Exeter College Celebrates as Class of 2023 Triumphantly Graduates

On Friday 20 October, over 250 graduates from Exeter College proudly processed to Exeter Cathedral in an important rite of passage as they completed their degree at Exeter College. Students graduated from a wide range of programmes including Manufacturing Engineering, Early Childhood Studies, Coaching and Fitness, the AAT Professional Diploma in Accounting and Management and Leadership.

Exeter College is proud to run its Higher Education in partnership with four universities and two awarding bodies. This year, the University of Exeter, Kingston University, University of Plymouth, and Plymouth Marjon University, were all rated as Gold in the teaching excellence framework (TEF). Exeter, Plymouth and Kingston join a club of just 11% of HE providers to score triple gold. This commitment to excellence is passed on through our own teaching and learning and student experience which Higher Education students benefit from.

Two students smile at the camera in their graduation robes.

Higher Education at the College has had an exceptional year. The College reshaped and renewed its offer, with a focus on Higher Technical Education and became the first college in England to have a course kite marked as meeting the higher technical standard.

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

“This graduation ceremony is a significant milestone for our Higher Education students, being able to celebrate their success in the historic setting of Exeter Cathedral makes this an absolute highlight of our academic year.

“The dedication and hard work required to achieve a higher education qualification, often while working, means that today marks a huge accomplishment. We are incredibly proud of all their achievements, and we wish them all the best for their future endeavours.”

This year’s guest of honour was College alumni, Ben Page, Chief Executive of Ipsos. Ben completed his A Levels at Exeter College, then graduated from Oxford University in 1986. A frequent writer and speaker on trends, leadership and performance management, Ben has directed thousands of surveys examining consumer trends and citizen behaviour. He said;

“It was great to see how Exeter College had developed since I studied there in the 1980s – it’s a different world.

“I was very impressed by both the breadth and range of what is now on offer for students and business – and its strong partnerships with other local institutions and impact on the local economy, as well as on social mobility across the South West.”

This year’s Exeter College Award was awarded to Hazel Robson who has just graduated from the FdA in Early Childhood Studies. This award goes to the person who embodies what it is to be a higher education student at Exeter College. Outstanding achievements, overcoming hardship, resilience, and being proactive in supporting peers are all qualities that Hazel has shown during her time with the College.

Her tutor at Exeter College, Claire Tully, said;

“Hazel takes her studies very seriously and has juggled her time very well as a mature student, looking after her family and working part time in an early years setting. She has demonstrated a resilient mindset and although there have been times of struggle, she has worked hard to overcome these. She is passionate about the care and wellbeing of young children and indeed of early years professionals too.”

Two students smile at the camera in graduation gowns

Nicola Hunter and Emma Jarvis (pictured above) studied the HNC in Building Services. Emma Jarvis (right) has now progressed onto a degree at Bristol University and then hopes to do a Masters Degree in Building Services. She said;

“It’s a relief to graduate, it was a long journey but it’s good to finish it. Meeting other people in the industry was nice, we’ve got contacts now to help us in the future.” Nicola (left) added;

“I’ve gone onto Level 5 in Operations Management and going into Health and Safety and will probably do Level 6 next. We’ve had great teachers, really supportive, I would highly recommend it.”

Stewart smiles at the camera in his graduation gown

Stewart Mead (pictured above) studied the Level 4 Apprenticeship in Associate Project Management. He is an Engineering Project Manager for Premier Foods, mainly working at Ambrosia, where he has been for 19 years. Speaking about his College experience, he said;

“I am already a project manager so it’s an extension of my role and I wanted the professional credentials for what I already do.

“I would recommend it – you do have to dedicate a lot of time to it, it’s not always easy, but if your team is supportive, you will get through it. I have already applied a lot of the skills I have learnt.

“I’m delighted to be at graduation today, all the hard work has paid off for this moment and I’m excited to take what I have learnt into the future. It’s been supportive from the College and my tutor kept me on track, all in all, it’s been a very good experience.

“I also won ‘Most Inspiring’ at the Apprenticeship Awards which was a pretty big thing for me, I wasn’t expecting it, but it was the cherry on top for all the hard work.”

Emma smiles at the camera in her graduation gown.

