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 paraeid="{54e5d16c-2788-4a71-8ddd-c05caec4fcfb}{168}" paraid="614534218">As the academic year drew to a close, the talented <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</a> students of Weston College took the stage by storm with their mesmerising performance of Willy Russel's critically acclaimed play, Blood Brothers. The enthralling production left the audience in awe and admiration, proving once again that the performing arts program at Weston College is a breeding ground for exceptional talent. </p>
<p paraeid="{54e5d16c-2788-4a71-8ddd-c05caec4fcfb}{190}" paraid="1055828070">Blood Brothers delves into the gripping tale of two brothers, tragically separated at birth and raised in vastly different circumstances. As fate brings them together once more, their lives intertwine, leading to a shocking and dramatic conclusion. Under the brilliant direction of Fiona Philip and Lisa Frost, the students brilliantly captured the essence of this powerful story, allowing the audience to be transported to the gritty streets of Liverpool. </p>
<p paraeid="{54e5d16c-2788-4a71-8ddd-c05caec4fcfb}{200}" paraid="939103112">For the aspiring performers, this production was more than just a show; it was an opportunity to experience the dynamics of a professional working environment. The dedication and hard work put in by the cast and crew was evident in every scene. Their commitment to their craft and their passion for the art of storytelling shone brightly on the stage. </p>
<p paraeid="{54e5d16c-2788-4a71-8ddd-c05caec4fcfb}{212}" paraid="339455861">Elissa, a Level Three Performing Arts student who took on the pivotal role of Mrs. Johnstone, emphasised the importance of having fun during the rehearsal process. In her words, "creating fun warmups and exercises allows the cast to enjoy the shows as they get to connect further with each other away from the stress." Such camaraderie amongst the students fostered a positive and encouraging atmosphere, enhancing the overall performance. </p>
<p paraeid="{54e5d16c-2788-4a71-8ddd-c05caec4fcfb}{222}" paraid="480295714">Moreover, participating in such a significant production was a transformative experience for the students. Elissa expressed how the role helped boost her self-confidence and pushed her beyond her comfort zone. "I had the opportunity to do what I thought was unthinkable," she remarked. </p>
<p paraeid="{c3bac3a8-998d-4faf-ad60-f39fb4dae8d3}{143}" paraid="1523784704">Congratulations to all the performing arts learners for their incredible show! </p>
<p paraeid="{54e5d16c-2788-4a71-8ddd-c05caec4fcfb}{232}" paraid="1582794661">The performing arts courses at Weston College are a nurturing platform for individuals with a passion for the stage. They equips students with the skills and knowledge essential to pursue further studies or a career in the performing arts industry. Situated at Knightstone Campus, these well-rounded programmes offer exciting opportunities for students to audition and participate in full-scale productions like this unforgettable rendition of Blood Brothers. </p>
<p lang="EN-GB" paraeid="{ec442b6a-ef34-45a4-801e-3280731b91bf}{128}" paraid="502033396" xml:lang="EN-GB">To find out more, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… here</a>. </p>
<p paraeid="{71a42b69-4c90-4e76-b625-9e0a3dd43dbe}{173}" paraid="1153868447">In a spectacular display of talent and dedication, the <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… Arts</a> students at Weston College brought the glitz and glamour of the 1920s to life with their electrifying performance of the iconic musical, Chicago. As one of their highly anticipated end-of-year productions in June, the students poured their hearts and souls into perfecting the show, leaving the audience spellbound and in awe of their remarkable abilities. </p>
<p paraeid="{71a42b69-4c90-4e76-b625-9e0a3dd43dbe}{179}" paraid="83387724">Chicago, originally written by Bob Fosse and Fred Ebb, and adapted for the theatre by David Thompson, is a tantalising exploration of fame, justice, and the media machine, all against the backdrop of real-life murders. With its complex characters and intricate plot, the musical provided an excellent opportunity for the learners to delve into new performance styles and techniques, challenging them to push past their limits. </p>
<p paraeid="{71a42b69-4c90-4e76-b625-9e0a3dd43dbe}{197}" paraid="431952009">Sophie, who skilfully portrayed the lead role of Roxie, expressed her enthusiasm for the production. "The shows themselves were the highlight of my college journey so far," she said, "and were of a high professional standard which gave the students a taste of what the professional industry looked like." This experience not only allowed the students to showcase their talent but also provided a glimpse into the standards of a professional performance. </p>
