Ashley Hall – Engineering Apprentice of the Year
Ashley's employers, Doncasters, put him through a comprehensive induction process to show his ability in various roles. This process revealed Ashley's huge potential and his placement in the design department, where he has thrived.
He is currently developing into a fully independent designer with authority to act on his own behalf with both customers and suppliers, producing complex drawings within a team environment.
Ashley's tutors speak of his success at Level 3 coming from sheer determination and additional study in all modules. His motivation is evidenced by the higher education course he is now engaged with, the apprenticeship providing the foundation to progress to degree level qualifications.
Ashley said: “Five years ago I never saw myself being challenged to aim for an HNC in engineering, let alone a potential degree. I feel that Exeter College and Doncasters have given me the freedom to grow my knowledge, showing me my potential as an engineer to a level exceeding my own expectations.”
Please click here to view Ashley's video
Ben Vine – IT Professional Apprentice of the Year
Ben's employers, Axminster Power Tools, confirm that he has made good progress over the past year and is a valuable member of the team. They particularly refer to their pleasure with his customer service skills, always being willing to help, and being tactful and sensitive towards external customers.
In college his tutors refer to his commitment to succeed with a career in IT, being highly motivated to learn and developing his technical and interpersonal skills. He has worked hard on his apprenticeship and has progressed to the advanced apprenticeship, having a clear focus to further develop his career.
Ben's tutor said: “Ben participates fully in all learning activities, works well with others in the group and is always willing to share his ideas. Ben has fully embraced the opportunity that this apprenticeship has offered and has made great progress.”
Please click here to view Ben's video
Claudia Kelly – Business Administration Apprentice of the Year
Claudia's employers, Exeter City Council, describe her attitude to work as second to none, with everything being asked of her being done willingly, to the highest standard and always with a smile on her face.
Her tutors comment on her proactive and enthusiastic approach to her work, willing to take on any challenge, whilst showing exceptional confidence. Claudia quickly completed her NVQ levels 2 and 3 and succeeded in gaining a permanent position with the council in November 2013.
Claudia explains that after A Levels she did not want to go to university but also did not want to fully leave education. She felt that she needed more qualifications before entering the working world and the apprenticeship provided her with the best of both worlds.
CEO of Exeter City Council Karime Hassan said: “Claudia has a fantastic attitude to work, positive and affable; she has taken to her role with gusto and demonstrated professionalism, sensitivity and maturity above her years. In sum, all that you could hope for in an apprentice entering the workforce.”
Please click here to view Claudia's video
Joshua Ellis – Plumbing Apprentice of the Year
Josh's employers, Westmancoat Plumbing, confirm that Josh has produced practical work of an exceptional quality and that he is an integral member of the company. His tutors confirm his excellent subject knowledge, passing all 10 on-line examinations with a very high pass mark.
His dedication and calmness under pressure have been referred to, together with his dedication and commitment to be the best. Josh has not been afraid to take on extra work and to put in extra hours to achieve his apprenticeship.
The standard of Josh's work is evidenced by his recently reaching the plumbing final of 'World Skills', and by his progression to the advanced apprenticeship.
Josh said: “I am surprised but delighted to be the Plumbing Apprentice of the Year – thank you.”
Please click here to view Joshua's video
James Sutherland – Carpentry Apprentice of the Year
James' employer, Payne Carpentry, confirm that his work has developed to such an extent that they can depend on James to organise and plan small works independently, albeit under their overall supervision. Within the college his tutors speak of his drive and motivation producing work to an outstanding standard.
James has also shown the ability to act as a role model to other apprentices and to encourage them to achieve his own excellent standard.
James said: “My Apprenticeship has given me the skills, and a career, that I enjoy doing. My employer has given me the opportunity to develop my ability at the speed that I want and pushed me in the direction to achieve the quality that they expect.”
Please click here to view James's video
Kelly Avery – Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools Apprentice of the Year
Kelly's employers, St James High School, have a high regard for Kelly where she has achieved a permanent position and promotion at work. She is considered a highly committed practitioner who has taken on an increasing level of responsibility in her workplace.
Her tutors confirm that Kelly has set extremely high standards for herself and this has been reflected throughout the course in both her written work and in her practice. Her commitment to the course, and the pupils she supports, has been unfaltering, with 100 per cent attendance and exemplary working relationships.
