Weston College Group 2015/16 Annual Report 2015/16 A Level 99% pass rate

Technical and professional 98% course pass rate

Weston College graduates who received First Class Honours Degrees (against 24% a national average of 19%)

2015’s graduates in further study or employment within 93% six months of graduating

Weston College apprentices offered permanent positions by their employers at the end of

This year in numbers... year This 90% their training programmes Welcome

The 2015/16 academic year has given the Weston College Group (WCG) much to be proud of. Not only have we maintained a strong position, in terms of both academic and fiscal performance, but we have laid some firm foundations for our future. 2015/16 was a landmark year for higher education, thanks to an outstanding Higher Education Review together with the launch of the University Centre Weston (UCW) brand. Leading This followed last year’s award of University Centre status from the University of the development of skills West of England Bristol (UWE), having already achieved this with . We continue to work with both in the West of England universities to further develop our HE provision. The mission of the Weston College Group (WCG) is ‘creating brighter The Inspirational Futures Trust (IFT) is Institute of Professional futures’, and leading the development expanding: we have seen the completion Education of skills in the West of England plays of the superb North Enterprise a vital role in achieving that. Weston College and the University of and Technology College (NSETC) facilities the West of England are creating an at the Weston Academy site. The Group continues to cultivate Institute of Professional Education. inclusive, mutually-beneficial, We have implemented many changes, relationships that contribute to the This will provide learners and employers driven by a need to respond to the political success of learners at all levels and with a single point of entry from which and funding landscape, the new common that positively support regional they can access a complete range inspection framework, demographics and regeneration and growth. of professional and technical training LEP priorities, and other factors. programmes and knowledge services, It is working closer than ever with This last year has seen a re-organisation from entry-level vocational skills through strategic partners, ensuring businesses and re-branding of faculties to better to world-class specialist research. are involved in curriculum decisions, align to sector and economic priorities; to equip its learners with the specific It will provide clear routes of progression re-distributed curriculum to purpose-built skills employers seek and need when between further and higher education, facilities; put in place the right structure selecting their staff, and to meet the with clear career pathways. and strategy to tackle the apprenticeship I am immensely proud of all we have skills needs of the West of England. agenda and centralised student services, Dr Paul Phillips OBE, Principal and achieved as Weston College Group increasing the connectivity between The Group is working to identify and Chief Executive of Weston College in 2015/16. various elements of the learner journey, respond to the many opportunities that Group, said: “I don’t believe there’s an which remains at the forefront of We have benefited greatly from will be generated by the Hinkley Point C institution in existence that can meet everything we do. capital investment and have development. all an employer’s requirements on its succeeded in providing truly own. When it comes to meeting skills In order to provide the best outcomes for There has been much work done this inspirational facilities for our learners. needs, you have to take a bit of further our learners, we are continuing to invest year with the Construction Industry The quality of our provision has been education, a bit of higher education, in creating first-class facilities, working Training Board, looking at construction/ further endorsed by the success of and all the constituent parts of the two, in closer collaboration than ever with a highways and scaffolding training, our Higher Education Review, and and combine them into an overarching wide range of partners, businesses and and to explore how we can support our continued focus on working in learning concept, and work as a employers, and proudly playing a key part health sector employers meet their partnership and putting learners first partnership to address them.” in the regeneration of Weston-super-Mare many workforce, skills and recruitment has enabled us and our learners to and the wider region. challenges. Professor Steve West, Vice Chancellor achieve success in a challenging of the University of the West of England, There are undoubtedly more obstacles environment. Along with our The range of partnership activity said: “The future is about us developing ahead in the education sector, but by partners we have made a significant continues to grow as the WCG is and equipping people with the right working with our many partners, I am contribution to improving the life increasingly recognised as a trusted skills, knowledge and attributes to confident we can face those challenges chances of our learners and to local high quality partner. Collaboration be able to enter and advance in together and help to create a brighter future and regional regeneration, and in so between the WCG, the LEP, North the workplace and make a positive for our students, our Group, our partners doing have truly ‘created brighter Somerset Council, the business contribution to society. and the region. futures’. community, voluntary and community sector and many others, is vital for “The technical and professional Dr Paul Phillips OBE Ph.d D.Litt Ed.D Jude Ferguson securing the best opportunities for education taught at Weston College Principal and Chief Executive Chair of Corporation the region and its people. will lead into degree-level education.” 4 5 Vision Values Inspirational Futures Trust The vision of Weston College, • improving education for all children and A Weston College-sponsored multi-academy trust as a sponsor of IFT, is to enable young people across students to fulfil their potential and beyond through excellent teaching, and • providing a high quality education strong support and guidance. pathway from nursery to higher Rated as outstanding in all areas, education it is driven to achieve this through • encouraging uniqueness and the development of a learning culture championing the ‘one size does not that is inclusive, aspirational, and fit all’ approach focused on assuring success and • refusing to compromise on quality progression. across all functions and academies • identifying specialisms and areas of outstanding practice within “Bristol Futures Academy each academy to establish cross- supports the needs of the most organisational support vulnerable learners. • allowing every young person across IFT “The specialist model of support to benefit from specialist facilities and that has been developed by resources Weston College will transform the lives of the students at BFA • facilitating the mobilisation of expertise and the training and support for across organisations staff from IFT is of a really high • sharing good practice and experience quality. across academies “The values and ethos of IFT • providing high quality motivated staff supports BFA perfectly.” with opportunities to expand their Supporting Caroline Down, Principal, experience and expertise. school improvement Bristol Futures Academy “We are very pleased to have joined In 2013 Weston College was Highlights IFT and look forward to working with approved as an academy sponsor the other academies within the Trust to • NSETC moves to new “The range of facilities and and established Inspirational Futures provide the best possible education for £12 million campus experiences available to Trust (IFT) as a multi-academy trust in students will provide a richness all our students. partnership with a higher education • Bristol Futures Academy that would not be possible “St Katherine’s will continue to provide institution and businesses within successfully opens without the ongoing support the nurturing environment that our the region. Its aim is to provide of IFT and Weston College. students currently enjoy, enhanced by • Herons’ Moor Academy receives consistently high quality education As a 14-19 provider, NSETC the strength of IFT.” good Ofsted rating through building best practice to all is set to revolutionise learning Justin Humphreys, Head of School, ages within the area, enabling young • St Katherine’s School enjoys record and recruitment. The days of Katherine’s School measuring success by academic people to unlock their full potential. A Level A* grades qualifications alone are gone. Since 2013, Inspirational Futures Trust • Crockerne trail-blaze green screen Transferable skills, justifiable has become home to: learning. confidence, and real-world “Crockerne is delighted to have joined experience are what employers IFT; we will continue to be a church • North Somerset Enterprise and IFT recognises that a ‘one size are asking for.” school, at the heart of our community, Technology College (NSETC) fits all’ approach does not Darran George, Interim which prides itself on working in guarantee success. Our approach • Herons’ Moor Academy Principal, NSETC partnership with parents, nurturing and of encouraging and supporting valuing individuals and developing our • Bristol Futures Academy (BFA) difference, although ambitious, allows children as learners. We look forward academies to maintain their character to working with the other providers • St Katherine’s School and uniqueness while raising their “Herons’ Moor Academy opened in the Trust on our exciting journey • Crockerne Church of England overall quality standards. as a new school in 2003 and has towards outstanding.” Primary School. developed into a popular and Geeta Verrell, Co-Headteacher, successful primary academy. Crockerne Church of England Primary “We have established a School reputation for being forward- N S ’ M O O R O thinking and we are delighted to

