<p>The critical importance of embedding <strong>sustainable practices </strong>and <strong>corporate social responsibility (CSR)</strong> into core business operations remains at the top of business need. Consumers, employees, and stakeholders are increasingly taking note of companies that go beyond profit margins to make a tangible positive impact on the environment and society. To meet this growing need, an exciting <strong>Level 4 apprenticeship</strong> has been launched as an innovative and practical solution.</p><p>The new <strong>Corporate Sustainability Executive Apprenticeship</strong> has been designed to equip professionals with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required to champion sustainability and CSR within an organisation. Apprentices who complete this program will be able to drive impactful changes that align with the company’s long-term goals and values.</p><p><em>“CSR refers to a company's commitment to operate ethically and sustainably, balancing economic, environmental and social considerations. It involves going beyond legal requirements to make a proactive effort to positively impact society. CSR encompasses activities such as reducing carbon footprints, ensuring fair labor practices, supporting community development and investing in philanthropic initiatives”&nbsp;</em></p><p><em>Source: </em><a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesbusinesscouncil/2024/10/11/corpor… aspects of the apprenticeship include <strong>strategic planning</strong> to<strong> identify </strong>and<strong> embed sustainable initiatives</strong> that align with business objectives and values. Ensuring your organisation meets and records all relevant environmental and social governance (ESG) and regulatory compliance, will enable the individual to measure impact through data driven evaluations. This role will allow for effective measurement of sustainability outcomes and progress and with a focus on real-world application; the apprenticeship will offer businesses a valuable way to integrate sustainability expertise into their teams.</p><p>If you are looking to future proof for sustainability and remain competitive whilst enhancing brand reputation and stakeholder engagement; individuals on this apprenticeship will be able to craft and execute initiatives that showcase company values and dedication to CSR. Improving operational efficiency through sustainable practices will not only offer cost savings, but it will identify opportunities for improvement whilst driving efficiency and environmental benefits.</p><p>Today’s workforce value employers who prioritise sustainable purpose. Who demonstrate commitment to meaningful change and want to make impact. Consider this a strategic investment in your organisation’s future by embedding sustainability and CSR expertise at the heart of your business and drive positive change to highlight your business’s social conscience. Transform operations and make impact with this apprenticeship for a brighter, greener future.&nbsp;</p><p>Contact <strong>employers@weston.ac.uk</strong> to find out more about upskilling your existing team members or find out how access new sustainability focused talent for your business.</p>

<p>On Tuesday 1st July, learners from Weston College’s Ready to Work programme participated in a successful collaborative event with <a href="https://www.congresburycoffee.org/">Congresbury Community Café</a>, delivering a traditional cream tea service to members of the local community.</p><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d202ba5e-0606-454a-8489-907674311b3f" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The event provided an invaluable opportunity for learners with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) to apply and demonstrate the hospitality and customer service skills they have developed as part of their college programme. Taking place in a supportive yet commercial environment, the experience allowed learners to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in a real-world setting.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><drupal-entity data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="946b7807-a3e5-4812-b965-b41bf9f13990" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p>This collaboration forms part of the Ready to Work programme’s broader aim:<strong> to support learners with SEND to develop the employability skills, confidence, and practical experience required to progress into sustainable, paid employment. </strong>The professionalism, enthusiasm, and capability demonstrated by the learners throughout the event was commendable and reflective of the hard work and dedication they have shown this year.</p><p>As these learners look ahead to September, many will be seeking <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/create-a-diverse-and-inclusive-workforce?utm_s… Internship</a> opportunities to continue their journey into the world of work. Supported Internships play a vital role in helping individuals develop further skills, build independence, and secure long-term sustainable paid employment.</p><p><strong>We invite local businesses and organisations to consider offering a </strong><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/create-a-diverse-and-inclusive-workforce?utm_s… Internship</strong></a><strong> placement.</strong></p><p>If you are able to provide a valuable opportunity to a learner and be part of their employment journey, please contact Weston College’s Supported Employment Team.</p><p>Together, we can create inclusive employment pathways and help shape a more <strong>diverse</strong> and<strong> skilled workforce.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Contact: <a href="mailto:Amy.Harding@weston.ac.uk"><strong>Amy.Harding@weston.ac.uk</stro…;

<p>Weston College recently launched our very own Community Choir, led by Susannah Leitch, HE Programme Co-ordinator and Lecturer in Popular Music. The choir has had a brilliant first term, meeting every week at 5.45pm to warm up, loosen up, and sing a wide range of songs together. From upbeat tunes to more relaxed melodies, each session brought something new and fun.</p><p>Before getting into the music, the choir took time to look after their voices with gentle stretches, breathing exercises, and posture work, which were perfect after a day spent at desks or in cars. These warm-ups helped everyone relax, improve their vocal techniques, and get into the right headspace for singing.</p><p>The group practiced singing both with and without sheet music, using memory and listening skills to learn harmonies, while also brushing up on music reading along the way. There was something for everyone, whether they were a confident singer or completely new to choirs.</p><p>Each session encouraged teamwork and a real sense of community. There were opportunities for solos for those who wanted to, and Susannah made sure it was a supportive space to have a go and enjoy the experience. The focus of the choir was on having fun, building confidence, and boosting mental wellbeing through music.</p><p>All in all, it’s been a fantastic start for the Weston College Community Choir, and it’s clear that this new programme has made on impact on everyone involved.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/seYYJ9nAz90?si=1G2qRpNz8slQPP_B&quot; title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Choir Feedback:</strong></p><p><em>“Thank you so much for what you did for us. I am so grateful for meeting you and learning from you! Best teacher ever!”</em></p><p><em>“Susannah is a great teacher, very pleasant and we’ve had some laughs. Very enjoyable course. Singing makes you feel great.”</em></p><p><em>“Thank you, Susannah, you are so kind and positive, it helped a lot with my nerves!”</em></p><p><em>“I found the experience very positive, coming together to have fun, meeting new people and learning music. No-one is wrong and everyone is welcome”</em></p><p><em>“I enjoyed meeting new people, learning new songs and it was fun singing at the open day”</em></p><p><em>“The camaraderie especially in the last few weeks as we got to know each other more”</em></p><p><em>“I loved being able to sing and be musical without any pressure. Very stress relieving, a great outlet.”</em></p><p><em>“The warmups were great, and especially when they linked to the song we were doing without us realising!”</em></p><p><em>“I would very much like to return to Choir in September. Please!”</em></p><p><em>“Thank you so much – Susannah was fab. Hope it continues next term.”</em></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-adults/music/communit… your interest for the next Community Choir here.</a></p>