Exeter College chosen as national exemplar of excellence in Teaching and Learning
Exeter College has been selected as one of just six founding institutions in the prestigious Evidence Partnership, a new national initiative launched by the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF).
This recognition places Exeter College among the very best in the country, hand-picked following a rigorous and highly competitive selection process. The College impressed with its outstanding track record, demonstrating sector-leading Teaching and Learning practice through detailed interviews and evidence of impact.
Exeter College will play a pivotal role in shaping how Teaching and Learning evolves across the South West, collaborating with peers to drive up standards and share innovation.
The EEF’s Evidence Partnership marks its first formal collaboration with the FE sector. Designed to help colleges across England access, understand, and apply research evidence, the initiative aims to strengthen the use of proven approaches in classrooms nationwide. The focus will be on ensuring every learner, particularly those facing disadvantage, benefits from world-class, evidence-informed teaching.
James Wilson, Head of Teaching and Learning at Exeter College, said: “We are incredibly proud to be recognised by the EEF as one of the nation’s leading colleges in Teaching and Learning. This partnership not only provides our staff with exciting opportunities for continued professional development, but also allows us to share the very best of our practice with colleagues across the South West and beyond. Most importantly, it will further strengthen the support we provide for learners from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive.”
Through the Evidence Partnership, Exeter College and the other founding institutions will:
Build strong regional networks with 16–19 providers to increase collaboration and innovation
Share and communicate evidence-informed resources and approaches across the country
Translate cutting-edge research into practical, real-world examples that transform classroom practice
Emily Yeomans, co-CEO of the EEF, said
“There is clear appetite across the sector for stronger evidence that speaks directly to the challenges colleges face, enabling them to use their resources more effectively and better support their learners. By building a collaborative partnership, where members can share practice and embed evidence use, we aim to help reduce the entrenched inequalities that many young people still experience across the country.
“We are delighted to be working with Exeter College and our other partner colleges to launch this new evidence partnership.”
This milestone cements Exeter College’s reputation as a national leader in education, showcasing the exceptional standards and innovation that continue to make it one of the UK’s most respected colleges
To find out more about the Evidence Partnership, visit the EEF’s 16–19 hub. You can also stay up to date with the work of the Partnership and be the first to hear about opportunities to collaborate with an Evidence Partner College by signing up to the EEF’s dedicated 16–19 newsletter.
Alternatively, please contact Exeter College’s Teaching and Learning team at TandL@exe-coll.ac.uk.
Exeter College Welcomes New Chair of Governors, Professor Adam Watt
Exeter College is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Adam Watt, as the College’s new Chair of the Corporation which commenced on 1 August 2025. This change follows Bindu Arjoon’s completion of her maximum extended tenure, marking the end of twelve years of dedicated service on the Board of Governors since her appointment in 2013.
Ms Arjoon, Chief Executive of Exeter City Council, is a long-standing member of the Board, having served for twelve years. She has previously held the position of Vice Chair of the Board and Chair of the Quality and Standards Committee.
Professor Watt brings a wealth of academic leadership experience to the role, currently serving as Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor for the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences at the University of Exeter. A distinguished scholar in French and Comparative Literature, he has held senior roles including Head of Modern Languages and Cultures and Associate Dean for Research and Impact. His commitment to cultural enrichment is reflected in his work with the Exeter UNESCO City of Literature and the University Arts & Culture Board. Professor Watt’s deep ties to the region and passion for education make him an inspiring choice to help guide Exeter College into its next chapter.
John Laramy CBE, Exeter College’s Principal and Chief Executive said:
“We are delighted to welcome Adam Watt as Chair of the Corporation to our Board. I look forward to working with him during what is sure to be an interesting period for colleges, and for Exeter College specifically as we consult about a potential merger with Petroc. As a college, we are fortunate to have a committed and talented Board of Governors who, as volunteers, give freely of their time, talent and expertise to help shape and sustain the educational character of the College.
“I would also like to express gratitude and thanks for our outgoing Chair, Bindu Arjoon, who alongside Vice Chair Patrick Tigwell oversaw a stunning period of growth and development for Exeter College, including an Ofsted inspection which saw us become the first college to sustain its Outstanding status in that cycle. Bindu achieved all of this while managing a very busy day job – a huge thank you from all of us!”
