Outstanding Exeter College Students Honoured at Awards Night

Exeter College’s Student Awards celebration has recognised the exceptional individuals whose determination and aspiration stood out in what has been a record-breaking year of achievement at the College.

Over 180 guests attended the glamourous awards ceremony, held at the Mercure Rougemont Hotel on 18 January 2024, to celebrate inspirational students from a wide range of College courses.

The awards mark the culmination of yet another outstanding year at the College. Highlights include the College’s best ever academic and vocational results and a full Ofsted inspection in which Exeter College became the first college in England to secure the two top grades of Outstanding (overall effectiveness) and Strong (how effectively the College meets the skills needs of the area). Students have continued to shine in every area of College life, with standout performances in every faculty and curriculum area.

John Laramy CBE, Chief Executive and Principal at Exeter College said;

“I would like to congratulate all of tonight’s award winners. It is truly fantastic to see students from all subject areas here this evening, representing the wide range of courses and opportunities available at Exeter College.

“We are extremely proud of all our students, who contributed to one of the most successful years in the long history of the College, with an impressive array of results and achievements. I would like to thank all our students and our staff, who collectively, have yet again shown why we are rated as one of the best colleges in the entire nation. I would like to wish all those students who completed their studies with us last year the very best for the future, keep in touch!

“I must also extend a massive thank you to our partners, sponsors, and employers, whose collaboration, challenge and commitment means that as a College, we are able to offer amazing opportunities and experiences to our students.”

The College was delighted to welcome Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, as the Guest of Honour at the awards.

Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, said:

“I am delighted to have been invited as the Guest of Honour for Exeter College’s annual student awards. These outstanding students will be our future leaders, and having the opportunity to celebrate their achievements with them was a real pleasure. They have worked so hard and they fully deserve their recognition.

“The University of Exeter and Exeter College have a longstanding partnership, and a shared purpose and ambition to see the city of Exeter, and the South West region, thrive. Both institutions believe very strongly in the power of education to change the world for the better, and together we are making a lasting difference to our region, through improving skills, breaking down barriers to attainment, and training the next generation. It is a partnership we deeply value, and one we hope will go from strength-to-strength in the coming years.”

The 26 award winners enjoyed the opportunity to reflect on their impressive achievements and the chance to catch up with past tutors and teachers.

Kaja Potoniec (pictured above) was awarded Higher Apprentice of the Year after being a standout student on the HNC Civil Engineering Apprenticeship. Kaja also undertook two additional Level 5 units which allowed her to progress to a Degree Apprenticeship at the University of Exeter. Kaja says it was unexpected when she was told she had won this award.

“I had a really good learning experience. Everyone was really helpful and the fact that I could do the extra modules which helped me progress was fantastic, I just couldn’t have done it without the support of the College. Tonight shows that anything is possible really.”

Nick Jarvis (pictured above) was a member of the Learner Leadership Team and a Student Representative, sharing feedback in the Learner Voice forum, as well as volunteering at College events. He studied A Levels in Maths, Physics and French. He was awarded EXtra Learner of Year. Nick is currently on a gap year and will be studying Physics at university this September. He said;

“I really enjoyed College, everyone was really welcoming. I had a lot of medical challenges and I was given a lot of support.

“All the work with EXtra really helped my interpersonal skills and built up my confidence, it was nice to speak with students I wouldn’t normally meet.

“It’s been a really nice experience tonight, it’s great to see my tutor again and my teachers so I’m very happy to be here.”

Katie Carlo (pictured above) came to Exeter College from the Teign School and studied the T Level in Education and Childcare and gaining an impressive Distinction Star. She won T Level Learner of the Year and is now doing an Education Degree at Cardiff University.

“When I first came in tonight, and saw it was so grand, I was a bit nervous but then I saw my tutor which was so nice. It was a pleasant surprise to get my award, I was happy. With my course, it turns out, I was one of nine in the country to get that grade which was a bit of a shock.

“I wanted to come to Exeter because of the city and to meet more people and have the choice of the variety of courses. I chose the T Level and really enjoyed my placement; it was arranged very easily, and it was a good distance from home. College was very flexible in helping me with what I wanted so I did a Teaching Assistant role.”

