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>Weston College is delighted to announce its partnership with <a href="https://rotamec.com/">Rotamec</a> as a Career Excellence Hub endorser for engineering, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to providing exceptional learning opportunities for its learners.</p>
<p>Through this partnership, Rotamec will play a pivotal role in co-designing the engineering training provision, creating an inspiring learning experience, and equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in the business and wider industry.</p>
<p>Paul Pearce, Sales & Operations Director of Rotamec, said: "Our partnership with Weston College is paramount to the continued success, growth and sustainability of our engineering business. We work closely with Weston College at every juncture, ensuring we provide the best learning opportunities and facilities for all students. Our shared vision is to create an environment where students can learn, develop and enhance our core engineering skills, securing the future of our industry."</p>
<p>Andrew Webster, Education Sector Manager – Further Education & Skills at The Careers & Enterprise Company, said: “The team at Weston College don’t just work on one off projects about careers and the world of work, they work strategically, embedding information and examples about careers into so much of what they do. All of this means their young people are as well prepared as possible to take on the future.”</p>
<p>Sir Paul Phillips, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College Group, added: “At Weston College, our mission statement is ‘creating brighter futures’ and we passionately believe in helping all our students reach their ultimate goal, focussing on their future employability and developing the skills they will need to have a successful career.</p>
<p>“The partnership between Weston College and Rotamec signifies a shared vision for developing a highly skilled workforce that can drive businesses and industries forward. By providing learners with access to industry-specific training and work experience opportunities, this collaboration will nurture a pool of talented individuals ready to contribute to the success and growth of the engineering industry.”</p>
<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/FutureTalentBusinessPartner?utm_source=main-me… out more about Career Excellence Hubs, by clicking here. </a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/cours… Learning</a>, our specialist provision for learners with SEND, introduced the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme as a curriculum choice for learners in 2019.</p>
<p>Fast forward to 2023 and this month, two of our first <a href="https://www.dofe.org/">Duke of Edinburgh</a> (DofE) Gold Award achievers were invited to celebrate with 2000 other young people from across the UK to celebrate their outstanding achievement within Buckingham Palace Gardens. This provided the opportunity for them to enjoy a variety of activities and listen to famous DofE alumni and inspirational public figures about their personal journey. The Duke of Edinburgh Award at all levels is an amazing but challenging experience and we are very proud of all of our exceptional participants, and it has been a privilege to be part of this fantastic initiative.</p>
<p>The Duke of Edinburgh Award challenges young people to attain standards of achievement and endeavour in a wide variety of active interests, to support their communities, experience adventure and to develop and learn outside the classroom. It encompasses the true intent of our programme to support learners' personal development, behaviours and attitude and employability skills.</p>
<p>Following the visit to Buckingham Palace, we caught up with the two Gold-achieving learners who told us about their experience on the day: “The speakers were really inspirational. It reminded me of when I was on the DofE. I told myself I’m not going to give up! I felt proud of what I’d achieved, it was a once in a lifetime experience.”</p>
<p>“When I got the invite to go to Buckingham Palace, I was feeling nervous and not sure about going. I am really happy I went because it was a really good experience and opportunity to go. I had amazing day. I am so glad I went. I will always remember the day. I was really proud of myself for going because I feel like I have overcome one of my fears. Thank you for the teachers at college who supported me and encouraged me to go."</p>
<p>Nick Chadwick, lecturer at Weston College, said: “It was with great pride that we were able to accompany our first Gold achievers to the celebrations at Buckingham Palace. They thoroughly deserved this accolade, and it was fantastic that we were able to celebrate and recognise their amazing determination, resilience and creativity they have shown to achieve their gold award.”</p>
<p>One parent, who accompanied the learners to Buckingham Palace, commented: “I just wanted to say a massive thank you for your support! It was such an amazing day, and one full of wonderful memories we will enjoy for years to come. Liana was thrilled to have been there and for all she experienced. She keeps talking about how she wants to be your Ambassador for DofE!”</p>
<p>It was an incredible day for everyone involved, and a memory that the learners will carry with them for years to come. We are so proud we are able to provide these enrichment experiences, where learners are developing their skills outside of the traditional classroom environment, developing and showcasing transferable skills that prepare learners for their future progression. We look forward to continuing to explore how we can further develop the DofE across our provision to support these amazing outcomes for learners.</p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">Get ready for an unforgettable night of music and excitement as Weston College's very own student band, 'The Like-Minded,' takes the stage at <u><a href="https://www.grandpier.co.uk/whatson/summerfest23/">Summer Fest</a></u> on the Grand Pier. On Friday 30th June, this talented group of musicians will be showcasing their skills and entertaining a crowd of approximately two thousand paying customers. With a lineup featuring renowned local performers, this spectacular show promises to be the highlight of the summer. </p>
<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []">The Like-Minded's journey to the Summer Fest stage began with a fierce competition. Alongside their fellow Weston College learners, they faced the challenge of performing two live tracks before a panel of respected local judges. These judges meticulously reviewed their performance, providing valuable feedback and ultimately awarding them the coveted supporting spot at the festival. </p>
<p>The Like-Minded is a band that embodies the spirit of collaboration, innovation, and raw talent. The band is comprised of passionate and dedicated students, Harlee, Mikey, Ewan and Toby, from Weston College's <u><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music… 3 Music Performance and Production</a></u> programme. </p>
<p>Their selection to pen Summer Fest on the Grand Pier is a testament to the incredible talent and hard work of The Like-Minded. This opportunity allows them to showcase their original songs alongside a selection of well-known local performers. Their infectious energy and captivating stage presence are sure to leave a lasting impression on the audience, creating an electrifying atmosphere that will have everyone on their feet. </p>
<p>Not only is this performance a celebration of The Like-Minded's success, but it also highlights the dedication and commitment of Weston College in nurturing emerging talent. The college's music programme provides students with the tools and opportunities to explore their passion for music and develop their artistic abilities. Through guidance from experienced instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborations with industry professionals, students like The Like-Minded have the platform to thrive and pursue their musical aspirations. </p>
<p>So, mark your calendars and join us at Summer Fest on the Grand Pier to witness the rising stars of The Like-Minded as they rock the stage with their brilliant music. Let's support these talented musicians and celebrate the vibrant music scene that flourishes within our local community. </p>
<p>To find out more about our Music courses, <u><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/music… here</a></u>. </p>