Professor Adam Watt, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Faculty of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences, said:
“Exeter College has achieved national recognition for the outstanding quality of its education and for the way that it meets the skills needs of the region. It is high-performing, inspiring and inclusive. So, I am honoured to be appointed Chair of the Board of Governors, and I am delighted to be able to work with the Board and with John and his Leadership Team as we take the College forward to new success and opportunities.
“As a leader at the University, I particularly look forward to working with the College further to strengthen the region’s education and skills ecosystem and its contribution to key sectors.”
Exeter College Celebrates Exceptional Results and National Recognition in Landmark Week
Exeter College is celebrating another exceptional year of success, with outstanding results across its A Levels, T Levels, and vocational programmes. The College continues to set the bar for academic excellence with an A level pass rate of 99.52%, well above the national average of 97.4%. Among the many highlights, an impressive 23 A Level subjects achieved a flawless 100% pass rate.
Today’s exam success marks a double triumph for the College, as it was selected as one of only ten Construction Technical Excellence Colleges in the country earlier this week, making it one of the most memorable weeks in its history.
Students celebrating their success on Results Day 2025.
John Laramy CBE, CEO and Principal, said:
“Today is always a special day, but this year students have achieved stellar results across the board, breaking records and setting a new bar for next year’s results. I would like to congratulate the class of 2025 and wish them well in their future endeavours, whether that is another year at college, progression to university or starting a career or an apprenticeship.
“Todays success is not luck, we have amazing students, who work with talented staff, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to these results. Our vision is to be a ‘exceptional college’ and this year our students have helped us on that journey.”
High grades were a particular success. 59% of A Levels were awarded at the highest A*, A or B grades, well above the national average of 55%. A staggering 86% of Exeter College A Levels were awarded at A*-C grades, significantly above the national average of 78%.
Florence Skinner studied Geography, Chemistry and Biology and is studying Chemistry at Birmingham Uni. Pictured here with her mum.
Exeter College’s broad and inclusive A Level curriculum once again delivered exceptional achievements across the range of subjects . Fine Art students excelled, with almost half achieving an A or A* and over a quarter securing the very highest A* grade. Film Studies impressed with nearly four in five students attaining high grades, while Philosophy reached 80% high grades. In the sciences, Chemistry saw more than two-thirds of students achieve high grades, with over a third gaining an A or A*. Mathematics, the College’s largest A Level subject, secured over two-thirds high grades, and in Further Maths almost half achieved an A or A*. Economics and Law both performed strongly, each with over 70% high grades and around a third at A or A*. Languages also shone, with German achieving 78% high grades and over a third at A or A*.
Jade Otty, Deputy CEO, said:
“Congratulations to all learners receiving results today. We are so proud of you all! Thank you to our amazing teaching and support staff at Exeter College who have gone above and beyond to help our learners to thrive and succeed.”
The College’s outstanding educational approach, which includes a rigorous externally set and marked AS exam in the first year, has played a significant role in these outstanding outcomes. AS results saw an impressive 43% of learners awarded the highest grades (A and B), and were an impressive 6% ahead of the national average pass rate.
Honey Forty studied A Levels in Geography, English Language and French, pictured here celebrating with her family.
Honey Forty (pictured above) from Exeter is one such A Level student who is celebrating today. Studying Geography, English Language, French and taking an EPQ, Honey achieved 3 A*s and an A. She is now heading to the University of Exeter to study English, Media and Communications with the hope of pursuing journalism. While celebrating today, she said;
“I beat my University of Cambridge offer today, which I’m really chuffed about, but I decided to turn it down, because I would rather study my chosen degree at the University of Exeter.
“I ultimately decided to come to Exeter College because I thought it would give me more independence and prepare me for university, and that’s 100% been the case. The College has been nothing but completely supportive. My tutor, my teachers, not a bad word to say. It’s been amazing.”
Adam Daly from Dartington studied Maths, Further Maths and Physics A Levels.
Adam Daly (pictured above) from Dartington studied Maths, Further Maths and Physics A Levels and achieved an A* in all three subjects. His love of Maths will now take him to the University of Manchester to take the subject further.
“Both of my Maths teachers were incredible. I couldn’t have hoped for any better. I feel very well prepared for university, especially through tutorial, we were given lots of support about steps beyond college.”
