Exeter College Apprenticeship Bricklaying Skills Officer, Steve Harcus and a band of volunteers have been working on a DIY SOS-style house renovation for a much-loved member of the Exmouth community.
Derek Marsh, owner of Spraypoint Bodyworks, was involved in a serious motorcycle accident in February which has sadly left him paralysed for life, from the upper chest down.
Following the accident, a call was put out on an Exmouth Facebook group for tradesmen requesting help to convert Derek’s home for wheelchair accessibility. Since, there has been an overwhelming response from people wanting to support Derek and his return home. Until recently, Derek had been staying at Oddstock’s Spinal Rehabilitation Unit, but has since moved to Exeter’s Mardon Neuro Rehabilitation Centre where he hopes to stay before returning home.
Volunteers and companies across the community have come together. Exmouth-based Vinnarry Property Design Solutions have kindly drawn up the plans to make Derek’s home liveable for him again, free-of-charge. Work on the site is being led by Cockman Builders.
Having known Derek for over twenty years, Steve wanted to do all he could to make plans a reality and has used his annual leave from Exeter College to join the team on site.
Steve said, “Derek has worked on several of my vehicles over the years. We also have a shared interest in motorbikes, so he would always make time to stop and chat.
“When the post was put out on Facebook asking for help, I immediately contacted Dave Cockman to see if I could be of any use.
“I realised I had holiday left to use and it was agreed I could work for a couple of days (Thursday & Friday) to build an extension to floor level, in preparation for a couple of bricklayers to continue over the weekend. I would also see what else I could do whilst there as I am multi-skilled in construction.”
With current restrictions in place, due to the coronavirus outbreak, the number of people who can work on-site at one time has been limited. This made Steve’s wide range of expertise very beneficial.
Steve continued, “I helped with the demolition of internal walls, built a pier and set padstones on Thursday so we could fit steel beams on the Friday.
“Then I helped position the beams and completed the blockwork on the extension to floor level. I did this with the help of another bricklayer, who I have known since school.
“The atmosphere on site is excellent. As one said, ‘I’ve never had so much fun on-site, and I’m not even being paid!’ It was great to be a part of the team.”
Since volunteering, Steve has returned to the site and has been happy to see more people helping with the build.
Although there has been a wonderful response from community volunteers, Derek’s wife Emma has launched a Crowdfunder to help pay for the materials.
Any money left over will be donated to the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, who helped get Derek to hospital after the accident.
If you would like to donate, you can access the Crowdfunding page here.
Specialist Teachers and World Class Facilities building Exeter College’s Success
Since being named as the UK’s first ever tertiary college 50 years ago, we’ve built ourselves into the exceptional education provider we are today and are now ranked as the only Ofsted Outstanding College in Devon.
We’ve managed to reach this prestigious position by putting students at the heart of everything we do. We know there’s nothing more impactful on a young person’s education than the environment they’re learning in and, of course, who’s teaching them.
Subject Specialist Teachers
As a further education provider, our teachers differ to what you would find at a lot of sixth forms. Here, we pride ourselves on having subject specialist teachers. Unlike at school, our staff don’t teach across different subjects; they dedicate their time exclusively to the subject they teach in the classroom.
This means that our students are taught by people who have a real passion for the topic that they teach. As a result, our students can fully develop their skills and explore their passion within a specific field, which links directly to their chosen further study or employment option.
On top of this, our vocational subjects are taught by teachers who are still actively involved in their respective industries. This means they are constantly developing and updating their own skillset to pass on to the next generation of learners.
Jade Otty, Vice Principal of Exeter College and lead on academic performance, believes our specialist teaching staff positively impacts our consistently impressive vocational and academic results.
“Having specialist teachers is one of the cornerstones of what contributes to the outstanding education environment at Exeter College,” said Jade.
“Students who study with us are choosing to learn from teachers who have a genuine passion for what they’re teaching and, more importantly, have the skills to transfer that knowledge to students in the classroom.
“When a teacher chooses to work with us, they do so because they want to have their teaching time dedicated solely to a subject they love, and to supporting young people with that same passion succeeding with their ambitions. We’ve found that students really respond well to being taught by specialist teachers and appreciate the inside knowledge they can learn from teachers who are still involved in the industry.”
Tom Matthew, A Level student studying Geography, Sociology and Politics, added, “The teachers have been really helpful. They always have their students’ best interests at heart and go over and above expectations.
“My Geography teachers have experience with the exam board, and they are two of the best teachers I’ve had; their experience has been particularly useful to us.”
World Class Facilities and Partnerships
We’re proud to offer subject specialist teaching, but we also know that this is only one of the features which has helped to make us into the Ofsted Outstanding provider we are today.
Here at Exeter College, we offer all our students access to world class facilities and equipment in their chosen subject(s).
To make sure our learners have the very best chance to enhance their education, all our students have access to eight Learning Resources Centres, complete with IT labs and Mac suites.
Additionally, we have specialist campuses for different subjects. Through this, we ensure that we are providing our learners with industry standard-facilities, ranging from construction to media production.
The Centre for Creative Industries is home to a range of cutting-edge equipment and software. It also gives students access to the space they need to hone their skills in media, drama, art or photography, as they transform their academic studies into creative practice.
Our Maths and Science Centre, which opened in 2015, holds 11 purpose-build laboratories. These are all designed to the highest specifications, providing a space for inspirational teaching and learning.
Likewise, our Technology Centre offers students the latest technical software used in the industry. We’re also currently investing in our Construction Centre by way of a new state-of-the-art mezzanine which, from September, will host the new T Level qualifications.
