Exeter College has been officially recognised by The Sunday Times as one of the UK’s Best Places to Work
Exeter College is proud to announce that it has been recognised as one of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work in the UK 2025, in the Big Organisation category. The prestigious accolade celebrates the best workplaces across the country and highlights employers that lead the way in creating outstanding employee experiences.
The Sunday Times Best Places to Work list is the UK’s biggest survey of employee engagement, complied in partnership with workplace expert WorkL, spanning a raft of sectors, sizes and locations throughout the UK.
The College was ranked, in the nationwide survey that honours and celebrates the UK’s top employers, against a six-step framework including: reward and recognition, instilling pride, information sharing, empowerment, wellbeing and job satisfaction.
One of the key strengths highlighted by Exeter College staff was their sense of pride for working at the college achieving an excellent score in this category.
Other impressive highlights from the survey includes high scores against the following areas: staff enjoying their job, feeling their work is worthwhile and having a good relationship with their manager.
John Laramy, Exeter College Chief Executive and Principal, said: “We are incredibly proud to be named a Sunday Times Best Place to Work 2025. This award is a testament to the amazing people who make Exeter College such a special place — our dedicated staff, who work with passion, pride, and a commitment to excellence every single day. Our vision is to be an exceptional college and we believe that creating an environment where our colleagues feel valued and empowered is key to our success, and we’re honoured that this has been recognised on a national level.”
Students look to turn TikTok videos into viral hits
Media students from Exeter College have been putting their social media skills to the test by creating a series of TikTok videos to be used by Devon and Cornwall Police.
As part of their course, the UAL Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology, students have been working with the force’s Corporate Communications and Engagement team to create the short social videos which will feature on Devon and Cornwall Police’s new TikTok channel.
Subject areas covered by the project include the danger of drink and drug driving, making sure a young person has a safe night out, the dangers of texting while driving and tips to avoid having your drink spiked.
Devon and Cornwall Police Chief Constable James Vaughan met students to view some of the videos and talked to them about the power of one of the fastest growing social media platforms.
Devon and Cornwall Police Chief Constable James Vaughan speaks with students.
TikTok in the UK has an estimated 23 million users with around 40 per cent of those in the ‘Gen Z’ 18-24 year old age bracket.
Chief Constable James Vaughan said: “Historically this younger age group has been one of the most difficult for police to engage with.”
“For the police to have young people creating social media content aimed at their own peer group has been immensely useful.
“The students have given us a completely different outlook on social media trends and styles that we might not have used in our content otherwise.
“Hopefully we can get some good public engagement on our new channel and showcase the student’s talent and creativity.”
Exeter College Lecturer in Creative Media, Rob Chadwick has worked with the Police on this project and said: “This has been a valuable experience for the students. To be given a real-world brief with real feedback is a great opportunity.
“They have really enjoyed being able to offer their views on such sensitive topics and are excited to see their work launched on the channel.”
The videos will be launching during the coming weeks on Devon and Cornwall Police’s TikTok channel at @dc_police.
Get the Most Out of an Open Event: Our Top Tips
Ready to get a taste of College life? Our Open Events are the perfect opportunity to explore our campuses, chat with our experienced staff, and dive deeper into the courses you’re interested in. Don’t miss out — register now!
Event Dates to Choose From:
Thursday 10 October, 4-8pm
Wednesday 20 November, 4-8pm
Wednesday 19 March, 5-7pm (Adult and Higher Technical Education only)
Wednesday 23 April, 4-7pm
City Centre Locations to Explore:
Centre for Creative Industries
Hele Building
Laurence Building
Maths and Science Centre
Ted Wragg Building
Digital and Data Centre (Institute of Technology)
Centre for Music and Performance
Tower Building
Victoria Yard
Sports Hall
Victoria House
Specialist Sites:
Technology Centre (Monkerton)
Construction Centre (Digby & Sowton)
With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry! We’ve got six tips to help you make the most out of your Open Event.
Check the Programme Once you’ve pre-registered, you’ll receive one of three programmes tailored to our city centre or specialist sites. These will be sent out the week of the event, so make sure to give it a read before you arrive. It’ll include maps, activities, and locations—helping you pinpoint where to go for the courses that interest you.
Plan Ahead for Travel The roads can be busy, and parking is limited – plus, there’s no parking available on our College sites. We recommend using public transport if possible and allowing extra time to park. Planning ahead means you can arrive calm, collected, and ready to explore.