Students completing technical and applied Advanced Level programmes have also achieved outstanding results, with a 99.3% pass rate for two year Extended Diplomas (the equivalent of taking three A Levels). Applied Science saw 71% of students achieve high grades (Distinction* or Distinction). 76.8% of Health and Social Care learners gained high grades and a record 98% of Sport and Exercise Science learners secured the highest grades.
Some stand out T Level successes were T Level Accountancy, with 100% of learners achieving a Merit grade or higher, T Level Education and Early Years which saw a 100% pass rate and 97% of students achieving a Merit grade or higher. T Level Health also saw a 100% pass rate.
T Level students celebrating their success on Results Day 2025.
Jessica Fry (pictured above, 3rd from right) from Cullompton, studied the T Level in Health and has secured a place to study Paramedic Science at university. She praised her experience of the T Level, saying;
“I’m really excited, I can’t wait to go to university. I came here for an open day and I really enjoyed it, and I just thought it was really friendly and would give me a lot of opportunities.
“The placements we go on as T Level students has developed my knowledge and helped support my university application. I chose a T Level for the hospital industry placement; you get practical knowledge as well as theory knowledge and sitting exams.
“I would definitely recommend Exeter College, the support systems and educational support is brilliant.”
Exeter College is also celebrating the success of its alumni, with an impressive 87% of former students who graduated from Russell Group universities in 2023/24 achieving a first-class or upper second-class honours degree. Across all UK higher education institutions, the proportion of Exeter College alumni reaching this standard remains remarkable at 81%.
Exeter College to Lead the Way as Construction Technical Excellence College
Exeter College is proud to announce it has been chosen as one of 10 Construction Technical Excellence Colleges by the Department for Education, an accolade that underscores the exceptional quality, innovation, and impact of its Construction provision.
This prestigious recognition is a testament to the outstanding expertise and dedication of Exeter College’s Construction Team, whose tireless work continues to set the benchmark for excellence in technical and vocational education. It positions the College as a national leader in Construction training and opens exciting opportunities to collaborate with providers across the country, share best practices, and drive further investment into the South West region.
John Laramy CBE, Principal and CEO at Exeter College said; “We are absolutely delighted to be selected as the one of the Construction Technical Excellence Colleges. We look forward to working with our students, staff, stakeholders and employer partners across the region to turbo charge construction training.
“It is a particular personal privilege, as an education leader who began their career in construction, to be part of a national initiative to ensure our region benefits from the career opportunities that excellent technical education enables. No education system can be better than the quality of its teachers and it is brilliant to see their professional development as a key part of this initiative.
“We are excited about working with colleagues in the DfE and wider Government to ensure this national policy has meaningful impact and benefits for the South West and beyond.”
The College’s exceptional track record of collaboration with regional and national employers has created a vibrant construction network that is impacting significantly on the national construction skills shortage. This ‘Technical Excellence’ Status recognises the eco system Exeter has in place. Through initiatives like Building Greater Exeter and the Green Skills Advisory Panel, the region is working to make a real impact on the government initiative to ‘Get Great Britain Building Again’.
Steve Race, Labour MP for Exeter, commented; “Awarding Construction Technical Excellence College status to Exeter College means brand new skills training in construction for young people and will help others already in the construction sector to upskill. This new approach will help us deliver the new homes and the economic growth we need across our region, in partnership with the construction sector. It’s a testament to the hard work and educational excellence of the College team, and I’m excited about this new future for skills training in Exeter.”
In securing Technical Excellence Status, the College received an impressive 120 endorsements from local organisations and stakeholders, including FE colleges, schools, councils, and construction employers, reflecting strong community backing.
Pete Sadler, Managing Director for Vistry South West said; “Vistry is delighted to see the roll out of Construction Technical Excellence College’s across the country — they will provide a significant boost to skills, innovation, and developing the future workforce our country needs. At Vistry, we’re deeply committed to skills development and building strong industry partnerships.
“This achievement will not only strengthen our collaboration with Exeter College but also help ensure we have a pipeline of talented, work-ready individuals to support the future of construction and housebuilding across the region.”
This is a timely investment as the College has seen unprecedented growth in Construction in recent years. Full time learner growth surged by 32% in the last academic year, while apprenticeships have also seen consistent increases, with over 650 trade and professional construction apprentices enrolled for the 2024/25 academic year. With a total of over 1150 Construction learners (2024/25), helping to provide a solution to the UK’s construction skills shortage over the next few years. Furthermore, the faculty’s achievement rates significantly surpass national averages, underlining its dedication to high quality teaching, learning and student success.