The winners of the ExeCollProud Award: Irsana Dombaeva, Kamila Elyasi, Sapida Elyasi, Hadees Khan, Zaid Razeen and Zainab Razeen pictured with tutor Matt Hine and Assistant Principal Sam Hillman

The final Award of the evening is the #ExeCollProud Award, chosen for those who have gone above and beyond, often overcoming exceptional circumstances. This year the Award went to a group of learners who impressed everyone from the moment they arrived at the College and started studying on the fast track GCSE programme. This award went to Irsana Dombaeva, Kamila Elyasi, Sapida Elyasi, Hadees Khan, Zaid Razeen and Zainab Razeen who had some incredible success with the GCSEs they sat in the summer, all now moving on to advanced courses at the College. Sapida Elyasi said;

“I can confidently say that one of the most enjoyable things about studying at Exeter College is the supportive community, staff members (teachers and others), that are willing to help and support however they can, allowing us to fully express ourselves and our potential.

“It didn’t feel like we have been pressured to do anything during preparation for GCSEs and even though everyone is studying more complicated courses now, we still feel that support from everyone in College.

“College is a place where we’re not afraid to ask for help. We are all grateful for this opportunity and for being nominated, it means a lot to us.”

Zainab Razeen added;

“Receiving this award has further motivated me to continue striving for excellence in my academic pursuits. It’s a reminder of the impact that determination and perseverance can have on achieving our goals. I am excited to build upon this nomination and continue my educational journey with enthusiasm and dedication.”

The College would like to congratulate all the 2024 award winners and say a big thank you to all the sponsors who make this inspirational event possible.

Award Category	Student	Sponsor
Award for Academic Excellence	Joshua Dargan	Peninsula Project Consulting
Award for Academic Excellence	Zoe Garner	Exeter Science Park
IB Learner of the Year	Eleanor Keay	Foot Anstey
Award for Vocational & Technical Excellence	William Turner	Focus
Award for Vocational & Technical Excellence	Sennen O’Connor	Exeter Aerospace
T Level Learner of the Year	Katie Carlo	Stagecoach
Apprentice of the Year	Aimee Fantham	Taylor Lewis
Higher Apprentice of the Year	Kaja Potoniec	Willmott Dixon
Digital Media Academy Student of the Year	Hugo Brizs	Nevada Construction
Performing Arts Academy Student of the Year	Elsie Gordon	Cartridges Law
Michael Caines Academy Student of the Year	Bryher Wilson	Lympstone Manor
Reach Academy Student of the Year	Therese Walsh	University of Exeter
Esports Academy Student of the Year	Oscar Bonner	Timewade
Sports Academy Student of the Year	Daniel Preece	Exeter “CITY” Community Trust
School of Art Student of the Year	Maisie Pepperell	Pollards
ESOL Student of the Year	Pamfiluta Petrescu	Refugee Support Devon
The HILL Student of the Year	Loui Benthall	Coreus
Bootcamp Learner of the Year	Lucy Yates	digiLab
Higher Technical Learner of the Year	Daniel Leigh	Optix Solutions
EXtra Learner of the Year	Nicholas Jarvis	Exeter Cathedral
The #ExeCollProud Award	Irsana Dombaeva, Kamila Elyasi, Sapida Elyasi, Hadees Khan, Zaid Razeen and Zainab Razeen	GWR

Exeter College Athletes Shine on International Stage

Exeter College is celebrating an array of sporting stars as numerous students represent their country in various sports, both at home and abroad. This proud roster of talented athletes showcases the College’s dedication to fostering a culture of sporting excellence and supporting students in achieving their athletic dreams.

One such standout is Harriet King, Amelia Baines and Ruby Hatherly, competing in the AP Race International at the prestigious London Aquatics Centre for Great Britain. This event offers the next generation a platform to race alongside current Olympic and world champions, promising an exhilarating weekend of competition.

Two female and one male sport students smile at the camera in their blue academy kit. — Mimi Allington, Charlie Francis, and Steph Vellacott played for the AoC Sport England Hockey Team.

