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 paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{188}" paraid="501734755"><em>“Our NHS and social care staff have showed us time and again – throughout the pandemic and beyond – what it means to work with compassion and dedication to transform lives.” </em></p>
<p class="text-align-right" paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{194}" paraid="902946560">- Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{201}" paraid="1849525673"> </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{201}" paraid="1849525673">The opportunities in the Healthcare profession are almost entirely endless, and here at Weston College we think pursuing a career in Health is a great choice! </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{207}" paraid="2106792276">Read on to find out our top 5 reasons why. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{213}" paraid="18606834"> </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{213}" paraid="18606834"><strong>1. Job Satisfaction: Making a difference </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{220}" paraid="881279958">9 times out of 10 the biggest lure to a career in Health is the immense impact you have on people’s lives on a daily basis. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{226}" paraid="1727397476">As our new Health and Social Care Secretary, Steve Barclay explains, working in the health sector means having the ability to positively impact and transform the lives of those in your care. Whether working as a Nurse, Midwife, Paramedic or Home Carer your role is infinitely significant to every single patient who’s path you cross; YOU can make a difference. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{234}" paraid="425065479">Often your role will encompass even more than that too, with opportunities to interact and provide support for the patient’s family members and loved ones. </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{240}" paraid="1229716862">You may be thinking ‘how does this apply to roles that aren’t patient-facing?’ Remember, every role in the Health industry has a monumental impact on a patient’s life and wellbeing. For example, chefs and cleaners are integral to creating a healthy and happy environment to ensure the patient’s comfort and state of mind is at optimum. Every role is important in healthcare! </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{240}" paraid="1229716862"> </p>
<p paraeid="{f2e88f67-a2c9-4b63-9f43-de33315451d0}{240}" paraid="1229716862"><strong>2. A Growing Industry </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{16}" paraid="1905624719">The NHS is one of the biggest employers in Europe - employing just over 1.4 million people for a wide range of roles including <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/health-and-soc…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Laboratory Technicians</a>, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/health-and-soc…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Senior Healthcare Support Workers</a> and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/health-and-soc…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Nursing Associates.</a> No matter what level or area of interest, there is a role for you! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{43}" paraid="1118593593">Health Secretary, Steve Barclay, says “this government is investing more than ever before in our NHS and care services to beat the COVID-19 backlogs, recruit 50,000 more nurses, reform social care and ensure patients across the country can access the care they need.” The rapid growth and work abundancy in this sector means you will always be in high demand, so you can enjoy excellent job security! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{59}" paraid="1247539438">Click the links above to find out more about these roles and the opportunities available in Health at Weston College. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{65}" paraid="349260546">Alternatively, take a look at our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">T level,</a> <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">BTEC Extended diploma</a> and <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/subject/counselling-and-healthcare/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">degree-level</a> pathways into the health industry to find the right fit for you! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{104}" paraid="2108146206"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{104}" paraid="2108146206"><strong>3. Working with People </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{111}" paraid="751457904">If you’re someone that excels in social environments, Health is a perfect industry for you – with teamwork being one of the most integral parts of the job. Working in the Health sector means being part of a huge, intertwining community with care and support at its core and positivity flowing throughout! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{111}" paraid="751457904"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{111}" paraid="751457904"><strong>4. Pays and Benefits </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{139}" paraid="556749061">The Healthcare profession offers a variety of perks. According to <a href="https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/working-health/working-nhs/nhs-pay-and…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">NHS pay and benefits</a> the NHS has one of the most generous pension schemes on offer and as an NHS employee, you’ll have unique access to a health service discounts scheme too. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{154}" paraid="1019574394">Alternatively, you may decide to work for a private healthcare provider – many of which generously offer free life insurance, health screenings and training as part of their employment packages. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{160}" paraid="925752513">In addition to this, you can also enjoy the benefit of a flexible work schedule and generous holiday allowance for most roles. </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{160}" paraid="925752513"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{160}" paraid="925752513"><strong>5. You can Live Anywhere </strong></p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{175}" paraid="248717138">Finally, another reason pursuing a career in Health is a great choice, this profession allows you to live and work anywhere! Interested in travel or living abroad? Working in health means they’ll always be a job for you no matter where you go! </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{181}" paraid="810411340"> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{185}" paraid="1429112356">If these 5 reasons left you feeling excited about your future in Health, find out more about all of pathways available at Weston College <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/healt…; rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">here!</a> </p>
<p paraeid="{8594dbfc-416e-4524-84bb-94e0b7642eb9}{194}" paraid="885891958">To find out about Higher Education opportunities in health at UCW <a href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/subject/counselling-and-healthcare/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">click here.</a> </p>
<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{3a859296-bbd8-47a1-8827-479f742450cc}{123}" paraid="2098962334" xml:lang="EN-GB">Level 3 Automotive apprentice Luke Merchant has been recognised with an award from the Institute of Motors Industry</p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{3a859296-bbd8-47a1-8827-479f742450cc}{123}" paraid="2098962334" xml:lang="EN-GB">(IMI) for his outstanding success as a WorldSkills Silver Medallist as he now accelerates into his career working as a Vehicle Technician with Mercedes! </p><drupal-entity alt=""Luke Merchant motor vehicle apprentice with award"" data-align="right" data-langcode="en" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="97bf7b57-b25b-4007-85e7-a0942fa7e855" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_500x500","image_link":""}"> </drupal-entity><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{9b187397-97b1-478e-8532-22a485128119}{72}" paraid="1208974252" xml:lang="EN-GB">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. </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{b5bfa74a-dd01-4c35-8cb9-6d397b51fbf2}{147}" paraid="632116090" xml:lang="EN-GB">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. </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{b5bfa74a-dd01-4c35-8cb9-6d397b51fbf2}{232}" paraid="1715772793" xml:lang="EN-GB">Luke states: "Working for Mercedes has been great so far. I am really enjoying getting to know all their systems and processes. </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{b5bfa74a-dd01-4c35-8cb9-6d397b51fbf2}{105}" paraid="482070947" xml:lang="EN-GB">“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." </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{15eef8b7-d2b9-4f3a-9638-0414344bb4d4}{80}" paraid="2092104593" xml:lang="EN-GB">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! </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{229a9fec-0eed-4076-ac0c-e3c9582474b4}{102}" paraid="1159978829" xml:lang="EN-GB">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.” </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{15eef8b7-d2b9-4f3a-9638-0414344bb4d4}{136}" paraid="654450139" xml:lang="EN-GB">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! </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{85bb760a-469c-44e0-94a9-1b461a6001a1}{194}" paraid="972418085" xml:lang="EN-GB">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.” </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{15eef8b7-d2b9-4f3a-9638-0414344bb4d4}{164}" paraid="975241476" xml:lang="EN-GB">“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." </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{7c81eb9c-5810-4ffa-88f2-cf011e6eb9ce}{245}" paraid="1882477818" xml:lang="EN-GB">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. </p><p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{b34342ef-d8d5-49a8-a368-66df3e6737c7}{152}" paraid="661974729" xml:lang="EN-GB">Congratulations Luke! </p>
<p>In partnership with Avon Fire and Rescue (AF&RS), Weston College has launched the Operational Fire Fighter apprenticeship.</p><p>The new programme launched in January, with 24 people training to become fire fighters, at Severn Park in Avonmouth.</p><p>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.</p><p>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.</p><p>“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.</p><p>“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.</p><p>“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.”</p><p>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.</p><p>“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 – <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/event/apprenticeship-open-evening-0">register here</a>.”</p><p>You can contact Weston College’s apprenticeship team on 01934 411 594, or email apprenticeships@weston.ac.uk</p>
