APPRENTICESHIPS
Apprenticeships are a great way to earn while you learn, either entering a new industry of your choosing, or upskilling in your chosen area to progress.
Begin your journey into your dream career, whether that be with a traineeship or an apprenticeship, we can help you get your foot in the door with an exciting organisation.
Believe that you can make it to the very top, through your very own personalised approach to learning.
Become a leader in your field! Apprenticeships are a fantastic way of rising the ranks, they offer clear progression routes, and you can even gain degrees through apprenticeships.
At Weston College we are here to support you throughout the whole apprenticeship process, from how to write a CV, to interview tips, we’re here to support you.
Speak to our team about apprenticeships! Our dedicated team are here to support you through the apprenticeship journey.
Click here to book a 1:1 session with themBEGIN YOUR JOURNEY INTO AN EXCITING INDUSTRY
How My Apprenticeship Has Benefited Me
Hi, I’m Georgia, an apprentice at Weston College.
I started my Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship in May 2021 working in the Employment Services Department. It has been such a fantastic experience for me, and I have actually already received a promotion as an Account Co-ordinator within the West of England Works Team – whilst still completing my apprenticeship.
I didn’t start an apprenticeship fresh out of school or college, I was actually working in a full-time, permanent position, however I felt I wanted to gain a qualification whilst continuing to earn a wage. It was at this point I looked down the apprenticeship route.
After researching further into the different apprenticeship routes available, I decided that the Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship was perfect for me. I feel that an apprenticeship gives you the perfect balance between work and study and this is just what I was after.
My apprenticeship has provided me with so many opportunities, and it has really helped me to develop a number of key skills, which will benefit me in my career.
One of the biggest skills I was able to learn and improve during my apprenticeship was my Digital Skills. I had the opportunity to complete my Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel Certifications and I was able to earn the Microsoft Office Specialist: Associate Level Certification.
My apprenticeship has also helped me gain confidence in communicating with external stakeholders, as I have built the skills which enable me to communicate professionally and confidently. This has really benefited me in my new role, as I am required to communicate regularly with the external partners from the West of England Works Project.
If you’re reading this and considering an apprenticeship, you should definitely go for it! It will open new doors to you, and give you many transferable skills which will help you to achieve your career goals.
Not only that, the support available is second to none. I have received support from my assessor, manager and colleagues, which has meant that the whole process of my apprenticeship has been smooth and manageable.
Thanks to my apprenticeship, I have been able to start my career and I am excited to see what the future holds for me.
Georgia Stanbridge, Account Co-ordinator within the West of England Works Team
Apprentice Turned Mercedes Technician: Luke Recognised for WorldSkills Win
Level 3 Motor Vehicle 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.
NOT QUITE READY FOR AN APPRENTICESHIP?
If you’re not quite ready for an apprenticeship, we have many pre-apprenticeship opportunities on offer.
WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT STUDYING AN APPRENTICESHIP?
Book onto a 1:1 session with our Apprenticeship Team to discover if an apprenticeship is right for you!
LATEST NEWS
<p><strong>Earn while you learn, at global engineering organisation, GKN Aerospace.</strong></p>
<p>We have teamed up with GKN Aerospace to offer 23 vacancies, with roles including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Aerospace Engineer Degree Apprentice</li>
<li>Engineering Production Apprentice</li>
<li>Engineering Maintenance Technician Apprentice</li>
<li>Engineering Technical Support Technician Apprentice.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/apprenticeships-gkn#weston-paragraph-ec-form">… YOUR APPLICATION HERE</a></p>
<p>GKN Aerospace design, manufacture and service systems and components for manufacturers around the world. This opportunity will give you the chance to not only gain a qualification but also get experience from some of the best engineers in the country.</p>
<p>This exclusive apprenticeship programme starts in September 2024 and will allow you to be in paid employment from as young as 16 year old, whilst also studying towards one of three professional and recognised engineering qualifications.</p>
<p>As a GKN Apprentice your time will be split between the real-world production facilities (Filton) or Western Approach (Bristol) and Weston College’s engineering campus on Locking Road (Weston-super-Mare). </p>
<p>It's easy to apply, fill in the form below and we will be in touch to discuss your application, answer any questions and support you with your next steps.</p>
<p><strong>The closing date for applications is 23rd February 2024, which will be followed by an initial assessment for successful candidates. </strong></p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Meet Jess from VADO! Jess completed her <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/leadership-and-management">Leadership and Management Apprenticeship</a> with Weston College and received top honours at the Weston College Business Awards. She was named Leadership and Management Apprentice of the Year and Overall Apprentice of the Year. Learn more about her story below...</p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">"I really enjoyed my apprenticeship journey; it opened a world of opportunities to me. The modules were broken down clearly and this made it manageable. Once I had set up a structure to how I would complete each module I could really commit and throw myself into it! The whole experience was a highlight, even modules that I did not think I would enjoy as much actually turned out to be some of my favourites, I love to learn and understand, and this apprenticeship was right up my street.</p>
