Apprentice and Employer Awards: Nominations Now Open
We are thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the Exeter College Apprenticeship and Employer Awards 2025! These prestigious awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of our apprentices and the unwavering support of our employer partners.
Why Nominate?
The Exeter College Apprenticeship and Employer Awards recognise:
Outstanding Apprentices: Individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and growth in their respective fields.
Supportive Employers: Organisations that have provided exemplary training, mentorship, and opportunities for apprentices to thrive.
Each form will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your nominee receives the recognition they deserve.
Please submit all nominations by the 14th of March.
Join Us in Celebrating Excellence
By participating in the Exeter College Apprenticeship and Employer Awards, you contribute to a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Let’s come together to honour those who make a significant impact in the world of apprenticeships. Winners will be honoured at a special ceremony on the 20th of June 2025.
For more information or assistance with the nomination process, please contact us at apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk or 01392 400800. We look forward to receiving your nominations and celebrating the achievements of our outstanding apprentices and employers.
Exeter College Celebrates Student Achievements at Iconic Exeter Cathedral for its 55th Year
On Friday, Exeter College celebrated its annual student awards at the iconic Exeter Cathedral. This extra special event marked 55 years of the tertiary college, further to its inception in 1970 as the first of its kind in the UK. To mark the occasion, 23 past and present students were awarded for excellence in their field. This celebrated the diversity of student achievements across academic, professional, and personal milestones.
Exeter Cathedral was the setting for the Student Awards 2025
John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College congratulated students, saying;
“This year’s awards marked 55 years since we became the first tertiary college in the UK and this year’s award winners really showed the impact of an education system where the schools, university and college all work together.
“The award winners were inspirational, achieving maximum marks, winning awards, excelling in sport and engaging in all that the College has to offer. For me the students and apprentices that won awards were living our values of ambition, collaboration and energy.
“I would like to extend my thanks to our sponsors: without their support, these awards would simply not happen. Their contributions help us celebrate the incredible achievements of our students and the positive impact they make to college life.
“Our ongoing success is rooted in a unique and collaborative education ecosystem here in Exeter, where amazing students, great employers, world-class partners, fantastic staff, and strong connections between schools, the college, and the university all work together effectively. It is an absolute privilege to celebrate the people that make Exeter College and our amazing community truly special.”
Musical Theatre students performed for guests
Sir Michael Barber KB, Chancellor of the University of Exeter, served as the guest speaker at the event. In his address, he emphasised the critical need for raising skill standards across the South West to support the region’s growth and prosperity. He highlighted the vital role that institutions like Exeter College will play in shaping the workforce of the future, over the next decade and beyond. He said:
“It’s a huge honour to be at the awards evening at Exeter College, partly because I live and work in Devon and Exeter is the centre of our county, partly because it is outstanding and recognised nationally as being one of the best colleges in the country. But most importantly, it is a chance to recognise the substantial student achievements and it a real pleasure to be part of this celebration.
“Events like this are so important. Important to recognise all types of achievement, from all types of courses in all circumstances, at a wonderful college like Exeter.”
Megan Ginsberg (pictured above) won Higher Apprentice of the Year, saying;
“It’s a privilege to receive the Exeter College ‘Higher Apprentice of the Year Award’ in the historic Exeter Cathedral this evening. A brilliant way to start 2025.”
Megan is now working hard on her Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship at Exeter University. Additionally, she has joined AtkinsRéalis as an Assistant Project Manager on the Project and Programme Services (PPS) Team and Infrastructure Team. She has also set up an initiative ‘Construct Ability’, which aims to make construction accessible to all.
“As a wheelchair user, this is particularly meaningful to the projects that I deliver and my life outside of work.
“Exeter College provided me with a foundation that I could build my career on, supporting my academic studies with outstanding lecturers and facilities. I cannot thank the college enough for providing the resources that I needed to gain a distinction and finish my apprenticeship six months early.”
Another award winner was Finn Phillips (pictured above), who won an award for Academic Excellence. After studying A Levels at Exeter and earning un unparalleled five A*s, he is now reading Maths and Physics at the University of Bath. He said:
“It is really nice that I am receiving an award from Exeter. I very much enjoyed my two years at college, and this will be a great reminder of these times.”