Find Support When You Need It Our friendly Welcome Team, dressed in blue, will be on-site to answer any of your questions. For more detailed guidance, head to the Student Services and Experience Hub in the Hele Road building. They can help with travel, financial support, tutorial support, and more.
Stay Open to New Courses Even if you have your heart set on a course, stay open to new possibilities. If something else catches your eye, ask the Welcome Team where to go for more details. It’s your chance to explore every option!
Take a Break Feeling overwhelmed? Most of our locations have cafés offering complimentary refreshments. Grab a cup of coffee, take a breather, and map out your next stop.
Don’t Forget the School Leavers’ Guide Make sure to pick up a School Leavers’ guide during the event. It’s a handy reference that covers all the course details, so you can double-check everything before you leave.
If you haven’t already signed up for one of our Open Events, then sign up today. Can’t attend in person? No problem! Contact our College Advice Team at 01392 400 600 or via email at cat@exe-coll.ac.uk for personalised advice.
Make the most of your visit, and we’ll see you there!
How We’re Supporting You on GCSE Results Day
We know that the lead-up to exam results day can be a stressful time. If you didn’t get the GCSE results you were expecting, please don’t panic. Our GCSE Advice Line is here to help you, whether you’re planning to come to Exeter College in September or not.
You can call our friendly team on 01392 400 555, from 08:30am to 04:30pm on weekdays (excluding bank holidays). The Advice Line opens on GCSE Results Day.
The College Advice Team is here to support you.
In the meantime, here are our top tips to help you manage your stress.
Take care of yourself
Try to get some sleep before the big day, and enjoy activities such as spending time with friends and family. It’s normal to be nervous, but putting in the time for self-care will help you to feel more relaxed.
Don’t panic if your results aren’t what you expected
Our College Advice Team are trained to give you guidance. We can talk to you about the subject areas you’re interested in, your long-term career goals, and your exam grades, to find the option that’s right for you.
Have an open mind
If you had a re-think over the summer, or your GCSE results mean you can’t do the course you were originally signed up for, don’t be afraid to explore your other options. Our expert subject lecturers can support you to find a course that’s right for you and your ambitions.
Remember that we’re here for you
Whatever the outcome – whether better than expected, or not as positive as you’d hoped – we are here to support you. Pick up the phone, email us, or visit our website to use our live chat on Results Day.
The Exeter College GCSE Advice Line is open from 8.30am to 4.30pm on weekdays (excluding bank holidays). The number to call will be 01392 400 555. The Advice Line opens to all from GCSE Results Day onwards.
Launch Your Teaching Career with a PGCE in Further Education
The PGCE in FE is a Level 7 programme that certifies trainees to work in post-16 education and training, and contributes to professional formation QTLS status. Our PGCE in FE is validated by the University of Exeter, and trainees have access to the university’s study and leisure facilities. At Exeter College, our trainees’ week is split into a 3-day teaching placement in one of our subject areas, and two days of taught classes. The course runs from September to June and counts towards up to 120 credits of a master’s degree. We currently have availability for a September 2024 start.
Miriam McDowell (pictured above) is a current PGCE in FE trainee and is studying to teach GCSE English.
“The PGCE tutors have been extremely supportive in terms of study skills and how to approach our essays. Some of us have been out of formal education for a long time and their support has made the academic side of the course feel far less daunting. The mentors have supported me in many ways… from helping me manage my time between teaching and studying to building my confidence and setting me workable targets.”
Your course will be tailor-made to your specialism; featuring modern education principles for your subject area. Trainees from a diverse range of specialisms regularly meet to pool knowledge, while an extensive portfolio of written work will evidence your teaching practice’s development. Our PGCE in FE is a truly unique opportunity in this region to learn from teachers in a college that is performing to the highest possible standard.
The College is a supportive learning environment and teachers are conscious of any obstacles learners may face. Rosemary Baines is studying to teach Maths.
“Everyone – from fellow PGCE students, through to the PGCE teaching team, to everyone in my placement faculty – is really lovely and supportive. The PGCE tutors are a real help with all aspects, from course content to advice with placements and a listening ear when things don’t go to plan.”
A PGCE in FE at Exeter College is a reliable route into employment: 70% of our learners go on to work with us. 20% of graduates find employment at other colleges, or continue to an MA.