Our Digital and Data Centre is also currently under construction. When complete, this will form part of the wider South West Institute of Technology plan, aiming to transform engineering, digital and manufacturing technology in Devon. Opening early 2021, the Centre will provide learners with educational opportunities in the digital field. This will include courses around software development, data analytics and cyber security.
On top of this, our college also works in partnership with leading regional and national businesses and sports teams. This month we announced our newest collaboration, as the BBC is set to open a new studio in our Centre of Creative Industries. All our partnerships provide students with the opportunities to continually achieve their educational goals and even develop beyond the curriculum.
It’s not too late to apply online to study with us for the September start. Once the requested documents have been submitted and reviewed, all students will be given a conditional offer.
Adapting to lockdown life hasn’t been easy for a lot of adult learners. Juggling the changes in work, homeschooling, and not being able to see family members has made keeping on top of their studies an extra challenge.
Teachers decided to ease the pressure by adapting their learning schedule and promoting the positive and restful process of writing creatively. Staff launched a letter-writing competition for the students, focusing on creative writing and techniques.
Tat Ruck, English Tutor for additional adult cohorts, and Susan Slater, Professional Adult Learning Administrator, judged both the Adult GCSE English and the Adult Functional Skills competitions.
Check out the winning entries below…
Adult GCSE English Winners
First: Dean Squire
Dear Isobel,
I can’t tell you why I’m writing this. Fear, I suppose. I have been repeating today’s events over and over again in my head, trying to make sense of what I’m doing here Izzy. I guess I’m wishing you could help me like you usually would.
Infantry life is challenging to say the least, on operations we cover most of the ground on foot, looking for the enemy or trying to gather as much intelligence as humanly possible to. The repetition is becoming immensely stressful Isobel. Every day, I put on my helmet, body armour and webbing including my rifle along with my newest best friend, The Mine Detector! (Of course, no one could replace you, but the Mine Detector is quite critical to my survival). I’m often told that we have to be lucky every day and that the enemy only has to be lucky once. I simplify that in my own terms as Russian Roulette.
But today, that term sat with me heavier than usual. My mind keeps going back to this one moment. I had just slowly pushed away from the vehicles and my hands were trembling as I swayed my detector from left to right. This intense nausea starts brewing in my stomach and secretly I know it’s the fear setting in deeper with every small step I take. My heart was beating in my ears and all I could do was continue swaying the detector. Back and forth. Back and forth. All the while I have this constant nagging thought that claws its way over every other emotion… Please God, not like this.
You know what I mean by that, don’t you? Death was always a possibility. I know that. I had come to terms with that Izzy, I swear. But I always had the expectation of a glorious end in a fire fight battle. Be a hero. Have an honourable death. However, this was the moment reality kicked in. This was no glorious battle. It was me and a few other men, stood in the middle of a desert, dehydrated, swinging mine detectors around like fucking idiot’s! All I do is replay it. The heat scorching down. The dusty air. Grains of sand in my mouth. Then for a whole minute I just stand there and take it in. My tongue is sand-paper, my skin is fire and my eyes are raw. In that minute, I pray to god these were not my final hours. This is not the last thing I want to see before I go.
This repetition is constant, day after day, night after night. I’m left alone with my thoughts in the loneliest place on earth. I know there isn’t much you can say to me to make sense of this turmoil. I suppose my battles are more personal now.
The truth is, I am dancing daily with death.
I am so sorry. Sorry to write this. Sorry I’m here. Sorry if I don’t come back.
All my Love,
Jack
Judges Comments:
Tat Ruck: This heartrending letter from a soldier to his girlfriend brings to life the boredom and fear of modern warfare. The ending especially brought tears to my eyes. Sue Slater: A really good description of the reality of his situation and emotions.
Second: Anonymous
Dear table,
You have been in my life from the very beginning.
My grand-parents accidently became your owners when you were included in the purchase of a farmhouse they acquired in rural France in the 1970s, long before I was born. I don’t think they paid you much attention – you were cumbersome and built out of humble pine, not the refined centrepiece they longed for.
Luckily for you, you were soon passed on to my parents. They had just got married, bought their first home and needed furniture. They weren’t picky. I am not sure how much you were loved at that point. I am sorry to say that you simply happened to be free and available at a convenient time. But I guess that’s okay in the life of an item of furniture.
You feature in the vast majority of my family’s photographs, spanning nearly fifty years. In fact, you provide the set for my very first family photo, albeit not a very good one. My dad had set the timer on his then state-of-the-art Canon camera and swiftly propped it up onto your top, before rushing back to sit with the rest of us by one of your sides. Somehow he still managed to look surprised when the shutter clicked. Meanwhile, my mum and older siblings were posing with lovely smiles. Unfortunately, my sister had awkwardly placed her whole hand on my face as a sign of affection. The result is that the face of the new-born baby me is totally obstructed. Still, I love that photo. And you’re in there, discreet in the foreground.
Your great size became very useful when the family suffered a cataclysm in the late 1980s. Instead of being at the service of six people, you were now being used constantly by ten people. That number went up to thirteen – that was a bit of a squeeze – when a family of Yugoslavian refugees joined us for a few months in the early 1990s. I am sure they remember you very fondly too.
All this work on your part took its toll. Over the years, various body parts were often leaning on top of your smooth surface, predominantly elbows but sometimes feet and bums too (sorry!). You silently put up with many things: pots and pans, tableware, many spilled water jugs (that was my speciality), toys, messy craft, hidden chewing gums left to harden in your unseen corners. My dad was aware of this and he would varnish you periodically, giving you a renewed sense of pride.