Emma Collingwood (pictured above) studied the Diploma in Counselling after progressing from the Certificate in Counselling. She is now doing voluntary counselling for a local charity.

“I think you think of the College as something for younger people, I didn’t realise how much there is for adults and the number of different courses and the standard of the courses that they offer.

“It was brilliant, I couldn’t imagine that it would have such an impact. This really changes your life, especially with Counselling, everyone came out slightly differently to how we went in. The tutors were amazing, very different in how they work but it complimented each other. I feel lucky that we had them.”

Find out more about Higher Technical Education at Exeter College at the next Open Event on Wednesday 22 November.

Exeter College’s @thirty-four Restaurant is named AA College Restaurant of the Year

The Exeter College student-run restaurant, @thirty-four is going from strength to strength. Home to the prestigious Michael Caines Academy, which recently celebrated its 10th year, it has been awarded the AA College Restaurant of the Year, the highest accolade a college restaurant can achieve. This news comes after receiving an AA Highly Commended College Rosette earlier this year.

This year’s AA College Restaurant of the Year competition challenged participating college restaurants to design an event celebrating one of three significant milestones in 2023: the 50th Anniversary of the first Concorde pan Atlantic flight, the 75th Anniversary of the founding of the NHS, or the 100th anniversary of Disney Brothers Studios. Students then had to present their ideas to a panel of judges. Exeter College chose to design their event around the 75^th anniversary of the NHS.

Students hold out awards for college restaurant

Andy Doyle, Partnerships Manager at People 1st International, judged the competition and praised @thirty-four’s approach, saying;

“The Restaurant, @thirty-four, fully hit the brief with a well-planned and researched event proposed for the 75th anniversary of the NHS. They put great thought into all elements of the brief including the marketing plan for the event and how they would utilise other departments of the college provision such as performing arts.

“They also ensured that the planned meal focussed on local produce and suppliers bringing in a sustainable approach to the whole event. Congratulations to the lecturers and chefs at Exeter College and well done to all the college teams that took part.”

Hospitality students stand out the college restaurant with their award

John Laramy CBE, Exeter College Principal said;

“Our vision is to be an exceptional college; this achievement is truly exceptional. A sector leading outcome that shows our world class partnership with Michael Caines MBE DL, our fantastic staff and the work of our amazing students.”

Freya holds up the AA Hospitality Award — Freya Hole was one of the students who presented to the judges panel.

Michael Caines MBE DL, alumni, and patron of the College, said;

“I feel incredibly proud of the students and staff for winning this amazing award, it is a true testament to all the hard work that has gone on behind the scenes by the students and the College lecturers as well.

“I think past, and present students can be proud of this progression for the College and of the restaurant itself, with the beautiful refurbishment to bring it up to modern standards. The enthusiasm from all the team behind the scenes and out front too, has turned it into an amazing experience for customers.

“It’s easy to forget this is a training facility and a training environment and yet the standard is so high in every aspect in terms of the interior, the quality of the service and of course the food that is delivered by these young people, the future of our industry. It’s such a great achievement for the College, and rightfully so, they should be incredibly proud, it is brilliant to see.”

Second year Michael Caines Academy student, Freya Hole (pictured above) was one of the students who presented to the judging panel. Speaking about the experience, she said;

“It was an amazing opportunity to be able to work with Hospitality students from all three year groups to come up with this brilliant idea. We weren’t expecting to win so I think that’s what makes it even better because never in our wildest dreams were we expecting to win.”

Tracey Bennett, Head of Faculty for Hospitality, Hair, and Beauty at Exeter College, added;

“We are all so proud of the @thirty-four Restaurant and our commercial spaces and having this validated with the Highly Commended Rosette and now the College Restaurant of the Year has been amazing for everyone, students and staff alike.”

“This is such a fantastic achievement for all the students and staff across the diverse range of courses we offer here at Exeter College. From the Michael Caines Academy, NVQ and VRQ students; they all strive to meet the high standards their lecturers set.”

Staff collect award at AA Hospitality Awards — Staff were presented with the award at the AA Hospitality Awards in London.

Find out more about our Hospitality courses at our next Open Event.

Book a table at our award winning restaurant, @thirty-four.

Top Class Results for Exeter College Construction Students

Exeter College students completing their Construction T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning have achieved fantastic results, with 100% pass rate and top progression into employment or higher level study in the industry.

