LATEST NEWS AND UPDATES
There is always so much going on across our various campuses and courses.
Stay up to date on our latest news here or check us out across social media.
Are you experienced in Customer Service and want to develop your existing skills within an outstanding and developing department? Are you passionate about helping customers by sign posting, giving advice and guidance, and helping them achieve their ambitions? We want to hear from you!
The College Information Services team is committed to delivering an outstanding service and customer experience, tailored to meet the needs of the individual, through supportive, inclusive working practices and a genuine desire to assist customers to achieve their goals and aspirations.
We are looking for:
- friendly and empathetic individuals interested in either a full-time or part-time roles
- candidates who are committed to providing the best customer service possible through a variety of mediums such as Livechat, emails and face-to-face conversations
- someone who can deal with all aspects of admissions and advice and guidance for our prospective and current students.
We can offer you the opportunity to:
- join our team to help Create Brighter Futures for potential applicants
- work along-side friendly and empathetic staff who pride themselves in the ‘family’ feel
- be fully supported with full training provided.
We are currently recruiting for a number of roles including Customer Service Assistants, FE Admissions Officers and Admissions Coordinators - start your Brighter Future and APPLY TODAY (click 'current vacancies' and then search 'information services' in the keywords).
Find out what its like to be part of the College Informations Services Team, meet Claire and Mike ...
Claire Dark
My job at the college is to manage the College Information Services (CIS), which basically means I look after all my staff, making sure that they are happy and motivated in their jobs and feel that they can develop and progress at a pace that suits them. I also look after the operational side of CIS such as our admissions, telephony and reception services...
I can positively say that no two of my days at the College are the same! A typical day starts between 8 and 8:30. I will usually have a list of tasks that have to be done on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis so I’ll follow my task list or delegate tasks to my coordinators which could be to produce information for the faculties, analysing any trends and evaluating survey responses which I will use Microsoft Excel for, I will also carry out regular 1:1’s and appraisals with my staff. Our offices are based at the reception areas, so we get to see customers all throughout the day. On occasion I will need to deal with a complaint or an unhappy customer, however most of the time it is such a rewarding job helping people with their aspirations and sending them away with a smile on their face! A lot of what my job includes is reacting to situations that present themselves, from sending out a mass text to all our students to dealing with a fire evacuation!
Within my career at Weston College, I have developed both professionally and personally and I can’t believe how much my time at the College has changed! I started at the College, within CIS, as an evening enrolments officer, I worked alone to serve the customers at reception and help them with admissions. I then moved on to work in our Management Information Services department inputting data for a while, and then returned to CIS as a full-time enrolments officer. Since then, I have progressed within the team to an Admissions Officer then Admissions Coordinator and now, CIS Manager responsible for a team of 25 people. Weston College has supported me through my development and encouraged me to gain qualifications including my Level 3 Team Leading and ILM. This has really helped me to become the best manager I can be for my staff and ensures I am helping the College achieve its overall goals and objectives. .
There have been many proud moments from my time at the college, from winning staff awards to achieving my qualifications and gaining my promotions, however the proudest moment was returning from a long period of sickness following an emergency operation and being told by my staff how they missed my leadership and direction and that they were so glad to have me back. This confirmed to me that I was supporting my staff in the way that they wanted and needed and that I was doing a good job!
I have been here for 7 years now and can honestly say that I have not once had the feeling of dreading work. You are supported and recognised and there are so many opportunities for progression should you want it. There is a definite family feel within the department and the college and everyone will work together to achieve the same goals. Add all of that to working for an organisation that is forward thinking, expanding, and an Investors in People organisation. If you’re thinking of working for the College, do it!
Mike Frost
My job at Weston College is part of College Information Services (CIS) and I work within the Admissions department. In Admissions we work primarily with adult learners and provide them with Information, Advice and Guidance which could include funding information and how to enrol on courses...
Another role we have is to conduct course interviews to ensure they are enrolled onto the correct course and guide them into their desired career. Admissions will also manage the FT applications and support school leavers through their college application journey. This journey can be quite daunting for applicants and their parents when they’re applying to study at college, so it is a really rewarding to be able to settle any nerves and be able to reassure them through the application process.
A typical day for Admissions would involve completing enrolments, calling back customers who have left us a message outside of our opening hours, and interviewing the future students who have applied to study with us. They say that ‘Variety is the spice of life’ and that is how I would describe Admissions; no two days are the same. We will also speak to customers by using different methods of communication such as by phone, email, and our new live chat service on the Weston College website.