E R H have been given the opportunity

A to join the Inspirational Futures C Y A D E M Trust. Crockerne C of E Primary School “We are looking forward to working as part of IFT to enhance the excellent education we provide for all our pupils.” Julie Fox, Headteacher, Herons’ Moor Academy Nursery • Primary • Secondary • Alternative • Special 6 7 A snapshot of just some of the many headlines and highlights of the past academic year

University Centre status Virtual reality project Weston College was granted University Centre status by the University of the West Students learning about animation and of England Bristol. Having already achieved computer games put their new-found skills this with Bath Spa University, the College is into practice by developing a virtual reality able to significantly expand its HE provision. training scheme for learner drivers.

Beacon Award success Business Awards Weston College was honoured with two Business Administration student Toni prestigious national Beacon Awards from the Squires took the prestigious Principal’s Association of Colleges; the UCAS Progress Award for Apprentice of the Year, winning a Award for Careers Education and Guidance, gold trophy and £500 cheque, donated by and the Council for Learning Resources Flexiform, at the annual Weston in Colleges Award for Effective Integration College Business Awards. of Libraries/Learning Resource Centres in Curriculum Delivery. 100 in 100 success Children’s University at Weston College A campaign to create 100 new apprenticeship places in 100 days Weston College was launched as the North smashed its target, receiving 345 pledges. Somerset centre for The Children’s University, which encourages youngsters to try new experiences, develop new interests and Student scoops top design title acquire new skills. Graphic design graduate India Lawton was named New Designer of the Year at the Engineering centre opens prestigious New Designers exhibition and A £2.5 million engineering centre was opened, awards ceremony in London, beating more enabling Weston College to provide a full than 1,000 finalists from 78 colleges and engineering and manufacturing curriculum. universities nationwide.

Celebration of Success A Level results The many outstanding achievements of Weston College maintained its high Weston College students, staff and business standards with an overall A Level pass rate associates were honoured at the annual of 99%, an outstanding result in light of a glittering Celebration of Success event. considerable growth in student numbers.

Funding secured Principal awarded third doctorate Weston College Group received confirmation Dr Paul Phillips was awarded an Honorary of funding to create a Law and Professional Doctorate in Education by the University Services Academy in Weston-super-Mare, of the West of England in recognition of part of which involved the College formally his leadership over the development of the taking over the Winter Gardens from North Weston College Group. Somerset Council. Another record year for graduations National BTEC Awards More than 500 University Centre Weston Jordan Tucker won Outstanding IT Student students – continuing the run of year- of the Year at the National BTEC Awards, on-year record numbers – celebrated having started his studies at Weston College achieving their degrees at three with very little computing experience. After ceremonies. winning the WorldSkills regional final, he is training for a chance to compete in the international competition in Abu Dhabi in 2017. Graduate’s inspirational story John Byrne, 51, graduated with a BA in New 3G pitch Counselling despite having suffered from throat cancer during the academic year; A £115,000 scheme has transformed the he gave an inspirational speech at the former Grove Park Tennis Courts into a graduation ceremony, encouraging state-of-the-art 3G multi-use sports facility. people that it’s never too late to return to education. 8 9 Strategic Partnerships