Speaking of his future aspirations, he said;
“I would like to get into the water-polo first team at Bath. I am going to try really hard to get a first-class degree in Maths and Physics. My course allows me to have a year abroad and I am considering going to Australia to study at the University of Brisbane.”
Hasina Rahmani (pictured above) arrived in Devon in November 2021, she initially joined our community classes and has since worked tirelessly to progress to ESOL Level 2 whilst also passing GCSE Maths and is now enrolled on a Diploma in Professional Cookery. She was awarded the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Student of the Year. She commented;
“I am really proud of how hard I have worked, and this award proves how much time I have dedicated to studying.” She added;
“My professional cookery course wouldn’t be possible if I hadn’t studied ESOL. I have learned so much which has given me knowledge and confidence to study something I am passionate about.”
Higher Technical Learner of the Year went to Annabel Hodnett (pictured above). She is described as an exceptional student on the Foundation Degree in Sports Therapy, actively supporting and assisting with medical cover for the College’s successful Sports Academies. Annabel is now a registered Sports Therapist at Osteo and Physio in Honiton and Exmouth. She said;
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s not just recognition of the hard work I’ve put into my studies, but also a reminder that challenges like dyslexia don’t define what we’re capable of achieving. It’s proof that perseverance and the right support can lead to great things.
“Exeter College provided a supportive environment where I could thrive despite my learning difficulties. The tutors were understanding and tailored their teaching methods to help me learn effectively. The skills I gained, both technical and personal, have been invaluable in my current journey.”
The final award of the evening was the #ExeCollProud Award, this year going to Ayomide Okesola.
Ayo was an exceptional student who fully immersed herself in all aspect of Exeter College life. She has now been recruited to the College’s Student Experience Team as a Level 5 Apprentice, with one of her responsibilities being to lead the Learner Leadership Team. Commenting on receiving the award, she said;
“Receiving this award is an incredible honour. It feels like meaningful recognition of the hard work and dedication I put into my time at Exeter College, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence in all that I do.”
Speaking of her current role, she said;
“This feels like a full-circle moment for me, as the learner voice provision was something that had a significant impact on me during my time as a student. I immersed myself in it, and it helped shape who and where I am today. To now be in a position where I manage and oversee that same provision — empowering other students and ensuring their voices are heard — is truly rewarding. I am incredibly grateful to Exeter College for this opportunity to give back and make a meaningful difference.”
The student awards evening not only celebrated the individual achievements of the winners but also served as a testament to the collective effort of the entire Exeter College community. The dedication of the broader student body, the unwavering support of staff, and the contributions of industry partners all play a pivotal role in the college’s success.
The Exeter College Student Award winners for 2025 are:
Award Category
Winner
Sponsor
Award for Academic Excellence
Gracie Bauer
Peninsula Project Consulting
Award for Academic Excellence
Finn Phillips
Exeter Science Park
Award for Academic Excellence
Ruby Wallace
IB Learner of the year
Freya Gray
YESSS Electrical
Award for Vocational & Technical Excellence
Lincon Croft
Exeter Aerospace
Award for Vocational & Technical Excellence
Erin Price
Focus Group
T Level Learner of the Year
Lewis Attwood
NatWest
Apprentice of the Year
Isaac Bruce
Timewade
Higher Apprentice of the Year
Megan Ginsberg
Higher Apprentice of the Year
Digital Media Academy Student of the Year
Josh Tate
Optix Solutions
Music Academy Student of the Year
Yuri Warburton
The Purple Company
Michael Caines Academy Student of the Year
Oscar Mott
Lympstone Manor
Reach Academy Student of the Year
Amy Dunbavin
University of Exeter
Reach Academy Student of the Year
Ella Greed
Sports Academy Student of the Year
Hannah Sams
Exeter City Community Trust
School of Art Student of the Year
Lucie Sivier-Voller
Pollards
ESOL Student of the Year
Hasina Rahmani
Refugee Support Devon
The HILL Student of the Year
Emily Adams
Stagecoach
Bootcamp Learner of the Year
Rachel Vowles
Cartridges Law
Bootcamp Learner of the Year
Louise Worlin
Higher Technical Learner of the Year
Annabel Hodnett
Coreus Group
EXtra Learner of the Year
Max Slaney
Exeter Cathedral
The #ExeCollProud Award
Ayomide Okesola
Great Western Railway
Thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible.