Joining the ranks of accomplished athletes is Evie Webster, a force to be reckoned with in BMX Racing. With an impressive track record, including placements in the last three World Championships for Britain and notable finishes in European championships, Webster continues to impress.

Ben Yunnie, excelling in Slalom Skiing, has made his mark with consistent top-10 finishes in the dry slope circuit. His ambitions are now set on the FIS competition in Bormio, Italy, Yunnie aims to further showcase his talent on an international stage.

Freddie Barlow, part of the GB talent squad in Modern Pentathlon, recently participated in the ‘Olympic Hopes’ competition and has competed internationally in various championships, displaying remarkable skill in multiple disciplines.

Five female rugby players smile at the camera in their blue academy kit. — Charlotte Heath, Katherine Dyke, Mia Ryrie, Kayleigh Priest, and Tilly Pulfer (left to right) played for England U18 or Scotland U18 rugby teams.

The College’s representation spans across various sports, with individuals like Harry Brett and Harry Hebard joining England’s U19 indoor volleyball team, while Amelie Andrew secured a spot in the U19 British youth sailing team, triumphing in events across Europe.

Moreover, Exeter College proudly boasts talents like Mimi Allington, Charlie Francis, and Steph Vellacott in the AoC Sport England Hockey Team, showcasing the diversity and depth of sporting talent.

The rugby arena witnessed stellar performances from Jed Findley, Luke Evans, Nick Lilley, Charlotte Heath, Katherine Dyke, Kayleigh Priest, Tilly Pulfer, and Mia Ryrie, representing England’s U18 and Scotland’s U18 rugby teams respectively.

Daisy Liu and Innis Rose-Price played for the Great Britain U20’s ultimate frisbee teams.

Not to be outdone, Innis Rose-Price, Daisy Liu, Ioan Sharpe, CC Addison, Toby Bullock, and Aaron Hale, make waves in ultimate frisbee, squash, netball, sprint kayaking, and football, demonstrating the breadth of sporting talent nurtured at Exeter College.

These exceptional achievements stand as a testament to the College’s commitment to nurturing excellence in sports and providing a platform for students to shine on the international stage. As these athletes continue to reach new heights, they serve as inspirations for future generations, embodying the spirit of dedication, passion, and unwavering determination.

Find out more about the Sport courses and opportunities available at Exeter College at the next Open Event.

A new £12million Centre for Law and Social Sciences

In 2024, we will start a number of transformational investments into our estate to enhance facilities for our learners. Our largest investment is in a new £12million Centre for Law and Social Sciences, due to open in September 2025.

The building will replace the current Baker Building and host 25 new classrooms alongside new staff and study spaces to meet the demand of the increase in learners looking for academic qualifications such as A Levels, T Levels, and the International Baccalaureate (IB).

An architects visualisation of what the new building will look like.

The proposed building will be a BREEAM excellent accredited building, made up of a mixture of amazing teaching spaces, a staff room, social and study spaces, lecture theatre, exam testing suite and a moot chamber (for the College’s award-winning debating teams to practice in and its aspiring lawyers to hold mock-trials in). There will also be space for changing facilities for cyclists and runners, to assist those that travel to College in this way.

This new block will be linked with the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences and Languages. There are incredible success stories that come out of this academic faculty, with learners progressing to universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and even Harvard.

There are also plans to enhance the landscaping around the site, particularly on the elevation that looks out over Exwick. The demolition of the current building will affect how others see the site, so part of the scheme is addressing the changes in the landscape with the ambition to create a better, more sustainable environment and more usable space for students and staff to enjoy.

See and hear more about this development from John Laramy CBE, Exeter College Principal and CEO by watching the video below.

Jay’s Aim Educates Thousands of Young Exeter College Students in CPR

Exeter College has been working with Devon charity, Jay’s Aim, to train thousands of students in the correct use of CPR. In addition to this, the charity has worked with the College Safety, Health and Environment Manager to help replace defibrillators in key places across College sites.

The charity aims to reduce the number of young people that die of sudden cardiac arrests in South West England. They do this in 3 ways; by offering free to attend CPR and defibrillator training, providing public access to defibrillators (in most cases funded by the charity for public places), and offering heart screenings for young people.

Dan Osborne, CEO and Charity Manager at Jay’s Aim has been working closely with the College. He said;

“Jay’s Aim was set up in memory of Jay Osborne, who died from a sudden cardiac arrest at the age of 28. Jay didn’t have many, if any, signs, or symptoms and sadly, had a cardiac arrest while he was out running in Exeter and couldn’t be saved. A lot of what we do is to try and make people aware that it is not always the people that you might think that have a cardiac arrest. Cardiac arrest can and do happen to young people as well.”

When someone has a cardiac arrest, if somebody can start immediate CPR and make use of a defibrillator within the first five minutes, their chance of survival goes from 6% up to 74%. Dan explains;

“The downside is that every minute that passes after the five-minute mark, the chance of survival goes down by 10%. So, by six minutes you are down to 64%, by seven minutes your down to 50%, and so on.

“That statistic highlights why it is so important to have defibrillators everywhere and why it’s so great that Exeter College have now got 10 defibrillators across all of their sites, hopefully making that magic five-minute mark much more achievable in any location that you might be at Exeter College.”

Kelly Lamb, Student Experience Officer at Exeter College, has been working with Jay’s Aim to facilitate the CPR sessions. She said;

“CPR training is essential for young people, and we are proud to have successfully trained approximately 3000 students over the past year.

“The workshops with Jay’s Aim go beyond imparting life-saving skills. Students actively engage in the workshops, contributing to a positive learning environment where they not only acquire crucial knowledge but also participate enthusiastically. The workshops enhance their readiness to respond effectively in emergencies and this fosters a sense of empowerment and community responsibility.”

Mike Loomes, Safety, Health and Environment Manager, at Exeter College has been coordinating the replacement of defibrillators across the College sites. He said;

“We have invested a lot of time, effort, and money with Jay’s Aim and this work with them is absolutely invaluable. Many of the defibrillators on Exeter College sites are external facing so are accessible to the public. This includes Exwick Sports Hub, the Maths and Science Centre (end of Queen Street), Flowerpots Playing Fields, and Haven Banks Outdoor Education Centre.”

Exeter College will continue to work with Jay’s Aim to train young people in CPR and highlight the importance of attending heart screenings.

Exeter College’s Annual Festival of Carols Enchants Audience with Timeless Classics and Original Flair

Exeter College proudly presented its annual Festival of Carols this Thursday evening, bringing together students, parents, and the wider Exeter community to celebrate the start of the festive season and a reflective close to the year, in the spectacular setting of Exeter Cathedral.

The service was officiated by Reverend Matt Clayton, Leader of Unlimited Church and The Reverend Canon Cate Edmonds, Canon Steward at Exeter Cathedral.

The festival was opened with welcome addresses from Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy CBE and The Reverend Canon Cate Edmonds, Canon Steward at Exeter Cathedral. Students then processed down the nave with a candlelit procession, singing ‘Wenceslas Canon’.

John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College, said:

“I am once again in awe of the talent of our students, from those who have performed in a choir or orchestra, to those who have delivered a reading. This year the diversity of the talent on show was truly mesmerising. My thanks go to all our performers, readers and staff who have contributed to this event being such a success.

“After a spectacular start to the academic year, the Festival of Carols provides the perfect moment to reflect on what we have achieved and to thank those in our community who are critical to the success of the college.”

A packed cathedral enjoyed performances from the College’s wide range of choirs and orchestras, 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 ‘All on a Silent Night’, ‘Once in Royal David’s City’, and ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem’.

Laura Eggins is the Higher Education Student Governor.

Several learners also did readings amongst many other student performances, including Laura Eggins, Higher Education (HE) Student Governor, who is studying for a Foundation Degree in Business. She decided to stay on at the College after completing a Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship earlier this year. She said;

“I’m in my second year now and I have just amazed myself at how well I did last year and how I have added to my experience, which was part of the reason for applying to be HE student governor.”

Laura is hoping to stay on next year to complete the BA in Business Management. She says she hasn’t decided what to do next although she is thinking about training organisations in how to support visually impaired people, like herself.

