Sir Hugo Swire MP took part in a special meeting at Exeter College on Friday 12th July to hear directly the vital, positive impact BTECs and Applied General qualifications have on the life chances of young people and adults in Exeter after the government announced it is considering dropping the qualifications.
The meeting was attended by senior leaders from Exeter College, including Principal John Laramy and Rob Bosworth, the Vice Principal for Schools, Partnerships and Curriculum.
Around 2,500 students at Exeter College are currently studying for BTEC qualifications which are a mixed part-vocational part-academic qualification that offers an alternative, less academic focused 16 – 19 education than A-Levels.
BTECs are equivalent to A-Levels and are taken by young people and adults across the country who want academic qualifications as well as preparation for the workplace and employment. The government is considering withdrawing funding from August 2020 despite the fact 90% of BTEC students are employed full-time after university graduation.
Rob Bosworth of Exeter College said, “It was great to welcome Hugo to the college and talk to him about the impact BTEC qualifications have not just on our students, but also on the local community.
“We have used BTECs to deliver nationally recognized and innovative academies in Sport, Aerospace and Hospitality. BTECs provide a crucial line of sight to industry for thousands of students nationally and we spoke to Hugo about how damaging any government cuts could be for young people if they lose the opportunity to study them.”
Speaking after the meeting, East Devon MP Sir Hugo Swire, said, “It was a real pleasure to speak to students from Exeter College this morning about the benefits of BTECs and other vocational qualifications.
“The proposed withdrawal in funding would render unavailable a popular educational qualification currently chosen by many young people.”
Exeter College is celebrating the success of a group of accountancy students – who have been able to study with the college on a free ‘fast-track’ course.
Four students have taken part in the Accountancy Career Pilot scheme, studying for their AAT Level 3 Fast Track Advanced Diploma in Accounting.
Under the initiative, students have studied the intensive course, accredited by the AAT (The Association of Accounting Technicians) in just over four months.
The pilot has been government funded, allowing the students to study for their qualification for free.
The qualification allows students to master complex accounting disciplines including advanced bookkeeping, management accounting, tax, and ethics for accountants.
Lucinda Sanders, Director of Adult and Higher Education at Exeter College, said: “We are delighted that we have been able to take part in this Department of Education Scheme, helping more people get the skills and qualifications they need to move their career to the next level.
“Being able to offer free places on this accountancy course has enabled us to teach and support a group of accountancy students who otherwise may not have been able to access the course.
“The commitment of the students and the teaching staff has resulted in excellent success rates on the AAT qualifications as well as providing the skills and knowledge needed for these students to develop careers in accountancy and finance.”
Meanwhile, Exeter College has been announced as a finalist for a coveted national accountancy award. The college has been shortlisted in the prestigious AAT Provider Awards in the large training provider category.
Exeter College offers a range of accounting courses at all levels with classroom delivery, qualified tutors, together with high quality teaching and learning.
Learners at the college also benefit from being part of a wider college learning community, with professional learning spaces and the chance to progress on to higher education programmes.
A recent survey has found that 98% of businesses have reported a positive experience with their Exeter College apprentices, with 95% believing their involvement with apprentices has positively impacted their business.
The College’s good news, coupled with statistics that place the city of Exeter ahead for apprenticeship starts nationally (Centre for Cities Report 2019), highlights the success of work-based training in the region. Feedback from the business community suggests that the record number of apprentices entering the local workforce are proving their worth and forging a positive reputation for the initiative.
Exeter College’s Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, Mike Blakely, said, “I was blown away by the fantastic feedback. This reinforces how apprenticeships are providing a great benefit for both individuals and businesses.”
“We place great importance on working in partnership with companies in order to deliver the very best outcomes – together shaping courses that nurture the skills needed to benefit their business.”
In addition, employers surveyed acknowledged that the initiative has enabled them to fill skills gaps in their business and utilise training for new and existing members of staff in a cost-effective way.
Mike added, “Small to medium businesses, which form the backbone of the local economy, find that the support in recruitment, training and administration we are able to provide relieves the burden on their in-house functions and makes the apprenticeship route a feasible and sustainable approach to growth.”
With full funding provided by the government for 16-18 year olds and a slash in small employer contributions towards course fees for those aged 19+ (halved from 10% to 5% in April), businesses across the region can take advantage of apprenticeship training at little or no cost to themselves, providing their workforce with fresh ideas and creativity.
