Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in high demand in South West

Exeter College students have helped to contribute to the South West’s increasing demand for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, developing vital life skills along the way that will help them in their future careers.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) award is a youth programme which recognises young adults for completing a series of self-improvement exercises.

Those aged between 14-25 have the opportunity to work towards a bronze, silver or gold award. Participants complete a range of activities, from volunteering to fitness, developing practical skills and completing an expedition.

With 15,794 young people in the South West achieving their DofE award over the last 12 months, the demand in the region is well above the national average. 

Devon has seen a 25% increase in students who have achieved their DofE award over the last year. Furthermore, 18.5% of young people in the South West who have taken part have come from a disadvantaged background, showing how inclusive and invaluable this programme is to students.

Even during these unprecedented times, students in the South West have continued with their DofE programme. Many participants have taken part in fitness challenges and have supported vulnerable members of the community.

“We are incredibly proud of our students who are willing to remove themselves from their comfort zones to achieve these prestigious awards,”
Megan Snell, Deputy Head of Student Experience at Exeter College

Heather Thompson, South West Director for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said, “Despite the disruption and challenges the Coronavirus pandemic has brought, the flexibility of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award allows young people to continue their journey despite being required to stay at home. 

“This will have a positive effect on young people’s mental and physical wellbeing. It will also provide a positive focus, a sense of purpose and support to their local community in these unsettling times.”

There’s increasing popularity for DofE as an enrichment opportunity among Exeter College students, with 43 pupils in 2019-2020 starting either a silver or gold award.

Megan Snell, Deputy Head of Student Experience at Exeter College, said, “Exeter College recognises the value in broadening the personal skills sets of our learners and are committed to providing a diverse range of enrichment activities alongside their main programme of study.

“Our Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards in particular have proven to be a life changing experience for many or our learners. It provides them with the important soft skills employers and universities are looking for, as well as developing a greater understanding and respect of their community.

“We are incredibly proud of our students who are willing to remove themselves from their comfort zones to achieve these prestigious awards.”

Heather Thompson added, “I would like to thank Exeter College and their DofE team for doing all they can to ensure cohorts this year don’t miss out. 

“Even with the uncertainty of running expeditions, there is so much young people can gain from undertaking their volunteering, physical and skills sections.”

Following government advice, expeditions will not take place when originally planned. However, all participants will have the opportunity to complete their DofE award in the future. The programme will also be offered to new cohorts in the autumn.

Exeter College is preparing to enrol students to start in September 2020. Find out the latest plans for enrolment.

Exeter College Announced as EdTech Demonstrator College

The Department for Education has announced Exeter College will be a part of the EdTech Demonstrator Programme and will provide support for other education providers to deliver remote learning during the Coronavirus outbreak and beyond.

The EdTech Demonstrator Programme, which is backed by the Department for Education, The National Grid for Learning, The Education Foundation and Sheffield Hallam University, provides a platform for peer-to-peer support in education, and Exeter College will be one of a number of Demonstrator Colleges helping other institutions get the most out of online learning.

“We felt it important to use our expertise in online learning to try and help any schools or colleges who might not be using online learning to its full potential,”
Jenny Leach, Exeter College Assistant Principal

Exeter College has long been an advocate of advancing digital learning opportunities, and is one of just a handful of colleges in the country to be a ‘Microsoft Showcase College’, which recognises the College’s commitment to engage in innovative online teaching and learning for staff and students.

Since the Government lockdown of schools and colleges in response to the Coronavirus outbreak, the majority of Exeter College students have been receiving their education online, either through interactive online seminars, recorded lectures or via College email addresses.

It’s hoped that the College’s involvement in the EdTech Demonstrator Programme will help share this expertise with other providers who may feel like they’re not making the most out of digital learning opportunities.

Exeter College Assistant Principal Jenny Leach, who led the College’s offer of help on the Programme, said, “We wanted to get involved in this scheme to help other schools and colleges, in any way we can, deliver the best possible online learning experience for their students.

“At present, there are a few different ways learning could take place for students in the next academic year, and we felt it important to use our expertise in online learning to try and help any schools or colleges who might not be using online learning to its full potential.”

