Apply

Bursary applications are now open. Apply now to have funding in place for September 2025. Click here to apply now.

Call us on 01392 400 500

Exeter College International Baccalaureate Students Excel on World Stage

Exeter College students studying on the International Baccalaureate (IB) have achieved an outstanding set of results with ten students achieving an impressive score of 40 points or more and one student receiving a rare 45 out of 45. 39 points is the equivalent of achieving three A Levels with the grades of A* A* A*.  

Exeter College has a proud and successful history of delivering the IB and recently celebrated its 30th year. The IB is an academic programme of study which pushes students in an array of subjects. The IB qualification allows students to study six subjects (three at higher level and three at standard level) across a wide range of disciplines spanning languages, humanities, maths, and sciences and is usually the preserve of private and academically selective providers globally.   

This year 35 candidates took the highly academic International Baccalaureate (IB) and achieved an average point score of 35.3, which is significantly higher than the world average of 30.3. 

Amy Dunbavin obtained a place at the University of Cambridge to read Human, Social and Political Science in 2025. Before taking up her place, she aims to travel including teaching in an international school. Speaking about her place at Cambridge, she said; 

“This course looks incredible – with opportunities to study modules from a range of disciplines alongside some fantastic social scientists from around the world. Following university, I imagine I will work in fields associated with human rights law and activism as I would like to utilise my privilege of such a fantastic education to represent the needs of people who are often overlooked or feel unable to represent themselves on matters of climate injustice or human rights abuses.” 

A student wearing red holds her results and smiles at the camera.
Amy (centre) collecting her results.

Speaking of her experience at Exeter College, Amy added; 

“The breadth of knowledge I have gained in only two years is quite remarkable and is beyond the expectations I had of the course before starting. I am incredibly lucky to have been supported by a truly inspiring group of students and teachers. 

“I am grateful to have had the opportunity to carry on studying subjects such as German, Maths and Biology which I would not have otherwise done, had I taken A Levels. I must also mention how influential Martin Gilbert and the Reach Academy were on supporting my academic studies. The support of Martin throughout my application to university was outstanding, giving me the confidence not only to apply to aspirational universities but to feel that I had the best chance possible at being successful in my application.” 

A group of students hold their results in front of a college building.

Scarlett Joiner (pictured right above) plans to take a year out before going to university. She said; 

“I would like to study medicine, and I am applying to medical schools now I have my results. I am hoping to travel this year and use the German language skills I’ve learnt on the IB. I feel optimistic about the future because taking the IB has given me confidence in my academic ability.” 

Speaking about her time on the course, she added; 

“Although some of the IB has been very challenging, I have really enjoyed studying it at Exeter College. I feel particularly grateful for the friends I have made over the past two years on this course. I have liked being able to go into the city during breaks between lessons, and this has afforded me a great sense of independence. I liked the structure of the IB timetable – it is quite full, meaning that you don’t have extremely long breaks, which I like. I like the breadth of knowledge that studying the IB gives.” 

Billie Stokes, Assistant Principal at Exeter College, added;  

“These excellent IB results are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and resilience of our students. Their achievements are truly remarkable, and we are incredibly proud of their success. This accomplishment not only reflects their academic excellence but also their commitment to continuous learning and personal growth. Congratulations to all our students on their exceptional performance.” 

You can find out more about the International Baccalaureate by reading our latest edition of EXE, the Exeter College alumni magazine, which features several IB alumni to celebrate 30 years of delivery. 

Find out more about studying the International Baccalaureate at Exeter College.   

Schools across Devon take part in Innovation Competition

Schools from the Ted Wragg Trust in Exeter, Plymouth and across Devon have taken part in an Innovation Competition this month (2nd July) at the Exeter College Future Skills Centre.  Students from Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 4 could take part in the contest which was sponsored by NOCN and Willmott Dixon.

