Weston College Pre-Employment Newsletter April 2025
Welcome
Welcome to your first edition of the Weston College Pre-Employment termly newsletter, where we will be sharing news, success stories, and updates of our pre-employment learners and courses. We invite our learners to share their feedback after completing their courses, helping us understand the impact our programs are having - some of which we will be featuring in this newsletter.
“We’re delighted to share the ongoing successes of our pre-employment learners here at Weston College. These students have shown remarkable dedication and growth as they prepare to take their next steps into the world of work. Much of this success wouldn’t be possible without the continued support and collaboration of the Job Centre. Your commitment to referring, encouraging, and supporting learners throughout their journey plays a vital role in helping them build confidence, gain essential skills, and move closer to sustainable employment.” Mike Hudson, Director of Student Recruitment and Customer Operations
News Stories
IGNITE
JOB CENTRE TAKEOVER DAY
In partnership with Avon Fire and Rescue, our second Ignite Programme was a resounding success. This three-week, hands-on course helped learners build confidence and prepare for employment, further training, or personal growth. Participants took part in team-building, communication and interview skills, goal setting, health and wellbeing activities, fire station visits, and more. They made impressive progress and supported one another to complete every task. The programme culminated in a live demonstration and presentations, where learners confidently shared their journeys and achievements. Certificates were awarded by the Mayor, recognising their hard work. Afterwards, one-on-one sessions with tutors helped learners explore their next steps. The experience was deeply rewarding for both learners and staff. Mike Hudson, said: “Ignite was designed to build confidence and promote teamwork. Seeing the transformation from day one to the final presentation—full of laughter and energy— was inspiring.”
On Tuesday, 2nd April, we took over the Weston-super-Mare Job Centre for a day focused on supporting adults with training and employment opportunities. The event showcased a wide range of courses and career support, attracting over 150 job seekers. Special guests included Jane Murch (Chief of Staff for the local MP), Mayor John Crockford-Hawley, and College Principal Pat Jones, highlighting the importance of collaboration in tackling unemployment and skills gaps.
Interactive stations offered course info, one- on-one advice, and even haircuts from the College’s Hair and Barbering team. Mike Hudson, praised the turnout and partnership with the Job Centre, saying it reflected their commitment to empowering adult learners and creating brighter futures.
Learner Feedback We’re always thrilled to hear from our learners after they complete their pre-employment courses. It's inspiring to see the impact these programs have had on their journeys! Here are just a few quotes from our amazing learners:
“I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the behaviours associated with Autism and ADHD. I used to interpret some actions as naughtiness or disrespect, but I now see them as expressions of unique needs and challenges. This new perspective has made me more empathetic—not just toward individuals, but also toward the families doing their best. Going forward, this knowledge will help my family and me create more supportive routines and communicate more openly and effectively.”
"This intensive experience—filled with assignments, workshops, and new skills—has been invaluable. I'm grateful for the chance to apply what I've learned and see it as a major step forward in my career."
“I appreciated the clear structure, professional teaching, and supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere of this course. Sensitive topics like discrimination and abuse were handled with care, highlighting important legal aspects. The role-playing teamwork exercise showed the value of practical learning. Overall, this course expanded my knowledge and helped me grow personally."
"This being my first online course, I was impressed by how effective and engaging the learning was through Teams—both in large groups and smaller breakout sessions. I’ve gained valuable knowledge in cyber security, diversity and inclusion, and how to contribute to a professional, honest, and supportive team environment."
Learner Feedback
“Tobias was keen for us to approach Stage Coach on his behalf having completed the Bus Bootcamp with us. We introduced Tobias to Stage Coach who were very impressed with his driving assessment and were excited to offer him a position and to welcome him to their company.” “The instruction I received from Greg (and Dave) has been first class. They identified strengths and work on points early on and tailored the style and delivery of the feedback to suit me as an individual. Professional, patient and supportive throughout.”
“Moheet recently found employment with Edwards Coaches having completed the Bus Bootcamp with us. He was delighted to let us know that he’d found employment and was now driving coaches. He was keen to contact us to let us know and to thank his driver trainer for a ‘lovely training, experience and life tips!’ Edwards Coaches snapped me up straight away.”