When the weakened family finally imploded in the late 1990s, you were sadly left behind, but not forgotten. You were the only object that I really wanted to keep from the house. I gained full ownership of you by winning a game of heads and tails against my sister. It sounds trivial I know, but great decisions have been taken that way. Fair and square.
As a young student, I didn’t have a home big enough or for long enough to be able to take you back. Sadly, you drifted for many years in various garages and sheds. By the time I came to get you, you were battered and bruised. You had suffered a broken leg and were now infected with woodworm. I drove you back 700 miles and found a professional to restore you to your former glory. You actually ended up looking younger and healthier than you ever did!
I had finally found a place big enough. Space for you was one of the top criteria while I was house hunting.
With freshly trimmed edges, new legs, and many thick layers of garish varnish removed (no offence dad), you are now sitting proudly in my house. In fact, you are the hub of the house. For some reason, whenever friends and family come over, they instinctively ignore the comfy sofas and come to you right away. You provide the most perfect background to many pictures that will one day become my children’s cherished childhood photographs.
You, welcoming, imposing and beautiful, have witnessed the best and the worst events of my life. You have received tears of sorrows and tears of joy. You have stepped up to provide the best celebrations at Christmases and the most comforting gatherings at funerals. You are a survivor. Experience tells me that whatever the future holds, you will always be loved, not least by myself and my descendants.
So, dearest table, I thank you for all your loyal service, past and future.
Yours truly.
Judges Comments:
Tat Ruck: This is a beautifully written and heartfelt letter to a much-loved and cherished piece of furniture, full of evocative memories of family events that many readers will recognise. Sue Slater: Whole family history told, I almost forgot it was about a table!
Third: Lauren Wardell
Dear Aunt Agnus,
Forgive me for being so silent but the last time we spoke, I was terribly disturbed by what was said. Our meeting – when was it now? A year and a half ago? It caused a deep-rooted uneasiness in me. I couldn’t sleep, Aunt Agnus. That’s how bad it was.
We have always had a special relationship and since Mother died, our bond has become stronger. I know you are wondering why you have not heard from me. Please believe that you have been in my thoughts constantly. When Uncle Patrick told me you injured your knee, I was really worried. I baked some cupcakes, but I could not visit you. After your vision, I could not face you.
It’s ridiculous I could not stop for an afternoon tea (a common ritual of ours!) but I couldn’t shrug off your vision. In truthfulness, I never appreciated your Gift. As a child I would sometimes overhear you talking to the ladies who came to visit you, like strayed cats. I knew you were helping them find their way. It never occurred to me that you could help me find mine.
Yet quite ironically, you said it was not in my nature to do so. You saw a wanderer, an independent spirit and then you delved into the depths of your mind and spoke to my past self. It’s a lot to take in and I’m sure most people would say that. I was going to laugh it off with Charlie but I was scared of scaring him. Or worse, he would say we were crazy. Perhaps we are.
The thing is, I need to see you Aunt Agnus more urgently than ever. There has been an incident. I ran away the other night trembling from head to tail? I stepped out of a very hot shower and when looking upon my face, noticed something peculiar. I flinched when I touched my ears and cheeks. Then the moonlight lit up a set of whiskers!
Charlie called from downstairs but I leapt out the window onto the lower balcony and raced through the hedges. I have not returned since but I need to talk to you. I cannot confess where I am for fear this letter be found. I will drop it at your door and when you are ready to see me, I will appear.
With sincere love,
Your niece.
Judges Comments:
Tat Ruck: This wonderful letter from a niece to her aunt tells a gothic tale of mystery and witchcraft – beautifully executed and creates a real sense of unease – skilfully written! Sue Slater: Could be an intriguing fantastical story.
Adult Functional Skills Winners
First: Khadija Abdullah
Dear sea,
You are my favorite place in this big world and I want to write for you and saying thank you for making my life so beautiful.
God has given us many blessing one of the most beautiful and wonderful of which is the sea.
I love you sea because I have so many memories with you, so you were the only place I could play and I did spend all my childhood with you so I will remember you forever.
The sound of your waves for me it is a beautiful poem, full of mystery and full of pleasure …is like a riddle.
Any pain any illness, and any problem we have has a cure but in my opinion you are the only pace that is more relaxing than anything from my house and treatment in the worst possible conditions.
How beautiful is that moment when the wave slowly comes to the shore and slowly becomes of roar. How beautiful of stones and oysters and pearls, can be beautiful, sitting on a big rock and staring at your waves and looking around at the sunset, that becoming more colorful every moment.
Suddenly and unknowingly the waves hits the rocks and breaks the silence that lived and built a house.
Every moment and every time, it creates a waves of the insoles and the pearls bring their radiance, when the sound of your water is mixed with the sound of the birds and sparrows they create music, that I don’t know what to call it.
I always wanted to be like you, sometimes full of silence and sometime full of noise, deep and deep. You are not just a word. You mean pace you mean beauty, you mean pleasantness.
We have to learn from you that people take her or his bad life to the beach put it there and go. You are the most emotional and proudest blessing in the world.
The pleasant sound fills the depths of my eyes; the wind that blows my hair has drowned me in pleasure.
At the end I want to say thank you to the god for created you in this such as big world.