Academy of Cheese Launches New Training Collaboration with Michael Caines Academy in Exeter
Top trainee chefs and hospitality students at the renowned Michael Caines Academy in Exeter were the first cohort to receive a full day of bespoke cheese training as part of their two-year programme.
Delivered by the Academy of Cheese and funded by Chiswick Cheese Market, the Academy’s Level One Certification course was tailored specifically for hospitality students, bringing a brand-new training experience incorporating a hands-on, practical approach to learning about cheese.
The collaboration with the Michael Caines Academy – an initiative led by Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines MBE – was an exciting opportunity for the 32 students currently studying at Exeter College. Led by Academy of Cheese Training Partner, Patrick McGuigan, the day started in the professional kitchen where the class got to make a basic ricotta cheese.
Patrick McGuigan explaining how to make a basic ricotta cheese.
The training continued in the college’s Lecture Theatre, where the 16-18 year olds were guided through a tasting of a selection of cheeses, including an award-winning Le Gruyère AOP, a Gorgonzola PDO and a clothbound cheddar from local cheesemaker Quicke’s Cheese.
“I didn’t know how complex a Gruyère could be and how versatile it is as a cheese”, commented Finn Clark, a 2nd Year Student.
The afternoon session commenced with a demonstration on cutting and wrapping cheese, focussing on portion control and how to minimise waste in a professional kitchen, and finished with a pairing masterclass in the on-site restaurant, @thirty-four, where students were inspired to play around with different cheeses and accompaniments.
This partnership marks an exciting and significant milestone in the Academy of Cheese’s mission to expand cheese education and certification across the UK, ensuring that the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals are equipped with essential cheese skills and knowledge, whilst empowering them with the confidence to incorporate cheese into their menus in thoughtful, innovative and impactful ways.
The day’s training was funded by Chiswick Cheese Market – run by a group of volunteers who are passionate supporters of the artisan cheese industry. “As a team with chefs and cookery writers amongst our midst, we know how valuable cheese is within the world of hospitality” Lucy Cufflin, co-founder of the Market explained. “We are thrilled to be supporting this collaboration between the Academy of Cheese and Michael Caines Academy, to introduce hospitality trainees to artisan and quintessential cheeses, endorsing their importance in our restaurants and associated food industries.”
The Michael Caines Academy aims to nurture the region’s future generation of talented restaurateurs, chefs, waiters and front-of-house staff by providing high-profile experiences, challenging practical and theoretical workshops and masterclasses from the best the food industry has to offer. To be accepted onto the programme, students are required to demonstrate passion, talent and promise over a two-day selection process.
Ian Biggar, Programme Lead & Tutor at Exeter College expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership; “We were thrilled to host the Academy of Cheese Level One course at the Michael Caines Academy,” adding “Patrick McGuigan’s expert guidance and infectious passion for cheese made the experience both educational and inspiring for our students. It was an unforgettable journey into the world of cheese, and we can’t wait to build on this fantastic foundation.”
Following the success of this inaugural session, the Academy of Cheese are looking to roll out their bespoke cheese training to other hospitality institutions, whilst also offering more advanced certification courses to meet the growing demand for specialist cheese knowledge.
“This partnership with the Michael Caines Academy is a huge step in our ongoing commitment to raising the standards of cheese knowledge and appreciation,” said Academy of Cheese Director, Tracey Colley. “By offering the Level One Certification to students in such an esteemed institution, we are helping foster a new generation of cheese experts who will play a key role in shaping the future of both the UK hospitality and cheese industries.”
Building Greater Exeter: A New Chapter of Growth and Community Collaboration
Building Greater Exeter is proud to announce its transition from Exeter City Council to Exeter College, marking an exciting evolution in the group’s journey. This transition reflects the group’s steadfast commitment to fostering community engagement, enhancing educational opportunities for young people and adults, and collaborating on skills plans that drive growth and prosperity across Exeter, East Devon and Teignbridge.
Exeter College extends its heartfelt gratitude to Exeter City Council for their dedication and the significant impact and outcomes they have achieved. The City Council have laid a strong foundation, and we acknowledge their invaluable contributions to the community.
Building Greater Exeter is a not-for-profit public and private sector initiative, aimed at supporting businesses within the built environment and closing construction skills gaps in and around Exeter, East Devon and Teignbridge. It addresses the shortage of skilled construction workers and promotes developments which have a positive local impact around social value. Its mission is to inspire new candidates, support employers, and promote a culture that makes the built environment a great sector in which to work.