Councillor David Thomas, Chair of the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (DTCCA), said: “Exeter College’s appointment as a Technical Excellence College in construction is welcome news for our region. This will strengthen local skills and help Devon and Torbay contribute to the government’s 1.5 million homes target.
“To meet these ambitions, we must expand construction training across the whole of our region. The DTCCA looks forward to working with Exeter College to address local needs and challenges.
“We are also committed to collaborating with the West of England Combined Authority, Plymouth and Cornwall, to align skills strategies and share expertise with other training providers, ensuring a joined-up approach to building a skilled workforce across the South West.”
As a Construction Technical Excellence College, Exeter College is excited to lead the way in tackling the skills shortage, driving innovation, and building a stronger future for the South West, and looks forward to sharing more exciting developments on this initiative in the near future.
Pictured above: Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern, Minister of State for Skills at the Department for Education, launching Foundation Apprenticeships earlier this year at Exeter College.
Exeter College Expands its Construction offering with a Construction Innovation Centre
A significant milestone has been marked at Exeter College as they officially open a Construction Innovation Centre and Roofing Centre of Excellence in Sowton, Exeter.
Due to the exponential growth in demand for construction programmes, the College has expanded its provision, a reflection of hard work, vision and commitment from all involved.
Their hope is that the young people completing these courses will create a regional generation of superstar roofers who will contribute to this growing, exciting industry.
Colin McCorquodale, National President forNFRC officially opened the building.
Mike Blakeley, Executive Director of Partnerships and Apprenticeships at Exeter College said;
“Exeter College delivers a huge range of construction programmes and to ensure that we meet the full needs of our employers, it was an obvious choice to pick roofing as the next one that we add to our portfolio.
“Now students can go from damp proofing right the way up to roofing and everything in between. There is a high level of skill within the industry that needs to be taught, so it doesn’t become a dying trade, and we’re delighted that we can be seen as a Centre of Excellence in the South West.
“We’ve got huge employer support, every employer that’s linked to Exeter college is giving us time, giving us resources and materials, which is a brilliant way to support the excellent team that deliver our training.”
Dave O’Connor, Head of Faculty for Construction, said;
“We began occupying the Construction Innovation Centre in January, and by February, it was already buzzing with our Site Carpentry apprentices. In April, we proudly launched our new Roofing Apprenticeship in Slating and Tiling, made possible in large part by the appointment of Steve Dowell as a Work Based Tutor. His expertise, enthusiasm, and industry connections have already made a significant impact.”
“A special thanks to Luke Hurlock and Mike Armitage, our Curriculum Area Managers, whose valuable input helped turn this vision into reality. The future of Construction at Exeter College is looking incredibly bright.”
The College was delighted to welcome Colin McCorquodale, National President for NFRC, the UK’s largest roofing trade association to officially open the building. He said;
“NFRC and its members are very engaged in training the up-and-coming generation of roofers. We need to do this so our industry is well set for the future but also so we can preserve these traditional roofing skills that we all value.
“The biggest single challenge facing this industry is a skills gap. That’s why it’s even more pleasing to see the demand from facilities like this, where roofers of the future can receive expert training and guidance to set them on the right path for their future careers. I wish them the very best of luck.”
To find out more about Apprenticeships at Exeter College, please contact the Apprenticeship Team on 01392 400800 or Apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk.
Eat Your Greens: Free Webinar Series to Support Green Skills in Education
Exeter College is proud to support the Eat Your Greens online webinar series, running throughout June and into July. This free, four-part series is brought to you by NOCN Group, in partnership with EducationScape, and builds on the success of their previous Green Skills webinar initiative.
As part of the Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP) offer to colleges, Eat Your Greens is designed to equip tutors, lecturers, careers advisors, and educators with the foundational knowledge needed to deliver renewable construction technologies with confidence. Each session is lunchtime-friendly, CPD-accredited, and rich with practical insight.
Who Should Attend?
FE Colleges & Training Providers
Tutors, Lecturers & Curriculum Leads
Careers Advisors & Skills Planners
Sustainability & Retrofit Champions
Whether you’re just beginning to explore green curriculum development or looking to deepen your expertise, this series is tailored for educators at all stages.