The EdTech Demonstrator Programme will run until 31^st March 2021 and Exeter College will be one of the institutions tasked with providing advice, guidance and support to other schools and colleges. This could be in the form of helping to upskill teaching staff, introducing best practice for digital tools and technical support on the behind-the-scenes working of learning online.

Jenny said, “The Programme is in response to some of the challenges schools have faced during the Coronavirus lockdown, but this will also be an opportunity to make a lasting impact on how education works for a lot of schools.

“The aim is obviously to help schools through the current uncertain period, but online learning can be used to enhance teaching, learning and assessment beyond this, and that’s one of the secondary aims of the Programme. We want this to have a lasting impact with schools and help enhance the learning environment of their learners for many years to come.”

Support will be given by Demonstrator schools and colleges in the form of Continuous Professional Development opportunities for staff, as well as providing one-to-one and group support for those who want to improve their online education practices. Time has also been allocated specifically for how schools can engage pupils with special educational needs or disabilities in online learning, so the content is accessible to all.

If your school needs support from EdTech Demonstrators, please flag your interest on the EdTech website or visit the London Grid For Learning website.

Find out more about Exeter College’s status as a Microsoft Showcase College.

My Apprentice Journey – Emily Stutt

Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship

My journey as an Apprentice began on 9th August 2018 when, after just three days in my new Business Support Administrator role with Devon Partnership NHS Trust, my induction was completed. Prior to this Apprenticeship, I had no business admin experience, however, I had actually had a fairly successful career as an Assistant Manager in retail and hospitality. I had never completed an Apprenticeship before, and most Apprentices I had encountered were a good five years younger than me. All of these factors left me understandably apprehensive and nervous – but also excited to start something completely new.

I started my Apprentice journey with a different provider – not Exeter College. However, in May 2019, half way through my programme, my provider announced they wouldn’t be keeping us on to complete the Apprenticeship and I would be automatically transferred to another provider. My employer stepped in and stopped the automatic transfer and enrolled me with Exeter College. This all happened really suddenly and left me feeling very confused. Before all of this happened, I was on track to enter gateway in September 2019, and due to the number of Apprentices being transferred, and the summer holidays coming up, this was now looking to be very unlikely.

I felt really frustrated – it was the lowest point of my Apprenticeship journey. I will admit, at this point, I was close to giving up, but then decided that I had put too much time and effort into it to give up now. So instead, I kept my head down, kept building my off-the-job hours, kept revising and completing as much work as possible. In September 2019, I was then re-enrolled formally onto the Apprenticeship by Exeter College.

It appeared after meeting with my assessor, that my hard work had paid off, as I was informed that I wasn’t far off gateway and we could still aim for my original completion date. My assessor also gave me the option to complete the Business Administration Level 3 Diploma alongside the Apprenticeship qualification, which hadn’t previously been offered to me. I was assured that a lot of the work I had already completed would contribute to this, so, seeing this as good revision, I decided to complete the Diploma as well.

“From the very beginning, it felt as though I was amongst friends, which became a fact very quickly,”
– Emily Stutt, Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice

By the end of November 2019, I had finally managed to trigger gateway. This in itself was a massive weight off of my shoulders as I finally felt as though I was moving forward. During this time I passed my Diploma exams and enjoyed a peaceful Christmas before kicking things into high gear!

We booked my End Point Assessment for February and March 2020 – starting off with a knowledge test, a portfolio interview, followed by a project presentation. I had prepped and prepared as much as I could, revising my evidence and practising my presentation. And, despite a few hiccups, I felt it went well, it was at the very least finished, and I could now let go of the breath I had been holding for the last few hours. If I were to offer any advice to Apprentices taking these exams, it would be to trust your gut instinct and don’t overthink the question, but definitely go through your answers a couple of times (if you have time) just to make sure!

I found that a lot of the Apprenticeship, particularly my time with the original provider, was aimed more towards the private sector rather than the public, and I had a hard time trying to apply what we had learned to my job role. This resulted in a lot of independent study (which was great for off-the-job learning), to ensure that I had an understanding of the topic and could complete the tasks set for me.