Khadija Abdullah
Judges Comments:
Tat Ruck: This is a beautifully poetic story, full of sound and colour and movement – very evocative and soothing. Sue Slater:‘How beautiful is that moment when the wave slowly comes to the shore and slowly becomes of roar’. Such an evocative thought, and one many of us can relate to.
Second: Raquel Gallardo
Dear Kindle,
I have no words to describe how important you are to me. I always knew that but during this pandemic, I just realized I could not live without you.
You were a present from my mum. That makes you special from the beginning. I truly believe that you are the most precious present I have ever received. You have brought so much joy to my life. All those long Sunday afternoons in front of the fire would not be the same without you.
The thing I love the most about you is the capacity of being there for me, day or night, indoors or outdoors always with what it seems a never-ending charge. You provide me with books in my mother tongue which are the ones, let’s be honest, that are the most enjoyable.
I had my reserves at the beginning. It seems impossible that a machine can replace physical books. Paper books are special. The texture, the odour, the colours of the cover… Of course, they are wonderful and a totally different experience. I still buy them every now and again and I will always will. But for someone like me, often in the move, it makes no sense to fill my shelves. You are the most convenient, light-weighted and handy device I could dream of.
My little kindle. Your case is a bit worn out but I know you don’t mind. As long as it keeps you safe, you are happy. I am happy too. Happy for having you in my life.
There is no dull moment with you. Particularly in these strange times, when we are not able to even leave the house, having a whole world of adventures, drama and humour with me at all times, makes me feel so much better. I never feel alone because I have you with me, my personal storyteller.
I can only say, where have you been all my life?
Live is much better with books, any type of book, that is one of the few things I am certain of.
Take care, my little friend,
Raquel
Judges Comments:
Tat Ruck: This lovely letter to a Kindle shows that the joy of reading never gets old – even in this age of technology. Sue Slater:‘I never feel alone because I have you with me, my personal storyteller.’ Following initial resistance Raquel has come to love her Kindle and the joy it brings.
Third: Adeline de Rocco
Dear Tango,
There you are, such a ginger little fluffball. This is my very first letter writing to you, so I am very excited for you to see this, but I know you won’t understand any of this. You are such a lovely ginger cat who are grown up now and became very fluffy and soft. You can be a naughty kitty, but your mischievous ways are what I love most about you.
I know everyone give the attention you deserve after your morning outing; you are very lucky to be able to go out and visit the neighbour’s houses. I know you are probably visiting the cows and ships too. It’s probably very disturbing for you in your routine to see everyone in the house every day; no one it’s going to work we all stay at home and you can get the attention of everyone anytime. You always get the full attention anyway! You are very spoiled little fluffy pet; you have the power to get fed anytime you come back in the house even if you don’t need to. You test everyone patience daily with your food obsession and attempts to get my toast on the table.
You came into my life very unexpected and I love hugging you in my arms when you came back from your little cat door, because your too cute and you give me your two big cat eyes looking at me. I can see this is love, I feel comforted.
In those difficulties time, we all need kitty snuggling around us. You are like guide to peace and love pillow at night when life gets me down, I can tell you anything I want, and you won’t make any judgements. You have unique personality and story to tell, alongside your beautiful colourful hair you have and elegant allure.
Meow kisses,
Adeline Judges Comments:
Tat Ruck: Any pet owner or animal lover can relate to this simple yet lovely letter describing the comfort and joy that pets bring. Sue Slater:‘…alongside your beautiful colourful hair you have and elegant allure.’ Good description encompassing the movement and personality of the much loved kitty!
Well done to everyone who took part – some wonderful and inspiring ideas!
The Exeter College graduate behind one of art’s biggest lockdown trends
An Exeter College art graduate has been the inspiration behind one of lockdown’s more unique art trends.
Since the Government’s lockdown of the country in March, a number of artists have been looking for an outlet for their creative flair and have taken to recreating classic pieces of art from the comfort of their own home using photography.
“Without the Exeter School of Art I would never have achieved what I have, and I am just so grateful. Just imagine, an idea on a college course ending up trending on social media during lockdown, and it all started right here in Exeter!”
Anna Grayson, Exeter College Access to Higher Education Art Graduate
But Anna Grayson, from Teignmouth, has been producing work like this for years, having originally experimented with this photographic art style while studying an Access to Higher Education Art course with Exeter College in 2012.
Now eight years on, Anna has amassed a collection of her often-humorous art recreations, which is due to be displayed at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM).
Anna, 67, said, “I shot the first of my photos in this style while I was studying at Exeter College. We were looking at portrait photography and I wanted to do something different that also explored art history.
“A lot of my work is about reimagining iconic works of art for the world we live in today, so quite a bit of it explores gender, women’s issues and society in general.”
Anna’s collection includes recreations of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa (or Moaning Geezer in Anna’s collection), and a feminist recreation of Édouard Manet’s Le Dejeuner sur l’herbe, along with around 30 others that are set to be displayed when RAMM reopens.
Anna’s art career only launched following her Access course with Exeter College, and she has already seen her work hung in the South West Academy and, remarkably, in the Royal Academy of Arts in London. In 2018 two of her pieces were selected by Grayson Perry to hang in his famous yellow room at the 250th anniversary exhibition at the RA. The making of a new piece was also featured on the Channel Four series, Grayson Perry’s Art Club.
As social media caught wind of the photographic style during lockdown, Anna has been looking on with interest as others attempt to reimagine famous paintings during lockdown, “I’ve been rather tickled to find myself a trendsetter for an internet craze!”