“The support at College has been amazing, even when I have had to teach staff about my visual impairment, all my lecturers have been really supportive and the Higher Education Advice Team too. I get extra support through the Disabled Student Allowance, staff helped me set that up and with that support, I have really come out of my shell. My confidence has really grown.”

Lucy Joyce is studying for an Apprenticeship.

Lucy Joyce completed her A Levels with Exeter College in the summer and is now a Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice, working within the Apprenticeship Hub at Exeter College. Speaking about why she auditioned to do a reading, she said;

“Part of my college course is about personal goals and one of mine is public speaking, I’ve got quite a few presentations coming up, so I thought this would work nicely alongside it and help build my confidence.”

Speaking about her Apprenticeship, Lucy said;

“I’m really enjoying it, it’s practical and it fits nicely into my work. I really enjoy working in my team, it’s a nice community to be a part of.”

Troy De La Fosse is studying for a PGCE and works within the Art and Design Faculty at Exeter College. Troy previously studied for a Foundation Degree in Fine Art, eight years ago at Exeter College and hopes to one day teach at the College. Speaking about reading at the Festival of Carols, he said;

“It’s my second time studying at the College and I enjoy performing arts and thought it was a great opportunity to give back to the College. I’m really excited, I think it going to be a great evening.”

Speaking about his experience at College, Troy said;

“The support has been fantastic, I have a great mentor, I work in a great department, and everyone is really friendly, helpful and inclusive and I work with great students as well.

“I would 100% recommend Exeter College. I applied quite late so I feel like they took a chance on me and without Exeter College I wouldn’t be where I am now.”

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 have its own Pets as Therapy Dog, Digby, who works with the Wellbeing Team to support student and staff mental health while at college. You can still donate here.

You can see more photos from the event on our Facebook page.

Thank you to Emily Wilson-Manfield for the beautiful artwork used for the Festival of Carols Programme. Emily is studying the Level 3 UAL Extended Diploma in Creative Practice; Art, Design and Communication.

This year’s Festival of Carols was kindly sponsored by Taylor Lewis, Peninsula Project Consulting and Pollards Print.

Give the Gift of Learning this Christmas

Still searching for the perfect Christmas gift?

Give the gift of learning this festive season. It’s easy!

Choose a Leisure course and follow our simple Click and Pay system
Input the details of the recipient
Email info@exe-coll.ac.uk to notify our admissions team of the gift purchase.

Choose the perfect course now.

Our leisure courses can help you to discover a new hobby, spark creativity or learn new skills. These courses are an ideal way to unwind, what could be better than doing something that makes someone you love feel happy?

Make art, write short stories, craft clay pots, learn a language, play guitar, create silver jewellery or relax with yoga – browse courses to find the perfect gift.

Please note that College is closed between Friday 15 December 2023 and Tuesday 2 January 2024 so for any orders purchased during this time, the enrolments will be processed on our return in the new year.

Ellie Pickering and Ruth Brennan: Celebrating Excellence in Leadership and Professional Development

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) has honoured two outstanding individuals who have studied at Exeter College, Ellie Pickering and Ruth Brennan, for their exemplary achievements in leadership and professional development.

Ellie Pickering, Project Manager at the University of Exeter, has been awarded the prestigious CMI Student of the Year, while Ruth Brennan was shortlisted for the CMI Apprentice of the Year.

During her time at Exeter College, Ellie Pickering completed the Level 5 Operations/Departmental Manager Apprenticeship, incorporating the CMI Level 5 Diploma in Management, and achieved a Distinction grade in her end point assessment. Ruth completed the CMI Level 3 Team Leader/Supervisor Apprenticeship and also achieved a Distinction.

Ellie, leading the PROTECT operations team at the University of Exeter, manages a medical research portfolio involving digital development, clinical trials, data management, and project oversight. Her instrumental role in managing the PROTECT: Platform for Research Online to Investigate Genetics and Cognition in Ageing, a significant 25-year cohort study, has engaged over 30,000 participants across the UK, Norway, and Canada. Ellie’s dedication to this groundbreaking research aims to understand the impact of genes and lifestyle factors on brain ageing, with a focus on preventing conditions such as dementia.

Reflecting on her achievements, Ellie Pickering said;

“It feels wonderful to have been honoured with this prestigious award recognising the effort I made in learning and applying what I learned in my day-to-day work. I would like to thank my tutors, Dee Ceponis and Nikki Hayes, for nominating me for the award. Being nominated in the first place was surprising and exciting. I feel motivated to continue working in such a way that others think so highly of.”

She continues;

“Participating in the CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Level 5 Diploma Course in Leadership and Management as an apprentice was transformative for me because I developed a positive and inclusive mindset along with a strong commitment to professional and personal development for myself and my team; the skills and knowledge I learned (and continue to learn) through CMI have had a tremendous impact on the work my team and I do.”

Meanwhile, Ruth Brennan, has seen her journey marked by a determination to excel. Completing her apprenticeship has empowered Ruth to confidently transition into her current role as an Inspector of Health and Safety, utilising skills cultivated during her apprenticeship journey with Exeter College and GWR. She said;

“I was humbled and delighted to be shortlisted for the CMI Outstanding Apprentice of the Year. The apprenticeship journey equipped me with the confidence and skills essential for my role as an Inspector of Health and Safety.”

Ruth’s apprenticeship experience has been pivotal in developing crucial skills like emotional intelligence, active listening, and effective communication, enhancing her ability to excel in her current role. Her standout moments include honing her confidence, developing her management style, and creating a safe, respectful space for collaborative learning.

About CMI:

The Chartered Management Institute (CMI) is dedicated to promoting the highest standards in management and leadership excellence. It supports individuals and organisations in their quest for professional development and performance improvement, fostering a community of aspiring and accomplished professionals globally.

Find out more about professional courses at the next Exeter College Open Event.

Search professional courses.

The Exeter City of Literature charity has released a new short film to celebrate Exeter’s status as a UNESCO-designated City of Literature. The film features members of its Partnership Network and the literary activity they produce throughout the city, from author events with Quay Words, plays with Beyond Face, festivals with Bookbag, and much more. Exeter was designated a UNESCO City of Literature in 2019 and will hold this title in perpetuity. It recognizes Exeter’s strong literary history, dating back over 1,000 years, and the city’s focus on literature and well-being within its cultural offer.

Exeter City of Literature commissioned local company Preston Street Films to shoot and edit the footage. Performance poet Shaday Barrowes-Bayewunmi recorded the voice-over, and freelance writer Duncan Moreland wrote the script. The film will be shown before all of the Powell & Pressburger and Dance First screenings at Exeter Phoenix in November and December.

Exeter has an unbroken history of reading and writing dating back over 1,000 years when the Exeter Book was created (itself recognized by UNESCO as one of the “world’s principal cultural artefacts”). Since then, the region has inspired writers from Charles Dickens to Agatha Christie; it’s been home to Hilary Mantel and Ted Hughes; and as a UNESCO City of Literature, it has brought world-renowned authors, Ukrainian poets, and international opportunities to the residents, students, and visitors of Exeter.

Anna Cohn Orchard, Executive Director of Exeter City of Literature says;

“Culture shapes and defines a place and we’re proud that the literary sector, in all of its creative forms, is defining Exeter’s future as much as it did its past. There is so much literary and storytelling activity going on in Exeter–this film celebrates that and shows why Exeter is a UNESCO City of Literature. Every organization featured in the film–and the attendees, visitors, and writers connected to them–makes Exeter the vibrant City of Literature it is.”

View the film.

Students Triumph in Accountancy and Cyber Security at National WorldSkills Competition

Students from Exeter College recently made their way to the WorldSkills National Finals in Manchester to compete against thousands of young individuals and teams in the ultimate test of their ability.

WorldSkills supports young people across the world via competitions-based training, assessment and benchmarking, with members’ national teams competing to achieve world-class standards in the biennial ‘skills olympics’.

