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Foot Anstey and Willmott Dixon announced as headline sponsors for Exeter College Awards

Exeter College is delighted to announce that Foot Anstey and Willmott Dixon will be the headline sponsors of the college’s landmark 50th anniversary Exeter College Awards.  

The support of two of the country’s most innovative and forward-thinking businesses provides huge backing to the awards ceremony that will celebrate inspirational Exeter College students, staff and alumni in a glittering event taking place in the stunning setting of Exeter Cathedral in January 2020.  

This year’s Exeter College Awards is also celebrating 50 years since the college was announced as the UK’s first tertiary college, although the origins of the college date back to the 1800s. The Exeter College Awards will launch a year of celebrations, reflecting on 50 years of excellence and looking forward as one of the country’s leading further education institutions.  

As headline sponsors of the awards, representatives from both Foot Anstey and Willmott Dixon will attend the event, present awards and join with Exeter College in celebrating the achievements of everyone at the college.  

Foot Anstey has long been associated with Exeter College, having provided legal advice and expertise on a range of projects over the years. Their contribution to the current national standing of the college has been instrumental and this latest sponsorship represents an ongoing commitment of collaboration between two leading institutions. 

Simon Gregory, who is in charge of Foot Anstey’s relationship with Exeter College, said: “Exeter College is an exceptional institution and a very valued client of Foot Anstey. We recognise their considerable achievements over the last 50 years and their pivotal role in Exeter and its region. We are proud to support this landmark event.” 

Willmott Dixon and Exeter College are currently collaborating on the building of a new Institute of Technology Digital and Data Centre on the college’s Hele Road site. The new £10.3million building is part of a wider South West Institute of Technology plan to revolutionise digital, engineering and manufacturing technology education across the region. The new state-of-the-art building is scheduled to be completed in Spring 2021. 

Rob Woolcock, Director at Willmott Dixon said: “We are delighted to be a part of Exeter College’s celebration in their 50th year. It is so important to celebrate people’s achievements and I look forward to hearing the many stories behind the awards; I am certain that it will be a fantastic night.  

“We are proud to be working with such a forward-thinking college and are excited to be working on the new Digital and Data Centre, which will be a great asset to the college and the city of Exeter.” 

Around 300 friends, partners, students and alumni are expected to attend the event in Exeter Cathedral, with a two-course banquet provided by Exeter-based catering company Posh Nosh. 

The welcome Drinks Reception is being sponsored by Exeter Live Better, a city-wide partnership committed to showcasing everything Exeter has to offer. 

Councillor Phil Bialyk, Leader of Exeter City Council, which was central to the launch of Exeter Live Better, said: “I am delighted to support this prestigious event. Exeter College is a fantastic institution which is crucial to the success of the city and has been over the last 50 years. 

“The college is rightly regarded as one of the best in the UK and continues to give our children the skills they need, and the skills the city needs, to grow and prosper in the future. I would like to congratulate all the students and everyone involved in these awards – you are all winners.” 

The 2020 Exeter College Awards will be taking place on Friday, 24th January with invited guests, partners, students and staff attending. Sent any queries to events@exe-coll.ac.uk. 

Find out more about Exeter College’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

Find out more about Foot Anstey, Willmott Dixon and Exeter Live Better.

National Award Nomination for Exeter College Director

Exeter College’s Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement Mike Blakeley has been shortlisted for a national award in the prestigious Tes FE Awards 2020.

The awards ceremony is a landmark event in the further education sector as exceptional teachers, learners and providers join together to celebrate innovation and excellence in the industry.  

“I think this is simply a reflection on the terrific Exeter College teams, regional partners, employers and Apprentices we work with every day,”

Mike Blakeley, Exeter College Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement

Exeter College’s Mike Blakeley, who has been with the college since 2014, is shortlisted in the coveted FE Leader of the Year category following an incredible year of achievements for the Exeter College Apprenticeships Team, including a recent nomination in the Association of Colleges Beacon City & Guilds Award for Engagement with Employers.  

A recent Department for Education survey also announced Exeter College as the top-rated further education college in the South West for employer satisfaction; the second year running they held this title.  

This latest recognition for the Apprenticeships provision at Exeter College, alongside record levels of recruitment of Apprentices at Exeter College in the last academic year, represents the continuing success and outstanding reputation of the college locally and nationally.  