About the Webinar:
Each 45-minute session starts at 12:15pm and focuses on a key pillar of the UK’s green transition:
Week 1 (10 June): Introduction to Insulation
Week 2 (17 June): Introduction to Solar PV, EV & Battery Storage
Week 3 (24 June): Introduction to Heat Pumps
Week 4 (1 July): Introduction to Retrofit
Why Attend?
Discover light, mid, and dark green skills solutions from NOCN Group
Learn how to embed green technologies into your curriculum or apprenticeship offer
Gain real-world insights from leading delivery partners, including:
Exeter College
Quantum Group
HS Energy
SWIFIX Ltd
Daikin
EWI Pro
Installation Assurance Authority (IAA)
NOCN
Members of the Green Skills Advisory Panel
Explore a broad portfolio of qualifications, short courses, and online CPD learning
Supporting a Net Zero Future
NOCN Group, a leading international education charity, is committed to powering the UK’s transition to a Net Zero economy. Through a robust suite of sustainability-focused qualifications and training, they are helping to shape the workforce of tomorrow.
By participating in Eat Your Greens, you’ll be helping to bridge the green skills gap and prepare your learners for the jobs of the future.
Exeter College and University of Exeter Strengthen Education Partnership
The University of Exeter and Exeter College have signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), deepening their shared commitment to enhancing education across the region.
The agreement, formalised during a ceremony at the University’s Streatham Campus on Tuesday, June 3rd, marks the next chapter in a partnership spanning around 20 years between two of Devon’s leading educational institutions.
The renewed MoU strengthens a shared ambition to shape a dynamic and inclusive local education ecosystem, strengthening community wellbeing, and promoting regional development across Exeter and the wider region.
Exeter College Principal and CEO John Laramy CBE and University of Exeter President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Roberts sign renewed Memorandum of Understanding with Deputy CEO Jade Otty and Professor Tim Quine.
Speaking after the ceremony Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter said: “I am delighted that the exceptional partnership between the University of Exeter and Exeter College has once again been strengthened through this new, updated Memorandum of Understanding.
This partnership has provided a strong, positive and successful foundation for both institutions to make a genuine and impactful difference not only in the provision of key opportunities for our students , but in providing important skills for our city and region as a whole.
“We are determined to use this opportunity to build on the successes and ambitions we have shared for a decade and more, and to work together to help create opportunity and regional growth.”
The MoU outlines a number of key areas for the partnership.
These include Acting as Education System Leaders through joint initiatives such as the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust, Exeter Mathematics School, and the South West Institute of Technology; Shaping the Community Together through the Exeter Civic University Agreement; and Driving Academic Excellence through complementary educational pathways.
Exeter College Principal and CEO, John Laramy CBE, added: “I am delighted to sign an updated Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Exeter. We have worked together for over twenty years, and our partnership deepened nine years ago when we signed our first MOU.
“Today’s updated agreement reflects the shared ambition of the College and the University, placing our partnership at the forefront of higher and further education collaboration. It stands as an exemplar of a world-class university working with an outstanding college to help shape a clear, coherent, and impactful education ecosystem.
“I would like to thank Professor Lisa Roberts and her team for their collaborative approach, which is making a real difference to our community, city, and region.”
Topping Out Ceremony Marks Major Milestone for Centre for Law and Social Sciences at Exeter College
Exeter College and Willmott Dixon celebrated the topping out of the new Centre for Law and Social Sciences building on Tuesday 22 April, located on the College’s main site on Hele Road. This significant milestone signifies the completion of the building’s main structure, before the building opens in the autumn term.
The new Centre for Law and Social Sciences (CLS) building consists of four floors and covers 2,800sqm. The £12million centre is the college’s largest investment in a new building and will host 25 new classrooms alongside new staff and study spaces to meet the demand of the increase in learners looking for academic qualifications.
Jade Otty, Vice Principal and Deputy CEO at Exeter College, said;
“It’s incredible to see this new building taking shape – it’s been designed with our students at the heart of it.
“The Centre for Law and Social Sciences will give them the space and environment they deserve to grow, explore big ideas, and prepare for the future.
“It’s exciting to know this space will inspire the next generation, just like Charlotte.”