The competition was organised by the Ted Wragg Trust in collaboration with Exeter College and the South West Green Construction Advisory Panel (GCAP) and this year’s themes were green living and home decarbonisation or creating a new airport or college campus from scratch.  

Participants got to grips with learning about sustainable lifestyle choices and actions to reduce carbon emissions in homes or integrating environmental, social, and economic considerations into the planning, design, construction, and operation phases of their designs, supported by masterclasses from the sponsors.

16 teams from 15 schools were in attendance at the competition’s celebration event which comprised of the opening of the exhibition of students’ work, keynote speakers and five-minute presentations from each team followed by Q&A from the judging panel. This was followed by lunch and the award ceremony and prize giving presentation. 

The Innovation Competition seeks to discover students who demonstrate an aptitude to solve complex problems in innovative ways. The competition required students to research, investigate and create an innovative solution to one of these problems. The teams’ ideas needed to be about using technology to make the world a better place. 

To assist and support teams throughout their work, a series of industry sector experts hosted live virtual discussions and masterclasses ahead of the contest, in order to help support students’ development of their idea or concept from an industry perspective. 

The judging panel was made up of industry experts from the technology sector and the judges looked at how well the teams could demonstrate their understanding of the criteria by developing their idea into a final proposal. 

The full judging panel included:

  • Daffne Aguilar – Social Value Manager at Willmott Dixon Construction Limited
  • Rosie Buckley – Head of Operational Strategy and Performance Management at Centrica New Business & Net Zero
  • Nicola Hollands – Sector Manager (Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing, and Green) at NOCN Group
  • Kerry Lane – Business Developer Manager at EX2 Group
  • Sarah Lee – Senior Associate Architect at Stride Treglown

Jade Otty, the Vice Principal at Exeter College was also in attendance and announced the winners and handed out the medals.

The Take Off Team from Exwick Heights won in the ‘Primary Category’ with their Sustainable Airport

The Ground Crew from Matford Brook Academy won ‘Highly Commended Teamwork’ with their Environmentally Sustainable Airport

Team Green Marine from Marine Academy Primary with their ambitious solutions for the future were awarded ‘Highly Commended Final Presentation’

Honiton Community College won in the Secondary Category with their Sustainable College Campus plans.

As part of their project, the team from Exwick Heights had written to the Prince of Wales about the Earthshot Prize and fortuitously on the morning of the Innovation Competition they received a response from Kensington Palace. 

The letter stated that it was encouraging to hear of the groups commitment to bringing about positive change for the environment and that it was wonderful to hear about their participation in a project based around sustainability.

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

“A huge congratulations to all the students who took part in the Innovation Competition.  It was brilliant to see so many young people coming up with such inspired and positive ideas and I was so impressed by the creativity and thoughtfulness students displayed in their presentations.

“I also want to say a big thank you to all the judges, sponsors and special guests, as well as Exeter College, the Exeter College Future Skills Centre and the South West Green Construction Advisory Panel – it’s great for everyone to come together for the benefit of Devon’s young people.”

Nicola Hollands, Sector Manager (Engineering, Advanced Manufacturing, and Green) at NOCN Group said:

“Ted Wragg Trust a truly inspirational event with such brilliance in one room! Thank you for inviting me to sit on the panel with fellow judges. I am truly lost for words to express how inspiring and moving everything about it was!

“Huge round of applause and congratulations to all participants and the winners. Well done all..

“Thank you for hosting and preparing for a great day Future Skills Centre Exeter! NOCN Group were truly proud to be one of the sponsors for today. Thank you all.”


Daffne Aguilar, Social Value Manager at Willmott Dixon Construction Limited said:

“Thank you to Exeter College and the Ted Wragg Trust for organising such an inspiring event. Willmott Dixon proudly sponsored the Innovation Competition along with NOCN Group, it was a pleasure to be part of the panel of judges of such amazing women including Sarah Lee RIBA, Rosie Buckley MBE, Kerry Lane and Nicola Hollands.