Interested in studying an Apprenticeship with Exeter College? Find out more here.
Dates for your diary
15th August – AS level Results Day in the CCI building 8am – 1pm (including internal year 1 exam results)
22nd August – you will be contacted by your 1st year tutor to discuss your results. If you need any support an appointment will be made for you on Friday August 23rd 9am – 11am.
2nd September – please check your college email for a message from your second year tutor with details of arrangements for 4th September.
4th September – Year 2 induction day, including prebooked 1:1’s with your second year tutor.
9th September – teaching starts at 9am or as stated on your timetable
Results day advice and guidance
Don’t forget to stop by the Advice Zone on Results Day if you need any progression support and guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q Where can I get help or advice on results day? A If you need any advice about your results there will be an Advice Zone on the day in the CCI building. Don’t forget, your 1st year tutor will also telephone you on Thursday August 22nd to discuss your results with you and to provide support.
Q What happens if I don’t get the results I need for my 2nd year courses? A Don’t panic, remember your 1st year tutor will be in touch on Thursday August 22nd, and you will be invited in to discuss this on the morning of Friday August 23rd or alternatively, you can speak with a member of staff in the Advice Zone on results day.
Q When will I get my new timetable? A You will receive your new timetable from your 2nd year tutor on Wednesday September 4th in your group tutorial.
Q How will I know if my tutor has changed? A Between August 22nd and September 2nd you can contact your 1st year tutor with any queries you might have about your courses or results. You will also need to log on to your college email on Monday September 2nd as your 2nd year tutor will have sent you a welcome back message.
Q My career plans have changed significantly, and I might need to consider different courses at A Level. What do I do? A Students are expected to continue with their chosen programme but in exceptional circumstances when your current courses no longer enable you to proceed to a specific career area, your tutor can advise on the options available.
Q Can I re-take my 1st year course if I am unhappy with my results? A No, it isn’t possible to retake a 1st year course.
Q How can I change from an 1st year A Level course to a BTEC or UAL course? A If you are considering changing from a 1st year A Level course to a BTEC course based on your 1st year results, it is important you make contact with your 1st year tutor to arrange an appointment when they call you on Thursday August 22nd
Q What shall I do if I am logged out of my email? A To view the latest information on how to reset your password, please visit the college website here.
Pink Moon Café opened on Queen Street in Exeter earlier this year and is already a firm favourite amongst students and locals alike. Three of our Michael Caines Academy students (Poppy, Kaveh and Will) have just come to the end of a six week work placement there so we went along to find out what they have been up to.
As well as Poppy, Kaveh and Will, Pink Moon is owned by two Exeter College alumni and home to many ex hospitality students. Head Chef Josh, Sous Chef Connor and Chef de Partie Finn are part of the team there. Current student Liam is also a Chef de Partie and described by Josh as having “incredible skills for his age.”
Head Chef Josh has been with the team since it opened. He describes Pink Moons food as “Californian cooking, local produce. Fresh and different. The whole ethos of pink moon is positivity and support. It’s a family and you don’t really get that it in other places. We’re forward thinking in our staff welfare.”
This was echoed by all our students currently there on work placements. Will said: “It’s like coming to work to see friends rather than colleagues.”
Josh studied on the Michael Caines Academy Level 1 and 2 course before moving on to a Michelin starred restaurant in Emsworth. He says he loved his time at college. “My 1st year was terrible but then I grew up in my second year.” One of the key skills he took with him from college was just growing up as a whole and maturing. He loved “all the trips and visits”.
Ian Biggar, Programme Lead for Hospitality, who taught Josh says:
Josh is a learner who always had great things ahead of him. His passion for food was matched only by his natural ability to bring out the finest of flavours from the simplest of ingredients. Josh always gave 100% to everything he put his mind to consistently achieving exceptional grades.”
Ian went on to say why work placements are so important for this industry.
Work placements within the Hospitality sector are a vital part of education here at Exeter College. They give a true insight into the industry, helping our students to gain skills and confidence coupled with forging industry links. This all works together to ensure our students leave us with all of the skills, confidence and contacts to succeed in their chosen specialised area of Hospitality.”
Poppy, a Level 2 academy student said that this has been a very different type of placement to what she did last year and that it’s been good to see a different side to the industry. “It’s calm and relaxed compared to a Michelin starred restaurant so there’s less pressure. It’s like an adopted family.”
