This year’s Business Enterprise Project has now come to a close and has been the most successful yet!  

Twenty-one groups of learners have been working with an employer mentor from the local business community, who provided invaluable guidance and support to the groups. These business mentors also funded the £50 start-up costs of each business, with the challenge being to turn this into the most profit, with all proceeds raised going to Weston Hospicecare. 

The groups ran their businesses from October to December, selling innovative and exciting items including ‘Christmas Treat Baubles’, Pet Stockings, Mobile Phone Charms, Candles with Personalised Messages, Scented Christmas Decorations and so much more!  

The winning team was mentored by Michelle Michael MBE, and raised a phenomenal £1275! Turning £50 into £1275 is incredible achievement and the team should be very proud of not just the personal achievement, but also of how much they have raised for charity. The winning team will be honoured with an award at the prestigious Celebration of Success event in February.  

The grand total raised by all teams was an amazing £6771.75! Since the project began three years ago, this means that our learners have raised a staggering £14,568.28.  

This impressive feat has certainly caught attention, with the strong support of people in Weston. 

Ben Melhuish, Subject Area Manager for Business said: “we are so proud of what our learners have achieved as part of this challenge. Over the course of the challenge, we have seen learners’ grow in confidence, increase their understanding of running a business and build vital skills that will support them throughout their future careers”. 

Ben Whitwell, Creative Director at Benji Graphics and mentor for the project said “my team were very well prepared when we first met, they had a clear plan and roles agreed. I was really impressed with their ambition to run some events to build up their capital to buy stock further into the project. It was a great plan that worked brilliantly. The team took my feedback really well, especially around pricing. As with other Weston College students, they were very respectful of me and my time, but confident enough to ask for favours, which I was happy to help with!” 

Jane Murch, Visitor & Information Services Manager at WSM Town Council said: “What a brilliant team!  From their first presentation through to watching them sell their product, they were such an inspiration.  Creativity – 10/10, business knowledge – 10/10, commitment – 10/10.”  

This project forms part of the Business 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. 

A big thank you must be extended to all of the mentors who generously donated their time and money to help with the Business Enterprise Project. Thanks must also be given to The Sovereign for allowing our learners to utilise the centre retail space.  

To find out more about Business courses, click here!

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Automotive students at Weston College received an exciting visit on the 22nd of January, welcoming RAC to deliver a comprehensive five-session presentation. This was a crucial moment for our Automotive Careers Excellence Hub – a study programme with the aim of providing you with an opportunity to become career ready, helping you achieve your dream career. These sessions introduced the learners to RAC’s world – the opportunities they offer, their missions and even a patrol van to give them an immersive learning experience.

The Automotive students were lucky enough to receive a fascinating insight into its operation and functionality. A highlight of this visit was an interesting Q&A with a RAC apprentice – only three months into their apprenticeship – and a staff member with over 37 years of service! Learners had a feel for the first-hand aspect of RAC and gained valuable advice from the staff that were in various stages of their automotive journeys.

Our facilities and commitment to training impressed RAC, so much so that they expressed how eager they were to create a collaborative partnership! After a tour of the Automotive Department, there were discussions about developing the partnership to potentially include Level 2 apprenticeship cohorts, enabling opportunities for work experience, internships developing into traineeships post-course, and possible mock and real interviews, which includes the RAC entry exam!

This visit is crucial to our Careers Excellence Hubs – an initiative to equip learners with employability skills and tools. This way, our students can embark on their path to success with relevant knowledge and skills, ready to thrive in a professional career!

Weston College looks forward to partnering with the RAC, creating an atmosphere where students can academically soar and equip valuable industry insights to become well-prepared for their promising futures.

You can find out more about our automotive courses by clicking here!

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Our A Level Media and CAD Media students were fortunate enough to have the opportunity to embark on a trip to the BBC Studios in Cardiff, Wales!

With so much to offer at the BBC Studios, the students explored many aspects – one being the exciting future of radio broadcasting and TV. Our students were eager to see one of the largest BBC newsrooms, packed with incredible, cutting-edge technology including augmented reality, virtual reality, and even robotic cameras! Furthermore, the learners could exclusively have a sneak peek at TV galleries and other broadcast facilities, this included viewing state-of-the-art television and radio studios, enabling the students to see (in intricate detail) some of the resources and equipment being used in action.

