Senior staff at Exeter College have been sharing the story of their recent pilot Ofsted experience with colleagues from across the country. The Learning and Skills Improvement Service (LSIS) Conference, delivered as part of the Prepared for Inspection offer from LSIS titled “A Whole Organisational Approach to Excellence – Exeter College's Journey” was held at the Rougemont Hotel in Exeter and attracted over 120 delegates from across the Further Education sector.

In March, Exeter College was the first college in the country to be tested in a 'no-notice' inspection process being piloted by Ofsted. The college was graded 'Outstanding' overall and was the first college to receive an outstanding grade for Teaching and Learning for two years. Keen to hear about the experience first-hand, delegates travelled from as far afield as Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Liverpool.

Exeter College Principal, Richard Atkins said: “The conference was an opportunity for us to share with other providers the improvements and investments we have made to ensure our students' teaching, learning and development is at the forefront of everything we do. We were able to highlight to others the impact that our Learner Voice, Tutorial programme and wide range of support services has on the learner experience and how our focus on ensuring each student is studying the right course for them, ensures that they reach their potential and get great results.”

After hearing about the inspection, delegates had the opportunity to attend workshops run by staff from Exeter College before putting their questions to a panel. Anne Duke, Quality Improvement Manager at Sussex Downs College in Eastbourne found the conference useful: “It's been a fantastic day and Exeter College have been very generous in sharing details of their approach for us to consider how we can adapt it for our own colleges. They are encouraging innovation and have given me some great practical ideas.”

Elaine Nicholls, Quality Improvement Manager at Liverpool Community College agreed: “It was so nice to have someone talking honestly and genuinely about their own experiences first hand. Exeter College have obviously worked really hard and deserved to get recognition for it. It was clear to me that they had a whole college approach and worked as a team and demonstrated to me that staff here feel valued and have an opportunity to participate in decisions.”

Debbie Farley, LSIS Regional Development Manager for the South West co-ordinated the event with John Laramy from Exeter College. She said: “This partnership event with Exeter College has been a huge success with attendees from across the FE and Skills sector; the messages are relevant to all providers, not just to colleges.

“Many colleagues travelled far to hear the key messages from Exeter and the key theme running throughout the day and which was mirrored in the evaluations from the event was the “journey to outstanding” and the need for a whole organisational approach to Excellence as modeled by Exeter College.

“LSIS has recently conducted an audit of its work and we found that one of the three areas that we are providing support is improving the quality of the sector, of which the conference at Exeter College is an example.”

Exeter College is holding a dedicated fair for adult learners in the region on Monday 25th June. For the first time the college will showcase all of the Higher Education courses it has to offer along with the wide variety of Adult Learning courses.

The event will take place at the Hele Road campus from 5pm – 8pm where visitors will be able to talk to tutors, find out more about study options and discover the huge range of courses that can be studied at the college or in community and school venues across the city from September. The new Adult Learning course guide for the Autumn will also be available.

Adults thinking of re-training, seeking a career change or looking to try something new will be able to get quality advice and guidance to choose the right course. Subjects on offer include counselling, teacher education and hairdressing as well as a range of leisure courses such as spinning (indoor cycling), cake decorating and silver jewellery making.

University-level courses will also feature, with courses accredited by the universities of Exeter, Plymouth, Kingston, and UCP Marjon. Advice and guidance will be available on how to apply, accommodation and finance and lecturers will be available to discuss each subject.

Rachel Iles, Head of Advice and Recruitment at the college says “There are literally hundreds of courses ranging from vocational to leisure and from basic numeracy and literacy courses, to GCSEs, Steps to A levels and NVQs and higher education qualifications.”

She continues, “Adults are asking us for courses that will help them retrain so that they can secure the career they’re keen on or that they want to get further qualifications so that they can get the promotion they want in their current job”.

Julie Skinner, Head of Higher Education at the college says “We're really excited to introduce Higher Education course advice and guidance to the event, it will be a great opportunity for people interested in a HE course to find out more. Higher Education at Exeter College is a really good option to study locally and affordably. We have expanded our range of courses, including a new BA in English and Creative Writing and have some spaces left for this September. Importantly, for those who feel they may have missed out on going to university, we will also be offering information on our Access to HE programmes which are a recognised entry route for those who don’t have the formal qualifications universities are looking for.”

For further information on the event telephone 0845 111 6000.

Click here to download a programme

PRESS RELEASE
Thursday May 24th 2012

Students from all over Devon anxiously awaited the opinions of their critics as they showcased their work at the Exeter College Annual Art and Design Shows at the college's Centre for Creative Industries in the centre of the city.

The initial public exhibition from 24th May – 31st May was the highlight of both the Foundation Diploma and Higher Education students' coursework and ranges from fine art, sculpture, graphics, textiles, photography and multi-media pieces.

The week long show at the Centre for Creative Industries was being celebrated with two private viewings for students, families, art directors and community and specialist organisations and employers representing the profile of the college within the local art community.

The students, who have studied the University of the Arts London one year Foundation Diploma, celebrated with a private viewing and Awards evening at the beginning of the public show that honoured particularly talented artists from this popular course.

Eleanor Tucker, 19 from Tiverton and originally from Maynard School was awarded the Student Award for her work on 3D material and is hoping to go on to study Fine Art at the University of Reading

Danielle Austin, 19 from Moretonhampstead and originally from South Dartmoor Community College won the award for Lens Media and would like to work in the magazine industry.

Josephine Loveless, 19 originally from Dawlish Community College was awarded the Student Award for Fashion/Textiles and wants to study fashion at university said “I've really enjoyed the course here and the amount I've learnt”

Kayleigh Walter, 19 from West Exe was awarded the Student Award for Graphic Design and is soon to heading to Hereford to do a Graphic and Multi Media course. I've really enjoyed the range of people that I've worked with on the course.”

Rory Farwell, 18 from Axminster who originally went to Woodroffe School in Dorset won Student Award for Fine Art and is heading to Falmouth to do a drawing course. Commenting on his exhibition he said “I've enjoyed experimenting with the depiction of the urban landscape and for my final piece I based it on the cliffs around where I live and built my own landscape from my walks.”

Sophie Slater 20 from Exmouth won a special award for her contribution to the exhibition publicity designing all the posters and materials that supported the event and particularly for her professional attitude and sense of humour. “I've really enjoyed the course,” she said “and particularly the support from my peers. I'm looking forward to going on to Plymouth College of Art to do Graphics.”

Anne Oxborough, Assistant Principal welcomed the visitors to the launch adding “This is one of my favourite nights of the year and I am honoured and privileged to be amongst these talented students who I know will be making it big time. The awards tonight recognised not only outstanding achievement in the form of assessments throughout the year but how the students have contributed to team work, to student life and their attendance and commitment. Whilst we have many talented students these particular award winners are being recognised for the added extra they have committed to their course.”

Nigel Watts, head of the faculty of art and design concluded “The quality of such a wide range of art and design speaks for itself this evening. The Foundation Art course is incredibly successful and goes from strength to strength. This exhibition also reflects the amazing support of the teaching staff and support technicians throughout the year – a truly celebratory event.”

Whilst the Foundation Diploma students were celebrating one year at the college, the rest of the Centre for Creative Industries provided the backdrop for the combined talents of three of the College's Foundation Degree courses – Fine Art, Photography and Digital Arts and Graphic Communications – a culmination of between two and three year's dedicated work. On public view for the week, the talents of the college's higher education artists was celebrated at a post-show viewing which also showcased the close partnership Exeter College has with the awarding body for these courses, Plymouth University, who are celebrating their 150th anniversary this year and supporting the Higher Education Art Shows.

At this show Eleanor Duckworth won the award for Fine Art and Sarah Lewis the prize of Photography and Graphic Communications student of the year presented by David Coslett Pro Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Plymouth University. David noted that “This exhibition shows people following passions with real intelligence and care, perhaps returning to the arts after another career. The quality of the work in this exhibition is delightful”

PRESS RELEASE
Monday 28th June, 2012

Exeter College student Sam Dunbavin is celebrating after bringing home a silver medal after taking part in the Sainsbury’s School Games at the London 2012 Olympic venues last week.

Sam, who was chosen to represent the South of England playing volleyball, had to go through a rigorous selection process. He has previously volunteered as an official at the last two School Games.