Anna said, “It has been great seeing everyone have a go at doing it while stuck at home. It’s a good way to explore art history and teach yourself about composition and lighting. But I always try to take it one step further by developing the meanings and interpretations of iconic works, but it’s so nice to see everyone getting involved in it!
“If I were going to give advice to anyone considering giving it a go, I’d say to think outside the box and don’t restrict yourself just to photography. You also need to beware of copying other people’s images directly put on social media – many are covered by copyright and intellectual property law. Also, make sure you credit another artist’s work if you’re copying or inspired by them – that’s just good manners!
“Without the Exeter School of Art I would never have achieved what I have, and I am just so grateful. Just imagine, an idea on a college course ending up trending on social media during lockdown, and it all started right here in Exeter!”
Anna’s exploration of using digital photography to recreate famous art started when, aged 60, she took on an Access course with Exeter College and started to explore different sides of art.
“I’ve been experimenting with recreations of famous works of art because I’m greedy and I want nice art on my walls,” said Anna.
“I knew I didn’t have the money to buy these works of art, and I certainly didn’t have the skills nor lack of moral fibre to steal anything, so I decided to go about recreating them myself. The more I made, the more I wanted to do.
“On a more serious level, I’m intensely interested in what becomes iconic in art. Why do some images, like Vincent van Gogh’s Sunflowers or Jan van Eyck’s Arnolfini become so well known and recognised? Why do people engage with particular pictures?
“I also had this feeling that more people might get into with art if it was updated and reimagined for a modern audience, so that’s a big influence behind the background of this collection.”
Anna’s Journey
Anna’s art career hasn’t taken the conventional route, as the Teignmouth-based artist may be better known to some as the former presenter of the BBC’s Learn To Earn programme, where she regularly reported on the training opportunities for those aged 18 to 80. She also worked with the BBC for nearly 35 years as a producer, presenter, studio manager and journalist.
Inspired by her previous reporting on the importance of lifelong learning, Anna took on an Access to University Art and Design course with Exeter College as a 60th birthday present, 7 years ago. This proved to be the touch paper for the start of Anna’s journey into taking art more seriously; not just as a hobby, but as a career.
“I didn’t mean to make a career out of it, it just kind of happened!” said Anna.
“I thought when I did the Access course that it was going to be a bit of fun and a way to learn some new skills. While still on the course I copied the Arnolfini portrait from the National Gallery. The original portrait has a couple that doesn’t look obviously in love and clearly aren’t communicating at all. I thought as my husband and I had been married for nearly 40 years, we could fit the bill to recreate it in my photography! We dressed up, I photographed it, and I had a lot to say about it in terms of the symbolism and messages in the piece and it managed to get into the South West Academy.”
The exhibition coming to RAMM in the New Normal represents a coming together of Anna’s collection of pieces in the series. Shot in carefully matched locations, and with the same lighting conditions and compositions as the originals, Anna’s commitment to recreating the art in modern digital photography isn’t something she expected to come at the culmination of her Access course with Exeter College.
Indeed, Anna’s original degree had been in Geology at the University of St Andrews, so she originally felt most drawn to the ceramics side of her Access course with Exeter College. However, she quickly learned that photography was going to be her forte as she progressed in the year-long programme of study.
Anna continued: “I was already aware of how great an Access course could be because I’d found out so much about them while I was working on Learn To Earn with the BBC. First and foremost, I was amazed by the transferable skills from science to art. Because you do experiments in art, you have to write them out and observe things, and that’s incredibly similar to the scientific world.”
“Bearing in mind I studied Geology at one of the top universities in the world, the best lecture I’ve ever been to in my whole life was one on perspective drawing with Tony Martin at Exeter College. It really was a terrific experience for me and I’d do the whole course again and again if they’d let me!”
Anna’s work will be displayed at the RAMM when it reopens follow the current lockdown.
The BBC will move to new studios at Exeter College, offering budding journalists opportunities to work with BBC programme makers.
Students at the college’s Centre for Creative Industries (CCI) will also get the chance to pitch their work to BBC Radio Devon, BBC Spotlight and BBC News online.
“I feel we can set a new standard for media orientated training that benefits the BBC, students, staff and the wider community,”
John Laramy, Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive
The new studios, currently being built on the ground floor of the CCI building just off Queen Street, will be used as a base for BBC reporters and a space for journalists to conduct interviews for regional and national news programmes, such as Newsnight or Radio 4 PM.
The move brings a regional base for the BBC into the centre of Exeter, moving from their current Pynes Hill site, providing the broadcaster a new opportunity to further cover the stories that matter most to local people.
BBC Radio Devon Editor Mark Grinnell said: “The South West has always had a vibrant media industry, thanks in no small part to institutions like Exeter College’s Centre for Creative Industries. We hope this collaboration will build on that while allowing us to continue covering Devon’s busy news agenda.”
Each term the students will pitch stories to the broadcaster’s journalists, with the chance to have their work broadcast on the BBC.
A BBC panel will also meet twice a year to give feedback to the College’s aspiring journalists on news stories and BBC staff will be conducting guest lectures to give students the very latest hints and tips on getting into the industry from those who work in it. This will particularly help students in the College’s Journalism Academy, which is made up of learners on a range of courses who have an interest in a career in the media.
Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy said, “We’re thrilled to be welcoming the BBC to our campus and help bring them into the heart of the city of Exeter.
“Part of the vision for our curriculum is to provide a line of sight to industry and hosting the BBC Studio in our Centre for Creative Industries is a great way to put one of the biggest brands in media at the heart of the student experience.