Our incredible media lecturer, Ethan explained that "It was particularly impactful when the learners were able to speak to the presenters and producers during the tour to see what it takes to work in the industry. At the end of the tour, I've encouraged them to apply for the work experiences available at the BBC for Radio & TV Broadcasting since it expanded their horizons on the potential opportunities."

The students really appreciated the fact that they could explore the studios and really see some of the resources and equipment being used in action. The learners really enjoyed their time at the studios, as it relates to what they’re currently studying as part of the curriculum.

A huge thank you goes to Ethan who arranged the trip and gave the students a day to remember at the studios – overall the trip was a success!

Interested in studying A Level Media? We are looking for individuals who are creative and ready to examine and analyse a wide range of media, whilst applying theoretical knowledge, and understanding its impact. You will study as part of our Sixth Form Careers Excellence Hubs, allowing you to work alongside industry professionals to enhance your career opportunities. This programme is jam-packed with incredible opportunities, from A-list industry experts delivering guest lectures, to even more amazing trips just like this one, helping our learners maintain the highest level of industry-standard knowledge.

To see more of what the A Level Media entails and to apply, click here, if you’re interested in having a look into Creative and Digital Media, click here.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

On the evening of the 24th of January, our incredibly talented music students took to the stage to wow an eager audience in Ye Olde Inne in Westerleigh, Bristol.

Between 8 o’clock and half past ten, four magnificent acts made an appearance – this included Bad Posture, Lilac Sundae, Creative Chaos, The Koppers, Silhouette and Lily.

Lily, singer of the slow pop band Creative Chaos, said “without the audience and support from the other bands, I wouldn’t have been able to play!”. She praised her tutors, stating that her lecturers aided in preparation for the gig – giving her more confidence to perform and overcome her stage fright.

“The gig helped with the performance aspect of our course, it provided us with first hand experience as it included us rehearsing and preparing for the evening”, Charlie from Lilac Sundae explained, “our experience was great! We felt very welcome by the venue owner as he provided us with pizza and refreshments upon our arrival”.

Many of the students described the atmosphere as incredible, as they received a well-deserved overwhelming reaction from their very own audience!

The show wouldn’t have proceeded without the incredible Oz, our music lecturer, so a big thank you to him for an amazing evening!

And finally a huge congratulations to all the learners on their fantastic performances!

For those interested in finding out more about our Music and Creative Arts courses, click here.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Our T level Design, Surveying and Planning in Construction students provided their assistance to the Foodbank Warehouse in Beaufighter Road, Weston-Super-Mare.

The learners began their exciting day with an introduction from Lucy, the Foodbank Warehouse manager. She explained their struggle in the movement of food products around the warehouse and explained how they could use the students help. This meant that the students were fortunate enough to get involved in a real-life project to solve the foodbanks problem!

After being split into three groups and being assigned a task, the students carried out a detailed measurement survey of the entire warehouse – this included the ground floor, welfare and office areas and the first-floor mezzanine structure. Lucy then provided them with her project requirements which involved the budget.

After a day of exciting events, the students returned to the Weson College classroom and eagerly began using a Computer Aided Design software called Revitt. This specialist software enabled the students to draw out the warehouse’s layout, they even had an option of various re-designs which would be costed up!

The T Level learners are eager to meet up again with Lucy to submit their very own designs to her and receive feedback to work upon!

A huge thank you to Lucy and the team at the Foodbank Warehouse for giving our students the opportunity to work on such a fantastic project!

This 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.

If you're interested in finding out more about our T Level Construction courses, click here

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Students, educators, and employers in the education industry gathered at Weston College for a captivating lecture delivered by acclaimed author Greg Bottrill. As a former early years lead and assistant headteacher with extensive experience in the early years sector, Greg Bottrill enlightened attendees on the profound impact of play-based learning on a child’s cognitive and emotional development.

Greg Bottrill, known for his expertise in the Play Projects approach, shared insights into the transformative power of incorporating choice, creativity, collaboration, mark-making, mathematics, joy, invention, and endless possibilities into early years practices. Drawing from his wealth of experience, Greg provided practical strategies for creating dynamic learning environments that stimulate curiosity and independence, emphasizing the pivotal role of play in childhood development.

The evening, attended by Education & Early Years students, alumni, and professionals from various education settings, featured an uplifting and insightful workshop exploring the application of play projects in practice. Attendees were immersed in Greg’s passion for real play, the magic of childhood, and the importance of placing children at the heart of their learning adventure.

Rachel Landen from Keepers Gate Forest School conveyed her enthusiasm, stating, “I took so much away from this event; I was still talking about it when I woke up the next day. All our staff were engaged and excited about how we could implement some of the ideas.”

The Weston College Early Years and Education Careers Excellence Hubs express their gratitude to Greg Bottrill for delivering such a fantastic and enriching lecture. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees underscores the success of the event in inspiring and motivating educators and professionals in the education industry.

Engaging with industry experts and employers forms part of Weston College’s Early Years and Education Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our students' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares students to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.

For those interested in exploring education and early years courses at Weston College, please visit Education and Early Years | Weston College.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Weston College is proud to announce an exciting collaboration with Premier Education, the UK’s No.1 provider of sport and physical activity to primary schools. Representatives from Premier Education visited Weston College to engage with Level 2 and Level 3 Sports learners, offering valuable insights into potential apprenticeships within the sector and outlining clear progression paths beyond their current courses. The visit from Premier Education aimed to inspire and inform our Sports students about the diverse possibilities within the education sector and the potential for rewarding careers.

Weston College has been fostering a close working relationship with Premier Education, which so far has led to three apprentices from the College joining Premier Education. The success of these apprenticeships has fuelled the ambition to further develop this partnership, allowing learners to embark on their journey with Premier Education apprenticeship starting from Level 2 and progressing up to Level 4.

"We are excited about the prospects that our collaboration with Premier Education brings to our learners," said Dan Lomax, Curriculum Coordinator in Sports, and Health at Weston College. "The opportunity for paid work and clear progression paths from Level 2 to Level 4 exemplifies our commitment to providing students with tangible and rewarding career pathways."

Following the engaging sessions with Premier Education representatives, eight enthusiastic learners from Weston College expressed their interest by signing up for the interview process.

Weston College looks forward to further strengthening its partnership with Premier Education, providing students with not just academic knowledge but also real-world experiences that pave the way for successful and fulfilling careers.

This guest lecture from Premier Education forms part of the Sports and Fitness 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 real-world experiences and insights that set them apart in the competitive job markets. It's not just about getting a job; it's about standing out from the crowd when they embark on their job searches.

For further information about Weston College courses, please click here.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Construction company, Hydrock, visited South West Skills Campus last week to engage with learners studying on the T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning in Construction.

The day was packed with activities, which gave learners the opportunity to test their skills with activities like planning a new sustainable town, as well as gain top tips for their future endeavours with CV reviews and mock interviews.

Learners also heard from former T Level learner, and current Hydrock employee, Ben, who inspired the learners with his story – having been sat in that very room just 12 months ago.

Ben spoke about his T Level placement with Hydrock, working 315 hours and managing to gain employment on the back of his course, with a Degree Apprenticeship through University Centre Weston.

Engaging with employers forms part of the Construction Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.

Daniel Comerford, Construction Professions Lecturer at Weston College said: “We were delighted to welcome Hydrock last week, and it was great to see Ben as well.

“Our learners found the whole day really beneficial, and left feeling inspired – which is what the Career Excellence Hub in Construction is all about!”

You can find out about our construction courses, by clicking here.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.

Level 3 Uniformed Public Services students were given a powerful guest lecture from fire officer Rich Welch. Rich was previously an officer in London, who has now transferred to Avon Fire and Rescue.  

While working for London Fire Brigade, Rich attended the Grenfell Tower incident. A part of the lecture was him discussing his experience at this tragedy and how he had worked as part of a large team to combat the fire.  

The level 3 Uniformed Public Services learners are currently covering teamwork and leadership in their classes, making this a perfect session for this area of the course. The guest lecture also tied into the students learning about responding to emergency incidents and the right behaviours to show at an emergency site.  

Lecturer Darren French said: “This was a good session, with plenty of learner engagement and an inspirational story from Rich. A very well received session!”  

This guest speaker forms part of the Public Services 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. 

A big thanks to Rich for coming in and sharing his inspirational story with us. 

To find out more about our Public Services courses click here.

If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College here. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.