<p>The knowledge and skills I gained during my apprenticeship were transformative, both personally and professionally. I delved deep into the nuances of being a manager, understanding the various facets of leadership, and mastering the art of emotional intelligence. These newfound skills didn’t just stay confined to my coursework; they became an integral part of my managerial approach. </p>
<p>I applied these skills to navigate complex situations, manage change effectively, and foster a positive work environment. The project management skills I acquired proved instrumental, especially when I transitioned to a new team. Every lesson learned, every theory grasped, and every skill acquired became a stepping stone, propelling me toward my goal of senior management within VADO. I was promoted at the end of my course and the skills I developed have helped me make this transition, I am still learning but it has given me a great foundation overall to make that step further and continue to develop. </p>
<p>Balancing work and study was undoubtedly challenging at first however, with time and determination, I discovered a rhythm that worked seamlessly for me. Having a supportive network made this balancing act much easier. The unwavering support from my manager, Michelle, and my tutor, Greg, played a pivotal role in shaping my learning experience. Michelle’s hands-on approach and dedication, coupled with Greg’s mentorship, guided me through the intricacies of the course. Their understanding and encouragement allowed me the time and space I needed to excel in both my work and studies. </p>
<p>I was incredibly fortunate and humbled to be nominated for Apprentice of the Year at the Weston College Business Awards. Winning the award was beyond my wildest dreams! I owe this achievement to the incredible people around me at VADO and Weston College. To be recognised as the overall learner of the year left me speechless.</p>
<p>Reflecting on my journey, my advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship is simple: go for it! The knowledge and confidence I have gained on this journey have been amazing. This experience has not only helped me build great relationships within VADO but has also opened doors to endless possibilities. Weston College made the entire experience easy, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity."</p>
<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/leadership-and-management">If you're interested in the leadership & management opportunities available at Weston College, click here!</a></p>
<p>Hey! I'm Maisy, and I recently completed my Digital Marketing Level 3 apprenticeship with Weston College, working for Visit Somerset.</p>
<p>After completing my apprenticeship in March, I was offered the role of Social Media Manager at Visit Somerset, which wouldn’t have been possible without my apprenticeship.</p>
<p>Let me take you through my apprenticeship journey, the highs, the lessons learned, and the growth I've experienced along the way.</p>
<p><strong>Choosing the Apprenticeship Path</strong></p>
<p>Why did I choose an apprenticeship? Simply put, I wanted to learn by doing. I've never been the most academically inclined, so the idea of working on the job while learning was the perfect balance for me. It allowed me to reach my full potential without the pressures of traditional education.</p>
<p><strong>Gaining Unique Skills</strong></p>
<p>One of the most significant benefits of my apprenticeship was developing my interpersonal skills. I had the chance to interact with customers and partners regularly, which boosted my confidence and communication abilities.</p>
<p><strong>Memorable Moments at Visit Somerset</strong></p>
<p>The highlight of my journey with Visit Somerset was an unforgettable trip to Noah's Ark Zoo.</p>
<p>There, I got to try out new animal experiences and help with filming and social media promotion. Feeding lions, bears, and armadillos was an experience of a lifetime that I'll cherish forever.</p>
<p><strong>A Special Project: 'Dog-Friendly Somerset'</strong></p>
<p>One project that's very close to my heart is 'Dog-Friendly Somerset.' I took it upon myself to showcase how pet-friendly our region is by creating a video at The Eastbury Hotel. The project was a massive success and continues to thrive.</p>
<p><strong>Support from Weston College</strong></p>
<p>I can't emphasise enough the support I received from Weston College during my apprenticeship.</p>
<p>My assessor was exceptional. She guided me, ensured I stayed on track, and relieved any worries about deadlines.</p>
<p><strong>Advice for Future Apprentices</strong></p>
<p>If you're considering an apprenticeship, my advice is simple: go for it!</p>
<p>You'll learn, grow, and get paid for doing what you love. I emerged from my apprenticeship more confident and equipped with skills I wouldn't have gained in a traditional job.</p>
<p>My journey from an apprentice to a Social Media Manager has been incredible. It's shown me the power of hands-on learning and the endless opportunities that come with it. So, whether you're starting your apprenticeship journey or just curious about it, remember that it could be the key to unlocking your full potential, just as it did for me.</p>
<p><em>Maisy, Social Media Manager, Visit Somerset</em></p>
<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/apprenticeships?utm_source=ma… you’d like to follow in Maisy’s footsteps and become an apprentice, you can do so by clicking here.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/30DayChallenge?utm_source=main-menu&utm_me… you’re an employer that would like to recruit talented new staff through apprenticeships, you can do so by clicking here.</a></p>
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