As we embark on this new chapter, Exeter College reaffirms its commitment to the steering group members and the broader community. Together, we will continue to champion initiatives that inspire engagement, collaboration, and progress.
Our focus remains clear:
Driving Engagement for Young People and Adults: Building Greater Exeter will prioritise innovative programmes and resources to support learners of all ages, empowering them with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to explore careers in construction and the built environment.
Fostering Collaboration Across Skills Plans: Working with partners, businesses, and stakeholders, we will create a cohesive approach to skills development, ensuring alignment with community needs and long-term economic growth.
Strengthening Community Ties: Building Greater Exeter will actively engage with the local community to ensure that their voices are heard and reflected in our initiatives.
This transition is not only a continuation of past successes but also a renewed promise to deliver impactful programmes that benefit individuals looking to embark on a career in Construction and the Built Environment. We invite the community, partners, and stakeholders to join us in shaping this next phase of Building Greater Exeter’s journey. Together, we will build on the legacy of excellence, strengthen our shared vision, and pave the way for a brighter future.
We are already busy preparing for our relaunch event on Thursday 27th February at the Future Skills Centre, Exeter. This event will welcome keynote speakers from across the sector providing timely updates on current and future local construction projects and Employment and Skills plans. To register for this event, please book your free ticket here.
If you would like to get involved with our activities or are interested in becoming a member of Building Greater Exeter, please contact the Building Greater Exeter Project Manager, Luke Moss, Project Manager; Lukemoss@exe-coll.ac.uk or 01392 400996.
Support During Christmas Closure
Exeter College buildings and services will be closed for the Christmas holidays from noon on Friday 20 December 2024 until Monday 6 January 2025. If you require any support or help during this time there are a number of resources available to you, for more information click here for useful links (students can access this via the Student Hub). Further details about our dedicated safeguarding team, information and our policies can also be found here.
If you are worried about your own or about someone else’s safety; please contact the MASH Multi Agency Safeguarding Hub on 0345 155 1071 or complete an online referral form or in an emergency contact the appropriate emergency service.
If you need support over the Christmas holiday, please contact one of the organisations below who are available to help.
Exeter College approved to deliver the Civil Aviation Authority Part 66 Licence
Exeter College has been delivering higher level courses in aircraft engineering since the early 2000s, with new partnerships and opportunities in the sector reflected in the changes in its offer over time.
This year the College became one of only three in England approved to sign off engineers for the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Part 66 Licence (issued under the CAA’s Part 147 regulation). This certification covers a specific practical element of the Licence which is essential in signing off for operation any aircraft registered in the UK.
The Licence is delivered as part of the College’s Foundation Degree (FdA) in Aircraft Engineering which is awarded by Kingston University London and approved by the CAA. Most people who train for this accreditation will do it directly with an airline, so this is a unique offer for any college. Students on the FdA programme need to complete 2400 learning hours across two years (with a combination of time in the classroom and in the hangar). Students benefit from the use of facilities at Exeter Aerospace (EA) throughout their training. The support from EA in providing access to their modern, purpose-built hangars and workshops is invaluable to the quality and breadth of experience students receive, giving them access to a UK CAA Part 145 environment, an essential criterion for Licence approval by the Authority itself.
Andy Wells, Head of Faculty for Engineering, Aerospace and Automotive, said;
“This programme is a vital cog in providing the skills required across maintenance repair organisations across the whole of the South West. Students enrol from across the region, which enables us to successfully set up apprenticeship opportunities and careers development with employers in their areas. We are proud to be one of only a few Part 147 organisations delivering this vital training.”
Students completing their Foundation Degree receive their Part 66 Licence certificate, an essential steppingstone in gaining full accreditation. Once graduates are issued their certificate it allows them to apply for their full Licence after only two years in industry, rather than the normal five: the certificate significantly reducing the time it would take these engineers to fully qualify.
We are seeing many opportunities in the aviation industry right now. Of the recent FdA cohort, all ten graduates were offered jobs at Exeter Aerospace, with nine accepting and one continuing to Kingston University to study the top-up degree.
Pictured is Foundation Degree student, Charlie Putt, receiving his Part 66 Licence certification from Mike Robinson, Programme Lead in Aeronautical Engineering, earlier this month.