Sixth form students at the College can study a wide range of T Levels that combine classroom theory, practical learning and a three month industry placement to ensure students have the skills to thrive in the world of work.

This year’s Construction cohort have excelled both in their studies and placements and have also benefitted from a rich variety of experiences during their time at College. For example, a visit to the Glendinning quarry at Linhay Hill allowed students to find out about new technology which helps to increase the sustainability of quarrying. Students have also gained valuable insights into the industry through presentations and workshops by guest speakers, such as the Morgan Sindall Group.

Josh smiles at the camera — Joseph is now studying for a Degree Apprenticeship.

Students have gone on to secure excellent higher education and employment opportunities. For example, Joseph Bartlett (pictured above) is now studying for a Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying with Ward Williams Associates, where he completed his placement.

Joseph said; “I’ve started my Degree Apprenticeship already, and I’ll be doing that for five years. My Exeter College experience has been great; I would recommend the T Level as you can use what you’re learning in class straightaway and put it into practice on your industry placement.” 

T Level Construction students visit a quarry — Students visit Glendinning Quarry at Linhay Hill

The success of the T Level Construction students mirrors a highly successful year all round for technical and vocational students at Exeter College. These students use technical or vocational subjects as their passport to university, to an Apprenticeship, to their next level of study or directly into employment.  

For further information about study opportunities at Exeter College, visit an Open Event.

Adult Learners Excel with Outstanding GCSE Results

As thousands of young people around the country collected their GCSE results yesterday, adult learners also logged on to find out how they did. At Exeter College, adult learners take GCSEs in English, Maths and Biology every year.

Sarah Mandeno, Head of Faculty for Adult Learning at Exeter College, said;

“We are very proud of our adult learners’ progress and achievements this year. They have done brilliantly.

“Our teachers deliver an amazing learning experience and learners today have been full of praise for the outstanding teaching and support they have received.”

The College has also seen outstanding success from its 16-18 students who have collected GCSE results this week.

Adult learner, Nathan Mitchell-Campbell (pictured left above) collected his results today and achieved a brilliant 7 in GCSE English and a high 4 in Maths. He now plans to take GCSE Biology before progressing to the Access to Science course at Exeter College with the hope to study Marine Biology at university. Speaking about coming back to college, he said;

“I think as an adult, you have a much firmer choice and you’ve lived a bit, so you have an idea of what you’d enjoy and what you’d like to go into. I found as an adult I was able to make those choices more consciously and dedicate the energy where I needed it, compared to doing it when I was younger.

“It was a very relaxed environment. If I needed help, I could ask and see where I went wrong. The teachers were very kind and knowledgeable – it was just two people having a conversation and that’s why I found it so relaxing and got the grade I did.”

An adult learner sits outside and smiles at the camera — Alinu collected her GCSE results this week and hopes to move on to an Access course.

Alinu Dinu (pictured above) took GCSEs in Maths and English, achieving an incredible grade 5 and 4. Alinu, who currently works in care, hopes to do the Access to Science course with the aim of becoming a nurse. She was full of praise for the teaching and support she has received at Exeter College, saying;

“The schooling here is completely different than in Romania. You receive a lot of support and encouragement. In the beginning, I found it very, very hard. It’s not my first language. But my teacher, she was amazing. She supported me the whole time and gave me extra things to study, so I can improve myself. Thank you to our teachers. We did it!”

There is a variety of reasons for coming back into education, from wanting a change of career, to wanting to support children as they take their own GCSEs.

One such learner is Donna Drew (pictured below left) who originally wanted to take GCSE Maths to support her son. She is interested in teaching and is considering taking a PGCE next year.

Donna stands with her teacher and smiles at the camera — Donna with one of her teachers on GCSE results day

Today she achieved a grade 5 in Maths. Speaking about coming back into education, she said;

“The teachers are so supportive, aware of people’s different learning styles and skills. I’ve really enjoyed helping some of the people in my class with subjects I understood that maybe I could break down for them and that ignited that teaching bug again, approaching things from different angles.”

This success follows on from the achievements earlier in the summer by the College’s Access to HE students. This year, 95% of learners completed their programme and achieved the full 60 credits available.