Speaking after learning of his nomination, Mike said, “It’s a massive surprise and a huge honour to be nominated for this award. Although my name is on the nomination, I think this is simply a reflection on the terrific Exeter College teams, regional partners, employers and Apprentices we work with every day. 

“As an Apprenticeships Team we have performed incredibly well against a challenging national picture and have consistently come out as one of the top Apprenticeships providers in the country. From here, we want to continue innovating, continue working with industry partners and develop further so that Apprentices and businesses can work together to meet the skills challenges of the future. 

“I would like to wish all my fellow nominees the best of luck ahead of the ceremony.” 

The winners will be announced at a glittering awards ceremony at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London, on 20 March. 

Speaking after the announcement of the full shortlist for the Tes FE Awards, Education Secretary Gavin Williamson said: “Congratulations to all of those who have made the shortlist for the Tes FE Awards. The awards are a great opportunity to celebrate and recognise the brilliant work being carried out every day around the country across the sector.  

“You should all be very proud of the work you are doing to support people to develop the skills they need to transform their lives.” 

Interested in finding out more about Apprenticeships? Register now to attend the Apprenticeships Expo held at Exeter College Sports Hall on Thursday, 6th February.  

Check out the full shortlist for all the categories on the Tes FE Awards story.  

Inspiring the next generation of Apprentices

With National Apprenticeship Week coming up in early February, we caught up with four former Exeter College Apprentices to find out how they used an Apprenticeship to forge a career in the industry of their choice… 

George, Management and Leadership Apprenticeship Programme  

Great Western Railway 

“I was working at Exeter St David’s ticket office, when I saw an internal advertisement for a management Apprenticeship programme. I really wanted to give it a go so I could progress within the company, and the course would allow me to take that next step, while continuing to earn a salary.  

“We covered several helpful topics, including project management, which was crucial in landing me a role as Project Manager for the train network after completing the course. I have been working on nationwide restructuring, such as cashless purchasing on GWR trains and a timetable overhaul – the biggest change in 40 years. It is my responsibility to ensure every member of the GWR team across the UK is informed of how these changes affect them and their role. These large-scale projects have required me to use my training in relationship building and communication, to manage the various stakeholders involved.  

“I’m really loving my job and the variety I get to enjoy. I might spend one day in the office at Exeter, the next in London, then the next at our head office in Swindon. I wouldn’t be doing what I am now if it wasn’t for my Apprenticeship and I would recommend it to anyone. It’s only six months since I completed, and I really feel as though I am making strides in my career.” 

Find out more about Apprenticeships at Exeter College.

Zoe, Business Administration and HR Consultant Apprenticeship Programmes 

Devon Norse 

“I knew university wasn’t for me, but I was keen to learn and push myself, so I decided I would take a Business Administration Apprenticeship. The programme would allow me to work in an office environment and give me a broad understanding of business. While completing the Level 2 and 3 programmes I enjoyed the elements of the course that touched on HR and I decided to specialise in this area. My company has been happy to support me through all my learning, as well as the recent transition from a more general role into their HR team, on the Level 5 Apprenticeship.  

“I have developed much faster than if I had gone to university. I would be in debt and would still be searching for a job – but I’m in a full-time role and have really got my teeth into my career. Not only that, but I am already immersed in the local business community and have built a network of contacts.  

“I’m really enjoying my current role. It allows me plenty of interaction with people and takes me to various locations, visiting employees across the South West and Wales. I would absolutely recommend an Apprenticeship and am even setting my sights on moving onto a Level 7 Apprenticeship or specialising further in employment law.” 

Find out more about Apprenticeships at Exeter College.

Max, Sporting Excellence Apprenticeship Programme 

Exeter Chiefs 

“After progressing from U16 and U18 at Exeter Chiefs, the coach felt I had potential to continue full-time. I was therefore given the opportunity to complete an Apprenticeship programme and continue training with the club.  

“Some parts of my Apprenticeship have been helpful in what I am doing right now, such as nutrition and sports science modules, but I know there’s an ‘expiry date’ on playing professionally and my Apprenticeship has encouraged me to consider a career in the industry after I step down. It has acted as my plan B. The coaching section of the course allowed us to practice taking a class and conducting lessons with groups of varying ages, including organising and planning the structure of the session. I really enjoyed it and developed leadership skills, which has inspired me to develop my coaching further.  