“Bath Spa University is committed to partnership with Weston College in the delivery of higher education and looks to that partnership thriving in the future. The University understands “We are proud to work with Weston that the College, as a high-class “The partnership between UWE Bristol College, as they continually strive provider in a different market, can and Weston College continues to to provide one of the best learning offer a distinct type of course to go from strength to strength. We are environments in the country. As well that offered by the University itself, uniquely positioned to meet the skills As the Weston College as providing outstanding opportunities and this delivery strengthens the needs for the region and have a shared for learners in North Somerset, the University’s commitment to inclusivity. Group continues to ambition to provide the highest quality College is a real driving force behind Students from Weston College have practice-based and professionally- develop and grow, our economic growth ambitions, gone on to complete their courses oriented education to all our learners. closer collaboration supplying training and skilled workers through articulation arrangements in key sectors including digital and with a growing number “Weston College prides itself on with University courses and have delivering excellence for all its students creative industries, engineering, demonstrated that they are very able.” of key strategic and stakeholders and, as a strategic construction and professional services. The College’s track record of delivery Chris Elliott, Registrar and Director partner of the College, we have of Student Services, Bath Spa partners will be crucial and outstanding performance has benefited from this professionalism University to its continued and commitment. enabled us to attract major investment success. in new and improved facilities over the “This is why we have committed past year. The establishment of the Law to growing the partnership through and Professional Services Academy, “The West of England LEP continues the establishment of the Institute the Future Technologies Centre and to recognise the impressive nature of Professional Education, which the University Centre Weston is at of Weston College’s high-quality will enable us to further enhance the heart of our regeneration plans education and skills delivery. The existing provision and explore new for the town, and the North Somerset College’s approach to working in opportunities, such as the growth in Enterprise and Technology College – partnership with key stakeholders apprenticeships.” together with the HIVE and planned from both the public and the Jo Midgley, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Food and Drink Innovation Centre private sectors enables them to be University of the West of England, - forms part of a dynamic ‘enterprise highly responsive to the needs of Bristol cluster’ within the J21 Enterprise Area. employers and learners while also The next 12 months promises to be supporting the overall economy of just as exciting, as Weston arrives as a the West of England.” ‘university centre town’, Hinkley Point C goes into full swing and no doubt new Patricia Greer, Interim Chief opportunities appear on the horizon.” Executive, West of England LEP Mike Jackson, Chief Executive, North Somerset Council

10 11 “Uniting employers with education is key to ensuring the economic success of not only our business, but also our region. It is well known that there are significant skills Strategic Partnerships gaps across many industries and the responsibility to solve that lies in a partnership approach. “Wessex Water has identified that a crucial method of addressing our skills requirement is to find and support high quality training providers, such as Weston College, to design, develop and deliver courses, programmes and apprenticeships to fulfil our business needs. “This year we launched our first ever higher level apprenticeship in civil engineering in partnership with Weston College, and we fully endorsed the College’s submission to the West of England LEP for Skills Capital Funding to improve construction skills training in the region. “We’re excited to see what our joint future holds, how we can work together to ensure our local and wider communities understand the possibilities and opportunities within our industry, and how we can support each other to ensure Weston College continues to provide outstanding training which is relevant, business led and, most of all, effective.” Becca Thurston, Apprenticeship Coordinator, Wessex Water

“Working collaboratively with Weston College, for example in supporting the proposed new Health and Active Living Skills Centre, will allow us to support the local community and our staff to improve health and wellbeing. “Weston College plays an important role in the training and education of students, both locally and more widely, delivering a well-developed programme of training in health and social care. “As demand for care, health and wellbeing services increases, it is essential that employers have access to the skills and training provision which will provide a flexible, multi-skilled and resilient workforce. “Our aim, through partnership with the College, is to create a centre and student experience where teaching and clinical practice can be brought together for the benefit of patients and staff, where our partnership brings real and lasting benefits to the communities of North Somerset through improved health, regeneration, employment and economic growth.” James Rimmer, Chief Executive, Weston Area Health Trust