“All the students were incredible, there were 16 schools with so much talent and potential, their ideas towards sustainability and making our world a better place were impressive and it inspired us to continue doing what we do as professionals. I am very grateful for having the opportunity to meet some of them and to be part of such an inspiring day. Well done to all.”

A full list of the schools that participated is below:

All Saints Academy Plymouth, Cranbrook Education Campus, Exwick Heights Primary, Honiton Community College, Isca Academy, Marine Academy Primary, Marine Academy Plymouth, Queen Elizabeth’s School, St James School, St Luke’s Church of England School, Sidmouth College, West Exe School, Tor Bridge High and Whipton Barton Federation.

Exeter College Celebrates the Best of the Best at Apprentice and Employer Awards

Held at Sandy Park, the annual Apprentice and Employer Awards was a night of celebration and recognition, displaying the incredible achievements of Apprentices and the employers who support them. This year’s event featured former Exeter Chiefs Captain Gareth Steenson as the guest speaker, adding extra inspiration and motivation to the evening. 

With over 20 categories spanning various fields, the awards highlighted the diversity and excellence within the Apprenticeship programmes.  

Nigel Fenn MBE was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Apprenticeships Award by Gareth Steenson and Sam Wilson

Mike Blakeley, Executive Director of Future Skills, and Apprenticeships expressed his admiration for the nominees, stating; 

“These awards showcase the amazing Apprentices and employers that Exeter College has the pleasure of working with. This year, with over 250 nominations, we have selected the best of the best to be rewarded for their dedication, hard work and support that make apprenticeships genuinely great. 

“Our employer network continues to grow and delivers some of the best support young people and adults will receive to make sure they are a success and have lifelong careers in their chosen sector.” 
Jessica Cowlard was presented with the Health and Care Apprentice of the Year Award

Tracey Mills, Apprenticeships and Early Careers Manager from Devon County Council, shared a story about one of their own apprentices, Luke Freathy, who won the Business and Professional Services Apprentice of the Year award. She praised Luke’s contributions, saying, “Luke winning tonight is a testament to his hard work and brilliant recognition of him and all he has put into his Apprenticeship. He thoroughly deserves it.” 

She emphasized the positive impact Apprentices have on businesses, saying;

“We have quite a big Apprenticeship programme at the council – they bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and apply what they’ve learnt through their Apprenticeship and that drives our business forward. We have a motivated, enthusiastic workforce, who are learning the latest skills, knowledge, and behaviours and applying it in their work. They are our future.”

Luke Freathy was this years winner of the Business and Professional Services Apprentice of the Year

Luke Freathy, a Level 3 Business Administrator Apprentice at Devon County Council in the Public Transport Team, took home the award for the Business and Professional Services Apprentice of the Year. He said; 

“I chose an Apprenticeship because I wanted to carry on with my education, but I didn’t want to go to university. After my A Levels I realised how much I wanted to get into some practical skills and earn whilst I’m learning. 

“I’m enjoying it so far; it’s been good from a social standpoint and being able to save money and build practical skills that will stand me in good stead in my career. 

“It’s nice to be nominated and it feels like my hard work has been recognised. I am really excited to be here this evening.” 

The awards were hosted by two current Exeter College Apprentices, Lucy Joyce (Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice) and Sam Osman (Level 4 Junior Management Consultant Apprenticeship at GWR.) Speaking about hosting and being an Apprentice Sam said; 


“I feel honoured, it’s a privilege to be here this evening. I’m halfway through my Apprenticeship and I have gained so much valuable experience already from different areas of the business at GWR. The mixture of academic work and practical work is what makes Apprenticeships so special.” 

Exeter College’s Annual Apprentice and Employer Awards continues to be a cornerstone event, celebrating the achievements of Apprentices and the vital role of employers in shaping future careers. The evening not only recognised individual accomplishments but also underscored the importance of Apprenticeship programmes in building a skilled and enthusiastic workforce for the future. 

Many employers were also recognised at the awards for the contribution to the success of Apprenticeships

Exeter College Launches New Foundation Degree to Support Professionals into the NHS 

Exeter College is excited to be partnering, once again, with Plymouth Marjon University, to support the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan.  

From September 2024 the College is planning to deliver the FdSc Assistant Practitioner to provide well-trained and competent staff for a range of healthcare roles. 

If you are looking for a non-traditional career pathway to start you on the route to registered professional occupations such as nursing, midwifery, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or radiography, then this Foundation Degree is an excellent starting point. 

Donna Lucas, a Programme Leader in the Faculty of Healthcare at Exeter College said;

“This educational base creates a platform for greater knowledge, opportunity and capability in the clinical setting, in comparison to Healthcare Assistants, who do not undergo this formal training. 

“An Assistant Practitioner role is bridging the healthcare skills gap. It is a cross-disciplinary role, that works directly under a senior member of staff, such as a nurse, physiotherapist, midwife or occupational therapist, and is a highly skilled member of the team. It is a band 4 post on the Agenda for Change framework, which works across professional boundaries, in a range of settings, such as hospitals, GP surgeries, prisons or in the community.”

What will you be taught? 

As part of the programme, you can choose specialist pathways aligned to roles across the health and care sector. The programme offers an inter-professional learning experience, meaning you will learn from and across different professional roles giving you a holistic view of the patient experience. 

Module examples include but are not limited to; 

  • Introduction to Clinical Skills
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Mental Health and Wellbeing 
  • Communication and Working in Teams
  • Research in Evidence Based Practice
  • Leading and Integrating Care
  • Pathophysiology for Healthcare 

What could it lead on to? 

On successful completion, graduates are eligible to apply for roles as an Assistant Practitioner (NHS Band 4). You could work in hospitals, clinics or in the community such as in GP surgeries or visiting patients in their home. You may also choose to progress to a full degree in Nursing or other Allied Health Professions. 

For further information on entry requirements and fees please see the FdSc Assistant Practitioner course page. 

Ready to apply? 

You can apply online now by clicking the pink apply button on the course page. 

Want to speak to someone? 

If you have any questions about the course, please do not hesitate to contact our Adult Advice Team on adultadvice@exe-coll.ac.uk or call 01392 400170. Alternatively, if you are a current student, you can pop into the Adult Advice Hub on the ground floor of the Digital and Data Centre during term time. The Hub is open 9am-9pm Monday to Thursday and 9am-4pm Friday. 

South West based Green Construction Advisory Panel (GCAP) to be rolled out nationally with BACH

The British Association of Construction Heads (BACH) has launched a collaborative programme with the Green Construction Advisory Panel (GCAP) to roll it out across the UK.

GCAP is a member-led committee comprising of building services, housing, and construction businesses, supported by government agencies, charities, and training providers across the UK. GCAP aims to promote, enhance, and develop sustainable training and education opportunities for the housing and construction industries. Our mission is to close the skills gap and create entry pathways into green careers. We aspire to educate both the current and future workforce on adapting to emerging technologies, considering environmental impacts, and helping the industry meet net-zero targets.

Established by Exeter College two years ago, GCAP has successfully and impactfully brought together employers, training providers, manufacturers and other regional stakeholders in the South West to drive the ‘Green Skills’ agenda locally. This has created a template model which is replicable not only across the UK but also internationally, with the Nepalese Government embedding the GCAP model into policy.

To date, over thirty training providers throughout the UK have already committed to GCAP, including local authorities and charities. GCAP currently boasts nineteen regional Centre’s who will collaborate with local stakeholders to understand more about the skills landscape and work towards action-based outcomes.

BACH will be responsible for establishing the GCAP model across the UK via its established structure in England & Wales and its contacts in Northern Ireland and Scotland over the next three years and beyond.