“I’d recommend an Apprenticeship to anyone. If you don’t know what you want to do, like me, it gives you an opportunity to learn and gain experience in the workplace, without the price tag.” 

Find out more about Apprenticeships at Exeter College.

Andy, Manufacturing Engineering Apprenticeship Programme 

HepcoMotion 

“I spent my childhood tinkering – taking things apart and putting them back together. I decided early on that I wanted to take this further and knew engineering offered great career prospects. After finishing an engineering BTEC I thought the Apprenticeship option was the obvious route for me. I would end up with the same qualification as my friends who opted to go to university, but would earn a salary and get practical, hands on experience in the workplace. I found a job close to home with a local company that offered great progression options. HepcoMotion has a strong history working with Apprentices as many of the managers, and even the chairman himself, started work at HepcoMotion as Apprentices. 

“HepcoMotion has an intake of Apprentices each year and it was nice to share the experience with others. We spent the second year rotating around departments, so that we had an overview of the business and could see which area best suited us. I now work as part of the CNC team, using specific knowledge I learnt at college about robotics.  I really enjoy my role and am encouraged to keep trialling new things, which keeps me motivated. My Apprenticeship also taught me valuable professional skills, such as communication, team working and presenting, and I like the idea of perhaps taking a management programme to develop further. 

“I’d definitely recommend an Apprenticeship. I have a proper job compared to my university friends, who have finished their degree and are just working in part-time jobs.”  

Find out more about Apprenticeships at Exeter College.

Think Apprenticeships

Visit the Apprenticeship Expo on Thursday 6th February 2020, 1pm-6pm at Exeter College Sports Hall (Victoria Yard, Off Queen Street, Exeter, EX4 3SR).

Every year, the South West Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, in collaboration with Exeter College, host the South West’s largest careers event during National Apprenticeship week, to inspire individuals to think about their career. The event is an opportunity to meet with over 50 local employers, ranging from large international companies, to local businesses, all with job vacancies for those hoping to forge a career through an Apprenticeship. 

This year, Building Greater Exeter and Building Growth South West will be running a dedicated Construction Zone with their partner organisations. The collaborative will be raising awareness of the wide range of opportunities available within the sector and the skills shortage that we can overcome by investing in training through Apprenticeships.

Find out more and register your interest in attending the Apprenticeship Expo.

University Medical Interview Masterclass for Exeter College Students

Exeter College’s would-be future doctors, dentists and vets have been given the inside track on getting through the interview process universities hold for these professional degrees. A Level and International Baccalaureate learners in the college’s Medics Society practiced their skills in an interview masterclass held in the college’s Maths and Science Centre. 

University applications to study medical-related degrees including veterinary science and dentistry are notoriously challenging, but Exeter College has moved to support these aspiring professionals with an interview masterclass from Dr Alex Harding from the University of Exeter Medical School, who has extensive experience in the admissions process at the University.  

“It’s clear that these sessions are having a genuine impact and helping our students get where they want to go in life,”

Martin Gilbert, Exeter College Lecturer

Dr Harding joined Exeter College’s university applicants for medicine, dentistry and veterinary courses to talk through the interview process before splitting the group up in to smaller focus groups to practice their interview technique.  

Exeter College Lecturer Martin Gilbert, who also leads the college’s Reach Academy for academically gifted students, was delighted to have Dr Harding share his wisdom with the college’s Year 13 students.   

“There is no doubt that what Alex does with our students makes a huge impact on their performance at interview and ultimately on the number of university offers made to our students,” said Martin.  

“Our learners are incredibly successful in gaining offers to study extremely competitive degrees such as medicine thanks to the extra support they get in sessions such as this. 

“Students gain a great deal of confidence through the guidance of our interview masterclass sessions. The first time we ask students why they want to be a medic they nearly always stumble and trip over themselves. But by the time they have finished the sessions with Dr Harding and his team they are able to clearly and professionally express their ideas in a confident and genuine way.” 

In addition to practicing interview-based questions, Dr Harding and his team from the University of Exeter will also discuss important information around the ethics of working in the medical profession; key principles that are discussed during medical interviews for university.  