The 16 year-old from Barnstaple, who has missed out on Olympic tickets for the Games in the summer, said “it’s an added bonus for my Mum, Dad and myself to be able to experience a little bit of it. It was a fantastic game and I really, really enjoyed it. The whole experience was amazing; we received our medals and attended the closing ceremony. I’m really proud I’ve had the opportunity to play there and I feel very privileged.”

Sam and the team had the opportunity to play and watch other games in the Olympic park months ahead of the actual Olympic games. He described the opportunity as “an incredible experience” and said the park “just massive”.

The Sainsbury’s 2012 School Games were held in the Olympic Park and other venues from 6-9 May 2012 with school-aged elite athletes competing across 12 sports. Visit www.2012schoolgames.com for more information.

PRESS RELEASE
Monday 25th May, 2012

Staff at Okehampton Community Hospital have achieved the national Skills for Life qualification in adult numeracy in connection with Exeter College.

Classes were held at the hospital, once a week for 2 and half hours, allowing staff to be flexible and available if needed for patient care. The staff's success follows their recent achievements in adult literacy, also delivered by Exeter College, providing bespoke sessions to help the group achieve their national qualification.

Matron, Wendy Bellamy and Maggie Waltho, Locality Business Manager, supported the group throughout the course and are keen for staff of the Trust to have the opportunity to brush up on their numeracy and literacy skills.

Lynda Reynolds-Smith, Workforce Development Project Manager for the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust said “They gained so much confidence from their previous learning experience that they wanted to keep up the momentum and get additional qualifications”.

One of the staff taking the course said “the sense of 'feeling good about myself' was boosted by the results we all achieved”.

Adults interested in improving their English or Maths skills can find out more by clicking here.

Not one, but three Exeter College students drew the cheers of hundreds of well wishers as they carried the Olympic Torch during the second day of the 8,000 mile journey this week.

Beth South, 19 from Countess Wear, who is studying a Sports Coaching and Fitness Foundation Degree at the college took pride of place as the college's first torch bearer carrying the symbolic flame through West Charleton in South Devon on its second day in the UK. Beth was nominated for being an”outstanding role model” with comments such as “Nothing is too much trouble and her smile would melt a glacier” Born profoundly deaf, her nomination continues with” Beth's attitude is 'I'm deaf? So what?” Her tutor Jon Hill said “We were delighted that Beth was successful in being a torch bearer since she has amazing enthusiasm and energy for helping others and is a real inspiration. I'm not surprised her nomination won since she has used her Community Sports Leaders Award to coach children rugby, football, basketball and netball and is a member of the South West Snow Sport Association Squad and teaches and guides visually impaired students at the Adaptive Ski Club.”

Another of the college's sports stars, Garnet Mackinder, took over the torch relay as it entered its final legion on the second day, carrying the torch through the crowded outskirts of Exeter before being welcomed by a jubilant crowd of over 8,000 fans in the Cathedral Green. Garnet, 21 from St Thomas, is currently at Birmingham University studying Sports and attended Exeter College between 2007 and 2009 leaving with an impressive set of A level results as well as a string of accolades including Sports Student of the Year. She crowned her sporting achievements winning caps for England U20s and 7s Rugby. As her nominee mentioned “Garnet is inspiring others by going back to her old club and coaching and encouraging girls to play.” Garnet herself remarks “My dream is to compete in the 2016 Olympics for Great Britain in Rugby 7s and I feel that carrying the Olympic flame would be a great beginning to my journey.”

On its third day the torch was carried through Great Torrington by another of the Coaching and Fitness Foundation Degree student who wasn’t even phased when the torch went out!. David Follett, 21 originally from St Peters School in Exeter, was paralysed after an accident in 2008 but despite his injuries he completed his A levels and graduated last year from the college with his Foundation Degree. Driven to succeed, David is now the Parabadminton World No 1 in his class and with his playing partner is unbeaten for three years in the 4 Nations competitions. He is getting used to gaining accolades having been awarded Express and Echo's Disabled Sports Person of the Year this year.