What has she learnt from her time at Pink Moon?
Don’t put so much pressure on yourself, they’ve helped me to relax. And I’ve enjoyed it more. After last year there was a fear to go back into the industry but that’s gone this year. Partly because I’ve learnt more and I’m more confident.”
Will echoes these thoughts and said: “It’s quite chilled. I don’t feel the pressure. There is an expectation but it’s in a nice way. The whole experience has made me better at dealing with customers and taught me patience. I’m looking forward to having more responsibility next year and supervising others. Front of house is definitely what I want to do, I think my placement has helped me realise that.”
Kaveh is a Level 1 academy student who says the placement has been a lot of fun and that he has learnt a lot.
It’s helped build my confidence and I’ve got faster. Everyone’s really friendly and helps you improve. There’s a lot of trust. Next year I’ll be more confident and try not to doubt myself as much. I already know it; I just need to believe in myself a bit more.”
If you are interested in finding out more about our Michael Caines Academy courses then you can read through our courses here or call the faculty for a chat on 01392 400500.
Working with local providers, Exeter College is launching two new apprenticeships in IT and Software Development; a Software and Development Technician at Level 3 and a Software Developer at Level 4.
It has been highlighted in the local economy that there is a growing need for digital skills, and it is hoped that these new apprenticeship programmes will help fill the skills gap.
These apprenticeships were recently launched at Venturefest. Venturefest South West champions the most cutting edge innovation, technology and entrepreneurship coming out of Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.
Stephen Mariadas, Project Lead for Digital and Data at the college said:
Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programming. Some develop the applications that allow people to do specific tasks on a computer or another device. Others develop the underlying systems that run the devices or that control networks.
The UK is widely recognised as the leading tech hub in Europe. In the G20, it is also the largest digital economy as a percentage of GDP but employers are finding that there is a significant skills gap. Demand for programming skills considerably outstrips supply. Learning as an apprentice means not only will you learn industry-relevant skills and gain formal qualifications but you will also be taking an active part in projects and rapidly improving your software development skills in the workplace.”
Speaking as a recruiting employer at our workshop at Venturefest, Piers Corfield, Chairman of Dashboard said:
We have based our Head Office in Exeter because it has a strong reputation for digital and data innovation and skills in these areas are in growing demand. We are pleased to be offering several opportunities for young people to develop skills that Dashboard need to help support future growth in data and software development.”
A Software Development Technician Apprentice will build simple applications for use in larger software developments. They will interpret design requirements for discrete components of the project under supervision, as well as testing software.
The Level 4 Software Developer Apprenticeship offers a career progression pathway where participants will build and test simple, high-quality code across front end, logic and database layers. They will work as part of a larger team on a variety of projects, learning everything they need to pursue their chosen career.
These apprenticeships could lead on to roles such as: Web Developer, Mobile App Developer, Software Developer and Games Developer.
Blaze Concepts, East Devon IT (EDIT) and Dashboard are currently advertising apprenticeship vacancies in software development which can be viewed via the links below:
To find out more about the learning content of the new apprenticeships, you can read more below or call our dedicated apprenticeship team on 01392 400 800.
If you are thinking about employing an apprentice, you can read more here or give us a call on 01392 400800 to find out how an apprentice can enhance your business.
It is important to us that we listen to our students.
The aim of Learner Voice is to give students a real say in the way that they learn and the experiences they have at college. The Learner Voice programme helps the college gain a clear picture of what it is that students want and how best they learn, by giving us a forum at which we can hear their ideas, comments and concerns and…ACT ON THEM! Students can get involved in feeding back their views by becoming a tutor representative and taking part in Learner Voice, getting involved in the Student Representative Committee (SRC) or giving their feedback via our student surveys.
As well as asking questions about satisfaction, course quality and support, we use our Learner Voice and the SRC to find out what students love about college and how we can improve. Students meet within their faculties throughout the year and with the Principal twice a year and through the year we feedback how their views are making an impact.
Developments this year as a direct result of Learner Voice feedback included paper cups replacing plastic cups in all water fountains, new food options in the college cafes, new lockers, and social seating areas in buildings.
The SRC is an organisation run by students for students and the elected officers and student governors’ work incredibly hard to ensure the voices of the students are heard. The SRC also organise campaigns, awareness events and information days about issues that are important to students.