A great part of the Apprenticeship was the off-the-job learning, which is self-study that you record and document for assessment. It allowed me to see and experience areas of Devon Partnership NHS Trust that I otherwise would never have seen and to network within the organisation, helping other teams understand what my role and department were about. I had immense support from my team, particularly my line manager, to ensure that I not only fulfilled the off-the-job requirement but that the time spent on this was interesting, valuable and would help me in my role as well as my Apprenticeship. To all other Apprentices out there, please utilise the off-the-job training as best you can! It’s a really good opportunity to experience some amazing things.

Another amazing part of the Apprenticeship were my cohorts. From the very beginning, it felt as though I was amongst friends, which became a fact very quickly. Everyone was extremely supportive of each other. We had created a WhatsApp group so that between our sessions with our provider, we could still support each other. When I changed providers, I was ultimately split up from my original cohort but we still keep in touch.

Overall, my Apprenticeship journey was pretty much a rollercoaster. Very up and down with a few loop-de-loos for good measure! And if I’m wholeheartedly honest, I wouldn’t have changed a single second of it. It’s allowed me to grow as a person, it’s proven to me that I have the ability to self-study (something I really struggled with when I was in full time education), it allowed me to have such amazing and interesting experiences through off-the-job training. But most of all, this Apprenticeship has shown me how resilient and determined I am. There were so many points I could have given up, and I kept on going because I didn’t want my hard work to go to waste.

So, for all other Apprentices out there, I promise you it’s worth it.

And for anyone who may be wondering…

I got a pass in both my Diploma exams and a distinction in my EPA Knowledge Test, Portfolio Interview and EPA Project Presentation. Overall my grade for the Apprenticeship Standard was Distinction!

5 REASONS TO ATTEND EXETER COLLEGE’S ADULT ONLINE OPEN EVENT

Are you an adult looking to further your education or learn a new skill? Exeter College is here for you. We’re inviting you to our Adult Online Open Event, Tuesday 16^th June 2020, 3pm-7pm, where we’ll help you to find your future.

This event is directed towards any adult (19+) who is interested in studying a course with Exeter College. Perhaps you’re hoping to move forward with your career aspirations, retrain in a new profession or just improve your skills. We have something for everyone.

Our Adult Online Open Event is the best and easiest way to find out what Exeter College can offer you…

FIND OUT ABOUT COURSES

Exeter College is bursting with opportunities for adult learners.

We offer a range of course types and subjects, from GCSE English and Maths, professional and leisure courses, university level study and Apprenticeships. We know all learners are different, and that’s why we cater for all levels of learning.

Our Adult Online Open Event is the perfect place to find out which course could help you to unlock your future, and you can do this all from the comfort of your own home, via your phone or laptop.

HEAR FROM SUBJECT LECTURERS

We want you to get the best start to your time at Exeter College, and that’s why we’ve arranged for you to be able to hear from subject lecturers during an interactive seminar.

Each lecturer will break down their courses for you, so you know what to expect when you start. From course content, timetabling and typical exam results, our lecturers are here to guide you.

ASK LIVE QUESTIONS

Each session will give you the opportunity to ask any questions you might have.

After each interactive seminar, subject leaders will respond to your queries. Simply type them in using the question box and get your reply.

We recommend having a pen and paper handy during the seminar, so you can note down your questions as you think of them.

HEAR FROM ADULT ADVISERS

We know that for a lot of our adult learners, the thought of going back into education can be daunting. To help you achieve your full potential, Exeter College’s adult advisers are here to support you.

Hear about the outstanding adult learning environment at Exeter College and our personalised approach to teaching and learning.

We make sure you’ll gain the skills to take you to the next level in a supportive and engaging environment.

LEARN ABOUT FINANCIAL SUPPORT

Often, adult learners feel there are barriers to returning to education, but we want you to know that we’re here to support you.

Our Adult Online Open Event will allow you to learn more about the financial support available to students.

Our advisors will guide you through how to finance courses through funding or other means, and the bursaries the college offers and how to access them.

If you would like to join us at our Adult Online Open Event, you can register your interest here.

You can view our range of adult courses on our website, or you can request a course guide to be sent to your home. For any additional information, please email our adult advisers on adultadvice@exe-coll.ac.uk.