“In our experience students in the main want to stay local and we are fortunate that there are opportunities like those at Exeter Aerospace right on our doorstep.” says Mike Robinson, Programme Lead in Aeronautical Engineering.
This is an exciting time for graduates intent on moving into the aviation sector. At both national and international level, the aviation industry is facing a significant shortage of suitably certificated engineers, and the College is now receiving enquiries directly from airlines looking for qualified staff. For those students who do wish to go further afield there is a multitude of avenues open to them. Better still, aircraft engineers can hope to earn anything between £40k-£50k within three to five years of qualifying, nearly £10k above the average UK annual salary (according to the latest earnings report by the ONS).
The College currently offers a range of courses and training opportunities in aeronautical engineering at varying levels, including a full time Level 3 BTEC in Aeronautical Engineering, and progression pathways including the Level 5 Foundation Degree in Aeronautical Engineering and an Apprenticeship in Aircraft Maintenance. Building on the success of its Skills Bootcamps (funded short-term, part-time practical courses), Exeter College now also delivers a Skills Bootcamp in Aviation in partnership with Exeter Aerospace.
Exeter College’s Festival of Carols Lights Up the Cathedral with Music and Community Spirit
Exeter College proudly hosted its annual Festival of Carols on Thursday evening, uniting students, parents, and the broader Exeter community in a celebration of the festive season and a reflective conclusion to the year. The event took place in the magnificent setting of Exeter Cathedral.
The service was led by Reverend Matt Clayton, Leader of Unlimited Church and UNLTD Coffee, and Reverend Canon Chris Palmer, Canon Treasurer at Exeter Cathedral.
The evening began with welcome speeches from Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy CBE and Reverend Canon Chris Palmer. Students then marked the opening with a candlelit procession down the nave, singing ‘Betelehemu’, a Nigerian Christmas carol.
John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College, expressed his admiration, saying:
“I am continually amazed by the incredible talent of our students— whether they’ve sung, performed, played in the orchestra, or delivered a heartfelt reading. This year’s display of talent was truly exceptional. My heartfelt gratitude goes out to all the students and staff who made this event such a resounding success.
“The Festival of Carols offers a wonderful opportunity to mark the start of the festive season. It also creates a magical moment for us to thank our community whose partnership and support are vital to the College’s success.”
A full cathedral audience was captivated by performances from the College’s diverse array of musical groups, including the Exeter College Student Choir, Exeter College Orchestra, Performing Arts Cathedral Choir, Exeter College Big Band, The HILL Choir, and The Exeter College Festival Ensemble.
Guests were treated to well-loved classics such as ‘It Came Upon the Midnight Clear’, ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, and ‘The First Nowell’.
Several learners also did readings amongst many other student performances, including Lucy Beane (pictured above). Lucy is studying A Levels in Sociology, Politics and Early Modern History. Speaking about why she auditioned to read at the festival, she said;
“The historic element of being in the cathedral setting knowing that for hundreds and hundreds of years people have performed and read these verses is magical, and it’s quite remarkable to say that you’ve done something like that. It’s nice to do something festive, do something a bit Christmassy and it’s important to remember the true meaning of Christmas in this busy world that we all live in.”
Rose Gordon Clark (pictured above) also performed a reading. Rose is studying A Levels in Drama, English Literature, Sociology and Geography and hopes to pursue her love of Drama when she finishes at college. She said;
“It’s wonderful to feel part of the community. It’s so much fun, and you get to meet all these amazing people.”
This charitable event, while free to attend, raises funds for a different nominated charity each year. This time Exeter College chose to support Pets As Therapy (PAT). Pets As Therapy is a national charity that enhances the health and wellbeing of thousands of people in communities across the UK. They strive to ensure that everyone, no matter their circumstances, has access to the companionship of an animal. The College is very lucky to work regularly with Pets as Therapy to provide support to students.
Thank you to Mia Tang for the beautiful artwork used for the Festival of Carols Programme. Mia is studying the Level 3 UAL Extended Diploma in Creative Practice; Art, Design and Communication.
Boost for UK’s Green Skills with appointment of former Skills Minister as Honorary Chair of new national initiative
The Green Construction Advisory Panel (GCAP), which was originally established by Exeter College as a South West England based membership group and then rolled out internationally earlier this year, is widening its scope in its aim to address the green skills gap in the UK more broadly.