Since starting at Weston College 10 years ago, I have been supported to develop both professionally and personally. I have completed NVQ’s in Advice and Guidance (IAG) Level 3 and Customer Service Level 3. I have also completed courses such as British Sign Language for Frontline Staff and Mental Health First Aid to help make our service in admissions more inclusive to everyone. Through achieving these qualifications and skills it has allowed me to deliver the highest level of service to all our customers. These courses and qualifications have proven to be invaluable, and to see the impact these courses I have worked through have had on our learners and customers makes it all worthwhile..
My proudest moment whilst working at the college was meeting a customer whose aspiration was to become a teacher, but she did not have the qualifications that were required. We spoke about the types of courses she would need to study to achieve this goal and how she could realistically afford to enrol onto each course. A few years later she came back to see me, and she had just started working for Weston College as a tutor and was incredibly grateful for the support and guidance I had given her at the beginning. Helping someone to achieve their dream job is extremely rewarding and my favourite part of the job.
For anyone thinking about working for the college you won’t just be joining a department, you will be joining the Weston College family. The staff are always happy to help each other, whether it is solving problems or offering new services to our students and customers. The college invest into all their staff whether it is through courses or career progression within the organisation. I am so enormously proud to work for such a successful college.
In 2017, Weston College and The Bristol Port Company worked in partnership to develop the Maritime Leadership and Development Apprenticeship, with the aim of offering training to Bristol Port employees aspiring to enter a management role within their organisation.
5 years later, and the success rates have been more than impressive.
25 people have completed the Level 3 course, with 98% achieving a Distinction, and a further 10 have completed the Level 5 apprenticeship, with 95% gaining a Distinction – the highest grade possible.
People in all areas of the organisation have completed this tailored apprenticeship, from Car Trade Manager to Purchasing Officer, with interpersonal skills to leadership qualities developed through the apprenticeship programme which can be transferred to any department within the company.
Steve Baker, Car Trade Manager at The Bristol Port Company completed the course, and said: “This opportunity has really elevated my career. I started the course in 2020 and it was one of the best decisions I have made.
“I am now utilising the skills I gained through the programme on a daily basis to lead a team of 63 people to successfully deliver targets.”
These thoughts were echoed by David Brown, CEO at The Bristol Port Company, who added: “We have been very impressed with our bespoke training initiative. Currently, we have 10 employees who are due to take their End Point Assessment and complete their apprenticeship in the next few months.
“The apprenticeship typically takes 18-24 months to complete during which those involved have grown in confidence and become more effective leaders, in turn this has had a positive impact on our organisation.”
Dr Paul Phillips CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College Group, said: “Apprenticeships are a fantastic tool for employers to upskill their staff and develop a bespoke package for their organisation and Bristol Port Company is a perfect example of it working in action.
“Like Weston College, The Bristol Port Company is passionate about developing their people, so this partnership has been built on solid foundations and it continues to deliver fantastic results.
“I’m looking forward to seeing this partnership continue to flourish over the coming years.”
If you would like to build a bespoke apprenticeship programme with Weston College, contact the apprenticeship team via email: apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk or call 01934 411 594.
Five of our Environmental Health Practitioner BSc (Hons) Degree Apprentices were cover stars, for the latest Environmental Health News (EHN) magazine.
Nikki, Hannah, Holly, Mollie and Rian, are all studying for their degree whilst also working for East Suffolk Council.
They started their apprenticeship journey with UCW last September, and are released one day a week to complete their studies remotely.
Holly who has returned to education, having previously completed an Admin Apprenticeship 14 years ago, said: “It has been challenging getting back into academic work – things like reflective writing and creative thinking, but the college has been really good with providing study help sessions.”
Molly, who is in a similar position to Holly, having previously completing an apprenticeship, added: “I love working in environmental protection, and this apprenticeship is allowing me to further my career.
“The apprenticeship has been really exciting. I definitely see myself as an Environmental Health Officer on completion of the apprenticeship, but learning about health, housing, food and the private rented sector might also spark my interest to go down one of those routes.”
Rian, mentions that: “It (the apprenticeship) has taught me how clever I need to be at managing my workload so that I’m not overwhelmed. That’s just the nature of our job, the cases don’t stop coming in. On completion of the apprenticeship, I see myself moving into a more senior role within my current team.”
If you would like to follow in Nikki, Hannah, Holly, Mollie and Rian’s footsteps, by becoming a degree apprentice, you can start your journey, by clicking here.
Are you experienced in Customer Service and want to develop your existing skills within an outstanding and developing department? Are you passionate about helping customers by sign posting, giving advice and guidance, and helping them achieve their ambitions? We want to hear from you!