“From the beginning of the procurement selection process to identify a possible additional training provider, GKN were impressed by the professionalism and proactive approach demonstrated by Weston College. “Since the selection of Weston College by GKN, and the first year of delivery of our programme, GKN’s experience of this approach from all levels of the Weston College team has continued. This has been clearly demonstrated by feedback from both the GKN apprentice training team, but, as importantly, from our apprentices, who have had nothing but positive comments regarding their experiences attending Weston College. “Such is GKN’s confidence in Weston College that we are now working in partnership on several upcoming initiatives, one of which is preparing for the introduction of the Apprenticeship Levy, where GKN and Weston College have both been invited by the SFA to take part in the pilot of the Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS).” Paul Ashbee, Technical Training Manager, GKN Aerospace Services Limited 12 13 “The excellent reputation of Howards Motor Strategic Partnerships Group has been established over four “As the largest independent used decades since opening our first vehicle car retailer in the South West, we workshop in Weston-super-Mare in 1972. need to ensure a constant supply of motivated and enthusiastic “Our promise is to consistently provide talent to fill the roles we have customers with the very best in quality, available. value and service, whether they are buying their next car or servicing their “Working with Weston College is existing vehicle. This promise can only be a new endeavour for us. However, delivered if our people have the right skills, it has been like a breath of fresh knowledge and attitude to exceed customer air. expectations. As such, people are the most “They truly understand that, from valuable asset we have. an employer’s perspective, their “By engaging with Weston College, and role is to prepare their intake for through our growing and strengthening the employment market. relationship, we have discovered a “Our first interface is previously untapped resource of bright, the establishment of an motivated and ambitious young people. By apprenticeship programme employing their services, we are enjoying which will hopefully lead to a the positivity they bring while growing our long-term and mutually beneficial future talent from within. In return they are relationship. learning their skills and gaining confidence in a supportive environment as they position “As a locally-based company, themselves for a rewarding career within we are always looking for ways a highly reputable and successful local of further integrating into the company. It really is a win-win situation for community, and what better way both parties. than creating and maintaining long-term employment “We will strive for an ever closer relationship opportunities for young people.” with Weston College as the positive experience of working with this centre Gordon Veale, General Manager, of learning and their students becomes Carbase ever more apparent to us. This rich vein “We are developing a strong of talented people is one of the core relationship with Weston College, who foundations upon which our future growth are becoming our ‘go to’ for resource and success can be built.” and for training support. The level of support the College can provide Peter Haynes, General Manager, “Alliance Homes receives first- Howards Group covers many facets, and has proven class support and is proud of to be very valuable. An extended work our strategic partnership with experience programme, working with Weston College, collaborating on three particular students in a number key business priorities and wider of different roles across the entire regeneration activities. business, was a successful experience “In partnership with Weston for all. College, we have established the “We are excited about being able award-winning Care Academy, to build on this over the coming which helped Alliance Living years. The ability to be able to call Care to access a new talent upon bespoke training in a variety pool of 50+ staff, and the Team of disciplines has hugely benefited North Somerset partnership, the company and our developing which has supported nearly workforce. Through open dialogue, 200 disadvantaged people into I believe the College has begun employment.” to understand and appreciate the Michael Williams, Business demands that arise from the vigours Enterprise Manager, Alliance of the commercial world, and have Homes Group reacted and adapted accordingly. Their reach on our behalf into the local communities ensures that we are able to attract the best of the young talent “There’s a quiet revolution going on in Weston, as we change from a town available, made ‘match-fit’ by their with below-average staying on rates and skills into a high skill, well-educated learning at the College.” university centre town. Weston College has been the engine and catalyst of Matthew Gazzard, Finance Director, the change, and the entire local community supports it.” Thatchers Cider John Penrose, MP for Weston-super-Mare

14 15 • sixth form student becomes British • 49% of vocational students Maths Olympiad achieved the highest grades Curriculum • sports achievements: Kirby Ngan, • continued growth in recruitment in Team GB Badminton, SW Colleges the numbers of 16 to 18-year-olds change: Badminton Champion; Chloe Edrich, choosing to study full-time at the SW Colleges Swimming Champion College 200IM and Breaststroke; Charlie • continued growth in 16 to 18 16 to 18 years Bircham-Davies, apprenticeships in Law, Business, Counties Rugby; Alex Jones and Jack Engineering and Construction Richardson, Bath Rugby • seamless support enabling learners One key area of focus has been around • three IT and Computing students from all backgrounds to succeed the continual development of maths and are to be called up for the next and progress English for all students while studying WorldSkills finals in Russia with the College, whether this is through • focus on curriculum expansion in • regional Skillbuild Gold winners a formal qualification or within their regional priority areas including in carpentry main qualification. We saw a two-fold Advanced Engineering, Creative increase in the number of students • our media qualifications gained the and Digital, High-Tech and needing to retake GSCE Maths and industry-recognised Creative Skillset Professional Services English, which saw over 1,200 entries ‘Tick’ for quality • record numbers of students for last year’s June examinations and • engineering workshops open to being offered university places success rates well above the national full-time students and apprentices, up by 4%. benchmark. including GKN and Ipeco apprentices This has been The student experience and the • bespoke civil engineering another outstanding year development of teaching, learning and apprenticeship programme developed for our 16 to 18 curriculum. assessment will always appear at the for the four West of England An improvement on our overall results top of our priority list as we measure unitary authorities continues to place us in the top 25% of and monitor ourselves. Learners once colleges nationally and we continue to again rated Weston College as the best successfully enable 16 to 18-year-old in the West of England for the fourth learners to progress onto further study, successive year! higher education, work-based learning and employment. Continued investment in facilities across each of the College campuses has The College has developed a strong ensured we are able to offer students programme of study methodology, professional and up-to-date places to designed to enable learners to develop learn. This is another factor that has a the knowledge, skills and personal positive effect on the learning taking attributes necessary to successfully place, the behaviour and engagement of progress into further learning or into students, and the continued high levels Major profile change over 16 years the world of work. Each learner’s study of achievement. programme is made up of the following just keeps improving year-on-year elements: Highlights from the year include: • academic, vocational or technical • FE and HE Music students performed qualifications at the AoC Annual Conference Comparison table 2000 2015 2016 • maths and/or English skills development • student wins Outstanding IT Student A Level achievement A*-E 69% 99% 99% • work experience and/or employability of the Year at the National BTEC Awards skills A Level achievement A*-B 23% 36% 41% • personal and social development • computing student wins silver medal • independent study skills. in WorldSkills and goes for gold in University-level courses 6 33 38 This curriculum framework, coupled Birmingham November 2016 with increased opportunities for learners Number of full-time college courses • College electrical student beats over 45 100+ 100+ to experience and get involved in 3,000 competitors to represent the (not including A Level courses) competition work, social enterprise, South West at the National Electrical Number of A Level courses volunteering, fund raising events and Apprentice of the Year competition 23 26 28 a range of sports and enrichment *16 to 18-year-olds activities, has helped enable young • art and design student wins the people at Weston College to meet the National BDC Award of Designer of Number of different apprenticeship areas 0 52 67 ‘success equation’: the Year • students secured work experience Personal Development + Student numbers 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Challenging Academic Progress = with Balfour Beatty during Success and Progression construction of the Weston College Academy 16 to 18 full-time 2,683 2,913 3,011

16 17 Curriculum change: 19+ years

Education and training for adults at Weston College is focused on developing the skills, attributes and behaviours they need to secure work, progress to higher paid roles or change careers. The curriculum considers and reflects the skills demanded by employers and industry, regionally and locally.