The newly re-named Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP) is on a mission to close the green skills gap and provide entry routes into green careers by establishing a UK-wide framework. It aims to upskill the current workforce and educate new entrants to adopt emerging technologies, consider the environmental impact of construction and other activity, and identify how industry can help meet Net Zero targets.
A nine strong National Partnership Board has now been appointed to direct and engage in the work of GSAP by representing members’ interests at a national level in government, industry forums and public discussions; commissioning researching and publishing reports which inform members and stakeholders; promoting the efficiency and effectiveness of the green skills sector; enhancing the role of employers in designing the new curriculum; and informing and influencing industry training standards and best practice.
Former Minister of State for Skills, Apprenticeships and Higher Education Robert Halfon has been elected as Honorary Chair of the GSAP Board with Mike Blakeley of Exeter College as Chair and Graham Hasting-Evans of NOCN Group and BACH, Nick Miles of EWI Pro, Charlene Wall of The Wood Manor Group, Paul Brown of SWIFIX Ltd, Giles Bradford of Bradfords Building Supplies, and Natalie King of AccXel, as Board Members. They are seeking the support of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), the Department for Education (DfE) and the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).
Robert Halfon commented:
“The Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP) represents a crucial step in our journey towards the new skills of the 21st Century. GSAP is not just building houses but helping to construct the very foundation of our green economy. This transformation embodies the essence of my Ladder of Opportunity – providing clear pathways for young people and adults to climb into secure, well-paid green jobs while addressing our nation’s critical skills shortages. We are not just about closing the green skills gap; we’re opening doors to all – for a brighter, cleaner future on the green skills ladder of opportunity.”
Mike Blakeley, Executive Director of Future Skills & Apprenticeships at Exeter College and Chair of the GSAP National Partnership Board, added:
“Partnership and collaboration is at the heart of delivering exceptional outcomes for industry and learners alike. GSAP embodies all that is brilliant with regards to industry and education coming together for the common good. The absolute focus of making a difference and maximising impact from our joint endeavours will have a substantial effect. With our quest for Net Zero so high on the agenda I am excited about what we as a nationwide and international partnership will achieve.”
Graham Hasting-Evans, President of BACH, Chief Executive of green skills solutions provider NOCN Group, and GSAP Board member, said:
“If the UK is going to make the step change needed to achieve Net Zero we must harness the power and commitment of our local companies and communities as well as investing in the mega projects such as off-shore wind and Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS). GSAP has proven in the South West of England that you can do just that. This is why NOCN Group is delighted to be able to support the national roll-out of this important initiative. It will help us to make major improvements in areas such as social housing and social mobility which are key agendas for us as a skills charity.”
Luke Moss, Project Manager at Exeter College and GSAP, added:
“Since its launch as GCAP in the South West in 2022, GSAP has expanded to 20 centres across the UK and forged connections with international partners in Malawi and Nepal. GSAP Centres unite key regional stakeholders. This includes 30 committed training providers, employers, building services companies, housing associations, construction firms, manufacturers, local authorities, government agencies, and charities with the aim to identify opportunities and collaboratively develop pathways into green careers. These centres provide a comprehensive view of the green skills landscape in their regions, driving coordinated efforts toward actionable outcomes.”
To become a GSAP member or to find your local centre, read more.
Exeter College Hosts Inaugural Business and Trade Select Committee
On the morning of Tuesday 3rd December, Exeter College hosted the Business and Trade Select Committee, made up of 11 MPs, who met with 30 local businesses. The event provided an opportunity for the College’s valued partners in the South West to discuss and feedback directly to the Committee, their challenges and opportunities in the current economic climate.
This event formed part of the Business and Trade Select Committee’s series of six regional roadshows. This wider engagement exercise hopes to hear from businesses and workers, investors and consumers to help shape the Committee’s work plan for the months and years ahead. Exeter College Humanities students had the opportunity to listen in on these important discussions.
The Business and Trade Select Committee with Richard Church, Chief Operating Officer and Jade Otty, Deputy CEO.
Liam Byrne MP, Chair of the Business and Trade Committee, said;
“This is the first of our national engagement events. The Business and Trade Committee is travelling the country listening to the voice of business and trade unions and consumer groups about what they would like us as a committee to focus on for the next five years.
