News and events

T Levels offer a dynamic combination of practical work experience and classroom study, providing students with a well-rounded education that equips them for the workplace. These qualifications are designed to offer a holistic understanding of a subject while allowing students to develop real-world skills.  

To give prospective students a clearer picture of what to expect from a T Level, we spoke with Greta, a second-year student currently studying a Business, Management, and Leadership T Level. She outlined her views on T Levels, her industry placement, her favourite aspects of the course so far, the challenges she has faced, and a few words for students considering a T Level. 

Greta is completing her industry placement at Occuteach, an occupational training provider, where she has gained hands-on experience in marketing and social media, and has developed a deeper understanding of the company’s values and services. Greta’s role also involves fostering strong relationships with clients, and she recently took on administrative tasks such as managing emails and client communications. 

When asked how Greta found her T Level so far, she explained, “The course has been very informative and engaging, providing me with valuable insights into the business world.”  

Her favourite aspect of the program has been learning how to apply practical business strategies and theories to real-world situations and building networks and industry connections with employers. This practical exposure has improved her confidence and communication skills while giving her a better understanding of the available pathways. 

Greta chose the T Level because of its unique blend of academic learning and workplace experience, saying “I believe this is the best way to prepare for a successful career”. The T Level offers a direct pathway to both employment and further education which provides learners with alternative options for the future if they are unsure what they want to pursue after college. 

While Greta’s T Level experience has been very positive, she has faced some challenges, particularly in finding universities that accept T Levels because they are so newly established. However, she remains optimistic and proactive in overcoming these obstacles and has no doubts that T Levels will continue to grow in popularity. 

For students considering a T Level, Greta wholeheartedly recommends them, emphasising the valuable skills and experiences gained through the program. “It is the perfect mixture of classroom learning and workplace experience and is a fantastic way to gain skills that are directly applicable to the workplace while earning a qualification.” 

Looking back on her experience, Greta concluded, “Overall, my T Level experience has been very rewarding. It has prepared me well for the future.” Her story is a great reflection of the value of T Levels, providing students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in their chosen fields. 

Thank you to Greta for sharing her story, we wish you all the best with the remainder of your T Level. 

If you’re interested in applying to the Business, Management, and Leadership T Level, click here.

Recently, our Level 3 Art and Design students took a trip to London, immersing themselves in the city’s rich artistic history. The visit was designed to broaden their understanding of art and design, offering them a chance to experience first-hand the diversity and creativity displayed in some of London’s museums and galleries. 

The trip consisted of students from both the Level 3 Foundation Diploma and the Year 1 and Year 2 Extended Diploma programs. During their overnight stay, the learners explored museums and galleries such as the Design Museum, the Tate Modern, and the Tate Britain, which displayed a variety of art forms and mediums, allowing the students to appreciate the subjective nature of art and its many interpretations. 

The students also visited Southbank and Westminster to make the most out of their trip and experience the busy city atmosphere and unmissable sights and landmarks. This trip also gave our learners the chance to bond further outside the classroom and provided them with invaluable life skills like navigating through cities, both on foot and using public transport like the tube. 

Rachel Clayton, one of our Art, Graphics, and Fashion lecturers, highlighted the significance of the trip, saying “We run this trip to nourish the cultural elements of the course and to provide inspiration from artists and designers that will inform their creative output.” 

The trip was organised by tutors Rachel Clayton, Kelly Metcalfe, and Ronnie Houselander-Cook, who accompanied the students and ensured a memorable and enriching experience.  

By engaging with art in such a prestigious and dynamic environment, the learners deepened their artistic knowledge and built connections between their work and the art on display which will enhance their creativity and collaboration throughout their studies. 

If you’re interested in applying to one of our Arts, Design, Graphics and Fashion courses, click here. 

Thomas, a former Weston College student, is excelling in the engineering and manufacturing industry. Now working at the National Composites Centre (NCC), Thomas reflects on his journey, from his time at Weston College to being shortlisted for the prestigious Make UK Awards. 

Thomas began his academic journey at Weston College in 2021, pursuing a Level 3 Diploma in Composites Engineering and gaining a solid foundation in the field of advanced materials. Once completed in 2024, Thomas advanced to a Level 4 Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ) apprenticeship with the NCC.  

At the NCC, Thomas has engaged in a variety of projects, shadowing advanced technicians and gaining hands-on experience. Beyond the technical aspects, he has worked with organisations like BBC Bitesize and the Gatsby Charity to promote engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships. 

Thomas’ hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. The National Composites Centre nominated him for the Make UK Awards in the Manufacturing and Engineering category for final-year apprentices. 

To qualify, Thomas compiled a portfolio highlighting his achievements. This was followed by an interview to delve deeper into his apprenticeship experience. Reflecting on the moment he was shortlisted, Thomas said: 

“When I found out I had been shortlisted, I was shocked but very proud. It was validating to see all my hard work and dedication acknowledged. I was also excited to represent my company at the award ceremony.” 

Looking ahead, Thomas plans to continue developing his skills and qualifications. He is currently pursuing a Level 4 apprenticeship and hopes to further enhance his practical expertise in the workshop. His focus is on seizing opportunities for training and expanding his ability to operate advanced equipment and machinery. 

Grateful for the support he received from both Weston College and the NCC, Thomas encourages others to consider apprenticeships: 

“I’m thankful and feel very fortunate to have been surrounded by such supportive people. Apprenticeships create a great environment for learning new skills and exploring different career paths.” 

Thomas’ story is a testament to the power of dedication, education, and the opportunities provided by apprenticeships. As he continues to make strides in his career, he serves as an inspiration for aspiring engineers and technicians. 

We’d like to congratulate Thomas for his hard work, and we wish you all the best in the future. 

If you’re interested in applying for an Engineering Apprenticeship, click here.