Kelly said: “I have really enjoyed working with the school and the students. To have had the opportunity to support, help and assist them has been inspiring. The apprenticeship has given me a good grounding in the processes of education and allowed me to successfully progress my career.”
Please click here to view Kelly's video
Colin Stockman – Activity Leadership Apprentice of the Year
Colin's employers, Mid Devon Leisure, confirm that Colin has been an excellent Apprentice always completing tasks to a high standard, working well with colleagues, whilst providing good support and service to the clients to whom they provide instruction. Colin has taken on new challenges and responsibilities given to him by his employers without reservation, ensuring tasks are completed on time and to the required standard.
Colin's tutors agree that he has a genuine passion for working in the active leisure industry, which has shown through in his enthusiasm to do an excellent job. He has always been keen to learn new skills, and to further develop his current skills, to provide the highest level of service to clients and to provide the best contribution to his employer.
Colin's future plan is to continue to develop and improve his skills to achieve a long and sustainable career working in the health and fitness sector.
Please click here to view Colin's video
Alexandra Westlake – Outdoor Programmes Apprentice of the Year
Alex's employers, Skern Lodge, confirm that she has proved to be an outstanding Outdoor Adventure Level 3 Apprentice instructor. She is very enthusiastic and committed to providing the highest quality adventure experience to those participants she is leading and providing instruction.
Her tutors confirm that Alex has a genuine passion for working in outdoor adventure and education and enjoys teaching new skills. She is keen to pass on her skills through education, enabling trainees to take these away for their use safely and responsibly. She has also recognised the importance of ensuring that trainees remember their experiences and learn from them as they progress.
Alex has completed tasks set by her employer, and her tutors, to a very high standard and has always been keen to learn new skills and gain knowledge to help her develop as an outdoor adventure education instructor. She has embraced the programme with enthusiasm and has excellent career opportunities in the sector.
Please click here to vie Alexandra's Video
Grant Ellis – Heavy Vehicle Apprentice of the Year
Grant's employer, Devon Recovery Truck Centre, describe him as an asset to the company. They speak of their confidence in placing complex tasks with Grant, and his ability to complete these to exacting industry standards and on time.
Grant's tutors and lecturers refer to his relishing the challenges and tasks before him, both at college and in the work place. This resulted in him being able to stay ahead of target in both his VCQ and VRQ Certificates. He has always been proactive in submitting high quality evidence to his skills officer, and in doing so completed his VCQ ahead of time. He has now progressed to the Level 3 Heavy Vehicle Maintenance and Repair programme.
Grant's tutor said: “Grant has displayed a very mature attitude towards his apprenticeship. He is extremely focused and constantly looking to further his knowledge. He continues to impress all who are involved with him.”
Please click here to view Grant's video
Kieran Hanley – Light Vehicle Apprentice of the Year and Overall Apprentice of the Year
Kieran has been a student with the college since joining the 14-16 programme. He found a job with M&D Motors in Exmouth where he became a Level 2 technician and successfully progressed to Level 3.
From the outset Kieran had to fight for his place on the course and prove his commitment to his studies. He found certain aspects of the course very challenging, but with support from the college, work and home he studied hard, went the extra mile, and ensured that his work was of good quality and of a high standard.
His tutors comment that for sheer effort alone Kieran is the best in class. His lecturers have frequently commented on how hard he has worked and his employers regard him as a valuable part of the team, being easy to work with and bringing value to the company.
Kieran's tutor said: “Kieran stands out as the young man in his group who deserves recognition for his hard work and efforts. His future prospects are bright and, with the mind-set that he has, will go on to greater personal achievements.”
Please click here to view Kieran's video
Emma Lancelles – Accounting Apprentice of the Year
Emma's employers, the Exeter Royal Academy for Deaf Education, have been very complimentary about Emma and have particularly stressed how well she has taken to new tasks, which she has approached with a positive attitude and motivation. They also mention how well she fits in and works with others and how delighted they are that Emma has joined their apprenticeship training programme.
Her tutors refer to her polite and friendly approach and are confident about her ability to progress with both Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications, where she is working well. They comment that she always has a smile on her face. She is regarded as having a bright future in front of her and have no doubts about her capability.