The College Information Services team is committed to delivering an outstanding service and customer experience, tailored to meet the needs of the individual, through supportive, inclusive working practices and a genuine desire to assist customers to achieve their goals and aspirations.
We are looking for:
- friendly and empathetic individuals interested in either a full-time or part-time roles
- candidates who are committed to providing the best customer service possible through a variety of mediums such as Livechat, emails and face-to-face conversations
- someone who can deal with all aspects of admissions and advice and guidance for our prospective and current students.
We can offer you the opportunity to:
- join our team to help Create Brighter Futures for potential applicants
- work along-side friendly and empathetic staff who pride themselves in the ‘family’ feel
- be fully supported with full training provided.
We are currently recruiting for a number of roles including Customer Service Assistants, FE Admissions Officers and Admissions Coordinators - start your Brighter Future and APPLY TODAY (click 'current vacancies' and then search 'information services' in the keywords).
Find out what its like to be part of the College Informations Services Team, meet Claire and Courtney ...
Claire
My role at the college is to look after the College Information Services and School Liaison team, which basically means I look after the operation of these areas as well as oversee all my staff, making sure that they are happy and motivated in their roles.
Courtney
I have worked within CIS for the last 6 years. When I first started, I was part of the reception team, within the first two years I was given the opportunity to cover a secondment in admissions and have been an admissions officer ever since. Working at the college has been an incredible experience for me. The supportive and collaborative culture, combined with challenging and meaningful work, makes coming to work every day a joy. I feel valued and appreciated as a member of the team, and I’m constantly learning and growing in my role.
As part of their module around documentaries, 1st year Photography students at UCW have published their own magazine!
The documentary and editorial magazine titled “The Unfamiliar” features work from nine degree students studying Photography and Visual Cultures, BA (Hons)
Students were tasked with focusing on photographing something which may feel unfamiliar. This could be different angles of something seen everyday or a completely unfamiliar subject which may not be represented or seen often. Once photographed, each student was given complete creative freedom to design a double page spread using Adobe inDesign.
Zoe Harris, whose work features as the front cover of the magazine, visited Lacock Abbey to capture old windows in historic buildings; creating a link between the old and the new by applying modern day photography skills.
Zoe added: “Photography lets you show others how you see the world. You may photograph something which everyone else might think is ugly or boring, but end up taking the most beautiful photo in the world – it’s about the way you look at things.
“I recommend this degree course because almost every brief we have had so far has been so interesting. We get a lot of freedom with the kind of photos we take, combined with the guidance from lecturers to know what to do.
“Working on this magazine has been a really fun project!”
Click here to see the online version of the magazine
Click here to read more about our Photography degree: Photography and Visual Cultures, BA (Hons)
Level 3 Automotive apprentice Luke Merchant has been recognised with an award from the Institute of Motors Industry
(IMI) for his outstanding success as a WorldSkills Silver Medallist as he now accelerates into his career working as a Vehicle Technician with Mercedes!
WorldSkills UK is an independent charity that works with employers, education, and governments, supporting young people across the world via competitions-based training, testing their ability to achieve world-class standards in the biennial ‘skills Olympics’. Over 3,000 learners registered to take part in the UK-wide competitions in March 2021. Luke was awarded the prestigious silver medal at the 2021 automotive technologies finals where he has to compete as one of the top learners in the country.
After Luke finished his apprenticeship, he then went on to work as a Vehicle Technician at Mercedes Benz, Weston-Super-Mare where he continues his career in automotive technology.
Luke states: "Working for Mercedes has been great so far. I am really enjoying getting to know all their systems and processes.
“Winning the silver medal at WorldSkills and my time at Weston College has helped me massively. I'm now more confident in myself and always trying my best to develop and grow my skills."
Steve Harvey, Head of Business at Mercedes Sytner comments: "Since joining the team here at Mercedes Benz W-s-M, Luke has been doing a fantastic job!
Firstly, working alongside an experienced Mercedes-Benz technician, so he could understand how the workshop work flows, regarding health and safety, use of the diagnostic equipment and of course meeting the rest of the team. Luke has also got involved with looking at all process’s which are involved when working on our customers cars.”
Steve continues: "Luke is now working on his own, and we are really pleased with the progress he is making. At present with all the new product coming through from new electric to diesel and petrol and of course the awesome AMG range, it is an exciting time to be joining Mercedes-Benz and the Sytner Group!
Some of the electric cars which will be coming through are outstanding and have the latest high-tech equipment, safety, and performance packages available, for example the new EQS with the hyper screen.”