In May, we held the annual Learner Voice review and celebration lunch in the @34 restaurant to thank tutor representatives and the SRC for all their hard work and feedback. [Pictured above].
Students’ fundraising success
The Student Representative Committee (SRC), in collaboration with tutor groups, faculties and departments, have raised a brilliant £9,078.33* to date for this year’s chosen college Nightstop, Devon. All Faculties have taken part in arranging a fundraiser, including cake sales, cooking challenges, pyjama day and loads more.
*Correct at time of print
Progression news
A Level results day – Thurs 15th August 2019
The Progression Team will be in college throughout the summer if students need further advice on their next steps. On A Level results day itself, the Progression Team will be available for one to one appointments and clearing support.
Clearing
Students need to login in to UCAS Track to check their places for University.
If a student does not have a place at their first or insurance choice they will be able to enter Clearing from 15th August to find an alternative course.
Adjustment
If students achieve better grades than they expected for their firm offer e.g. AAB and above they are able to contact other Universities to discuss potential places. This process is called ‘adjustment.’
Year 12 – Results and Help
All year 12 students on an A Level Programme will receive a phone call from their year one tutor on the 22nd August to discuss their results. Any students that need further guidance on their next steps can book an appointment with the Progression Team on the 23rd August onwards during the college enrolment event.
Year 12 Students Applying for University in 2020 – What You Need to Do This Summer Holidays
Visit our Careers and University Advice page on the student portal – Access a wealth of information about how to research universities, how to apply, gap years, Apprenticeships and long-term career information.
Research Courses and Universities: Students should be researching what subject they want to study at what institution. Open Days are a great way to find out what a course at a specific university are really like and to visit the accommodation and student facilities too. Book on for Open Days in September as these often fill up quickly.
Explore all of your options! University is not for everyone, check out Higher and Degree level Apprenticeships. These are a great way to get experience, secure a job and gain a degree level qualification.
The Big Sell – The Personal Statement: Once your son / daughter has chosen their course and 5 potential universities they need to start preparing their personal statement over the summer. This may take a few drafts and there is lots of advice on the UCAS website to help them do this. Please check your son / daughters personal statement – does it make sense? Does it explain why they want to do the course and then provide evidence for why they are suitable for it?
Get Help with Personal Statements: If your son / daughter needs help with your personal statement then we will be offering drop in lunchtime sessions throughout the Autumn term. (Please check our Careers and University page for opening hours).
September – Registering for UCAS
Students will be prompted to register for UCAS in the first week back in September. We will send out the student handbook along with any useful resources and information about the deadlines.
Student applications can be sent from September. Students must allow 10 working days for processing time to allow the tutor to write the reference, add predicted grades and for the Progression Team to check all content before the form is sent to UCAS. Universities make offers as soon as they receive forms and so make sure you get your form in by October half term to secure an offer on a competitive course.
Deadlines:
1st October
Internal college deadline for students applying for Oxbridge, Medicine and Dentistry or Veterinary Science courses. Students must have completed their UCAS application by this date.
15th October
All applications for Oxbridge, Medicine and Dentistry or Veterinary should be sent to UCAS by this date.
6th December
Internal College deadline for students completed applications to guarantee they are sent by the UCAS deadline.
15th January
Official UCAS deadline. Applications received after this date will not necessarily receive consideration by universities.
Two current dance students from Exeter College have been selected to perform in the latest adaptation of world renowned choreographer, Matthew Bourne’s, latest adaptation of Romeo and Juliet at the Theatre Royal, Plymouth.
Ella Roberts and Jess Tarrant were selected from thousands that auditioned to be two out of six young dancers chosen from across the Southwest, they joined the young cast in production from 4-8 June 2019 at the Theatre Royal, Plymouth.
Both Ella and Jess are currently studying full-time vocational dance courses at Exeter College and both are progressing to further dance training at renowned dance conservatoires. Ella is also managing this production, alongside her commitments to the National Youth Dance Company and attending Swindon Dance Centre for Advanced Training.
The search began in April 2018 with a call-out for the next generation of young dancers currently in training aged between 16 and 19. Attracting over 1,000 applications and following a UK-wide audition tour, six Young Cast members at each venue will perform alongside the New Adventures company. This unique opportunity will nurture and develop young talent with a view to them embarking on a career in dance.