“The ethical considerations are about learning how to weigh up problems and thinking about things in a different way. They’ve got to practice that process and these sessions help enormously with that,” said Martin.  

“It’s great when we get people like Alex in who can reinforce these key messages and let students know what it’s actually like to go through that interview process. He’s able to give students tips and advice on how to make sure you make the best possible impression and get to study what you want at university. It’s really invaluable to our students.” 

Dr Harding has been facilitating sessions with Exeter College students for the last three years, and Martin confirmed the impact the sessions had made on the success rates of medical, veterinary and dentistry applications. 

Martin continued: “We can see a very clear upward trajectory of our students’ success rates when making these notoriously difficult applications to university since Alex has been coming to help our students. It’s clear that these sessions are having a genuine impact and helping our students get where they want to go in life.” 

Reach Academy Success 

The students who attended Dr Harding’s masterclass sessions were largely made up of Exeter College’s Reach Academy students – an extracurricular group of academically gifted students who build skills with the aim of getting students into their first choice university. As part of the Academy, students get the chance to go on trips, attend stretching extra-curricular lectures and debates, hear from inspirational guest speakers and receive one-to-one guidance around their university application. 

The Reach Academy itself celebrated a hugely successful academic year over summer 2019, with 50 Oxbridge applications made and a massive 28% offered conditional places to study at the prestigious universities.  

In addition, the most recent academic year saw the Reach Academy support 23 applicants for medicine, veterinary science or dentistry and 70% were offered conditional placements, thanks, in part, to the interview preparation supported Reach Academy events like the one supported by Dr Harding of the University of Exeter.  

For the 2018/19 academic year, 100% of Reach Academy students were placed with universities and a remarkable 87% got places at acclaimed Russell Group universities.  

Apply now to study with Exeter College from September 2020.

Find out more about the Reach Academy at Exeter College.

Take a virtual tour of our state-of-the-art Maths and Science Centre.

“I count it as a privilege to be a part of Exeter College for so many years,” – longest serving staff member on her time with the college

As part of Exeter College celebrating 50 years as the UK’s first ever tertiary college, we’re talking to some of the inspirational students, staff and alumni who have helped make us the Ofsted Outstanding education provider we are today. 

1977 is a year when Abba’s Knowing Me, Knowing You, topped the singles chart, the original Star Wars hit the cinemas and Melinda Northcott first set foot in Exeter College as a member of staff. Now, almost 43 years later, Melinda is the longest serving member of staff at the college, having initially joined as a Biology Technician over four decades ago. 

Reflecting on her time so far with Exeter College, Melinda – a former student at the college – revealed how she feels about her time with the institution. She said, “There are definitely things about the college that have changed dramatically over the years. But, for me, the core values have been completely consistent, and that’s down to the professionalism, care and skill of the people that I work with throughout the college.” 

Move to the Maths and Science Centre

Melinda, 62, has certainly witnessed incredible change at Exeter College, with new buildings, revitalised workspaces and countless students coming and going through the years.  

One of the biggest changes Melinda had to deal with was the move of her department from the college’s Tower building in to a new purpose-built Maths and Science Centre on Queen Street in 2015. It’s a move Melinda admitted she was wasn’t looking forward to. 

The specialist Maths and Science Centre opened in 2015.

“I genuinely thought it would be awful moving to the Maths and Science Centre. I had spent so long in the Tower I just couldn’t imagine us ever leaving and I have to say I was really dreading moving my equipment over. 

“However, we came over, set ourselves up and I have to say, it’s absolutely fantastic! It’s a million times better than the Tower was for us. It’s the simple things that have made my job better, not just the state-of-the-art facilities. For example, having connecting doors from the labs to my prep room means I’m on hand and available to anyone who needs my help. I used to spend half my time running up and down the corridors in the Tower to get to the laboratories! The Tower was good for us for a time, but as a department we had simply outgrown it.

“It’s not just better for me though, the students get more of an idea of a modern facility and it has all worked out for the benefit of the students.” 

Some things never change…

While change appears to be a constant in Melinda’s time with Exeter College, she maintains that elements of her job, now titled as a Biological Sciences Technical Support Facilitator, are exactly the same as when she first started. Melinda’s role in the biology department is largely to organise and support lab-based practicals for students in aid of their studies, in addition to other duties in supporting teachers and students in the labs. 