“Our students will benefit hugely from being able to take in the inside knowledge of journalists and apply that to their learning in College and beyond. This new association with the BBC has the potential to be truly groundbreaking and together I feel we can set a new standard for media orientated training that benefits the BBC, students, staff and the wider community.”
Stephanie Marshall, Head of the BBC in the West and South West, said: “The move to Exeter College represents a new way of working for our regional news teams, bringing us closer to students who could one day be broadcasting across our airwaves.
“We hope that having a BBC presence on-site will help inspire the next generation of journalists.
“With Apprenticeships and schemes like BBC Young Reporter we are doing more than ever to support people aspiring to work in the media industry.”
The refurbishment work will be completed in the coming weeks and the BBC journalists will begin working there soon afterwards.
Ofsted Outstanding, bringing Exeter College to the next level
We’re Devon’s only Ofsted Outstanding tertiary college, but how has this top rating helped to shape us and our students’ education?
We were first awarded our Outstanding rating in 2012, after inspectors arrived unannounced, checking on all aspects of College life. This inspection awarded us an overall rating of Outstanding, bringing us to the top level of Ofsted’s rating system, and announcing us as one of the very best colleges in the country.
Two years passed and the Ofsted inspectors arrived again, once more awarding us with an Outstanding overall rating. On top of this, they ranked us as Outstanding across each of the categories; Outcomes for Learners, Learning and Assessment, Quality of Teaching and the Effectiveness of Leadership and Management.
Exceptional College
A lot of schools or colleges would see achieving Ofsted Outstanding across all categories as ‘job done’ but not us. We have used this backing as a launchpad to continue to innovate and flourish, benefiting our students and the wider community.
John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College since 2009, said, “While it was our strategic ambition to become Ofsted Outstanding, for us the most important part of this was the national confirmation that our students are achieving great things.
“Once we were rated Outstanding across all categories, the staff at the college immediately looked at what’s next. We used the validation from Ofsted as a platform and have since set a new vision, which is to become an ‘exceptional college’. I am very pleased to report that with the partnerships we have now, and experiences the College is now able to offer, we are on track to achieve this new milestone.”
Our Achievements
In recent years, our College has gone from strength-to-strength. We were named as 2016’s Centre of the Year at the City and Guilds Lion Awards, STEM FE College of the Year 2018, and even as one of the Top 100 Best Not-For-Profit Organisations to work for by the Sunday Times in 2019.
As a college, we pride ourselves on our reputation for our academic, vocational and Apprenticeship excellence, which continues to grow. In 2019 our students achieved exceptional A Level results, with a 99.7% pass rate, well above the national average of 97.6%. Our vocational success continues to exceed the national average, and recently our Apprenticeship team was shortlisted in the Association of College’s Beacon Awards for Employer Engagement.
Looking to the future, while reflecting on 50 years of excellence since being named as the UK’s first ever tertiary college, has been the key to our drive to exceptional education.
World Class Facilities
We continue to invest in our College, making sure we have the tools and facilities to provide students the best education. Our renowned Centre for Creative Industries offers students the latest software and equipment in the creative arts, giving them the means to achieve their full potential. In 2015, we opened our Maths and Science Centre, with 11 purpose-built laboratories. On top of this, our Technology and Construction Centres have also seen recent investment, making sure teaching practice is industry-led and fit for the future.
Our new Digital and Data Centre is also currently under construction. Opening early 2021, this Centre will be part of the wider South West Institute of Technology plan, which will revolutionise the teaching of digital, manufacturing and engineering education across the South West.
Ongoing Success
Due to our Ofsted Outstanding rating, our strive of educational excellence, and our outstanding teaching, we have been selected by the Government to be one of the first providers in the UK, and the only provider in Devon, of the new T Level qualification, which will be rolling out this September.
John Laramy said, “Since the Ofsted Outstanding rating I am delighted to report that student results have improved further and the College’s estate and facilities have really developed. I personally lead ‘learner voice’ and just last week heard first-hand about the great work going on right across the College from learners themselves. I believe part of our ongoing success is down to the way that students and Apprentices remain at the heart of our decision making – their ambition and feedback inspires all of us.
“During the last few months, we have really benefited from the combination of expert teachers, a dynamic digital strategy and great students. As Principal, I get a real buzz from students achieving their absolute potential and using the result to realise their ambitions.”
We are currently planning for enrolment, where we will welcome students who will be joining us in September. Everyone who holds an offer to study with us will be informed about the enrolment process in the coming weeks.
You can still apply online to study at our Ofsted Outstanding College for a September 2020 start. Once all requested documents have been submitted and reviewed, applicants will be given a conditional offer.
Art students’ work revealed in Exeter city centre as lockdown eases
From Monday 29 June – Thursday 16 July 2020, as the Exeter city centre opens up after lockdown, more than 30 students studying at Exeter School of Art will help to bring the city to life, as they show their most recent artwork to the public.
Exeter School of Art may be the only college in the country where art students are exhibiting their work in real spaces as well as the virtual space. Traditionally this is the time of year for graduating art students to exhibit their work; however, this year the vast majority of art schools across the country are making exhibitions online. Here in Exeter, dedicated students and staff from Exeter School of Art are brightening up the city as it wakes up after lockdown, and shoppers and workers will enjoy a more creative environment as they return to the city centre.
Emily Gibbon, Manager of retail, culture, tourism and business support organisation InExeter, said: “It’s so exciting to see the city coming back to life, people adapting to the new measures and bringing a buzz to the place once again. Having these fabulous pieces of art by the Exeter School of Art and Design installed for people to see and enjoy will add to the atmosphere and experience of visiting the city. It’s a great use of space, and I can’t wait to see more innovative ideas around the city in the coming months.”