“The information and knowledge given by the trainer was in depth and delivered in a suitable way that made the training experience enjoyable and productive.”
“Great teacher / Human. Gave me a lot of confidence and taught me a skill for life and positive thought process.”
“Excellent training and boosted my confidence. Positive support, respectful and clear instructions.”
(PHOTO)
Student Blog Hi, I’m Danny. I recently completed the Work Ready You programme at Weston College, which helped me achieve three qualifications and secure a job at the College as a Learning Support Assistant! I decided to join the pre-employment course after being out of work for some time. I wanted to rebuild my confidence and improve my chances of finding meaningful employment. The course offered exactly that - support, structure, and direction. Over five weeks, we explored different types of jobs, learned how to tailor our CVs, improved our communication skills, and worked on team projects, including giving presentations. The final week included a work placement, with some students visiting local businesses like Cineworld and Puxton Park. Throughout the course, my confidence and ability to work in a team really grew. I also had the support of a keyworker from the Moving Up team, who stayed in touch even after the course ended. Most importantly, my tutor, Juliette Weaver, was a huge source of encouragement—always kind, energetic, and supportive. Shortly after completing the course, I was offered a role at Weston College through Forward Futures. Juliette’s recommendation gave me the push I needed, and the transition into work was smoother than I imagined. One of my proudest moments was winning Pre-Employment Student of the Year at the College’s Celebration of Success awards. It was amazing to have my efforts recognised. I’m so thankful to everyone at Weston College - especially Juliette - for helping me rediscover my potential. This course truly made a lasting difference in my life.
Other News...
Over the past year, the Pre-Employment Team have been raising their profile in Bristol by delivering face-to-face training courses and attending events to engage new audiences. We've offered a variety of programmes, including HGV Cat C, SIA security, NHS-related training, and more. Our WECA recruitment lead is involved in planning citywide job fairs and regularly visits all Bristol JCPs to promote our courses. Highlights include attending the New Monday event at The Galleries and the Bristol Careers event at the Bristol Beacon, where we showcased Weston College alongside major employers like the NHS and Bristol Airport. At these events, we provided careers advice and ran a workshop covering Adult Training, ESOL, Solutions, Apprenticeships, and Traineeships, showing how learners can progress from entry-level courses to employment.
“I think the course is brilliant, well- structured and a great insight to the NHS”
“I loved my course, two weeks have just flown by!”
“The course is wonderful, thank you!”
In February, we joined the South Bristol Jobs & Apprenticeship Fair and began a weekly residency at Temple Street Job Centre.
“It was excellent for my mental health and wellbeing”
Our UHBW NHS course remains a standout success. Learners attend engaging sessions at the Education Centre to prepare for roles within UHBW, gaining valuable insights into hospital work and application skills. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with learners praising the structure, support, and impact on their wellbeing.
“Five stars, thank you!”
We’re proud of the difference we’re making in the WECA area and look forward to building on this momentum.
(By Ian Sweet, WECA Recruitment Lead)
Hear From Our Previous Learners These wonderful pre-employment learners, Damien and Mark, have successfully found employment and are making positive impacts in the workplace!
Coming Up...
COURSE START DATE
LEVEL
COURSE TITLE
Level 1
Mental Health Awareness
06/05/2025
Level 1
UHBW SWAP NHS Bristol & Weston
06/05/2025
Level 3
Education and Training Bristol
06/05/2025
Level 1
CSCS Virtual
06/05/2025
Understanding Autism Spectrum Conditions and ADHD
Level 1
12/05/2025
Entry Level
Preparing to Work in an Office
12/05/2025
Entry Level
SIA Security Licence
19/05/2025
Level 1
CSCS Face to Face
19/05/2025
Level 1
Preparing to Work in Childcare
27/05/2025
Level 1
CSCS Virtual
27/05/2025
Level 1
NHS Health & Care Somerset
02/06/2025
Preparing to Work in the Cleaning Industry
Entry Level
02/06/2025
Level 1
Civil Service Swap
02/06/2025
Level 1
PLANT Bootcamp
02/06/2025
Level 1
CSCS Virtual
16/06/2025
Level 1
Mental Health Awareness
16/06/2025
mike.hudson@weston.ac.uk If you have any good news stories you want to share or any other queries, please email
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