In partnership with key stakeholders, the development of bespoke facilities for College has constructed and delivered a Engineering, future technologies and curriculum that supports: Law and Professional Services. • unemployed learners who need help Highlights and key facts from 2015/16 into work include: • learners wanting to secure their first • successful delivery of over £5 million full Level 2 or 3 qualification in a of adult-funded provision technical discipline • significant increase in the proportion • learners to achieve key qualifications of adult learners working towards and • 89% of adult learners who started their in English and maths successfully completing maths and courses successfully achieved them This quote from an English qualifications. 34% of learner • learners who want to gain access to Access student from starts were in maths and English. • 92.4% of adult learners had a positive higher education 2016 encapsulates what progression outcome on completion of • more than £2 million worth of adult adult education achieves • learners to gain higher level their courses apprenticeships were delivered, up qualifications for learners at Weston 23% compared to 2014/15 • 60% of Job Centre Plus referrals College: • learners who want to re-train and completing employment readiness • expansion of Access to HE pathways: pursue a career in new professional or training and support are in full “After years of being told more than 94% of learners secured technical disciplines. employment within six months I would never achieve, their first choice university place (19% now so many doors The College continues to invest in above the national average for Access • significant success with Sector Based are open, and I feel resources and facilities to help adults to HE programmes) Work Academies (SBWA) e.g. over 70% my dream job is within gain access to training in sectors that of participants in the Alliance Living Care • more than 6,700 students studied will drive and fuel the regional economy SBWA’s gained employment with the reach.” towards funded qualifications for the future. Examples include the company.

18 19 Supported Internship programme Bridging the gap - Weston Bay exceeds national average for LDD learner progresses to university employment opportunities “Weston Bay staff and the autism team The results for the ‘Into Work’ have been absolutely fantastic at giving programme at Weston College - a Farrah all the support she needed both structured programme of study for in and outside of college to complete 16 to 24-year-olds with LDD who want her diploma for which she achieved to move into employment and need a distinction this summer, as well as extra support to do so - have been managing her independence. incredible with: “We highly recommend Weston Bay. • 100% success It not only prepared my daughter • 55% progressing into higher level for adulthood and university life work based learning - it prepared us too! You are all outstanding!” • 45% of learners securing paid employment, which exceeds the Parental feedback national average of 6% of people with learning disabilities in paid employment.

Students showcase ‘Woodcutters Cottage’ at the Malvern Show and

win a Silver Royal Horticulture Society Award Local, regional, international initiatives A team of LDD students and staff won a Royal Horticulture Society silver medal As a leader in the field of LDD, Weston for bringing a local gardener’s designs College has extended its partnership to life and exhibited at the Malvern links in this important field to include: Spring Festival. The silver medal was • a ‘vision for the future’ – a unique presented to the team by the RHS approach for SEND progression Ambassador Mary Berry at the festival, within North Somerset which this year attracted over 90,000 visitors. • a collaborative approach for the Rainbow Project with Bristol South West achievement for stakeholders based around those Weston College LDD football with complex needs academy students • a showcase for best practice from A very successful season for the international visitors. “I have to say LDD Football Academy students we are deeply impressed by Weston ended on a high note when they were College’s provision for students presented with certificates to mark their with disabilities.” Feedback from achievements by the Principal, Dr Paul International Visitors Vienna. Phillips OBE. Two teams of students qualified to represent the South West at the English Colleges Football Association Ability Counts National SEND provision Cup Final, competing against 12 other colleges from around Britain. (Special Educational Needs and Disability) “While this has been a challenging and hardworking experience, it has also been worthwhile and beneficial. Visiting The specialist SEND provision for learners with St Georges Park was a ‘bucket list’ Learning Difficulties and/or Disabilities (LDD) experience. I felt that the whole day was continues to expand at Weston College, offering a chance for staff and students to work inspiring, innovative and high quality programmes together as a team. Overall I feel this that continue to improve the progression has given me the opportunity to learn opportunities for LDD learners as well as influencing and develop new skills for outside of the delivery of inclusive practice nationally. football such as discipline, motivation and the confidence to try new things.” Anton Reynolds, student

20 21 Curriculum change: University Centre Weston

2015/16 will be remembered as a landmark year for higher education at Weston College due to an outstanding Higher Education Review along with the successful rebranding to University Centre Weston.

Reviewers from the Quality Assurance The new name - together with Agency (QAA) visited Weston College improvements to facilities, the launch in April and the College’s university- of ucw.ac.uk, and renewed marketing level provision and Higher Education efforts through social media and Directorate achieved a commended innovative advertising - will be vital in outcome for the quality of student order to meet the growth targets set out learning opportunities – the top in the Higher Education Strategic Plan. judgement possible. In August, the annual National Student The review team also endorsed the Survey saw UCW students award it a overall academic standards in HE, score of 88% for ‘overall satisfaction’ could find nothing wrong, and made no - above the sector average of 80% - recommendations for improvements. In and placed the institution in the top fact, they highlighted four other areas quartile of HE providers in Britain in where the College is excelling. the categories of ‘assessment and feedback’, ‘academic support’ and The QAA concluded that Weston ‘personal development’. College demonstrates good practice in the use of student and employer A successful launch of the Foundation involvement in the design, development Degree in Games and Animation and validation of its degrees; has Production was followed during the effective processes in place to support academic year by approval for new teaching practices; benefits from the programmes in Aerospace Engineering professional and proactive approach Manufacturing, Environmental Health of its support teams; and maintains and Practice, Professional and productive working relationships with its Commercial Dance, and Professional partner universities, Bath Spa University Music Performance and Production. and the University of the West of UCW also continues to outperform England Bristol. national averages in key degree-level Over the course of 2016, the benchmarks: almost a quarter of Higher Education Directorate and honours students achieve First Class Weston College’s Marketing and degrees and 93% of 2015’s graduates Communications Department rebranded were in further study or employment the College’s longstanding HE provision within six months of graduating. to University Centre Weston, or UCW.