“I am delighted that three of our students have been honoured in this way,” said Richard Atkins, Principal of Exeter College, “The Olympics are proving to be an experience of a lifetime for many people and we're very proud that Beth, David and Garnet played such an important part in the torch relay here in Devon.”

After an excellent season in the British Colleges South West Division 1, finishing second in the league and only losing one game to the Ivybridge who were the eventual winners. Exeter Colleges Women's Football Development Centre travelled to Tamworth to play Hereford 6th Form College in the BCS Plate Final.

Having beaten Neath Port Talbot, Truro, Richard Huish, Cornwall and East Norfolk 6th Form College 5 -1 in the semi final, the girls were full of confidence and looking forward to the two day trip for the final.

At kick off both sides looked nervous but the game got into a good flow in the early doors. Both teams started well with some good passing and good football. After 10 minutes Exeter looked to be gaining the upper hand with balls being spread wide to Hayley Worsley and Marike Ghiglia who were beating their opposite numbers for pace to make dangerous crosses, however the Hereford Goalkeeper was on top form and dominated her 6 yard box.

Herefords right winger was looked dangerous all game and another decisive break through the defence and then a cool finish passed Babel gave Hereford a 1 nil lead. A quick response was required and an accurate ball from Ghiglia to Sasha Watts was crucial. Watts took it round the goalkeeper with ease to finish and make the scores level. Exeter's 2nd, 5 minutes before half time, was again supplied by the in-form striker Watts, smashing the ball across the goal into the far corner.

After the half time break both teams came out reinvigorated, but after 10 minutes, a handball in the area resulted in a penalty to Exeter. Steph Beck stepped up and confidently converted passing passed the keeper to make it 3-1. Exeter began to sit off slightly and Herefords dangerous right wing latched onto a long ball and coolly passed into the corner to bring her side back into the game.

Despite this slight wobble Exeter started playing some neat football and Hereford began to tire. Watts made another break through the defence, aiming for her hat trick but her shot was parried by the keeper, only for her strike partner Abbie Harris to slot the ball home from 5 yards.

Exeter then took the game out of sight with goals Worsley and Jessie Boston to make the final score of 6-2. Player of the match was given to Emily Angus who has an assured game at centre back.

Coach Katy Sheffield said “The game was very exciting, with end to end football. Hereford were a good side. However we edged the game with fitness and played some brilliant football. The result sums up our season and I cannot express how proud I am of every player involved in the academy.”

Coach Chris Vinnicombe said “Just like to say how well deserved it was from the whole squad. Very proud of every single one for not just yesterday but the whole season. Well done girls.”

Robert McIlwraith, Chairman of Exeter Initiative for Science and Technology, thanked sponsors and supporters of the initiative. Since its inception last June the group has attracted support from Eagle One, Exeter College, the Met Office, Michelmores and South West Communications.

The Sponsors Reception, held at Michelmores Exeter office was a thank you to sponsors as well as those who have given their time and energy in order to build the initiative including Robin Jackson of the Innovation Centre, Paul Sheppard and Derek Phillips, Vice President of Exeter Chamber.

Since it began, ExIST has organised three high profile events, with presentations from companies and organisations working at the forefront of Science and Technology in the Exeter area, including the Met Office, Crowdcube, the RD&E, Flybe, Supacat and Exeter Science Park Company. More than 300 companies have attended these events to hear about these organisations operations and future plans.

Robert said, “Thanks to the invaluable help of our sponsors and supporters we have been able to celebrate the success of Exeter Science and Technology focussed businesses, helping them come together to share best practice, develop ideas and work collaboratively. I would also like to thank the Express and Echo and the Western Morning News who have helped us to reach a wider audience across the South West.”

Derek Phillips added, “It is essential to build on this great start to ensure Exeter achieves its rightful place as a leading destination for Science and Technology companies.”

The first group of Prince's Trust students are celebrating a brighter future after completing a nationally-recognised programme in Exmouth. Exeter College has opened a new dedicated centre on Exeter Road to deliver the 12-week Prince's Trust Team programme, which helps unemployed young people gain the skills and confidence to get into work or training.