In addition to this 100% of Access to Business, Healthcare and Science students completed and achieved the full 60 credits, while 80% of the Access to HE Humanities students achieved 100% Distinction credits.

Find out more about GCSE courses at Exeter College or contact our Adult Advice Team on AdultAdvice@exe-coll.ac.uk or 01392 400170.

Top-class Technical and Applied Results for Exeter College Students

Exeter College students completing technical and applied Advanced Level programmes have achieved outstanding results including an overall pass rate of over 98%.

Sixth form students at the College can study a wide range of challenging vocational and technical subjects that are co-designed with industry partners in sectors as varied as Aeronautical Engineering, Nursing, Education, Civil Engineering, Science, Creative and Performance Arts, TV and Film, Business and Tourism and Hair and Beauty.

Significant reform in technical education means that these sixth form learners faced challenging national exams just as their peers taking A Levels at the College did. This year these exams were especially rigorous, as national benchmarks were set to return to pre-pandemic levels. Even in this tougher assessment regime, technical learners at the College have continued to excel due to their hard work and support from the College’s industry-specialist teachers.

These students use technical or vocational subjects as their passport to university, to an apprenticeship, to their next level of study or directly into employment.

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

“We are very proud of the amazing range of technical and applied courses at the College. Whatever a young person’s ambition and passion, we have the right course for them. I am therefore especially pleased to see exceptional results right across this broad range – the consistently amazing results show that our students can follow their dreams with the support of amazing teachers, whatever course they choose.

“The College has invested heavily in industry-standard facilities, and today the impact of this is evident in the exceptional results that learners have achieved.”

Exeter College’s Vice Principal, Jade Otty said;

“We are delighted for our learners getting results today. Our curriculum experience is exceptional because our fantastic, highly-skilled teaching staff share their passion and industry insights to ensure that learners master not just the theory, but also the practical application, of the knowledge and skills required to excel in their chosen vocation.

“Our teachers do this every year, but I would like to acknowledge especially this year that this has been accomplished whilst providing nurture and care for a cohort of young people whose schooling was especially disrupted by covid. For these learners, their first experience of formal assessment and exams was at College.”

Sam Hillman, Assistant Principal, responsible for technical and vocational programmes, said;

“I am exceptionally proud of our vocational and technical learners today. They have not only excelled academically but have mastered practical skills that will serve them well as they embark on their next steps.

“A huge thank you must also go to our employers, who work with us across our brilliant range of technical and vocational programmes to provide inspirational and enriching experiences.”

T Levels, a new type of technical programme introduced in 2020, are welcoming their second year of results. Exeter College T Level students studying the Construction, Health and Education & Childcare pathways achieved an exemplary 100% pass rate. High grades were also impressive: 100% of students on Health T levels achieved high grades, and a staggering 45% achieving a distinction.

T Level student Joseph Bartlett (pictured above) studied the Construction T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning. He is now studying for a Degree Apprenticeship in Quantity Surveying with Ward Williams Associates, where he completed his industry placement. He said;

“I always knew I wanted to do a course in Construction and the T Level offers a variety of jobs you can progress to in the industry.

“I’ve started my degree apprenticeship already, and I’ll be doing that for five years.

“My Exeter College experience has been great; I would recommend it and the T Level as you can use what you’re learning in class straight away and put it into practice on your industry placement.”

Hollie (left) and Laura (right) collected their results for the T Level in Health today.

Hollie Brooking studied the T Level in Health. She plans to take a gap year and then take up the place she has secured on the highly competitive master’s degree in Paediatric Nursing at Birmingham University. Speaking about her T Level, she said;

“It was a fantastic course. My Royal Devon University Hospital work experience placement was incredible. I was in theatres watching surgeries and got a range of experience on different wards.

“Exeter College has been a great experience; I would recommend it.”

The Aeronautical Engineering programme also saw remarkable success with a 100% achievement and 35% securing a distinction grade. In Sport and Exercise Science, where a large proportion of learners combine their studies with the amazing Sports Academy offer at the college, 87% of students managed to secure at least one Distinction grade alongside their training and competitive games.