Emma said: “The college were brilliant helping me find an apprenticeship, giving me interview advice, ideas to improve my CV, and keeping me updated with current vacancies. The staff at the Exeter Deaf Academy have been very approachable and friendly. It is a welcoming and cheerful place to work. I have also got the chance to start learning sign language, which is brilliant.”
Please click here to view Emma's video
Steffan Davies – Professional Cookery Apprentice of the Year
When Steffan was offered an Apprenticeship at the two Michelin-star Gidleigh Park it required him to leave his home in Wales and relocate to work and study at Gidleigh Park and Exeter College. Working alongside executive head chef Michael Caines and his team, Steffan gained invaluable and very challenging experience.
During his apprenticeship Steffan has won and appeared in a number of competitions and awards including winning the 2014 Caterer, Licensee and Hoteliers Student of the Year Award and most recently the South West regional finals as Apprentice of the Year 2014 which he won.
The pinnacle of Steffan's career to date has been being offered the position of commis chef at Gidleigh Park.
Steffan comments: “To have been offered an Apprenticeship at Gidleigh Park has been an honour. As part of my Apprenticeship programme with Exeter College I have been on educational visits to France and Spain giving me a greater insight into different cultures and culinary methods. I am looking forward to progressing my career.”
Please click here to view Steffan's video
Ruby Gates – Childcare Apprentice of the Year
Ruby's employer, St Thomas Methodist Pre-School, regard her as a natural with young children and one of life's perfectionists. She has demonstrated a mature flair for knowing when to listen and when her input would benefit the class at college, or her colleagues at work. She has thrived in an environment where she has been encouraged to put her knowledge into practice and is a credit to both her employer and the college.
Ruby's tutors regard her as an exceptional student who has worked hard to achieve her apprenticeship and has now progressed to the advanced apprenticeship. They refer to her bubbly personality, happily sharing her work enjoyment and freely supporting her peers, going above and beyond in everything she tackles.
Ruby said: “The college helped me to find what was the most life changing opportunity, introducing me to a nursery who have supported me and given me opportunities to grow and develop. The most significant change that an apprenticeship has brought me is that it has confirmed my career choice and reinforced my desire to become the best early years practitioner that I can.”
Please click here to view Ruby's video
Georgia Crossman – Health and Social Care Apprentice of the Year
Georgia's employers, Kazlum Support, confirm that Georgia has undertaken her role as a support worker with enthusiasm and commitment and is regarded as an asset to the organisation. She has built excellent relationships with the people she supports, together with her work colleagues.
From the outset it was clear that Georgia wanted to work in the community. Her 100 per cent attendance record has been a testament to her strong commitment to the course and to her future career path.
Her tutors praise the quality and high standard of her course work and the pleasure they have experienced working with Georgia through her apprenticeship. Georgia is now progressing to the advanced apprenticeship.
She said: “The reason I enjoy being a support worker is because it's not like a normal job. You're getting people out into the community, doing things that they love and want to do. Making things that they may see as impossible – possible.”
Please click here to view Georgia's video
William Tippett – Technical Theatre Apprentice of the Year
William's employers, the Exeter Northcott Theatre, describe working with him during his intermediate apprenticeship as an absolute pleasure. He is regarded as a strong technician who has worked particularly hard to develop a high standard of theoretical projects and his tutors and colleagues describe how he has thrived with each diverse challenge that has come his way.
Through his apprenticeship he has developed many new skills and has established himself as a key part of the theatre community at the Exeter Northcott. William has now progressed to the advanced apprenticeship.
William said: “The apprenticeship has given me a great opportunity to work in a professional theatre. I have gained so much experience and contacts through the many visiting companies and professionals. The job can be challenging at times but I always have colleagues who are willing and able to help or teach the correct way of doing something.”
Please click here to view William's video
Sophie Osman – Hairdressing Apprentice of the Year
Sophie Osman is an outstanding hairdresser. She is charismatic, creative and fun and passionate about hairdressing and in particular putting hair up in as creative a fashion as possible.
Throughout her time at Exeter College she demonstrated amazing commitment, always completing her work to the highest standard, always early, so it was no surprise that she completed her apprenticeship before the due date.