“Some aspects of the job have not changed one bit. The core work, in supporting students in their practical work is the same as it ever was,” said Melinda. 

“Courses have changed, we have gone in different directions, and we will continue to do so as a progressive college. The college moves on but the core of what we do is the same, but better every time. Over the years, a lot has been learnt and I think we support students much more now than we did when I first joined. 

“It’s a busy place to work and that’s what makes it great for me. Without being too cheesy, it’s very satisfying to feel that you’re a very small part in the process of students achieving and becoming mature, well-rounded people and moving on in the world.” 

The ‘R’ Word…

At 62 years old, you could forgive Melinda for having half an eye on retirement, but she has no plans to hang up the lab coat just yet. 

Melinda said, “I never would have thought when I first walked in as a member of staff that I’d still be here 43 years later but I just love it and I still get that same buzz when I find out about students’ results. 

“I would like to keep going in the role as long as I feel I’m able to do it to the highest standard. No one has told me there’s a problem yet; so I think I’m doing alright! I haven’t got any plans on retiring – I’d simply miss it too much!” 

Exeter College is celebrating 50 years since being named as the UK’s first tertiary college. Although our roots date back to the 1800s, our status as a tertiary college marked a revolution in further education and 2020 marks our 50 years of excellence since that landmark. If you have a memory or story of Exeter College through the years that you’d like to share then contact marketing@exe-coll.ac.uk.   

Search #ExeColl50 on social media or visit our 50th anniversary page to view the latest stories.

50th Anniversary Celebrations Kick Off for Exeter College

The new year represents a momentous occasion in the history of Exeter College, marking 50 years since we were named as the UK’s first tertiary college, although our roots date back to the 1800s.

Exeter College was established as a fully-fledged tertiary college in 1970, providing an education centrepiece for the community. Over the past 50 years the college has grown, developed and adapted but it still serves the wider Exeter community with a varied education offering that aims to meet the skills challenges of the future in a proactive way.

“It’s down to a collective effort from students, staff and partners that we have always remained true to our history of serving our city and wider region,”

John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive

To celebrate the occasion, Exeter College will be celebrating throughout 2020 with special events, celebrations and reflections on 50 years of excellence as a tertiary college.

The first landmark event for the 50th anniversary celebrations will be the college’s annual Exeter College Awards, which has been extended to celebrate past and present students to reflect on a legacy of success. The Awards, which take place in January, will be held in the spectacular setting of Exeter Cathedral with alumni, staff and students celebrated in a glittering 50th anniversary event. More details are set to be announced in the coming weeks.

Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy said, “I feel really privileged to be the person steering the ship as we celebrate our 50th year as a tertiary college. It’s no understatement to say that we wouldn’t be where we are today if it wasn’t for all the students, staff and friends who have helped us develop a reputation as one of the leading further education colleges in the country.

“It’s down to a collective effort from students, staff and partners that we have always remained true to our history of serving our city and wider region. However, our long traditions haven’t stopped us innovating and developing with the needs of our students as we continue to develop new partnerships and look to the future of what the education landscape will look like in the next 50 years.

“Throughout 2020 we want to celebrate everyone who has played a role in making us one of the leading colleges in the country as we continue to forge our path as an education innovator of the future.”

As part of celebrations, Exeter College will be sharing inspirational stories from the past 50 years of excellence and is actively seeking friends, partners and alumni to share their stories with the next generation of students. If you or someone you know would like to join in the celebrations, please contact marketing@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Search the hashtag #ExeColl50 on social media or visit our 50th anniversary page to view the latest stories.

Your Open Event Checklist

Our last Open Event for 2020 school leaver applicants is on 15th January, 5pm-8pm

Why come along to an open event? 

This is the best way to see our Ofsted Outstanding college and to understand what we’re all about. Our staff and students are passionate about what they do so by talking to them you can find out all you need to know about life at Exeter College. Deciding on your next steps is an exciting time and we hope that a visit to us will inspire you to think about your future. 

If this is your first time visiting us then there are some things we would recommend you do to get the most out of your visit. We also have some top tips to ensure your trip is as successful as possible. 

Pre-Register then plan your evening 

If you pre-register your attendance then we will email you the programme for the evening prior to the event. This means you can plan which subjects you want to visit and make the most of your time with us. 