The work exhibited is also from students’ final projects from years 12 and 13. The majority of the work was produced during the lockdown, which influenced what some students produced. Students did not have access to the college’s facilities and resources. They, therefore, had to adapt their ideas and be even more creative with the materials and technology available to them at home.
Presenting the finished work to the Exeter community is an exciting opportunity, particularly for students who were disappointed by the prospect of graduating without presenting their work in a professional way to the public.
Nigel Watts, Head of the Art and Design faculty at the Exeter School of Art, said, “We are very proud of the students who have worked so hard from home in the recent months to produce the excellent work you will see in the show. It feels great that we have had the opportunity to exhibit their work at the end of this academic year, something that did not seem possible a few months ago.”
Exeter College and the School of Art are very grateful for support from Awesome Art Space, Eat the Bird and Princesshay, in providing and helping them to access these exhibition spaces.
Michelle Menezes, Centre Manager at Princesshay, said, “We are delighted to host Exeter College and the School of Art on Paris Street for this exciting exhibition. The talented students have worked so hard, through very difficult times, to create stunning, thought-provoking pieces. All the artwork can be seen from outside the store. Everyone is welcome to visit the inspiring exhibition.”
Exeter School of Art is part of Exeter College, and the work on display is from students studying on courses validated by the University of Plymouth and AIM awards. Exeter College was awarded TEF Gold (Teaching Excellence Framework in 2019).
Exeter College bucks national trend for Apprenticeship starts
As Training Providers nationally report a potential loss of 80% of predicted starts during the Spring period as a result of the Covid-19 crisis (FE Week 22 May 2020), Exeter College is able to share positive news, having welcomed new intakes of Apprentices in Digital Marketing, Project Management, Customer Service, Management and Data Analytics.
Following a virtual meeting with government ministers this week, the College also reports exceptional retention rates as the local business community rallies to support Apprentices. Mike Blakeley, Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, said, “To see 95% of our planned Apprenticeship starts come to fruition despite all of the challenges of lockdown, shows clearly that our employer partners continue to see the value of Apprenticeship training. We know that our region is a huge supporter of Apprenticeship training, with Exeter having achieved City of Apprenticeships earlier this year, and it is a really positive sign that in face of global challenge Apprenticeships in the region remain high on the agenda.”
“Exeter College is delighted to welcome Data Analyst Apprentices from our new employer partner EDF. The fact that the Data Analyst programme has been able to start despite the challenges of lockdown shows the strength of our partnership and the positive approach adopted by both parties. This is our first truly national programme with learners in the South West, South East and North East all participating fully.”
Filomena La Porta, Data Skills Squad lead at EDF said, “People are at the heart of fully realising the value of data and data skills are precious and scarce. It’s amazing to see that in our company there is talent rising to the challenge of learning new skills and we are delighted to be able to support their development over two years in partnership with Exeter College. It is a great success story that the Data Analyst Apprenticeship has gone ahead as scheduled, despite the challenges of COVID. Exeter College have taken on the challenge of remote learning, ensuring a real partnership at every step of the way.”
The new cohort of Data Analyst Apprentices is led by Steve Mariadas, Digital and Data Lead at Exeter College and CEO of the new South West Institute of Technology, which is backing a new Digital and Data Centre which is being built on the Exeter College site. Reflecting on the challenge of launching new programmes during lockdown Steve said, “It has been an interesting time for us all, but the College’s investment in digital skills meant that staff were well placed to implement the remote learning required which enabled the Apprentices to begin their programmes as planned and with minimal disruption despite lockdown. Our concerns are always to offer high quality teaching and learning, through a safe online learning environment.”
As a Microsoft Showcase College, and having undergone a digital transformation, teaching staff have been able to quickly adapt to the challenges thrown up by the Covid-19 lockdown. Many of the staff already hold Microsoft Innovative Educator badges and the College’s IT and Digital Innovations teams have worked hard over recent years to embed Microsoft technologies into everyday practice across the College. It has also allowed the staff to host a series of virtual open events to support school leavers, and secure talent for the new academic year starting in September. Online interactive job seeking sessions have also allowed the Apprenticeship Team to match individuals who have come forward for the hundred-plus employer vacancies currently advertised with the College.
Having reached the finals of the prestigious AoC Beacon Awards on Thursday 4th June, in The City and Guilds Employer Engagement category, the College cites its strong community network as one of the key factors in weathering the current storm. Mike Blakeley said, “The delivery of programmes at this time has been seen as a key tool in employee welfare and support. Levels of employer satisfaction are exceptionally high regarding learning delivery. Looking to the future we know that given the current economic climate there are challenges ahead, but we believe that the strong partnerships and reputation we have of partnering with employers will enable us to help them through this time, and in turn, find employment for our applying Apprentices.
“With the digital expertise the College has in place, and our ongoing investment in skills development and new premises, our Apprentices and our employer partners are exceptionally well placed to be at the centre of the Skills Revolution.”
Ministers take part in virtual tour of Exeter College
Government Ministers attended a virtual tour of Exeter College as part of their plans to continue the gradual reopening of schools and colleges in response to the coronavirus pandemic.
“I was impressed and inspired by the passion and enthusiasm shown by their students who have continued to receive the best education and training possible during Covid-19,”
Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson MP
The Secretary of State for Education Gavin Williamson MP and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Apprenticeships and Skills Gillian Keegan MP joined the College’s students, staff and leaders to discuss how the College adapted to online teaching and learning during the lockdown, how the College has further opened to more students from the 15th June 2020 and how the College is looking forward to welcoming students in September.