To apply for an adult course, please visit our application page. For help with your application, please email info@exe-coll.ac.uk. For adults interested in studying a university level course at Exeter College, you can apply via the online UCAS application system.

Exeter College Runners Up in Coveted National Award for Employer Engagement

Exeter College has been recognised with a top four shortlisting for the Association of College’s award for Employer Engagement.

The Association of Colleges (AoC) celebrated top further education across the UK at its virtual Beacon Awards ceremony, and the College’s commitment to proactively working with employers for the mutual benefit of all saw them shortlisted for the coveted prize in Employer Engagement.

The Beacon Awards are regarded by many as the most prestigious awards within the education sector, given the rigour and robustness of the assessment.

Mike Blakeley, Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, said, “We are proud to be one of the four FE colleges shortlisted, in a really strong field made up of Fareham College, Bradford College and Hugh Baird College. Reaching the finals alone was a great achievement, and Fareham College, who won our category, were thoroughly deserving of the accolade.

“Today’s final was one of five we have been shortlisted for this year. Our amazing team provide exceptional support for all our stakeholders. It’s unprecedented to gain national recognition at this level. I want to thank them for their hard work and can-do attitude. They make me really proud and I appreciate each and every one of them.”

The College was judged on its submission titled ‘A City College with Region Wide Impact’, and a showcase day, with ‘partnership’ at its heart. Reaching the finals is a testament to the College’s commitment to working with employers and Apprentices to achieve the best possible outcomes for the local economy and learners.

John Laramy, Principal of Exeter College, said, “We pride ourselves on our partnership working within the city and wider region, and reaching the finals of the Beacon Awards is another national indicator of the quality of the impact of the College’s work with employers.

“Our success is down to the hard work of the team here at the College, the quality of the Apprentices and trainees that study with us and the commitment of 100s of employers across the South West. I would simply like to thank everyone who contributes to the magical formula that has created exceptional Apprenticeship provision at Exeter College.”

Mike Blakeley continued, “It’s great news that the College’s work with employers has been recognised nationally. We are proud to be part of the community we serve, and we have developed longstanding partnerships that are vital in delivering skills development and driving economic growth for the city and wider region.

“The College works with a network of over 1,000 organisations, with a reach that transcends regional borders – from Truro through to Reading. These include both national and regional players drawn from high profile organisations, as well as small and medium-sized enterprises and businesses. Some of our key partners include, Exeter Chamber of Commerce, NHS, GWR, Hepcomotion, Centrax, Devon County Council, University of Exeter, Exeter Chiefs, Met Office – I could go on.

Find out more about Apprenticeships with Exeter College.

If you’re an adult learning interested in an Apprenticeship, r egister now for our Adult Online Open Event where you can find out more in a specialist session dedicated to Apprenticeships. The online event takes place on Tuesday, 16^th June, 3-7pm.

May 2004: City pensioner student proves it’s never too late to learn. 

As part of Exeter College celebrating 50 years as the UK’s first ever tertiary college, we are looking back on some memorable events which have helped us to become the Ofsted Outstanding education provider we are today.

THEN…

In May 2004, we celebrated the achievements of Exeter pensioner Helen who, by completing two A Levels at Exeter College, became a shining example of what many adult learners could achieve.

Helen did so well in her studies she was nominated for the Senior Learner of the Year award by the National Institute of Adult Education.

Completing her A Level in English Literature and an AS Level Maths in just one year, she continued her studies with a Maths A2 course.

Helen said at the time: “I retired, but I decided that I didn’t want to watch daytime television, so I looked for alternatives.

“I went for Maths and English because the subjects had changed so much since I was at school in the 1960s. I have enjoyed every minute of it.

“It surprised me to be nominated for this award,” Helen added.

Helen also admitted that she had also influenced other people to follow her lead, persuading friends and acquaintances to apply for courses and further their education like herself.  

NOW…

To this day, Exeter College offers a broad spectrum of courses available to adults, from entry level to degree level, from leisure courses to professional courses. We pride ourselves on giving our adult learners a personalised approach to teaching in a supportive and engaging environment.

The Teaching Excellence Framework has awarded our university level teaching ‘Gold’, so our students know that they’ll receive exceptional teaching and gain the skills needed to take them to the next level.