“I really wanted to start at Exeter College. I’ve known the college for many years, it’s always been famous for having outstanding networks of relationships with the business community. I knew that if we wanted to hear from as many businesses as possible, as fast as possible, Exeter College was the place to kick the tour off.
“What we got today was exactly what I hoped for. We received a real diversity of views from business and very clear messages about how the cost of business has gone up and they have real ambition to plough through that. There were some clear asks of government such as investment in infrastructure, investment in skills, more available housing, and better access to finance.
“For us, as a committee, we’ve got some clear marching orders from today that will help us shape our enquiries for the course of this Parliament.”
Mike Blakeley, Executive Director of Apprenticeships and Partnerships said;
“Liam engaged with Exeter College around 10 years ago and knew how exceptional we were as an organisation, and how well linked we were with business. When the gauntlet was thrown down to host the inaugural business select committee, it turned to Exeter to be able to bring this together.
“We are delighted to pull together from our employer and stakeholder network to find some brilliant business voices to share their experiences with the Business Select Committee and hopefully make some positive change. Our businesses and stakeholders support the college brilliantly, so it was great to get them involved in this unique event.”
Bindu Arjoon, Exeter City Council’s Chief Executive, was among those who attended the meeting.
Bindu said: “This was a great opportunity for business leaders in Exeter and across Devon to share their experiences and provide feedback directly to the Business and Trade Select Committee on the opportunities and challenges facing the region to help inform government’s thinking on business and investment, as well as feeding back on the impact of the autumn budget.
“Exeter College plays a key role in working with businesses to ensure that as a city, we have the skilled workforce we need to continue to succeed and thrive in the future, so it provided the perfect setting for the committee to hear a wide range of views on how Government can best support the many great initiatives currently taking place in the region, particularly to boost skills, training, housing and infrastructure.”
The Committee wishes to hear views on the Government’s goals for the UK economy to have the fastest sustained economic growth in the G7; how it will deliver a pro-business, pro-worker’ agenda; develop closer trading relationships with others; and maintain the UK’s status as a global leader in protecting customers. The Committee will publish a report in the New Year listing who it has heard from and what the top priorities will be for its work.
Celebrating T Levels: Situ and Exeter College Working Together
At Situ – The Global Accommodation Agency – they are passionate about supporting young talent and fostering growth in the industry. Since 2008, they have been connecting businesses and organisations with tailored accommodation solutions in over 144 countries. Their mission is to make every stay perfect, whether it’s for one trip or an entire team’s plan.
This commitment to people is why collaborating with Exeter College for T Levels has been such an exciting journey. We spoke to the team at Situ, to find out more.
Discovering T Levels
When we first heard about T Levels, we saw an incredible opportunity to partner with local educational institutions and nurture young talent. After engaging with Exeter College’s enthusiastic team, we participated in a pitch and interview day. It was a smooth and inspiring process that led us to welcome Tom (pictured middle of back row), a Business T Level student, to Situ.
The Value of a T Level Placement
Having a T Level student has brought fresh perspectives and valuable support to our team. Tom’s eagerness to learn has enabled us to dive deeper into certain projects while maintaining our dedication to clients, suppliers, and guests. It’s a win-win: Tom gains hands-on experience in the corporate world, and we benefit from his skills and enthusiasm.
Tom’s Role at Situ
Tom has contributed to a variety of tasks across our Guest Care and Supply Chain departments, including administrative and data-led projects. He’s also shadowed other teams to gain a comprehensive understanding of how our business operates.
Building Skills for the Future
One of the most rewarding aspects of this experience has been watching Tom develop professionally. By collaborating with different departments and experiencing the day-to-day rhythm of an office, he’s gained insights into teamwork and corporate goal-setting. His exceptional communication and writing skills, combined with his quick learning ability, make him stand out as a future star.
Why We Recommend T Level Placements
Hosting a T Level student has been a fantastic experience for Situ. It’s an opportunity to give back to the local community, support young people as they start their careers, and create a pipeline of future talent. Our advice to other employers? Don’t underestimate these students’ potential! Give them diverse opportunities, and you’ll be amazed at how they rise to the occasion.
What’s Next?
Would we host another T Level student? Supporting local students aligns perfectly with our goals of nurturing talent and fostering collaboration so we hope we can continue this in the future.
If you’re a student interested in joining us at Situ, we’d love to hear from you!