Mike Blakeley of GCAP and Exeter College said:

“GCAP has had a huge influence on our approach to ‘Green Skills’, careers engagement and collaboration with regards to the College’s approach to Net Zero. It has grown from 12 founder members to over 160 and expanding it nationally is a natural evolution. We know that the impact of BACH’s support in doing this will be both significant and positive.”

Graham Hasting-Evans, President of BACH and Chief Executive of international skills solutions provider NOCN Group, added:

“To address the existential challenge of climate change we need a radical change in skills across the whole of the construction workforce, affecting both existing occupations and the new ‘green jobs’ which are rapidly emerging. This cannot be run centrally; local areas and employers are best placed to drive the modularized changes needed as and when they are required in a practical and pragmatic way.

“GCAP has demonstrated the great benefit of this ‘bottom-up’ approach and we at BACH are delighted to be able to support rolling this out across the UK.”

BACH was established 40 years ago to bring together Further Education Colleges and other providers that deliver construction training in building, civil engineering and business service engineering. Over the last two years, BACH members have been collaboratively focusing on the challenge of ‘Net Zero’ through the development of ‘Green Skills’ and the national roll out of GCAP is a key next step in this initiative.

Graduates of the Michael Caines Academy: Shaping the Future of the Hospitality Industry 

On Wednesday 19 June, the Michael Caines Academy at Exeter College celebrated the class of 2024 after two years of dedication, hard work and commitment.  

The Academy aims to nurture the region’s future generation of talented restaurateurs, chefs, restaurant managers, waiters, and front of house staff by providing high quality experiences, challenging practical and theoretical workshops and masterclasses from the best the industry has to offer.  

The Michael Caines Academy graduating class of 2024 stand in the herb garden
The graduating class of 2024.

Michael Caines MBD DL, renowned Michelin starred chef and alumni and patron of Exeter College said; 

“Like every year, we are here to celebrate the graduation of our students who have finished two amazing years. All the students have been exceptional, they have been dedicated and embraced all elements of the course. Their commitment has been up to the name of Michael Caines, so I’m really pleased for them.  

“It’s always sad to see them go but it’s also nice to see the first year students cooking for the second year students, next year they will be graduating themselves and so the entire process continues. I am so proud that they are going off into the hospitality industry knowing they have had two amazing years.” 

Michael Caines cooks in the kitchen with three students
Michael Caines cooking in kitchen with first year Michael Caines Academy students.

Michael Caines Academy tutors at Exeter College, Ian Biggar and Paul Carne, expressed their thanks to all the supporters of the Academy which provide opportunities for the learners. Speaking about the students, they said: 

“It has been a privilege getting to know all the students and being able to work with them so that they can meet their potential. Throughout their time at college the students have done so well, achieved some outstanding results and it’s been amazing to see them flourish in their work placements.” 

Chair of governors Bindu Arjoon and Michael Caines present a student with her graduating certificate
Chair of Governors, Bindu Arjoon and Michael Caines present Leah Attwood with her graduating certificate.

Decs Moss is one of the graduating students. Decs is progressing to the Level 3 course next year whilst also working in industry. He hopes to open his own restaurant one day. Speaking about his time at College, he said; 

“My experience at College has been phenomenal. I have enjoyed so many aspects of it such as the trips, the contacts I made and the chefs I met. The friends I have made have been one of the best parts and I cannot wait to see what everyone goes on to do – whatever it is I’m sure they will be great.  

“One of the reasons I chose the Academy is because on the open day all the lecturers were so helpful and welcoming, which really helped to calm the stressful experience of deciding what course to study. Being a graduate of the Michael Caines Academy, and having that on my CV, will help with my future job opportunities. Exeter College and the Academy is such an amazing place – I am so happy I was a part of it.” 

A male and female student stand in the herb garden
Decs Moss and Belle Susila are graduating this year.

Belle Susila is also graduating this year. She describes her College experience as bringing her genuine happiness. 

“The class that I have been with for the past two years has become a second family to me. We are so close with one another, and I guarantee I have made friends for life.  