Request a School Leavers course guide 

Request your 2020/21 course guide and we will post you a copy. This way you can have a read about the subjects you are interested in and get your questions ready for when you arrive. Alternatively, you can pick up a course guide during the Open Event.

Speak to subject lecturers 

Talk to our experts about A Levels, the new T Levels, BTECs, vocational and technical programmes, Access to HE, Degrees and Apprenticeships, that way you have all the information you need and you can make an informed decision. You can search through our courses online too. 

Find out about our wide range of academies and enrichment opportunities 

We recognise that during your time at college you will want to do more than study. Our enrichment programme and academies enhance your core programme of study and help you to enjoy, achieve and make a positive contribution to life at college. 

Stand out from the crowd with Extend 

Extend is a unique, exciting and stretching academic study programme for A Level students, aimed at helping them to maximise their potential. 

If you are planning to study an A Level programme at Exeter College you will need to enrol on a four element programme. This will commonly consist of three core A Levels and an ‘Extend’ option. Read more about our Extend programme here. 

Our to do list 

Don’t miss out and make sure you tick these things off your list to get the most out of an open event. 

  • Pick up a School Leavers Course Guide 
  • Talk to teaching staff 
  • Go to a Principal’s talk 
  • Find out about Travel and Financial Support 
  • Apply online when you get home or pick up an application form on the night 

Looking for advice? 

We recommend making the most of our lecturers’ specialist knowledge, so make a shortlist of subjects to visit, and plan to ask lots of questions at the open event. However, if you’re not sure where to start our College Advice Team will be happy to help! They will be on hand during the open events so please pop by with any queries. They also work with many schools across the South West so ask your school if you can make an appointment with them for further guidance, or call 01392 400600 to find out more.

Can’t make it? 

Although this is our last Open Event for 2020/21 applicants, you don’t need to have visited us to apply! Check out why we think you should apply here. And don’t just take our word for it, hear what our students love about studying at Exeter College.
If you’re not planning on applying for a 2020 start, then you will have many more opportunities to visit us later in the year. Take a look here to find one that suits you. You may find that you want to visit us a number of times throughout the year and that’s fine too! 

Don’t forget! 

If you are coming from out of town then please remember that we don’t have any on-site parking. Please take a look in advance at where you can park to save any stress on the night. You will find some parking information on the Open Event registration page. You can see where all our sites are here and find the nearest car park here. 

Grab a cuppa 

All of our on-site cafes will be open on the night where you can pick up a free tea or coffee. Our School Leavers course guide provides some great reading material too. 

One more thing… 

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for all our latest news.

What to Expect at an Exeter College Open Event

Discover what Exeter College has to offer at one of our inspiring Open Events. All learners, regardless of course choice or level of study, get the chance to learn about what it’s like to study at an Ofsted Outstanding college at our next Open Event which takes place on Wednesday 20th November 2019, from 5-8pm and you can register here.  

As we prepare to celebrate our 50th year with celebrations throughout 2020, potential students are invited ‘behind the curtain’ to discover how Exeter College can help get them where they want to go.

At one of our Open Events you get the chance to meet lecturers, learn about different subject routes and see the variety of extra-curricular activities offered as part of our whole person approach to teaching and learning.  

Exeter College sites will be open to the public, meaning you have the opportunity to see the fantastic facilities in our Construction Centre, Centre for Creative Industries, Maths and Science Centre and Technology Centre, as well as other college sites.  

The Right Course for Your Future

With courses available from Level 1 all the way through to degree level study, Exeter College has something for everyone. Students who are considering options following school can choose to study A Levels, BTECs, Apprenticeships, and, from 2020, the government’s brand new T Levels; a technical-based qualification that prepares students for industry with practical skills and knowledge. 

At an Exeter College Open Event there are dedicated areas to find out about our different types of courses for all learners, including Apprenticeships, Adult Learning and our University Level Courses. 

Travel Options

Distance is no barrier to those interested in studying with us. A subsidised travel scheme is available for eligible students to travel to Exeter by bus or train and a new 16-17 Railcard has just been announced which offers 50% off most rail journeys. 

Key Dates

Our all college Open Events for 2020 entry are as follows: 

  • Thursday 17th October 2019, 5-8pm. 
  • Wednesday 20th November 2019, 5-8pm. 
  • Wednesday 15th January 2019, 5-8pm. 

