Programmes for School Leavers
Courses for 16 to 18-year-olds
COURSES FOR SCHOOL LEAVERS
With hundreds of unique, exciting and inspiring programmes to choose from, everything you need to create your brighter future is waiting for you at Weston College.
From the minute you walk through the door, the experience and the environment that we create is all about maximising your potential. It’s about preparing and motivating you for a fresh and focused career pathway.
Every Weston College student becomes part of one of our exciting new Career Excellence Hubs. This means you will take part in a study programme with lots of career boosting benefits, all with the aim of help you to go further, giving you the opportunity to become career ready with the skills, knowledge and expertise you need to be successful in your next step and reach your ultimate goal - whatever that may be!
Whether you are looking for the next step after school or the next step in your career, we're bound to have a programme for you. Take a look below at the different types of qualifications available for school leavers and young people between 16 and 18 years old.
Did you know we also run English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)?
Start your brighter future by selecting a subject you're interested in below, and don't forget - you can apply online and it only takes 5 minutes!
Discover our range of courses for school leavers aged 16-18 using the search options below...
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Qualifications Explained
At Weston College we know that everyone learns differently. That’s why we deliver a variety of different qualification types - to give you the chance to learn in the way that suits you the most.
A Levels
A Levels develop the knowledge, skills and study habits to excel at university, as well as the attributes recognised by employers. Your academic studies will be complemented with enrichment opportunities such as trips, mentoring and work experience, providing the perfect springboard for your future career. A Levels are assessed through exams at the end of two years of study. Most learners study three subjects - some choose four.
Apprenticeships
With an apprenticeship you’ll go straight into the workplace and be shown clear routes to progress straight into employment within a specific occupation. You can achieve nationally recognised qualifications, earn a wage, and gain skills that will see you get ahead. On average you will spend 20% of your learning time in the college and 80% within the workplace..
Professional and Technical Qualifications
Professional and technical qualifications are designed to provide you with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to gain employment within specific industries or occupations. They provide a balance between theory and practical skills development. They are suited to those who want to get hands-on experience within a particular vocational area. These programmes include work placements. Assessment is more varied and will include exams, coursework and practical work.
Traineeships
Traineeships are a great way for 16 to 24-year-olds who haven’t yet gained the skills and experiences necessary to apply for jobs and apprenticeships. They are taught mostly in the workplace and include a mixture of personal and social development, and employability skills. The aim of a traineeship is to train you within a company so that you are more likely to be offered an apprenticeship or a job.
T Levels give you the chance to learn what a real career is like while you continue your studies. T Levels have been designed with leading businesses and employers to give you the knowledge and skills you need, including a minimum of 45 days on an industry placement – this means you will spend 80% of your learning time in College and 20% within the workplace.
CHOOSING WHAT TO STUDY
We are all about CAREERS NOT COURSES and pride ourselves on being able to offer a huge range of programmes to ensure you develop the skills and knowledge employers and universities are looking for. As the only education provider in North Somerset that enables you to work your way up from an entrylevel programme to a degree, we’re here to help you choose the right programme for you.
We can help you choose your study programme or apprenticeship by accessing the following support:
School Liaison Team
Working with local schools we help you find out about college life and programmes of study, and we provide you with advice and guidance about what programmes will best suit you. We will either visit your school, attend careers fairs and parents’ evenings or coordinate campus and virtual events such as our taster days, holiday workshops and tours.
Events
We put on a number of events over the year, which will be a mixture of face-to-face and virtual events. These provide you and your family with the opportunity to explore our facilities, speak to our lecturers, find out about the support on offer and choose the right programme for you. Our events also give you the opportunity to engage with a number of employers to find out about careers in their industry and why they value the calibre of candidates that come from Weston College.
CAREERS ADVICE
- On our website you can access a wealth of career guidance, such as:
- All the programmes you can study.
- What our alumni have gone on to achieve.
- Labour Market Intelligence (LMI) that will help explain what relevant careers and jobs are available, including salaries.
- NEW – Subject careers roadmaps, so you can map your journey with us and ensure it will get you into your chosen career. Also, check out Career Coach - this provides you with the opportunity to:
- Take an assessment that matches you with careers.
- Explore broad career pathways that match your strengths and interests.
- Compare careers within a pathway - including salaries, required education and more.
- Explore our programmes that will set you on the path to your desired career.
- Take a career assessment - and receive an in-depth report that can help you identify the best programme and career path for you!
We’re here and happy to help – if you would like more advice and guidance, contact our school liaison team by emailing schoolteam@weston.ac.uk. - they you can arrange a one-to-one careers appointment with our specialist staff.