“The Michael Caines Academy has given me so many new experiences. I have enjoyed every minute of it, going from our enrichment trips to each skills lesson at College. It has driven and prepared me for my future. With the skills that I have learnt and the passion I have seen from my lecturers and other classmates, I hope to acquire a job in the hospitality industry. I chose the Academy because of my love for cooking and my readiness to become a chef. However, I’ve learnt through this course how much I have connected with the front of house aspect and wish to continue with that.” 

“The Academy first intrigued me because of its involvement with Michael Caines himself. He has been an inspiration to me and my classmates. I have never regretted my choice of study and I hope future students get the experience and opportunities I received while at Exeter College.” 

You can visit one of the College open events in the new academic year. Register now to be the first to hear about dates. 

Find out more about the Michael Caines Academy. 

Exeter College student shortlisted in 2024 National Theatre New Views playwriting competition 

An Exeter College A Level student, Clay Colman, from Chulmleigh, Devon has been shortlisted in this year’s New Views programme, the National Theatre’s annual nationwide playwriting competition for young people.    

Clay, who studies A Levels in Drama and Theatre, Art and Design and English Literature submitted a play called The Kids are Smoking, Again. The script was selected from over 500 submissions from across the UK and will be presented as a rehearsed reading in the Duffield Studio at the National Theatre as part of the New Views Festival on 4-5 July. Alongside six other shortlisted plays, it will be read on Friday 5 July by professional actors for audiences to watch for free. 

New Views is the National Theatre’s nationwide playwriting programme for students aged 14-19. Participating schools and colleges work with a professional playwright to mentor students in writing their own original 30-minute play. 500 plays were submitted for New Views 2024 from 90 schools across the UK.    

The Kids are Smoking, Again follows two generations captured in a moment in time, suffocated by their own internal dialogue, but connected through the same sigh. Each has so much to say but is anyone really listening? 

Speaking on being shortlisted for New Views 2024, Clay said; 

“I am beyond grateful to have this opportunity to see my work staged as a reading! It has been a thrill to work with eager creative minds: exploring, experimenting and developing our pieces as a team- playing with ideas and challenging each other to freely follow ambitions. New Views, have opened a door and pushed me to pursue my aspirations!” 

Clay’s play was shortlisted by a panel of judges from across the industry. The seven shortlisted plays are open to the public to watch for free and include themes of LGBTQIA+ relationships, AI, community, war, mental health and online safety. 

Rufus Norris, Director of the National Theatre, said; 

“I am so excited to be supporting this year’s New Views writers in my final year at the National Theatre. New Views is a wonderful platform for young people across the UK to be empowered to share their perspective on topical issues as well as develop their creativity and writing skills, helping to nurture the next generation of theatre makers and writers while encouraging creative self-expression in whatever they choose to do in life.” 

Clay was able to access this opportunity through the Exeter College Performing Arts Academy. This is a stretch and challenge programme for performing arts students where the aim is to introduce students to ‘line of sight’ opportunities. This year this has led to the College exploring a partnership with the National Theatre and ‘New Views’. 

Triumph on Two Fronts: Exeter College Shines in National Rugby and Hockey Championships 

The Rosslyn Park 7’s tournament, known as the largest 7-a-side tournament globally, witnessed over 14,000 boys and girls competing fiercely. Among them, two teams from Exeter College entered into the fray, each aiming for glory in their respective categories. 

In the Girls U18 ACE competition, dubbed the top tier for girls U18, our blue team geared up for intense battles. Drawn into Pool B against other AoC Performance College teams, including Henley College (Ealing Trailfinders), Loughborough College (Loughborough Lightning), Oaklands College (Saracens Rugby), and Worthing College B (Harlequins), our squad faced rigorous challenges. However, they displayed exceptional skill and fitness, eventually clinching victory against Worthing College A, the Harlequins Academy, in the final with a commanding 20-7 scoreline. Tilly Pulfer’s blazing speed earned her a hat-trick of tries, while Charlotte Wreford’s masterful control and strategic play earned her the title of player of the tournament. 