If you’re interested in completing an adult course, like Helen, find out more at our Adult Online Open Event on Tuesday the 16th of June, 3pm – 7pm. 

We can help you to find the right course for your future. At our open event, you’ll have the opportunity to hear from lecturers, ask live questions to teachers and learn about the support and guidance offered at Exeter College. 

You can register your interest in our Adult Open Event today. 

Read about the other ways Exeter College has supported the community during these unprecedented times. 

Check out everything we’ve done to celebrate 50 years since being named as the UK’s first ever tertiary college.  

Exeter College is celebrating 50 years since being named as the UK’s first tertiary college. Although our roots date back to the 1800s, our status as a tertiary college marked a revolution in further education and 2020 marks our 50 years of excellence since that landmark. If you have a memory of Exeter College through the years that you’d like to share, contact marketing@exe-coll.ac.uk or get involved on social media using #ExeColl50.

All you need to know about Exeter College’s Adult Online Open Event

The Adult Online Open Event is taking place today (16th June, 3-7pm). To view live interactive seminars, either check your emails or visit our Open Event page with the latest links to access the sessions.

What is it?

The Exeter College Adult Online Open Event will provide adults (19+) with everything they need to know about studying with Ofsted Outstanding Exeter College.

When is it?

The Adult Online Open Event will take place live via Microsoft Teams (no installation required) on Tuesday 16^th June, 2020, 3-7pm.

Who can attend?

The event is aimed at any adult who is interested in studying a course with Exeter College, whether that’s GCSEs, a Professional course, University level study or an Apprenticeship.

If you know exactly which course you want to do or you’re just browsing your options, you can get the information you need with the Adult Online Open Event.

How will it work?

Simply register your interest and we’ll send you an email confirming your place to attend the online sessions. In the run up to the event, you’ll receive an email with links to give you access the interactive seminars.

Then, attend your session at the posted time and ask questions via the live chat to get your questions answered by our adult learning experts.

What will I find out?

You will find out about the range of courses offered for adults at Exeter College. You’ll discover which courses can unlock that next step in achieving your career aims and learn about how Exeter College has helped thousands of adults to achieve their education goals.

If you’re not sure on which course is right for you or you know exactly what you want to do, Exeter College has a course for you. We offer a range of courses from entry-level to university level study.

Information will also be available on financial support available for adult learners, including government-funded support for many adults who may not have thought they were eligible.

Why Exeter College?

We’ve been training adults to achieve their professional goals for nearly 50 years, so we know what we’re doing.

Our adult courses provide a strong focus towards direct application to industry or further study and help adults upskill or change careers in a way they might not have thought possible.

Whether it’s an Access to Higher Education course, GCSEs, Degree Level studies or one of our Professional courses, we will provide you with the tools to take that next step in your career.

Our university level provision is rated by the Teaching Excellence Framework as ‘Gold’, the highest classification in the scheme. Our commitment to smaller class sizes and tailored learning ensures our students can confidently progress in their careers, safe in the knowledge that they have the skills to thrive.

Register Now

Register now for the Adult Online Open Event on Tuesday, 16^th June, 3-7pm and we’ll send you details in the run up to the event with the links and timings to access the sessions.

If you can’t attend all the sessions you want to, don’t worry. Recordings of all the seminars will be available online after the event.

Find out more about Adult Learning with Exeter College.

Teacher reflects on remote education

Although the Exeter College sites are closed to the majority of learners, exceptional learning continues remotely for our students.

Thanks to our innovative teaching staff, hard working students and college-wide adoption of digital learning technologies, students are being supported with interactive study sessions as home, as well as independent activities to continue their education.

We decided to catch up with Rob Casey, Programme Leader for English Languages and International Baccalaureate, to see how our teaching staff have found the transition to digitally educating. Here’s what he had to say…

There’s an old proverb I rather like, which states that ‘necessity is the mother of invention’. In other words, nothing drives creativity quite as much as need. This is certainly something I identify with.

As a creative writer, the one thing that guarantees I’ll produce something new and to a professional standard is when I’m given a deadline, such as for publications or an upcoming gig.