The Ministers also heard directly from current College students and Apprentices about their experience and future plans.
Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson MP
Education Secretary Gavin Williamson MP said, “It was a pleasure to virtually visit Exeter College and meet their students and staff. It was great to see how by working in partnership with local schools, universities and employers, they are making sure young people get the skills and experience they need to have rewarding careers.
“I was impressed and inspired by the passion and enthusiasm shown by their students who have continued to receive the best education and training possible during Covid-19.
“Now, more than ever, it’s vital young people have access to high quality technical education. Exeter College offers our new T Levels as well as high quality Apprenticeships and by being a part of the wider South West Institute of Technology ensures students have the skills and support they need to succeed. I wish them all the best and look forward to hearing more about their brilliant work.”
The College also provided an update on the ongoing developments at the College, including the construction of a range of new facilities which will be ready for September to support the introduction of T Levels. In one group session the College shared its approach to partnerships and the delivery of Apprenticeships, which was recognised this year by being shortlisted in the coveted Beacon Awards.
Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan MP
Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan MP said, “It was a pleasure to virtually visit Exeter College and hear about the fantastic work they are doing to make sure more young people get the skills they need to reach their full potential.
“It was great to talk to students and staff, and find out more about how the College is preparing to deliver our exciting T Levels from September, and their new state-of-the-art Digital and Data Centre which will help more young people learn a range of important skills.
“I wish them all the best and look forward to hearing more about their great work.”
College leaders also spoke on the ongoing construction of a new £10m Digital and Data Centre as part of the South West Institute of Technology, which will help to revolutionise digital and data training within Exeter, and engineering and manufacturing technology education across the wider region. The building is set to be completed in early 2021 and will play a core part in making the South West a leading area for technical education in the country.
Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy said, “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome the Ministers today, albeit virtually. The College was able to talk about its reaction to the challenges of the lockdown, but also able to share how brilliantly staff and students quickly adapted to working in a different way.
“We were able to outline our College’s contribution to the City of Exeter, as a key civic partner that works closely with the University of Exeter and schools to create a clear and successful education eco-system.”
The College was also able to share its ambitious plans for the future and outline how colleges, such as Exeter, can play a key part in economic recovery. In addition, the College spoke about the new Future Skills Centre, which is a new partnership with Devon County Council, to support SMART Aviation, technical education and adult retraining, based at Exeter International Airport.
There’s no doubt we’re #ExeCollProud to have an amazing community here at Exeter College. Offering Ofsted Outstanding education students, across a range of subjects and course types, we pride ourselves on tailoring college life to each individual in our college community.
We know there are many reasons to choose Exeter College, but we asked our students the main reasons they chose us to be their further education provider…
Students learning in our @34 training kitchens.
THE WORLD CLASS FACILITIES
“I came to Exeter College for the industry standard facilities on my course. I do media make-up artistry at Exeter College and it’s really fun. This is a course I can’t really do anywhere else; Exeter College is one of the only places who offer it. I feel really lucky that I got onto my first choice of course,” – Jasmine Price.
“Exeter College’s @34 training facilities have provided me with an accurate workplace experience and prepared me appropriately for the working environment,” – Tilly Morris.
Teachers with a real passion for their subject.
OUR TEACHING STAFF
“The teachers here have had all the right training; they’re fantastic in how they teach us and how they work with us. They train us like they’re preparing us to work in the industry before we even get to university,” – Jasmine Price.
“Every member of staff has been very supportive and I feel really cared for at this college,” – Ella Edmonds.
ACADEMIES AND ENRICHMENT
We have a range of inspirational Academies and Enrichment opportunities for students.
“I came to Exeter College for the great sports academies they have here. I took part in the rugby sports academy last year. I trained in the mornings, so it fitted in really well around my college timetable. I also play for a local rugby club, so it supported that and was really enjoyable,” – Max Davies.
“I was lucky enough to get into the performing arts academy which was an amazing opportunity for me because I love drama. Exeter College also offers a lot of clubs and extracurricular opportunities,” – Ella Edmonds.
“I chose Exeter because of the quality speakers that come in. I have been to so many outstanding talks from people all over the country and some international ones as well, I wouldn’t have got this opportunity where I’m based in Bideford,” – Tom Matthew.
We’re Devon’s only Ofsted Outstanding College.
COURSE REPUTATION
“The reputation Exeter College has is fantastic, everyone recommends Exeter as it’s such a good college,” – Bayleigh Bewes.
“I can’t think of anywhere around here that has the range of A Levels that Exeter College does. I know that a lot of my friends came here for the niche courses that Exeter College could offer them,” – Will Stredwick.
GROWTH
“I’ve gained a lot of confidence from being at Exeter College,” – Ella Files-Butler.
“Sixth form is a comfort zone; at college you will get something that you won’t experience somewhere else. I’ve gained a lot of confidence from being at Exeter College. I’m a lot more comfortable with new people and understanding new ideas,” – Ella Files-Butler.
“I came to Exeter College for the university-like feel, which I think is really good preparation. I like having more independence, it’s really helped me to learn how to manage my time,” – Will Stredwick.
We love hearing all of the motivations and reasons our students choose Exeter. If you would like to share why you chose Exeter, send us a message, or tag us in a post using #ExeCollTogether.
If you’d like to find out more about the subjects and courses you can study here, you can now re-watch our Online Showcase.