Simultaneously, in the Girls U18 Open competition, our team in pink and black took on the challenge. Placed in Pool K on day one, they fought fiercely, securing a spot in the next round by finishing second, despite a narrow loss to Peter Symonds. Their determination shone through as they progressed to day two, ultimately triumphing in the final against Samuel Whitbread Academy with a 19-5 victory. 

Meanwhile, in another sporting arena, Exeter College’s men’s hockey team showcased their prowess in the England Hockey Notts Sport Schools Tier 3 National Championships. After battling through the Devon and West of England rounds, they faced off against the nation’s best. 

Their journey to victory was hard-fought. A crucial 2-1 win against Sevenoaks propelled them to the top of the group, with goals from captain Innes Rose-Price and Ronnie Horne securing the victory. Subsequent victories against Royal Russell and Sandbach solidified their place in the elite final. In a nail-biting final showdown, goals from Sol Bloomfield and Zach Simons, coupled with resilient defending from Tristan Peatt and Jacob Murphy, led them to a 2-1 victory over Worksop, clinching the coveted silverware. 

Both on the rugby field and the hockey pitch, our teams showcased not only their skill and fitness but also their unwavering determination to emerge victorious, etching their names on numerous trophies of sporting excellence. 

Find out more about our Sports Teams at our next Open Event on Wednesday 24 April. 

New programme aims to boost job prospects for care experienced young people

A pioneering new programme has been launched to improve career opportunities for care experienced young people in Devon.

Devon County Council and Exeter College have worked in partnership to develop the PACE (Positive About Care Experienced) programme with the aim of creating a ground-breaking business network dedicated to working with young people who are, or have been, in the care system.

The scheme is designed to help employers feel confident in their ability to support care experienced young people and to commit to working with the County Council and Exeter College to remove barriers that they might face.

Evidence gathered by Devon County Council suggests that those in the care system are facing significant challenges in finding suitable employment and training across the county.

Last year in Devon, 25% of children in care over the age of 18 and around 35% of care leavers were not engaged in education, employment or training.

Employers who sign up to PACE will be offered regular training days throughout the year, delivered by a team of County Council and Exeter College staff. The training covers a wide range of subjects including recruitment, inclusive employment, mentoring, apprenticeships and grants and funding.

The first 20 employers signed up to the programme took part in the initial training provided at the launch event at the Future Skills Centre.

Among those who attended the launch event was Jake McClure, from the UK Health Security Agency, who has previously employed a care experienced young person as an apprentice. Jake said:

“PACE is such a great project to advocate for care experienced young people. My own experience of employing a care experienced apprentice was beneficial for both parties; he was passionate and a very capable talent; and we were able to support him to progress upwards into the business.”

Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, said:

“We recognise that more needs to be done to improve opportunities for our care experienced young people in Devon and this is just the beginning of working with Exeter College and local employers to ensure that happens. A lot of work has gone into developing this programme and I’ve no doubt that everyone who takes part will see the value that care experienced young people can bring to any organisation.”

Councillor Andrew Leadbetter, Devon County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for children’s services, said:

“The great thing is that young people have been fully involved in the development of this training by telling us about their own experiences of entering employment, and the difficulties they’ve faced. We take our role as corporate parent extremely seriously and this new PACE programme reflects that, and it will ensure that our care experienced young people are given the training and employment opportunities they need for a successful future.”

Mike Blakeley, Director of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement at Exeter College, added:

“Exeter College values any opportunity to positively engage with our community across Devon. The support of care experienced young people has never been more critical. The PACE project brings together a number of businesses from across our employer network who want to provide employment opportunities to this group.

“This is a unique programme developed with Devon County Council, that will place the young people’s needs front and centre of the recruitment process. The collaboration with our DCC colleagues has shaped a superb and motivated partnership. We are excited to be supporting these young people on their career journey.”