22 23 Apprenticeships: new futures for learners

Weston College has an extensive apprenticeship offer that looks to meet the needs of businesses. Our approach is to work in partnership with organisations to help them understand how apprenticeships can be used as an integral part of their recruitment and training strategy. The College is investing in new areas of apprenticeship delivery. With so many changes to the funding For example, we are expanding our and delivery of apprenticeships range of construction and engineering Weston College has set up a Levy apprenticeships to help narrow Solution Service for all employers the national skills shortages in this who want to understand how these sector, support the opportunities changes will impact on them and, that will be created by the Hinkley of course, how they maximise their Point C development and other large Levy contribution. We can help them infrastructure projects, and also to learn how to take advantage of the prepare for the impact these major government funding and incentives initiatives will have on smaller building for non-levy paying employers. projects in the region. Our team of advisors can help with Our apprenticeship provision spans information around funding, planning all the key sectors in the region and designing bespoke approaches to including Health, Construction, enable you to embed apprenticeship Engineering, Business and in your business. Professional Services, Hospitality The College also offers a free and Catering as well as many recruitment service helping you more traditional apprenticeships make the most of the talent pool of such as Hair and Beauty. We offer students that the College has but also programmes from intermediate advertising your vacancies nationally through to higher levels and are and regionally to get the best calibre developing a number of degree of candidates for you. apprenticeships in partnership with UWE Bristol. However, apprenticeships are not just about recruiting new staff or indeed young people – you can also use the funding to support existing staff, regardless of age, to re-train, and up-skill employees. The new degree apprenticeships offer a fantastic opportunity for professional development in areas such as IT.

24 25 Offender Learning Services

• installation of the “Do It Profiler” to support learners’ progress Weston College is a top performing • the OLASS teams from HMP by enabling assessment of learning needs and recommending provider of offender and detainee Dartmoor and IRC The Verne both individual support to improve own learning and performance learning recognised for: received Certificates of Excellence • total learner focus from the Pearson Teaching Awards • successful embedding of English, maths, employability and personal and social development in all subjects • prison/IRC partnership approach to • the Curriculum Manager from IRC The business planning to ensure each Verne was shortlisted in the national • Celebration of Success events for learners in all prisons including establishment’s curriculum meets Excellence in Diversity Awards family attendance to support and strengthen relationships both learners’ and employers’ needs • ‘Creating Brighter Futures’ shortlisted • piloted Level 3 unit delivery to provide progression for learners • excellent teaching, learning and for the 2016 national Association of and introduced Level 3 Sage Diploma at Dartmoor assessment Colleges’ Beacon Gateway Award for • ex-offenders secured employment on release in many sectors • consistently high success rates Widening Participation – another first including hospitality and catering, cleaning, construction, particularly for functional skills for offender and detainee learning manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, recycling and • prioritisation of full Level 2 • a successful Institute of Leadership barbering plus specialist niche markets such as dry stone walling qualifications to improve employability and Management-endorsed • commencement of the mattress recycling programme at • robust and accurate quality assurance leadership programme for OLASS Channings Wood, embedding qualifications and leading to managers was delivered • strong leadership and management interviews for employment on release • meeting key financial targets every • introduction of the new accredited • establishment of the Releasing New Potential Community Interest year of the contract induction programme for staff working Company (CIC) developing social enterprises in the prisons • a positive and aspirational ‘can do’ in custodial environments with units attitude. for managers, teaching staff and • support for Soap Baa – a new business established on release by administrators women from Eastwood Park Highlights • support provided to the prisons • six of the South West prisons achieved awards in the Reading • positive contribution to ‘Unlocking to improve quality assurance, Agency’s annual Reading Ahead challenge including two prisons Potential’ - the review of education in preparation for inspection and the achieving Gold Awards - Eastwood Park and Erlestoke successful delivery of the Award prisons and hosting successful visits • from over 8,500 entries in the national creative arts Koestler in Teaching to the Band 4 prison to prisons for Coates Review panel Awards competition, there were 118 prize winners from eight instructors members of the South West prisons and from the IRC – including one • aligned future actions with Governors • advanced practitioners had a positive Platinum Award from Leyhill; five Gold Awards from Channings to prioritise and promote a whole impact supporting teaching staff in Wood, Erlestoke, Guys Marsh and Leyhill; and four Silver Awards prison approach to education the prisons from Bristol, Channings Wood and Exeter • 83% lesson observation grades at • success rate of 95% for all vocational • one exceptional ceramicist from Erlestoke was offered a place good or better – an improvement of courses on The Koestler Trust Scholarship Arts Mentoring Award 8% from previous year pathway and will receive up to ten free mentoring sessions over • success rate of 75% for Functional • three very positive HMIP/Ofsted a 12-month period from an experienced ceramics mentor. These Skills English and Maths inspections at HMP Exeter, HMP sessions begin in custody and then extend into the community on