Teaching is no different, with its timetable and the rhythms of the academic year. And as anyone in the profession will be able to tell you, the best laid lesson plans are often dashed by forces beyond our control. Whether it’s a fire alarm, a power-cut, internet problems, snow, or, in the current situation, a major global pandemic, the main skill required in teaching is adaptability. The lessons must go on wherever possible, and often in completely different ways.

The aim now, therefore, is to continue to provide high quality learning opportunities but without the one thing that has always seemed most central to the experience: a classroom, designed for face-to-face interaction.

It would be easy to take a defeatist approach and accept that remote learning could never replace the ‘live’ experience of a buzzing lesson, with quick questions, group work, and the ability to pick up on students’ non-verbal cues that perhaps my jokes aren’t as funny as I imagine them in my head. But just as certain things are lost amongst this change, many others are gained.

I ended one week dashing between classrooms with my different folders and a pocketful of pens, then started the next Monday morning juggling between online platforms (Moodle, Microsoft Teams, email, Zoom, Skype) whilst sitting in my study with a monitor full of USB sticks.

We have had lots of training to help us adapt to online learning but there’s nothing quite as motivating to embrace new technology as to suddenly find it’s the only way to carry on. So even when I get back in the classroom, I will seek to maintain many of the benefits that have come from this experience.

Remote learning inevitably puts more emphasis on the student, as it becomes more about what they do than what we tell them. It’s an opportunity to promote independence, to take a more differentiated approach and to provide much more targeted support. Freed from having to sit and listen to my witty anecdotes for half the lesson, the class can get on with what they do best: not just learning but also learning how to learn.

Yes, it is a struggle, and there are many who lack the resources to suddenly change their way of working, and they will need even more support when classroom learning resumes. But I am also confident that lockdown learning will equip a generation to better manage the realities of the workplace, and certainly university level study, building their resilience and ability to deal with different circumstances and to problem solve when faced with uncertainty.

I welcome a return to the classroom when it comes. It’s where I belong and where the students learn best. However, remote teaching and learning has been a lesson for me too. There is always a place for technology in education and lockdown life has helped to put a new perspective on all aspects of society, as well as education. And the way I teach from now on will be different as a result. Through necessity I have had to invent new styles and approaches, embracing new platforms and enabling new ways of supporting learners.

Change can be a challenge, but also an opportunity. And often the best opportunities are not those we intended.

If you would like to share how your remote learning is going, email us on marketing@exe-coll.ac.uk, or tag us in your posts using #ExeCollTogether.

Want to join Ofsted Outstanding Exeter College in September 2020? Apply online now to secure your place.

Exeter College Finalists in AoC Virtual Beacon Award Ceremony

Exeter College are finalists in the prestigious Association of Colleges (AOC) Beacon Awards, in the City & Guilds Engagement with Employers category. The awards, now in their 25th year, will be delivered virtually for the very first time, with an online award ceremony on Thursday 4 June.

The event will celebrate finalists and winners from seven categories that collectively highlight and celebrate the best and most innovative practice amongst UK further education (FE) colleges nationwide.

Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, Mike Blakeley, says, “With partnerships and collaborative working at the heart of all that we do as a college, the team are particularly excited to participate in the finals for the Employer Engagement category.

“In February 2020 Exeter celebrated becoming the City of Apprenticeships, having shown exceptional growth in Apprenticeship starts compared to other cities in the UK. Even in these unprecedented times, our employer partners in the region have once again stepped up to the mark and are working in partnership with the College to support their Apprentice employees.

“Difficult circumstances have highlighted the strength of our employer network, and we have been working closer than ever to offer new opportunities and development through training. We have just announced the launch of a new academy for future skills with partners Devon County Council, which is testament to the City’s forward-thinking. The project will enable us to train the next generation, as well as individuals affected by the economic impact of Covid-19, for high-tech jobs in engineering, digital, construction and clean growth.

“Not only this, but we have been working with the community over the past few months, supporting our local NHS front line. This has included initiatives with businesses across the region to make vital PPE, providing kitchen space so meals can be made and delivered to key workers, as well as opening accommodation for NHS staff.”

The Employer Engagement award, supported by City and Guild, recognises exemplary practice in demonstrating an outstanding ability to work with and provide a direct service to employers – in particular, colleges that are effective in meeting employers’ skills needs and/or apprenticeship requirements.