Rhys Gamlin, Assistant Site Manager and Charlotte Barons, Trainee Site Manager
The College was delighted to see a past student return to the site as part of the Willmott Dixon Team. Charlotte Barons was one of the first students in the country to study a T Level in Construction and the Built Environment and is now a trainee site manager.
Thanks to a work experience placement organised by the College, she joined Willmott Dixon as a management trainee. Now in her third year of a degree apprenticeship with the company, she’s already working on notable projects, including a Passivhaus build for Exeter University and a new Centre for Law and Social Science, back at Exeter College.
Speaking about working on the project, she said;
“It’s amazing to be back. It’s so interesting to see it from the other side, knowing how the students will appreciate it the way I did when I was in the Construction Faculty. It’s so nice to give back to the College, after all they have done for me.”
Rob Woolcock, Director of Operations at Willmott Dixon said;
“We have a long-standing relationship with Exeter College, and we are delighted to have reached this milestone on the build of the Centre for Law and Social Sciences. We have significant experience in delivering facilities like the new Centre across the Southwest and we’re confident of the positive impact it will have on the students and the faculty for many years to come.”
A Level students, Ebony, George and Theo.
One of the students who will be studying in the new Centre for Law and Social Sciences is A Level student, Theo Veliyeth. He studies Business, Economics, Law, and Computer Science and said;
“It’s great to see the investment happening in these subjects, investment in Law and Social Sciences is important so this really does show the college cares.” He jokily added; “I am also looking forward to not having to climb up all the stairs of the Tower building!”
George Chubb is studying A Levels in History, English Language and Law enjoyed the tour of the new building. He said; “I liked the open area where they are going to bring in some sculptures from Exeter Cathedral. I’m excited to continue my studies in the new building next term.”
Students, staff, governors, and contractors were invited for a tour of the building, including a gathering on the roof. A huge thank you must go to all the partners and teams who have made this project possible such as AWW Architects, Hydrock, Peninsula Projects and the whole team at Willmott Dixon.
The next major milestone will be the external cladding and brickwork before the project is completed in the autumn.
Exeter College Students Shine at International Salon Culinaire
Exeter College’s hospitality and catering students have showcased their culinary excellence at the prestigious International Salon Culinaire competition, walking away with an impressive array of medals. Demonstrating both exceptional skill and professionalism, the team secured five gold, six silver, 11 bronze, and five merit awards—cementing their status as rising stars in the industry. Notably, two silver medals were also awarded Best in Show.
The students, who competed in a range of cooking and butchery challenges, received high praise from their tutor, who commended their dedication.
Deputy Head of Hospitality, Hair and Beauty, Matt Pickett, said;
“Our students performed brilliantly and were a genuine credit to the college. Not only in their cooking skills, but their professionalism, manners, and hygiene. They walked away with an incredible set of medals.”
Among the standout performers was Mia Walter, a Level 3 NVQ Hospitality and Catering Management student, who earned an outstanding five medals. Her accolades included gold for French trimming, chicken butchery, and sea bass and trout preparation. She also received silver for her avocado starter (Best in Class) and knife skills, along with a bronze for lamb butchery.
Mia scooped an impressive five medals at the competition.
Reflecting on the experience, Mia shared, “The morning was amazing. I got to try different foods, speak to professionals, and take in all the opportunities. Then I had all five competitions in a row – it was really intense. By the time I got to the lamb butchery, my arms were dead! But overall, it was an amazing experience.”
When asked why she participated, Mia explained, “I wanted to gain experience, especially with lamb butchery, which I’d never done before. I also wanted to see where I stood and how well I’m doing. Hopefully, I did pretty well!”
Looking to the future, Mia has ambitious plans to travel the world and work in high-end catering. “I’d love to work on super yachts, but first I need to get my STCW qualification. I’m also considering a free nutrition and dietitian course when I turn 19. I just want to keep gaining experience and move around the UK before I start traveling with a work visa.”
The success of Exeter College’s students at International Salon Culinaire highlights the high standards of training and dedication at the college. If you want to join us, find out more at our next Open Event.
Exeter College Welcomes Institute of Carpenter’s Royal Patron at Final Nationwide Timber Industry College Hub Event
Exeter College was honoured to host the Institute of Carpenter’s (IOC) latest Timber Industry College Hub event, graced by the presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, Royal Patron of the IOC. This landmark gathering marked the final milestone in a series of events that have connected industry leaders, educators, and aspiring carpenters and joiners across the UK.
Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, greets special guests at the Exeter College Construction Centre
Royal Endorsement
The royal visit and the success of this event highlighted Exeter College’s commitment to preparing students for rewarding careers in the timber industry, while promoting sustainable practices that will shape the future of construction and forestry.
The presence of HRH The Duchess of Gloucester underscored the necessity of equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge required to excel in this essential trade.
Industry and Education: A Powerful Partnership
The Exeter College event opened with a warm welcome from John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive of Exeter College, who stressed the importance of fostering links between education and industry. Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, then set the scene, emphasising the vital role that these events play in supporting the next generation of skilled professionals.
The event featured a lineup of industry expert speakers and practical demonstrations by students, and covered key themes such as sustainable forestry, the evolution of timber in construction, and the variety of employment pathways in the trade. Darren Murrish (CITB) provided an insightful overview of the employment landscape and career opportunities, while Dave O’Connor (Exeter College) shared a college perspective on how industry partnerships help shape student futures.
Key Highlights of the Event:
Leading professionals from across the timber sector provided in-depth insights into sustainability, technological advancements, and employment trends. Speakers included:
Nick Boulton (Timber Development UK & Trussed Rafter Association), who explored UK raw material supply, sustainability, and the green agenda.
Roly Ward (Medite/SmartPly), who discussed MDF and OSB production and technical developments.
Neil Summers (American Hardwood Export Council – AHEC) shared perspectives on sustainable global forest resources and the international timber industry.
John Bailey (Benbow Group – NAS) offered personal insights on career opportunities in the shopfitting and interiors industry.
Ed Suttie (BRE) presented on new developments in the construction industry.
Samantha Barnes (Historic England), who discussed conservation work and the importance of the heritage sector.
Students participated in interactive workshops, showcasing cutting-edge woodworking techniques for the Duchess and attending guests. Axminster Tools, Reisser UK, CITB, and IOC also provided hands-on displays. The event also gave students direct access to potential employers and industry mentors, bridging the gap between education and real-world career opportunities. The IOC Mentoring Champions initiative was a central theme, reinforcing the importance of experienced professionals guiding the next generation of carpenters and joiners.
Celebrating Success and Looking Forward
This event was the culmination of the latest series of ten IOC Timber Industry College Hub gatherings, which have taken place over the last two years at Lincoln College, Building Crafts College (Stratford, East London), West Suffolk College, Neath Port Talbot College (Wales), UHI Inverness (Scotland), New College Durham, Leeds College of Building, Newcastle & Stafford College Group, Northampton College, and Exeter College. These events have successfully provided woodworking learners and apprentices with crucial industry insights, career guidance, and direct engagement with professionals from the timber sector.
Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, reflected on the impact of the initiative:
“The IOC Timber Industry College Hub events have been a tremendous success, offering students across the UK an invaluable glimpse into the future of the timber industry. These hubs have demonstrated the power of partnerships between colleges and businesses, and Exeter College was the perfect venue to mark the conclusion of this national initiative.
“We are honoured to celebrate this milestone at Exeter College with our Royal Patron, The Duchess of Gloucester, and are already planning our next series of college events, which will continue our journey around the UK.”
John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive said:
“Hosting this final IOC Timber Industry College Hub event has been an incredible honour for Exeter College and for me personally, as I started my career in the construction industry. I am delighted that we have been able to support this event.
“This initiative has provided our students with invaluable industry connections, hands-on experience, and insight into the future of sustainable timber and construction.
“The presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester further highlights the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this essential trade.
“Strong partnerships between education and industry is key to our success and we will continue to ensure our learners are prepared for rewarding careers in carpentry and joinery.”
The success of the Timber Industry College Hub programme would not have been possible without the support of CITB and Timber Development UK (TDUK), whose collaboration has ensured that students receive relevant, industry-driven insights to help shape their careers.
Looking ahead, the IOC is dedicated to supporting its members and new starters coming into the sector, while strengthening the vital links between industry and education. The IOC Timber Industry College Hub events have laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration, helping to secure the future of skilled workers in the carpentry and joinery sectors.
For further details on the IOC and future events, please contact:
