, and at Weston College we are here to make the process as easy as possible.

“We love to work in partnership with employers and provide bespoke training that meets their needs – if this is something that can help you, then please do reach out to the team: employers@weston.ac.uk.”

Find out more about the support on offer, by clicking here.