To evidence its exemplary practice, Exeter College has undergone a rigorous judging process. This has included not one, but two written submissions, as well as a visit from an assessor who attended a showcase day with roundtable discussions, visits to Flybe and Exeter Chiefs, plus employer interviews.

David Hughes, Chief Executive of the Association of Colleges says, “Colleges often don’t get the recognition they deserve, the AoC Beacon Awards aim to showcase exactly why colleges are so important and reward their dedication to learners and their progress in the workforce. Colleges produce the workers of the future and it’s clear from those who have made it through to the final three that their contribution to local and regional economic development must be valued.”

To join in the celebrations and find out who the winners are, follow the AoC twitter feed on the day.

Applications are open to study with Exeter College in September 2020.

If you’re an employer or a young person considering getting involved in Apprenticeships, contact our team on Apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk or 01392 400800 to discuss your options.

News round up: Exeter College supporting the community during the lockdown

Over the last few months, we, as a college, community, and a nation, have experienced a lot of firsts. We’re proud to have stepped up to help, supporting people through these difficult times. Here’s our round up of the most popular stories on our website since the lockdown began. 

WE MOVED TO HOME AND ONLINE LEARNING 

Following the advice from Public Health England, the Government and the NHS, Exeter College sites closed for the majority of learners.

Although the Exeter College site closed, learning never stopped. Thanks to our expert staff, students’ exceptional education continued remotely. 

In a bid to offer further support, we provided our top tips on how to study at home, a guide on how to set up work and learning areas and our Health and wellbeing expert shared his advice on how to look after yourself during the lockdown. 

Find out more about our move to remote learning.

WE OFFERED ACCOMMODATION TO NHS WORKERS

Exeter College has opened the doors of its Clock Tower accommodation to NHS workers in need of a place to stay during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis.  

“Staff at Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital are working incredibly hard to save lives on the front line. As a community organisation, we felt it’s only right that we offer everything we can to help them and the NHS,”
– Kristyn Woodward, Exeter College Director of Student Experience.

Find out more.  

**WE LAUNCHED FLYING START FOR STUDENTS JOINING US IN SEPTEMBER**

We knew lots of students were keen to get a head start on their College subjects before joining us. So, we developed Flying Start; our suite of pre-enrolment learning content, getting students to think about their new subjects with us. 

“Flying Start provides some small introductory pieces of work, as well as some suggested background reading on subjects,”
– Jade Otty, Exeter College Vice Principal.

Access our Flying Start pre-enrolment work. 

Find out more about Flying Start. 

WE JOINED FORCES WITH PPE4EXETER

In Partnership with PPE4Exeter, a grassroots community project, Exeter College supported the production and distribution of Personal Protective Equipment for community-bases health and care workers.

We have helped PPE4Exeter provide local centres with safety glasses, face masks, gloves and face shields.

Find out more about our partnership with PPE4Exeter. 

WE LINKED UP WITH FOOD4HEROES TO PROVIDE MEALS TO NHS STAFF

We offered our state-of-the-art industrial kitchen facilities to Food4Heroes; a charity that provides free nutritious meals to frontline NHS staff during the Coronavirus pandemic.  

Exeter College’s @34 training kitchens are now in use, providing 200 nutritionally balanced, free meals to NHS staff at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital daily. 

Find out more. 

WE CAUGHT UP WITH OUR STUDENTS

We shared how our students were getting on with their remote learning.

“Despite all the uncertainty with the current situation, the transition to home learning has been smooth. It has been good to have some continuity and a reason to force some structure into what could be empty days,”
– Tom Matthew, FE Student Governor.

We also got in touch with Madeline Crow, an Exeter College student who ended her studies early to join the NHS front line staff in the fight against coronavirus.

Find out more about how our students have found remote learning.

WE MOVED OUR OPEN EVENTS ONLINE

We wanted to offer people the chance to discover everything our Ofsted Outstanding further education provider has to offer, from the comfort of their own home.

With our Apprenticeship Online Open Event and our Online Showcase being a success, we will soon be rolling out our Adult Online Open Event for anyone who wants to learn a new skill or further their career.

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