Leyhill and HMP Channings Wood, release to support resettlement with reports awaited • organisation of the inaugural creative art competition, • the recycling lecturer from Channings ‘A Brush With Nature’, for offenders and detainees, culminating in Wood won the prestigious FE Lecturer an art exhibition at Weston College in September 2016 of the Year title at the Pearson Teaching Awards UK ceremony, • innovative projects undertaken in IRC The Verne – collaboration the first offender learning lecturer with the Red Cross on a music project with Robert Plant to l ever to be honoured at Eastwood Park l Leyhill support displaced people worldwide and the establishment of the the awards Bikes for Africa workshop developing bicycle maintenance skills and working with the charity to send refurbished cycles to Africa l Bristol where they are often the only form of transport to school or work.

l Erlestoke

l Guys Marsh Learner Engagement and Achievement

l Exeter Total Number of Learners 4,211 THE Verne l l Portland l Dartmoor Total Number of Assessments - English and Maths 8,169 l Channings Wood

Total Number of Qualifications Achieved 7,749

Establishments in the South West we deliver to. 26 27 Bringing investment to the West of Weston College Academy England This is the £15 million home of the North Somerset Enterprise and Technology College, a STEM-focused (science, technology, engineering and University Centre Weston mathematics) school with strong links The Weston College Group has invested more than £50 million in creating some of the University Centre Weston (UCW) to businesses and employers. The very best learning environments in the West of England, and beyond. is the new name for the Weston new-build contains innovative ‘super- College Group’s university-level These fantastic facilities will not only benefit learners across the country but also the local labs’, a science terrace, indoor and provision, following Weston College community. outdoor sports facilities plus design being awarded university centre and technology workshops. Dr Paul Phillips OBE, Principal and Chief Executive of Weston College Group, said: “This status last year by the University investment demonstrates the magnitude of expertise that the College can bring to creating of the West of England Bristol, Future Technology Centre buildings which exceed the normal standard of educational accommodation offered to (having already achieved this status learners. This £4 million investment provides with Bath Spa University). UCW a high-tech learning environment for “I believe they will set the scene for a dynamic learning environment for the future.” will be based in the redeveloped the engineers of the future. It brings rear section of the Winter Gardens together top-of-the-range engineering site, which will contain a library, equipment and industry professionals lecture rooms and computer suites. to deliver the most advanced The historic Pavilion portion of engineering qualifications in the the building – including the iconic Somerset and Bristol area. ballroom – is being refurbished and will remain available for community Law and Professional Services use. Academy This is a unique flagship enterprise Other investments over the 2015/16 to provide industry-recognised year include: vocational routes into employment. • a £115,000 3G multi-use sports It offers courses in law and justice pitch was opened on the site of the services, finance and accountancy, former Grove Park tennis courts. and professional services such as leadership and management, HR and • a £2.5 million engineering training event management. centre was officially opened.

28 29 The impact on students IT Practitioner “Weston College has enabled me to improve NHS Apprentice my web development and employability skills, and has “I chose to take a higher apprenticeship at North shown me what I can achieve Bristol NHS Trust because it was a more appealing in such a short period of time. route than the traditional university degree. “I was very proud to be “Weston College has very strong links with local selected for the WorldSkills NHS Trusts, and was able to help me secure a UK team, which will give placement at the South Bristol Dialysis Unit.” me the opportunity to Amy Sheppard demonstrate my creative and technical skills in a live competition environment.”

A Levels: Maths, Jordan Tucker Chemistry, Biology. AS Level: French “The teachers here are really engaging and enthusiastic about the courses they teach, which encourages you to delve deeper into the different topics. “I achieved three As, which means I have secured my place at Brighton and Sussex Engineering Apprentice Medical School.” “Weston College has supported me Anjolaoluwa Apata throughout the course, and has taught me the transferable skills that I need to become a better engineer. IT Practitioner “The facilities at the College are “Studying at Weston College has given me impeccable; the workshops are a deeper understanding of computing, and spacious and full of equipment and has helped me to find employment in the IT all the resources you need to department at Thatchers Cider. learn about engineering.” Steven Carr “The teachers have a great understanding of their subjects and are able to share this knowledge and experience with their students.” Jacob Coates

Art and Design UAL Foundation Diploma Access to Higher Education: Nursing, Health and Social Care “Before coming to Weston College, I had no idea of what “Studying at Weston College was one of the I wanted to do or how I was most rewarding years of my life. It has opened going to accomplish it, but my mind to different ways of thinking, and a studying here has given me whole new world of possibilities for the future. structure and a clear direction “I have grown in confidence and self-belief, and into the expansive world of now I can look forward to studying at university.” visual design.” Graham Honeybourne Carlo Hornilla

30 31 The impact on employers Facts and figures

More and more people and organisations are choosing the Weston College Group “Priddy Engineering’s core values are underpinned by a for their education and training needs as a result of our reputation for educational collaborative partnership ethos. excellence, fantastic facilities and proven progression. This year we have strengthened a positive interdependency with Weston College. The Weston College Group remains financially stable while carefully investing to They have a fundamental objective of meeting the demands of business and matching ensure we offer a continually-evolving diverse provision. this with the education and skills needed. Our business has been strengthened not just by the learners we have who attend the College, but also by the relationship the College is building with industry. They are a fully inclusive learning centre, with Weston College Group financial statement – objectives that look at future needs and supporting business. We have been part of 12 months ended 31 July 2016 the development of new facilities that support the engineering industry. The College listens to employers like us and works to meet the challenges we face in the changing skills landscape. We are delighted to have a partner in Weston College.” Income (000’s) Expenditure (000’s) Andrew Blunsdon, Managing Director, Priddy Engineering Services Ltd Funding body grants 42,627 Staffing costs 35,938