Exeter College was represented in Cyber Skills and Accounting. Lucy Doyle, Ashleigh Chambers and Christian Jones, studied a Level 3 and 4 Apprenticeship in Accountancy with the College and are now Accounting Trainees with Simpkins Edwards LLP. Their team ‘Surpassing Expectations’ came away with Gold. Emily Medland, Jack McAllister and Joanne Rogers also competed in this category.

The accountancy team were given 4.5 hours to prepare a presentation based on a zero-waste grocery shop. The following day they then presented to a panel of judges including representatives from Kaplan and the ICAEW.

Lucy Doyle said;

“We are all incredibly grateful for the opportunity to enter this competition and have learnt invaluable skills which we will carry with us through our everyday and working lives.”

Lucy Doyle and Christian Jones with their teachers at Exeter College

Programme Leader at Exeter College, Julie Rawle, said;

“The Accountancy delivery team at Exeter College are proud to have contributed to ‘Surpassing Expectations’ success. The competitors were asked to complete a case study for an ethics focused business that was looking to expand. They made full use of their AAT level 3 and 4 knowledge, including sustainability, CSR, SWOT and PESTLE analysis, to win gold in the Accounting Technician category. Congratulations to Ashleigh, Lucy and Christian!“

Connor and Luke with their Bronze WorldSkills medals

Second years Connor Pester and Luke Mcstravick are studying the T Level in Digital Support Services and came away from the competition with a bronze medal after competing against some of the leading bright talent in their field. The skills that they have developed on the T Level have helped prepare them for this competition, with the IT faculty providing mentoring and technical input at each stage of their journey.

At the competition they were tested on subjects relating to Cyber Security (ranging from Security Operations Center (or SOC) knowledge to Cisco Packet Tracer experience) and had to undertake both offensive and defensive cyber tasks that mirror real world experience.

Luke Mcstravick said;

“The competition was fierce as we had worked our way up from entry-level, where we faced 200 teams; to semi-finals where we faced 30 teams until we reached the finals where there were only 5 teams left.

“I believe what I enjoyed the most from the experience was being able to meet like-minded people to myself and Connor, which allowed me to make some, potentially, life-long friendships and memories. The memento of my medal will forever remind me of my wonderful experience competing up in Manchester for the WorldSkills 2023 Finals.”

Luke is completing his T Level industry placement with Mid Devon District Council and says;

“I couldn’t ask for a higher quality or quantity of knowledge and experience. I learn skills there that will very much be applicable to my future profession in IT and beyond and I am treated with respect.”

Connor is undertaking his industry placement with Securious based at the Exeter Science Park and will be one of the first in his cohort to complete the required hours for the T Level.

Learn more about World Skills.

Exeter College Students Wins the JISC Digital Student Award

Exeter College ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) learner Rahmatullah Omid, has been awarded the JISC Digital Student Award for positively embracing technology.

Rahmatullah Omid came to the College as a Refugee from Afghanistan, having never used a computer, and has now progressed to win an award. He started studying a Essential Digital Skills course, alongside ESOL Level 2 in Listening, Reading and Writing. Rahmatullah has now progressed onto ESOL Level 3. He said;

“I was surprised and shocked. I’m very happy to win the award. I have enjoyed my time at Exeter College. I like the teaching and my English and computer skills have improved a lot.

Speaking about the future, he said;

“I want to improve my education; I would like to go to university in the UK.”

Since 2020, we’ve experienced a world where face-to-face communication hasn’t always been possible and therefore having a grasp on digital technology and communication is vital to stay connected. This free Essential Digital Skills course is more important than ever and can help learners on the stepping stone to something else.

The course covers topics such as being responsible, legal and safe online, communicating online, and creating and editing (Word and Access/Spreadsheets).

Rahmatullah’s teacher Krisztina Tadhunter nominated him for the award after completing an 8-week computer course last year. She said;

“I am in awe and admiration of Rahmatullah’s total dedication to his studies. His positive approach and passion for technology have also proved inspirational for his peers.

“Rahmatullah’s progress in English Language and IT Skills, despite language barriers, has been truly inspiring. His drive and hard work have led to a great achievement. I am excited about where Rahmatullah will direct his talent next.”

You can find out more about free Digital Essential Skills courses at our next Open Event or call our Adult Advice Team on 01392 400170.