In addition, Exeter College dance student alumnus Sharol Mackenzie, who went on to study at the Rambert School, joins the main cast. Read more about Sharol in our recent edition of EXE, the magazine for Exeter College Alumni and Friends.
Exeter College Dance Lecturer, Emma Wyke said:
We were delighted that Ella and Jess took up the opportunity to audition for Matthew Bourne's new production 'Romeo and Juliet', to become part of their Young Cast.
Both students demonstrate exceptional technical and performance skills, and thoroughly deserve this opportunity.”
As part of ‘New Adventures’ ambition to support the next generation of on-stage talent, and inspired by the success of Lord of the Flies in 2014, which combined professional dancers and young men with little or no dance experience, Romeo and Juliet, featured the finest emerging male and female dancers from around the UK.
If you are thinking about studying a Performing Arts course with us, you can read through our available courses here and apply online here.
If you would like more information on any of courses, please call our college advice team on 01392 400500.
We recently opened a ‘New York’ style glass fronted Dance Studio – creating an inspirational environment for dance and performance. Read more about it here.
Photo above: The young cast for Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet at Theatre Royal Plymouth. Photo by James Elston.
Exeter College has officially opened its new £2.4 million Gym and Dance Studio – a ‘world class’ space to inspire the next generation.
The new Gym and Dance Studio features a ‘New York’-style glass fronted Dance Studio – creating an inspirational environment for dance and performance.
The development also features a modern, fully equipped gym with the latest fitness equipment, a spinning room, and extra teaching space.
The new Gym and Dance studio was officially opened by Tony Rowe OBE, Chief Executive and Chairman of Exeter Chiefs, the driving force behind the Chiefs for over 20 years and instrumental in guiding the club from the National Leagues to that of Premiership champions.
More than 70 guests attended the official opening of the new extension, which took place on Tuesday, May 21.
The opening ceremony featured performances from current dance students, speeches and tours of the new facilities.
John Laramy, Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive, said: “The opening marks the first phase of a £70 million investment in our estate, that will, over time, transform the learning environment for students, staff and the community.
“I would like to thank Tony Rowe OBE, CEO and Chairman of the Exeter Chiefs for officially opening the building, which represents an investment in partnership working, the promotion of physical activity and supporting cultural pursuits.”
Tony Rowe OBE, added: “I have been able to see at first-hand the investment and development work which is being carried out at Exeter College. Such work, we know, is already having a huge impact on not only the students, but staff alike, and it’s helping to put the College and Exeter at the forefront of education not just here in the city and Devon, but much further afield.
“Like everyone here, I’m excited to see what results the new facility will bring. Not only will it help to inspire so many people, but at the same time it will add to what are already outstanding facilities within the College.
“I am both delighted and honoured to have been asked to carry out this opening of what is a fantastic facility.”
The new Gym and Dance Studio has been designed by Exeter-based Grainge Architects, while Devon Contractors was appointed as the main contractor by Exeter College.
The new Gym and Dance Studio is an extension to the college’s £5.9 million Sports Hall in Victoria Yard, opened in 2015.
Exeter College recently revealed its masterplan to invest £70 million into education – to meet the ambitions of the city of Exeter and the wider region. The masterplan builds on the college’s multi-million investment in outstanding education facilities across the city in recent years.
Other recent developments have included a new £3 million Advanced Engineering Centre, supported by the LEP, and a new 3G pitch for community use, both officially opened in 2018.
Meanwhile, a multi-million pound bid to transform digital, engineering and manufacturing technology education throughout the South West was recently successful. The Exeter element of the bid will help part fund Exeter College’s plans for a new £10 million Digital and Data Hub, set to commence towards the end of 2019.
Award-winning, independent Devon Contractors were appointed as the main contractor on the £2.3m gymnasium and state-of-the-art ‘New York’-style dance studio. The long-established company operates from its Head Office in Clyst St. Mary, Exeter, and carries out minor/major works and refurbishments, as well as new-build projects with a construction value from £0.5m – £15m.
Simon Lawrence – Contracts Manager, Devon Contractors said: “A long-standing and well-respected building contractor, we believe we offer good value. We make every effort to meet our clients’ needs in a progressive, positive and expedient manner and have worked collaboratively with Exeter College throughout the build on this exciting new scheme.” He adds: “We are delighted to handover the new facility to Exeter College on budget, enabling the students to benefit fully from these fantastic new amenities.”
