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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!

 

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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.

 

Check out A-Levels Here

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..

 

Check out Apprenticeships Here

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.

 

Check out Traineeships Here

T-Levels Logo

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.

 

Check out T-Levels Here

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

Speed Interviews

<p>Yesterday, we had the pleasure of welcoming 10 employers to our Construction T Level Employer Event with our <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve… Design, Surveying and Planning</a> students. The employers in attendance included:</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.aww-uk.com/">AWW</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://gmi.co.uk/">GMI Construction</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.beardconstruction.co.uk/">Beard Construction</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://stmodwenhomes.co.uk/">St. Modwen Homes</a></li><li><a href="https://www.bandk.co.uk/">Bowmer and Kirkland&nbsp;</a></li><li><a href="https://www.willmottdixon.co.uk/">Willmott Dixon</a>&nbsp;</li><li>Mode Consult&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://mjchurch.com/">MJ Church</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://stridetreglown.com/">Stride Treglown</a>&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.fortem.co.uk/">Fortem</a></li></ul><p>The event provided an excellent opportunity for our learners to engage directly with local employers who are offering placements, whilst gaining valuable insights into the progression opportunities that can arise from completing the 315-hour industry placement.</p><p>The day kicked off with a series of 10-minute presentations from each employer, giving them the chance to showcase their offerings, while students identified the employers they were most eager to connect with.</p><p>Following the presentations, students ranked their top three employers, leading to a number of 10-minute speed interviews. These interviews allowed learners to directly speak with prospective placement providers, while employers had the opportunity to engage with potential future talent.</p><p>The event was a great success and provided immense value to our learners. A huge thank you to all employers who joined us and contributed to making the day so impactful!</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/surve… find out more about our Construction: Design, Surveying and Planning T Level, click here.</a></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Student at computer

<p>Weston College is proud to announce its continued recognition as a Microsoft Showcase School for the sixth consecutive year (2024-2025), marking half a decade of collaboration with Microsoft and commitment to educational excellence. This prestigious honour places the College in an elite global group of institutions that lead the way in educational innovation, emphasising the longstanding relationship we’ve cultivated with Microsoft and our community.</p><p>The ongoing recognition as a Microsoft Showcase School is a significant achievement for the entire Weston College community. Learners will continue to benefit from ongoing access to cutting-edge educational technologies and global best practices. This accreditation reinforces the College’s commitment to developing skills vital for today’s workforce, ensuring our students are well-prepared for future careers in an ever-evolving digital landscape.</p><p>For our staff, this recognition offers sustained access to a global network of educators, providing opportunities to exchange ideas, collaborate on forward-thinking teaching strategies, and pursue continued professional development. Weston College’s staff will benefit from ongoing access to Microsoft’s exclusive tools and resources, including the 2024-2025 Showcase School Badge, social media templates, and the Worldwide Educator Community Team, further enriching their teaching and learning experiences.</p><p>Louise Pratten, Head of the Digital Education Team, expressed pride in the College’s continued success: "Being recognised as a Microsoft Showcase School for the sixth year in a row is a tremendous honour for Weston College. This achievement not only highlights our enduring commitment to delivering future-focused education but also empowers our staff and learners with top-tier technological tools and global collaboration opportunities. We’re excited to continue sharing our educational journey with other educational organisations worldwide."</p><p>As part of the ongoing Microsoft Showcase School programme, Weston College will continue exploring innovative ways to integrate technology into teaching and learning.</p><p>With access to a wealth of resources, Weston College is well-positioned to advance its mission of providing a transformative and inclusive learning experience. This ongoing recognition underscores our unwavering dedication to harnessing technology to create dynamic, impactful learning environments for all.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><drupal-entity alt="Microsoft Showcase School Logo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1273c519-35ca-40ce-92d8-a9433eba638a" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_325x325&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity>

Weston College staff in Airbus centre in Filton

<p data-pm-slice="1 1 []"><strong>Weston College</strong> is delighted to announce the signing of a Heads of Terms agreement with <strong>Airbus</strong>, marking a significant milestone in the creation of the <strong>'Manufacturing, Technology and Skills Centre</strong>' at <strong>Airbus</strong>’ Filton site. This pioneering collaboration aims to bolster the Aerospace and Defence talent pipelines in the region, strengthening the South West as a hub for advanced manufacturing and technological innovation.&nbsp;</p><p>The new Centre will serve as a focal point for education, training, and skills development, leveraging the expertise of both <strong>Weston College</strong> and <strong>Airbus</strong>, along with other hallmark employers in the region. The initiative is set to provide state-of-the-art training facilities and industry-aligned programmes, ensuring that the local workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to meet the evolving demands of the Aerospace and Defence sectors.&nbsp;</p><p>Alex Warner, Deputy Principal of <strong>Weston College</strong>, expressed his enthusiasm for the project: "This partnership with Airbus represents a transformative opportunity for our students and the wider community. The <strong>Manufacturing, Technology and Skills Centre</strong> will not only enhance the skill set of our current workforce but also inspire the next generation of engineers, technicians, and innovators. We are proud to be at the forefront of this exciting venture with Airbus."&nbsp;</p><p>Simon Galpin, <strong>Airbus </strong>Head of Filton Site commented, “What a privilege to be partnering with Weston College and the West of England Institute of Technology to further enhance regional training for the Aerospace and High Value Engineering sectors in North Bristol. Supporting the growth of the UK’s aerospace and manufacturing industry is a key priority which will be achieved by drawing on our collective expertise.”&nbsp;</p><p>The Centre will offer a range of courses and apprenticeships, designed in consultation with industry experts to ensure they meet the needs of employers. This includes hands-on training with cutting-edge technology, providing students with real-world experience that is directly applicable to their future careers.&nbsp;</p><p>The Heads of Terms agreement sets the framework for the partnership. Weston College and Airbus have now moved even further forward by entering an 'Early Access Agreement'<strong> </strong>meaning that work will be starting on site in Filton this month, with the first intake of students anticipated in the following academic year.&nbsp;</p>

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Important Notice

Please be aware that due to a recent announcement by the Department for Education, the list of available courses for the academic year starting in September 2025 may not be finalised until December 2024. This follows the launch of a government review of qualifications, including BTECs and other applied general qualifications. The purpose of this review is to assess how best to improve the quality of the overall qualifications landscape and ensure that all young people and adults have high-quality options that meet their needs and may mean that some qualifications under review may not be available from September 2025.

We encourage you to still apply for the courses you are interested in now, and we will provide further updates as soon as the review is complete and the course offerings for 2025 and beyond are confirmed. We will communicate this to all students who have applied by this stage, and also provide updates on our website and social media channels. We understand this uncertainty may be disruptive and appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of Government review, please be reassured that we are planning for all outcomes and are in no doubt that whatever the results of the review, we will be able to provide you with the right qualification and pathway to support you with your career goals and next steps.