Tuition fees & educational 11,454 Other operating expenses 15,621 “We have continued to nurture our relationship with Weston contracts College, focusing on apprenticeships and professional Other income 701 Depreciation 1,057 qualifications. Interest and other financial This year has seen a new development with the Business Enterprise Centre, which Investment income 104 794 provided a strategic planning document on the Apprenticeship Levy and a sector- costs specific apprenticeship standard. With our growing network of contacts we have within the College, we now run sector-based work academies to support our Total income 54,886 Total expenditure 53,410 recruitment activity, work trials and experience sessions via Team North Somerset. We have even sponsored events with student support to raise money for local Operating surplus/deficit 1,476 charities. We clearly believe Weston College is a strategic partner as we continue to grow and develop our staff for the future.” Source: year-end management accounts Katie Dominy, Head of HR, Castelan Group All accounts unaudited and subject to approval at time of going to print.

“At the heart of Dribuild Group’s values is providing a Further and Higher Education enrolments consistent approach for collaborative working within our (Excluding offender learning) local communities, and the reciprocal support we get from Weston College has greatly enhanced this. Further Education (full-time) 13,468 Our synergies with Weston College have complemented the partnership we have Further Education (part-time) 9,409 enjoyed this year and we are delighted to have been able to support so many Higher Education (full-time) 867 students. Higher Education (part-time) 27 “We hope this partnership has been of benefit to young learners by providing not only financial assistance but also additional opportunities within their learning journey. Apprenticeships (inc. partners) 1,019 “This is a relationship that has truly added value on both sides and is a unique Total enrolments 24,790 success to be proud of. We look forward to this continuing for many years to come.” Matt Tyler, Managing Director, Dribuild Group

Percentage of enrolments by gender “The relationship we have with Weston College is one of working in collaboration to achieve a high standard of Early Female Male Years practitioners. Further Education 42% 58% “The apprentice scheme has meant that we, as employers, have been able to offer staff the chance to train while they work; also, we know that they are trained to our very high standards. Apprenticeships 64% 36% “Even after they have finished their Level 3, a large majority of our staff go on to do the degree at the College. Weston College has always delivered a high level of education, communication, help and support. We always recommend them Higher Education 45% 55% to others in our sector.”

Bernadette Rosewell, Area Manager, The Honey Tree Day Nursery and Preschool 020406080 100

32 33 Corporation Stop press

A snapshot of the very latest news as the Annual Report went to press Governor Role Background and a look ahead to the future Lead Governor for Mark Canniford Commercial Safeguarding

Vice Chair of Corporation Chris Carter Legal Chair of Finance Committee Weston College bids for a new project to develop wellbeing

Tim Cowley Governor Industry/Legal for the area, in partnership with North Somerset Council and Weston Area Health Trust. Commercial/Human Gemma Day Governor Resources

Chair of the Corporation Chair of Forward Futures Jude Ferguson Guidance New developments are occuring in support, allowing the Board Chair of Brighter Futures SEND specialisms of Weston College to be applied to the

Governor higher education environment. Andrew Leighton-Price Audit/Finance Chair of Audit Committee

Vice Chair of Corporation Education including Jo Midgley Chair of HE Quality and Higher Education Curriculum Committee Weston College is approved to develop and run a new MP Weston-super- John Penrose Corporation Associate Teaching School. Mare

Lead Governor for Health and Ian Porter Industry Safety

Vice Chair of Corporation Work is under way on revamping Weston-super-Mare’s Chair of FE Quality and Curriculum iconic Winter Gardens complex. Dr George Reah Industry Chair of Offender Learning Services Board Chair of IFT

Sheila Smith Governor Education BBC Radio Bristol broadcast a live, three-hour, show from the Knightstone Campus, focused on the regeneration of Vice Chair of Audit Donna Turner-Kot Industry Committee Weston-super-Mare and North Somerset.

Fiona Waters Staff Representative Education

Maxine Park Staff Representative Education College Beacon Award success is recognised at the National Association of Colleges Conference. Abigail Farrant FE Student Governor Student

Kasha Miller HE Student Governor Student Weston College embarks on new groundworks bid to Education, Business Dr Paul Phillips OBE Principal and Chief Executive and Finance complete the full offer in both Construction and Engineering.

34 35 www.weston.ac.uk [email protected]

Knightstone Campus Knightstone Road, Weston-super-Mare BS23 2AL 01934 411 411

University Campus Loxton Road, Weston-super-Mare BS23 4QU 01934 411 600

South West Skills Campus Locking Road, Weston-super-Mare BS22 8NL Automotive Technology Centre (ATC) 01934 411 777 Business Enterprise Centre (BEC) 01934 411 594 Technology, Engineering and Construction Centre of Excellence (TEC) 01934 411 777

North Somerset Enterprise and Technology College Weston College Academy, Beaufighter Road, Weston-super-Mare BS24 8EE 01934 411 611

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained within this publication is fair and accurate at the time of going to press. However, the courses, services and other information included may be subject to changes from time to time. Consequently no guarantee can be given that changes will not be made following publication due to circumstances beyond our control. © Copyright 2016 Weston College Group