<p>The College is proud to announce that Jason Selormey, our Lead Practitioner for ADHD, has been again selected to represent Great Britain in the upcoming American Football European Championship qualifiers. Jason’s journey in international football began when he was just 17, and being chosen to compete on this stage once again is an honour he values deeply.</p><p>When asked how he felt about being selected to represent Great Britain, Jason said, "I felt really proud. I’ve been fortunate enough to compete at the international level since I was 17, and it is always very special for me." His passion for the sport and pride in representing his country remains as strong as ever, even after years of playing at the highest level.</p><p>The upcoming qualifiers will see Jason and his teammates start against some of the toughest competition in Europe. They will play against Sweden in Carlstadt, followed by a home game against Germany in Coventry. Reflecting on the challenge, Jason commented, "Both are really top teams with professional leagues, so we have our work cut out for us, but we’ve prepared well. We’re excited to show what we can do on the international stage."</p><p>For Jason, playing for the national team carries personal significance. "Before I was first selected to the Under 19 programme, I had just lost my mother, so she never got to see me play internationally. Every time I get to play for GB, it feels that much more special. It’s my way of showing her that her youngest son is doing what he loves," he shared. Professionally, this experience also contributes valuable lessons. "It gives me amazing insights into collaboration, personality management, and handling nerves. Whenever I have to deliver a big presentation at work, I always say it feels just like preparing for a big game."</p><p>Jason's role as a Lead Practitioner for ADHD also complements his involvement in sports. "The two are closer than people think," he explained. "Both roles require the ability to adapt to challenges and rely on a high level of emotional intelligence. My job is almost practice for what I do on game day, and vice versa!"</p><p>The College community has rallied behind Jason, offering support in various ways. "I've told my faculty and a few colleagues about it, and they’ve been incredibly supportive. We had a team Kickstarter, and it was heart warming to see people from the College donate. Everyone’s been wishing me luck, and it’s really nice to feel that support."</p><p>As Jason approaches the final two games of his career, he reflects on the incredible journey it’s been. "These will be the last two games of my career. I’ve been playing the sport for half my life, and I’ve been fortunate enough to play it at the professional and international levels. I’m incredibly grateful."</p><p>For those who want to support Jason in his final games, here is a link to his GoFundMe page: <a href="https://gofund.me/0af82db2">Support Jason’s Journey</a>.</p><p><strong>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 </strong><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs"><strong>here</strong></a><strong&gt;. 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.</strong></p>

<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Today we’re celebrating </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; target="_blank">Into Work</a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> student Orlan! He has recently been supported by Weston College to find work at Haven Holiday Park’s Mini Mart, which helps to supply snacks and supplies to holidaymakers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">When applying for the Customer Service Associate position, Orlan also received crucial assistance from his job coaches. Their guidance through the application and interview process helped him feel prepared and reassured, ultimately leading to his successful employment. Orlan said: “The support staff and job coaches at Weston College have helped me with the job process by giving me guidance and showing me how the job and application processes work.”&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">At the Mini Mart, Orlan helps when the shop receives a delivery, as well as sweeping, waste disposal and facing up (pulling items to the front on the shelves). Initially, Orlan faced some nervousness about transitioning from college to the workplace. However, with time and support, he grew more confident and comfortable in his position. The </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; target="_blank">Into Work</a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> program at Weston College played a significant role in this transition. Job coaches Andy and Glen provide consistent support during Orlan’s shifts, helping him navigate his duties and adapt to the work environment.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Orlan’s Tutor Becky praised him saying: “Orlan has made significant progress during his time at college. He has achieved English, Maths and has made huge steps towards preparing for adulthood through becoming an independent traveller and developing excellent communication skills. I have most enjoyed witnessing Orlan recognise the value that employment can bring to his life through engaging with several work experience placements and now thriving in a paid role showcasing his skills and talents. He is a great role model and advocate for young people moving into the workplace.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Orlan’s journey is a testament to the </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; target="_blank">Into Work</a><span style="font-size:inherit;"> program, which is designed to help students with additional needs transition smoothly into the workforce. By providing personalized support and practical guidance, Weston College empowers its students to achieve their career goals and develop greater independence.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:0px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">This supported employment forms part of the Supported Employment 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.&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:16px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">To find out more Orlan’s program, </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; rel="noreferrer noopener" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/send/…; target="_blank">click here</a><span style="font-size:inherit;">!&nbsp;</span></p><p style="margin-bottom:16px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;">&nbsp;</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;SEEH Supported Employment Excellence Hub - SEND&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="27ec90d9-fd2e-455a-85ea-a74f7fba3697" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_650x650&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity>

<div style="float:right;width:50%;"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oqTGkFNRcLU?si=3X3tHv_TzROLSBQN&quot; width="560"></iframe></div><p>Supported internships can be a powerful tool to unlock young people’s potential, and also support employers with attracting a wider talent pool, which can be highly effective.</p><p>Supported internships offer a valuable chance for young individuals aged 16-24 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) to acquire significant work exposure, all under the guidance of a skilled job coach. The job coach works closely with both the individual and the employer, to find a successful match.</p><p>The aim is to support young people into sustainable paid employment, giving them the confidence and skills to work independently.</p><p>They are also a fantastic opportunity for employers, not only to gain extra support, but often young people on supported internships will bring fresh ideas and new approaches, which can be highly beneficial. Through supported internships employers can create a more diverse and inclusive workforce.</p><p>We caught up with a few of our learners, who are on their supported internship, to see how they were getting on:</p>