LATEST NEWS
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Our Performing Arts learners recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to the heart of London, immersing themselves in the vibrant world of professional theatre. The trip proved to be an invaluable experience, encouraging independence, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the theatrical craft among the students. </p><drupal-entity alt=""Performing arts students posing in London"" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="65729931-955b-4cd6-81e5-6b54a534c943" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_750x750","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity><p> </p><p>Students from both Level 2 and Level 3 Performing Arts programs, spanning pathways of Musical Theatre, Dance, and Acting, were treated to a mesmerizing performance of the renowned musical Back to The Future at the prestigious Adelphi Theatre in London's West End. Witnessing the magic of live theatre first-hand, the learners were inspired by the production's excellence, igniting a passion to excel further in their training. </p><p> </p><drupal-entity alt=""The empty performance stage of Back to the Future in London"" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b0aa3443-0b04-4b42-bb7f-1e73fef4cef5" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_750x750","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity><p> </p><p>"This new and exciting musical gave our learners the opportunity to experience a professional production and inspire them to continue working hard in their training" remarked Joe Miller, Lecturer in Performing Arts at Weston College. "This also gave students the opportunity to further their skills in professional etiquette and witness professionals at their best. " </p><p>Following the show, the learners spent a night in London, preparing for an equally thrilling day ahead. The itinerary included a spine-chilling visit to the London Dungeons, offering both entertainment and educational value. Here, students had the unique opportunity to observe live actors up close, acquiring their improvisation skills and learning from seasoned professionals in an immersive environment. </p><p> </p><drupal-entity alt=""Performing arts student posing in front of the Thames with the Big Ben in the background"" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7f5a0a5-667e-41a4-bdc2-1ba114a4603d" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_750x750","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity><p> </p><p>The adventure continued with a ride on the iconic London Eye, providing breath-taking views of the city skyline. Additionally, students were granted free time to explore London independently, to take in all the sights and see iconic landmarks. </p><p>"Overall, the trip was a huge success and allowed all our learners to build on their skills, build their confidence and experience professionals working in the theatre industry”, Joe added. </p><p>The London theatrical adventure not only enriched the students' academic pursuits but also served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. As they return to Weston College, these budding performers carry with them memories and lessons that will undoubtedly shape their future endeavours in the performing arts. </p><p> </p><drupal-entity alt="""Joe Miller - our performing arts lecturer - posing with performing art students at night in London" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="587be92d-e743-4049-984b-d96384ffa52d" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{"image_style":"max_750x750","image_link":"","image_loading":{"attribute":"lazy"}}"> </drupal-entity><p> </p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">This journey to London forms part of the Creative Arts 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. </p><p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">To find out more about our Creative Arts courses, please <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/creative-arts-and-design-cour… here</a>.</p>
<p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Last week we were extremely pleased to welcome Iain ‘Robbo’ Robertson to our Loxton Campus for an exciting guest lecture. Iain has years of experience in the music industry, allowing him to give students a direct insight into the music industry and how it works. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Iain worked as a Tour Manager, a key role in the music industry which means looking after all of the musicians and crew while on the road. This role includes communicating with concert producers and venues to coordinate sound check and set times. On top of this, a Tour Manager will often look after the band's hospitality needs and ensure that the artist's rider requests are met. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Some of the artists that Iain has managed tours for include Gary Moore, BB King, Spandau Ballet, Sisters of Mercy and even Oasis! He is now Managing our very own alumni Alex Lipinski who a rising star on the Music scene! Iain was able to give learners knowledge, insights and tell riveting stories about tour management. This helped our learners to learn the realities of an ever changing, fascinating and wonderful industry. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">Oz Cahill, one of the music instructors at Weston College organised the guest lecture and had this to say: “One of the most important and valuable opportunities for our learners is to connect with genuine industry professionals. It was a real privilege to have Iain Robertson, an Industry Legend, give us his time in the Music Department of Weston College.” </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">This guest speaker forms part of the Creative Arts 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 the real-world experiences and insights that set them apart in the competitive job market. It's not just about getting a job; it's about standing out from the crowd when they embark on their job searches. </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">A huge thanks to Iain for coming in and supporting our students! </span></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span style="font-size:inherit;">To find out more about music at Weston College, </span><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music "><span style="font-size:inherit;">click here.</span></a></p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"> </p><p style="margin-bottom:8px;margin-left:0;margin-top:0px;"><span class="ui-provider a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr"><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></span><a class="fui-Link ___1rxvrpe f2hkw1w f3rmtva f1ewtqcl fyind8e f1k6fduh f1w7gpdv fk6fouc fjoy568 figsok6 f1hu3pq6 f11qmguv f19f4twv f1tyq0we f1g0x7ka fhxju0i f1qch9an f1cnd47f fqv5qza f1vmzxwi f1o700av f13mvf36 f1cmlufx f9n3di6 f1ids18y f1tx3yz7 f1deo86v f1eh06m1 f1iescvh fhgqx19 f1olyrje f1p93eir f1nev41a f1h8hb77 f1lqvz6u f10aw75t fsle3fq f17ae5zn" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&utm_medium=main-…; aria-label="Link here" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank" title="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&utm_medium=main-… class="ui-provider a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr"><strong>here</strong></span></a><span class="ui-provider a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z ab ac ae af ag ah ai aj ak" dir="ltr"><strong>. 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></span></p>
<p>Learners studying Level 2 and 3 courses part of our Career Excellence Hub in Hair and Beauty, embarked on a thrilling trip last week to Beauty Rooms Medi Spa, where they had the opportunity to see a health spa in action.</p><p> </p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%286%29.jpg" data-align="center" data-entity-uuid="cd93a6cb-10b8-4ea8-b761-4051c26afbc2" data-entity-type="file" alt="Learners listening to a session on merchandising in a spa" width="717" height="516"><p> </p><p>Guided by Amanda from Beauty Rooms Medi Spa, our learners were treated to a tour of the spa, and were also able to gain hands-on experience with Caci and Guinot machines, as well as discovering all about franchising opportunities.</p><p> </p><img src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%287%29.jpg" data-align="center" data-entity-uuid="deb747c4-56d1-49e4-a4bb-dffc5be8e245" data-entity-type="file" alt="Learners gaining insight from Amanda" width="710" height="517"><p> </p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Divisional Lead for Service Sectors at Weston College, said: “It was fantastic for our learners to be able to visit Beauty Rooms Medi Spa.</p><p>“The feedback from learners has been overwhelmingly positive, with several expressing how they feel more motivated since visiting the spa.</p><p>“At Weston College we are all about careers, and not courses, and this is the perfect example of our Career Excellence Hub in action. A big thank you to Amanda for the tour, we look forward to working closely with you over the coming months.”</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… out more about our Beauty courses, by clicking here.</a></p>