The first cohort – Prince's Trust Team 1 – completed their course last week and took the opportunity to present their experiences to family and friends as well as Exeter College Principal, Richard Atkins, College Governors, Exmouth Lord Mayor Cllr Sandy Sutton and Head of Programmes at The Prince's Trust, Malcolm Cowper.

As part of the course, the students have taken part in a residential team building trip, work experience, mock interviews and a community project, providing them with the confidence and focus to apply for jobs or return to study. Student Robbie Boddy, 17, from Exmouth, has already secured a job in the town following his work experience placement. “The course has put me on a positive line, helped my confidence and gained me a job. I would recommend this course to anyone, it's just a shame it's over!”

The students were awarded their Prince's Trust certificates as part of the presentation when each student outlined their own reasons for joining the programme and what they had achieved. Sam Wellsman, 19, from Topsham, recommends the course to others: “The Exmouth Centre has changed my life, given me confidence and pushed me in the right direction and I've met a good group of friends whilst doing it.”

Malcolm Cowper, Head of Programmes at The Prince's Trust, attended the event to officially launch the Exeter College programme in Exmouth and praised the new opportunity for local young people: “The Exmouth Centre is a great venue with a good central location, providing opportunities for Exmouth people and providing a further base for The Prince's Trust – thank you to Exeter College!”

Also celebrating the students' achievements was Kate Lemaux, a Legal Adviser for the Ministry of Justice. Kate chose to work with The Prince's Trust to gain a greater understanding of opportunities available to support young people in the area. Describing her experience as “unique” she said “I would encourage anyone to take up the chance to work with The Prince's Trust. The value it adds to these young peoples' lives, and the steps towards making their future a more optimistic reality are such a huge benefit to them.”

Youth charity The Prince's Trust helps change young lives. It works with 13-to 30-year-olds who have struggled at school, have been in care, are long-term unemployed or have been in trouble with the law. Last year, more than three in four young people helped by The Prince's Trust moved into work, education or training. Those interested in joining The Prince's Trust course in Exmouth or Exeter can contact Exeter College on 0845 111 6000.

Music , Performing Arts, Hair and Beauty students had something to celebrate as their talents were on show for an audience of a lifetime when HRH Queen Elizabeth and the Duke Of Edinburgh had front row seats to watch them perform “Don't sit under the apple tree”, accompanied by a 1940's-inspired and costumed dance routine in the centre of Exeter.

The Queen was in Exeter as part of her Diamond Jubilee tour and stopped off at Princesshay to watch the students demonstrate their talents to a crowd of thousands enjoying the rare spring sunshine. The performance was particularly relevant as the piece was a hit during World War 2, when the Queen began her duties, and again in 1952 when she became Queen – so the college students ensured the costumes, make-up and hair were all authentic to ensure a sparkling performance.

The Princesshay Shopping Centre was transformed into a massive stage that saw the 30 strong Inspirational Choir and 26 strong Big Band entertain the waiting crowds before the Queen arrived at 11.30am to the Royal Marine Band playing God Save the Queen. As the Queen took her seat in the VIP stand – which also included the College's Principal, Richard Atkins, Assistant Principal, Anne Oxborough and Chair of Governors, Tim Stapleton the specialist dancers – all 17 of them took to the stage to support the lead vocalists – Fiona, Christie and Monty and the Big Band as they delivered a powerful reminder of a piece of history close to many in the crowd.

After such a rousing performance the crowd then fell silent as the music students took over the performance with Stamitz Trio in G Major which thrilled the audience as the Queen then met Exeter residents and saw a display of the history of Princesshay.

While the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh left the centre of Exeter to continue their visit to the University of Exeter, the Inspirational Choir rejoined the stage to ensure that the party atmosphere continued with a medlay of celebratory songs.

Judy Lye-Forster head of faculty commented “Each year the media and performing art students put on lively and challenging performances at the Barnfield as part of their final musical performance and this year we're focusing on preparing for Pippin. This didn't stop us however jumping at the invitation to perform in front of the Queen as part of her Jubilee celebrations – what a coup and our teams did brilliantly under such pressure. This was a real team effort since our hair and beauty students were up early this morning helping to prepare our performing arts groups to really look the part in front of the Queen and the crowds it's not just the musical and performing talents that were on show today. “

Click here to see photos from the event