<p paraeid="{71a42b69-4c90-4e76-b625-9e0a3dd43dbe}{219}" paraid="347273313">The ambitious production was brought to life under the expert guidance of the college's own lecturers, Lisa Frost and Joe Miller, who served as directors and choreographers. Working tirelessly alongside the students, they ensured that every aspect of the show exuded excellence. Blayke, who mesmerised the audience with her portrayal of Velma, shared, "The shows gave us an opportunity to see how a professional show runs both in the final performance and rehearsals." The students were in awe of the amazing choreography and direction provided by their lecturers, inspiring them to further develop their skills and strive for the best show possible. </p>
<p paraeid="{71a42b69-4c90-4e76-b625-9e0a3dd43dbe}{231}" paraid="1184041399">Katie, who also brilliantly embodied the role of Roxie, spoke of the personal growth she experienced throughout the process. "I have gained a lot more confidence in myself since Chicago and have found myself improving on weaknesses," she revealed. This transformative journey was a testament to the power of performing arts education, nurturing not only their artistic abilities but also their self-belief and resilience. </p>
<p paraeid="{71a42b69-4c90-4e76-b625-9e0a3dd43dbe}{241}" paraid="745000130">The performing arts course at Weston College offers a gateway to the world of stage performance, equipping students with the skills and knowledge to pursue further studies or a career in the performing arts industry. Located at Knightstone Campus, the program annually presents aspiring performers with the opportunity to audition and take center stage in full-scale productions, much like the mesmerising rendition of Chicago. </p>
<p paraeid="{43dab15c-9a4e-42bc-b480-52ef47ecf87a}{4}" paraid="1582794661">Chicago was nothing short of extraordinary. Their hard work, passion, and dedication were evident in every scene, as they transported the audience back in time to the roaring twenties. Congratulations to all the performing arts students for their incredible show! Their collective talent and commitment to their craft serve as a shining example of the remarkable opportunities and experiences that await those who pursue their passion in the performing arts at Weston College. </p>
<p paraeid="{43dab15c-9a4e-42bc-b480-52ef47ecf87a}{4}" paraid="1582794661">To find out more, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/perfo… here</a>.</p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Weston College are delighted to announce that <a href="https://www.somersetfa.com/">Somerset Football Association</a> are joining the Sports & Fitness Careers Excellence Hub for the 2023/24 academic year. The College, which offers <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… & Fitness</a> courses including BTEC Fitness and Sports Exercise Science, Apprenticeships and Higher Technical Qualifications in Community Coaching, has award-winning <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/career-excellence-hubs">Careers Excellence Hubs</a> for each faculty subject area across the College with several industry partnerships in place. The purpose of Careers Excellence Hubs, which is part of the College’s ‘Making Careers Everybody’s Business' strategy, is for curriculum areas to work closely with employers to highlight the breadth of careers available, offer work placements, develop the skills of learners beyond the qualification they are studying, supporting their progression to higher education and employment.</p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Somerset FA are the not-for-profit body responsible for the development and governance of grassroots football in Somerset since 1885. They work closely with the national Football Association to ensure national strategies are implemented in our region, alongside a vital role in football administration and governance.</p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">David Crew, Head of Business Growth & Employer Partnerships commented “Somerset FA share our passion for encouraging participation in sport at all levels, and we share a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to play football. Weston College, through our Careers Excellence Hubs, are building collaborative employer partnerships aligned to our curriculum areas, creating a high-quality learner experience at our College and learners ready to progress to employment and higher education when they complete their course. We’re looking forward to having Somerset FA part of our employer community.”</p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Jon Pike, Chief Executive of Somerset Football Association commented “Somerset FA are looking forward to working with Weston College to inspire and create opportunities for their students, partnering with their Sports & Fitness Careers Excellence Hub. As the governing body for football in the region commented to the development of grassroots football, we share Weston College’s passion for increasing participation in football and its approach to inclusivity, and we look forward to supporting the students by highlighting the breadth of careers in football.”</p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">To view our sports courses <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/sport… here</a>. Employers looking to work with Weston College can email <a href="mailto:employers@weston.ac.uk">employers@weston.ac.uk</a></p>