Alex Boyle, Head of Faculty in Sport, Leisure and Tourism, says:
“When I employ a PGCE learner, I know I am getting a member of staff with strong pedagogical knowledge, a desire to improve and someone who understands the expectations of an Ofsted-Outstanding College. PGCE learners at Exeter College develop a detailed knowledge of our processes, curricula and faculty culture. This significantly improves graduates’ opportunities for employment across the College.”
Miriam agrees.
“I’ve gained so much classroom experience and the confidence that comes with that. I have forged good relationships with members of staff across different faculties and I think this stands me in good stead to find a job after the PGCE.”
This qualification can be a springboard for those interested in further postgraduate study. With the course counting towards up to two thirds of the credit requirement of a master’s degree, many of our trainees go on to a ‘top-up’ master’s degree.
Bursaries for the 2024 to 2025 academic year are awarded to trainees based on their qualifications and their intention to teach a designated priority subject in the FE sector. Learn more here.
Ellie (PGCE in FE Health and Social Care trainee) looks back on her experiences thus far.
“I was very nervous going into my PGCE course, however it is the best choice I could have made for my future. Teaching is amazing, it gives you all different types of perspectives which you would not get anywhere else. It can be tough, but the rewards are always greater.”
Hopeful teachers of ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) need look no further than our CELTA course.
The CELTA is the most widely recognised English teaching qualification across the globe. It’s estimated that three quarters of all English language teaching jobs require this qualification.
Although the CELTA lends itself well to newly qualified teachers who are looking for their first teaching job, and experienced teachers who want to upskill, you don’t need to have prior qualifications to join. The CELTA is an initial teacher qualification, which makes it ideal for those who wish to travel and teach English, or individuals who are interested in doing voluntary work with newcomers to the country.
“As a university lecturer in my day job I wasn’t sure how much I could learn on the course, but it was really worthwhile and didn’t just teach English Language teaching skills, but great skills for teaching in general,” says one of our trainees.
Exeter College offers the CELTA on a part-time basis, with a November 2023 start. Based at our Hele Road site, learners will cover five units over twenty-two weeks of learning. The course is fast-paced and balances modern teaching theory with real-world experience. The flexible mode of study makes this an attractive course for parents and working people looking to make a career change.
“Right from the word ‘go’ we found ourselves being trained in a real-life classroom situation, not just offered a bunch of theory. We were coaxed into letting go of tired concepts and laying hold of good communicative practice. I’ve discovered that many of these principles apply not just to teaching English, but to many wider aspects of life. It’s been mind-expanding,” enthuses another trainee.
A dedicated team of teachers support CELTA trainees and model ESOL teaching at its best. All trainees must do six observations of qualified ESOL teachers, which bolsters confidence in their own abilities. The face-to-face learning environment, balanced with teaching practice with ESOL students from several countries make Exeter College’s CELTA course “a really supportive and constructive environment…the perfect way to get into the world of teaching.”
CELTA trainees are typically graduates, though people with A Levels or an equivalent certification will also be considered. Click to learn more about our CELTA course and to apply.
Open Doors with Access to Higher Education
An Access to Higher Education (HE) degree at Exeter College is a fantastic pathway into university level education. These courses have been designed to help people without formal qualifications to gain confidence in their skills and progress to professional level training. The Access Diploma is equivalent to A Levels and is recognised by UK universities.
We offer Access Diplomas in seven subject areas:
Art and Design
Business
Healthcare
Humanities
Science (Biology and Chemistry)
Science (Physics and Maths)
Social Science
The results of our Access to HE student survey speak for themselves: student satisfaction last year topped the South West at 82.69%. Learners praised the small class sizes, dedicated staff, rigorous academics, and celebration of learner achievements.
Former Social Science Access learner Rowena Atkinson said:
“My tutor was amazing! Both my module leaders and my personal tutor restored my faith in teaching staff. They went above and beyond not only to make sure our Access experience was useful and relevant, but also to make lessons fun, whilst making sure everyone was supported.”
Devon’s only Ofsted-rated Outstanding college is an ideal place to return to school and start your journey into advanced qualifications. We understand that adult life can make this difficult, so we have funding options and childcare bursaries available.
Luke Sandercock (pictured above) is one of our current Access learners. He describes his experience applying for funding.
“I didn’t apply for a bursary at first because I thought I’d be alright, but as soon as I realised that I needed the help it was quick and easy to sort out.”