Sophie is an excellent role model not only is she extremely talented but she embraces every opportunity to be creative and develop iconic work. Her passion for long hair work allowed her to explore and demonstrate her natural ability and flair in creative show work, which is stunning and still displayed in the faculty to inspire other learners.
Sophie has a lovely nature, she is kind and supportive of her peers, clients and staff whilst producing amazing work. She is a highly valued team member with an outstanding employer in her workplace Quinn's Hair Salon, Okehampton.
Her tutors said: “We are very proud of Sophie's achievement. We thoroughly enjoy teaching her and are honoured to be part of the formative stage of what will be a very bright career; she is a true star with fantastic potential.”
Please click here to view Sophie's video
Timber Craft South West Ltd – Employer of the Year
Timber Craft are a bespoke carpentry and joinery business, based in Exeter. They have grown over the years and have developed a strong connection with the college and its construction faculty.
Timber Craft have recognised and valued the contribution apprentices can make to a small business. From an early stage they embraced and supported apprenticeships and vocational training programmes offered by the college and have employed several learners on apprenticeship schemes.
Regrettably, during the recent economic challenges, some apprentices in other companies have lost their employment for reasons outside their control, for example when their employer has ceased trading. In circumstances such as these the college will endeavour to help find an alternative employer for the apprentice.
Timber Craft has been one of those employers. They have willingly taken two displaced apprentices to date and are about to take on a third. We cannot overstate how important this has been – not least to those displaced apprentices whose future careers were at threat.
Timber Craft are a small business but punch significantly above their weight when it comes to supporting apprenticeships and vocational training. They are an example to others and a worthy recipient of Employer of the Year.
Please click here to view Timber Craft's video
On Feb 4th and 5th over 20 students joined Ian Webber, Collin D Pereira, Ben Palmer and many other leading SW chefs at the demo kitchen at the Source Food and Drink Show at Westpoint – billed as the perfect mix of passionate producers, alongside the hottest hospitality and catering companies and the freshest food service. The students were given top spot during the two mornings creating dishes of pan fried mackerel and Thai crab cakes in front of the trade show visitors and supported the demo chefs throughout the day as they showed off a variety of cooking styles. “It was lovely to work with the Exeter College catering students” said Steve Ashworth SW Chef of the Year 2013 “They are the future of food.” “What a fantastic time we had at the Source Food and Drink show” tweeted Favis of Salcombe “Great demo by Richard Hunt and Exeter College.”
Concluding this busy period the college’s Michael Caines Academy – which is currently recruiting for the next training year – saw the finale of another competition on Monday Feb 9th – one run by Quickes Cheese in a unique partnership between the local food expert and the college to come up with and cook mouthwatering recipes using the Newton St Cyres based products. The winners of the final – India Lucas-Odges and Megan Ingarfield cooked up mushroom and macaroni burger and smoked cheese and sausage tortellini at the event – both recipes now destined to appear on the menus at the Quickes farm café. “It was an amazing experience to be able to cook for someone like Mary Quicke,” said Megan Ingarfield “She’s a brilliant business woman with a real career mind and to have her judge my dish was amazing.” As Mary Quicke tweeted on the day “Excited to see what these talented young chefs have come up with. Lovely to meet the exceptional students from Michael Caines Academy creating the most inspiring dishes, lots of delicious ingredients.
Louis Rugg from Torquay Academy was the overall winner with a stunning collage portrait with Saffy Jones, also from Torquay Academy winning the Portrait drawing (Pencil) category.
Chris Bennett, plumbing and electrical team leader at Exeter College who accompanied Josh to the competition highlighted comments from the judges saying “Judges agreed that the quality of Josh's work was of an exceptional standard with no deductions, which is extremely rare considering the pressured environment in which he was working. Josh's performance showed steady nerves, great subject knowledge and clear planning to achieve his objectives. The other competitors were equally as impressed with the quality of Josh's work and performance as the judges were.” 
The college's construction department is celebrating two World Skills finalists. Josh Ellis, 20 and Fergus O'Connell, 21 both from Exmouth, are both competing in the challenging plumbing skills finals.
The fourth finalists is no stranger to the pressure of competitions and awards having been awarded the college's Health and Social Care student of the Year in 2012 as a full time student then overall Apprentice of the Year last year. Working for North Devon NHS Trust Chelsea will be competing in the challenging health and social care world skills finals this week.