Register now for an Open Event to hear more about life at the college as well as receive your event programme by email.  

You can also request our new School Leavers’ Guide and it will be delivered to your door. It’s a great way to find out more about courses and college life before your Open Event.  

Exeter College Festival of Carols Raises Money for Charities

Students, parents, staff and the Exeter community joined together to celebrate Christmas at Exeter College’s Festival of Carols in the stunning setting of Exeter Cathedral, all in the name of charity.  

“It has been great to see the Exeter community come together for a great cause and get in the spirit of Christmas,”

John Laramy, Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive

The annual event celebrated the college’s exceptionally talented students, with performances from the Exeter College orchestra, as well as student choirs and piano and vocal duets.  

In addition to starting Christmas celebrations, the Festival of Carols raised important funds for the college’s two nominated charities for the academic year, Cancer Research UK and Exeter Foodbank. 

A grand total of £1297.19 was raised, all going towards two incredibly worthwhile causes.  

The evening started with a welcome address from Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy before a candlelit student procession through the nave.  

Students from across the college’s curriculum also did readings and the service was officiated by Prebendary Nigel Guthrie of St David’s Church and The Reverend Canon Cate Edmonds of Exeter Cathedral.  

Speaking after the event, John Laramy said, “This was an incredible celebration, showcasing the talents of some of our fantastic musicians and performers. More importantly, we have raised some vital money for our two charities of the year during what can be a difficult time of year for people who are fighting cancer or poverty. 

“It has been great to see the Exeter community come together for a great cause and get in the spirit of Christmas.” 

The event marks the last in the calendar year for Exeter College, as preparations continue in 2020 to celebrate the college’s 50 years as the UK’s first tertiary college, although their roots date back to the 1800s. Celebration events will be taking place throughout the year, showcasing the inspirational students, staff and alumni who have formed a part of the college’s 50 years as a tertiary college.

Exeter College Flying High in NICDEX 2019 Rankings

Exeter College has once again been ranked as one of the top colleges in the country in FE Week’s annual NICDEX rankings. 

This latest ranking means that Exeter College has never left the top five since the ranking’s inception four years ago. The Ofsted Outstanding college has topped the billing twice, come fifth once and this year’s fourth place ranking means they have been the highest ranked college across the four years since the NICDEX was created. 

“It’s an incredible achievement for us to consistently be one of the highest scoring colleges in the country when it comes to the NICDEX,”

John Laramy, Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive

The NICDEX, created by FE Week Editor Nick Linford, ranks 172 further education providers on four key criteria based on data published by the Department for Education. Institutions are given a mark out of 10 in each category and their four scores are combined to produce an overall ranking. 

Exeter College’s consistently high ranking in the NICDEX is reflected in their scoring in each of the four categories. Both Employer Satisfaction and 16-18 Learner Destinations categories were marked as a perfect 10, with the college also impressing on Learner Satisfaction and Adult Destinations. 

Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College John Laramy said, “It’s an incredible achievement for us to consistently be one of the highest scoring colleges in the country when it comes to the NICDEX. 

“The NICDEX is a measure of how we’re doing as a college based solely on data that is published by the Department for Education. It’s a very open and transparent process and we’re continually one of the top colleges in England.” 

This latest achievement follows the news that employers rated Exeter College as the best further education Apprenticeship provider in the four counties of the South West for the second year running. 

The college’s latest round of academic results were also exceptional, with A Level learners celebrating a pass rate of 99.7%, well above the national average of 97.6%. International Baccalaureate students also delivered the best results in the college’s history of delivering the qualification; 100% passed and nearly a third of students achieved 40+ points, which is the equivalent to five A Levels at A/A*. 

Following the publication of the NICDEX, FE Week Editor Nick Linford said, “The NICDEX was an enjoyable intellectual challenge to create an annual performance table with an overall score, from a mix of key measures,” said Nick. 

“Most importantly, NICDEX is transparent. The four measures that make up the NICDEX are published by the DfE.” 

Find out how every college in the country ranked in the NICDEX 2019 on the FE Week website. 

Want to find out why we rank so highly? Find out what Exeter College has to offer by registering for our next Open Event. 

Applications are open now to study at Exeter College in 2020.

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