Rowena describes the College’s supportive attitude:
“The College was very understanding of the things that adult learners have to think about in comparison to the average student, they also helped us manage how we could juggle our lives to be able to study.”
One of our learners who is using her Access diploma as a springboard into higher education and future employment is Alex Rudzka-Jefferies. This current Access to Business student has already received several offers to read Law and will be going on to the University of West England.
We are open for applications for courses starting in September 2023. You can request the full guide to our range of Access courses and learn more here.
Register for our March Adult Open Event and speak with our friendly staff to learn more. You can also talk to our Adult Advice team by emailing adultadvice@exe-coll.ac.uk or by calling 01392 400170.
Open Doors For A Digital T Levels Learner With An Industry Placement
We are offering an exciting opportunity to employers to take on a skilled Digital T Level learner for a termtime industry placement. Learners aim to accrue 315 hours on an a termtime work placement, which is typically offered as one or two days per week, week-long blocks of fulltime work, or a mix of both. Placements are typically in-person, with an option of up to 20% remote working.
Our learners come to their placements with industry-level skills already under their belts. Some examples of typical learner capabilities by course are:
Digital Production, Design and Developmentlearners
Designing and developing programs in Python and C#
Developing web applications using JavaScript/asp.net/SQL
Software testing
Engaging in the software lifecycle
Self-management and project planning with Agile and DevOps
Digital Support Services Students
Responding to tickets and providing support on the IT Service helpdesk
Installing hardware and configuring devices
Installing software and operating systems
System updates and fault analysis
Implementing basic cyber security measures
Specification of new devices to support requisition requests
The benefits to you as an employer are multiple.
Not only do you get extra resources for day-to-day projects, but this is also a cost-effective way of identifying fresh talent and building a recruitment pipeline for entry-level jobs. In providing a positive experience for a young person, you will also build your business capacity and upskill existing staff through their coaching and mentoring of our learners.
One of our Digital Production, Design and Development T Levels alumni, Josh Dyer, reflected on what he’s gained from his industrial placement.
“I’m currently working at Teignbridge Propellors as a Junior Software Developer who offered me the role after my placement. From here I hope to build my CV up and get a few years under my belt.”
Jumpstart Your Outstanding Teaching Career At Exeter College
Break into teaching by getting your PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education). Learn from the best at Devon’s only Ofsted-rated Outstanding College, with generous government funding available.
The PGCE is a Level 6/7 programme which certifies trainees to work in post-16 education and training and contributes to professional formation QTLS status. At Exeter College, our trainees’ week is split into a 3-day teaching placement in one of our subject areas, and two days of taught PGCE classes. The course runs from September to June and counts towards up to 90 credits of a master’s degree. We currently have availability for a September 2023 start.
Harry Faint is a former PGCE trainee and current teacher at the College. He says;
“I loved the course because of my mentors and the people studying alongside me. It gave me supportive, tangible, on the job experience, but with the space to develop and make mistakes.”
Your course will be tailor-made to your specialism; with modern education principles for your subject area. Trainees from a diverse range of specialisms regularly meet to pool knowledge, while an extensive portfolio of written work will evidence your teaching practice’s development. A PGCE with Exeter College marks a unique opportunity in this region to learn from teachers in a college that is performing to the highest possible standard.
The College also does its best to support learners with any obstacles to their learning. Sarah Bates-Ryan describes how the College helped her during her time with us;
“I have a chronic illness, which can sometimes impact my mobility. The College were incredibly proactive in signposting me to support which helped me to apply for financial support towards a taxi into College on days when my health was poor.”
A PGCE at Exeter College is a strong route into employment: 75% of our learners go on to work with us. Head of Faculty for Healthcare, Childcare and Public Services, Heidi Amor says;
“When I employ a PGCE learner as a member of staff I know that I’m getting an excellent member of staff with extensive practical experience, knowledge in all of the systems and processes, great rapport with the staff and the students.”
Samuel Chesterfield agrees. He is a former PGCE trainee who now works as a programme lead in our Sport and Physical Education faculty.
“Not only did we get outstanding teaching, but they were also really supportive with professional development and getting work environment experience.”
This qualification can be a springboard for those interested in further postgraduate study. With the course counting towards up to half of the credit requirement of a master’s degree, many of our trainees go on to a ‘top-up’ master’s degree.
Bursaries for the 2023 to 2024 academic year are awarded to trainees based on their qualifications and their intention to teach a designated priority subject in the FE sector.