“Luke will now be able to have the full training on these types of vehicles, it is definitely a great time to join our team of very skilled technicians. We will certainly be looking for more aspiring talent to join our team. Luke is an example of what can happen with a tremendous attitude and drive to further his potential during and after completing his NVQ3."
Weston College’s involvement with WorldSkills is just one of the exclusive opportunities available to learners through their newly launched Career Excellence Hubs. At the College, each subject area forms its own specific Career Excellence Hub, endorsed by relevant sector employers which help to create a study programme with lots of career boosting benefits, which include WorldSkills competing opportunities.
Congratulations Luke!
In partnership with Avon Fire and Rescue (AF&RS), Weston College has launched the Operational Fire Fighter apprenticeship.
The new programme launched in January, with 24 people training to become fire fighters, at Severn Park in Avonmouth.
As part of the apprenticeship, the new recruits will work on everything from fitness, fire safety and practical skills such as breathing apparatus procedures, ladder training, hose management and road traffic collision operations.
Simon Shilton, Assistant Chief Fire Officer at Avon Fire and Rescue said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome 24 new recruits to AF&RS to begin what I hope will be a prosperous fire service career.
“These new recruits have already undergone a rigorous selection process, and their next stage of training will see them put through their paces and prepared for life as a fire fighter.
“Modern firefighting is about so much more than fires, encompassing elements such as complex rescues, prevention work and community engagement. AF&RS truly works to prevent and protect before all else, working to keep the community safe in all that we do.
“As they move through this process, I give the new recruits my best wishes and can assure them that is truly one of the most fulfilling and rewarding careers.”
Dr Paul Phillips CBE, Principal and Chief Executive of the Weston College Group, added: “We are delighted to be working with Avon Fire and Rescue on this brilliant initiative, and providing opportunities to people that want to become fire fighters.
“If you think this will be a good career for you, join us at our Apprenticeship Open Evening on 10th February, at South West Skills Campus, 4pm-7pm where we can tell you about the next intake of Fire Fighting apprentices and how you can apply – register here.”
You can contact Weston College’s apprenticeship team on 01934 411 594, or email apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk
My name is Lauren, and I have worked within the hairdressing sector since starting an apprenticeship at 16. During that time, I completed my Level 2 and Level 3 in Hairdressing.
During my career I changed direction within the industry from working in a busy salon to becoming a fully self-employed hairdresser.
After many years of working solo, I joined a local team, and I made the big decision to focus solely on providing hair services within the wedding sector.
Since commencing with them I worked my way to managing a team of hairstylists, makeup artists and other professionals in the beauty industry and forming strong working relationships with varying service providers and companies.
During my career journey I have gained a vast amount of knowledge in the trade that I love and always striving to learn more and growing from every experience personally and professionally.
Training others has always been a passion I wished to pursue, this is due to the training, support, and guidance I received whilst completing my apprenticeship.
I started at Weston College in 2020, and since then inspiring others to begin their journey in the trade and sharing my knowledge and skills has grown my passion exponentially.
Through Weston College I have completed further education that has enabled me to achieve my role as Vocational Training Assessor in Hairdressing and Barbering for Apprenticeships.
It is a huge privilege to be a part of an individuals first encounters within the industry that I love and hope to inspire many more to follow their passions and dreams as I have done. I aim to inspire individuals to be the best they can be, to reach their goals and dreams and always guide them in always aiming higher.
Lauren West, Training Assessor
Last day of College this half term is Thursday 17 February and we return on Monday 28 February. College holidays can be difficult for anyone, at any point in their life. You might be struggling this year for the first time. Through the ups and downs of the next week, you won't be alone.
Below you will find information on certain elements of our student support package, including our ‘Let’s Chat’ project along with some other really useful and supportive information and networks to keep you and your family safe and well this half term. This and much more, can be found on Wellbeing @ Weston SharePoint site that is the home to lots of wellbeing related information and resources together with other useful links and contacts.
If your life is at risk, act immediately please:
- call 999 for an ambulance
- go straight to A&E, if you can
- call your local crisis team, if you have their number.
If you can't do this by yourself, ask someone to help you. Mental health emergencies are serious. You're not wasting anyone's time. We look forward to seeing you next term.
Take care, from all the Weston College staff and governors
|
A hub of resources to help with resilience, esteem, relaxation, moving, eating, anxiety, uncertainty, stress, social media and much more. |
|
A safe community to support your mental health 24/7. |
|
Your online mental wellbeing community. Free, safe and anonymous support. |
 |
Call 116 123. Whatever you're going through, a Samaritan will face it with you 24/7. |
 |
For 24/7 support in a crisis, text YM to 85258. |
 |
Call 01934 411464. |
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.