For more information about the PACE programme email hayleylyon@exe-coll.ac.uk  or debbie.stafford@devon.gov.uk

Exeter College Culinary Star, Paul Carne, Receives Prestigious City and Guilds Outstanding Achievement Award 

An Exeter College teacher has been recognised for his knowledge and skill in the kitchen. Hospitality teacher Paul Carne, Programme Leader for the esteemed Michael Caines Academy, was nominated for a prestigious City and Guilds Award by his peers and ultimately awarded an Outstanding Achievement Award. 

The City and Guilds Professional Recognition Awards have been developed for those at the highest professional levels within their chosen careers. The awards are NQF (National Qualifications Framework) accredited qualifications which enable candidates to demonstrate their knowledge and skills within any sector or role.   

As a result of winning the City and Guilds Award and because judges were so impressed with his nomination, Paul was also awarded the Cherry Grainger prize from the Worshipful Company of Cooks, one of only two chefs in the whole country. 

Presented by the Livery Companies Skills Council and The City and Guilds of London Institute, Paul Carne was invited to the historic Mansion House in London. 

Expressing his gratitude, Paul remarked; 

“It’s been a huge privilege to receive and attend the awards and a fantastic experience to attend such awards which have a huge tradition. To represent the college and the hard work of the whole hospitality faculty is an honour.   

I have a real love for all things hospitality, the food, the buzz and the people. These awards ceremonies have given me a new experience into the industry and one I look forward to sharing with my learners.  

I often talk to my students about their future careers and where their paths may lead, for me coming into the college to give a demonstration to the Michael Caines Academy gave me a spark to look to join the college and move into education. I have truly enjoyed my journey so far and being lucky enough to be awarded these awards is the icing on the cake.” 

A male teacher cooks at the stove with two female students looking over his shoulder.

In his nomination, his colleague Matt Pickett, wrote; 

“Paul is always willing to support hospitality events, even in the summer holidays and this year Paul spent a week of his summer holiday cooking for Exeter City’s Charitable Trust, catering for 900 of the cities most disadvantaged children under the HAF activities, Paul even drove the food to the children and helped serve.” 

“Paul facilitates a 6-week work placement for his 16 learners ranging across the country, with many of these placements leading to full time employment and incredible outcomes for his learners.  Paul’s success rates, retention and achievements are always sector leading, with an enormous output of enrichment for his learners. A very tough balancing act that involves a large amount of 1:1 and group tutorial time.” 

Bryher Wilson, studying the Level 3 NVQ in Professional Cookery, is one of these learners, speaking about Paul, she said; 

“Mr Carne was my tutor for Level 2 and he was very supportive and guided us to be more confident and taught us a lot in cooking too. He’s very approachable.” 

Josh Conibear, also studying the Professional Cookery course, added; 

“He was one of the first teachers I had in my first year and he was really inspiring and helped me find the love for cooking I didn’t know I had. Even now, in third year, he’s just amazing really. 

“He taught me to be creative with everything I do. I’m already quite confident with doing it but sometimes I just follow the recipe and instructions too much. So, trying to put my own twist on it and be creative with everything I do.” 

Paul has worked at the College for eight years, starting in an associate lecturer role, moving into the programme lead role. His transition into teaching brought with him excellent industry knowledge and has enabled Paul to mentor many new colleagues, helping them with the transition into teaching. 

Head of Faculty for Hospitality, Hair and Beauty, Tracey Bennett, said; 

“Paul is the colleague, teacher, and friend that everyone needs in their team, and we are the envy of many departments with the amount of enrichment, commitment and success that Paul is able to achieve, always with a smile. We are very proud that his hard work has been recognised with these awards.” 

Come and experience our award-winning hospitality at the AA College Restaurant of the year, @thirty-four, and book your table today. 

If you interested in studying Hospitality at Exeter College, then visit us at our next Open Event to find out more. 

Showing 28-37 of 1234