In the very different field of the creative arts, learners also excelled with 100% achievement and a third gaining the very highest distinction grade. Learners from this course progress to the highest echelons of art universities. For example, Wilbur Mason studied the Extended Diploma in Creative Practice and achieved a Distinction. He is going to the prestigious Central Saint Martins to study a BA (Hons) in Fashion Design. Wilbur said;

“I’m very pleased to get a distinction at the end of my course, it makes me feel like all the work paid off.

“Being in a collaborative, subject-specific building like the Centre for Creative Industries (CCI) has definitely prepared me for a university environment. Exeter as a city has also been a good stepping stone towards university life in general.

“I’ve found all my tutors so supportive; they really helped me to achieve my goals. I’ve also made some amazing friends being at college.”

A male student holds his results and smiles at the camera — William Turner is heading to the University of Leicester to study Medicine.

Learners at the College on technical courses have also been successfully supported to places on degrees that might more usually be accessed by A Level routes. For several years running, Exeter College learners from the Applied Science BTEC course have secured places on the highly competitive and demanding degree of Medicine. This year BTEC student, William Turner, from North Devon studied the Extended Diploma in Applied Science and has been offered a place to study Medicine at the University of Leicester. He said;

“I’m feeling happy, excited, and a bit shocked but happy overall!

“I’ve made lots of good friends, it’s a really fantastic college and the environment is great. Staff are very supportive here, if you have a question, you can go and speak to them – whether it’s about college or something else.

“I’ve been on a bit of a journey, I wanted to do forensics, then I switched to research and then switched to Medicine, but college supported me through that and my university application.”

Exeter College and the College Governors would like to thank and congratulate the class of 2023 and thank staff, parents and partners for making this a year to celebrate.

Class of 2023 Continue the Legacy of Excellent A Level Results

Exeter College A Level students logged on this morning to find out their AS/A Level results. The class of 2023 excelled with an overall A Level pass rate of 99.6%, compared to 97.2% nationally, and a staggering 25 A Level subjects had 100% pass rate. The College has exceeded every metric of its 2019 results (the last pre-pandemic results), which has nationally set the benchmark for this year’s results as awarding bodies return to pre-covid grading.

Of particular note is this year’s overall high grades at 59% (A*/A/B), which is over 6% ahead of the 2023 national average. An amazing 172 students achieved straight A*/A’s. This is especially impressive considering that this is the cohort who were in their two final years of school when the pandemic hugely disrupted education.

Given the picture nationally, we are exceptionally pleased that fewer learners this year missed their university offer than last year. This success means that the class of 2023 exceeded the standard set by even last year’s record-breaking cohort.

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

“I am delighted with this year’s A Level results, in every measure our students have achieved results that exceed those achieved before the pandemic.

“I would like to congratulate the class of 2023, who despite not sitting GCSE exams and having a turbulent final two years of school, have navigated these challenges and shown commitment, skill and tenacity to achieve truly excellent results.

“I would like to thank the expert staff, who have in equal measure over the last two years used their talent and care to help our students to achieve these outstanding results.”

Exeter College’s Vice Principal, Jade Otty said;

“Our learners this year should be very proud of their results – they have worked so hard with the support of our fantastic teaching and support staff to more than catch up on the learning and experiences they missed previously.

“The way in which our subject-expert teaching staff have supported this cohort’s confidence and skills through ‘Excel’ (our bespoke exam support programme) has been incredible and hugely appreciated by our learners.”

Billie Stokes, Assistant Principal with responsibility for academic programmes at the College, said;

“We are exceptionally proud of our A Level learners. Not only have they maintained the standards of excellence achieved by the college’s pre-pandemic cohorts, they have done so whilst engaging brilliantly with all the amazing experiences that college has to offer so that they have emerged as mature and confident young people ready and excited for their next steps.”

There were impressive results from right across the College’s varied curriculum offer. For example, in Maths, the largest cohort of A Level students, 32% of students achieved the top two grades of A* or A, and in Further Maths, 37% of students achieved an A*. 38% of Physics students achieved an A*/A and in A Level Economics 70% of students got high grades.

A student opens his results and smiles — Joshua Dargan collected his results today.

A Level student Joshua Dargan (pictured above) studied Economics, Sociology and Politics and achieved A*, A, A. He plans to go to London School of Economics to study International Social and Public Policy and has embraced all aspects of his college experience, including talking to governors. He hopes to enter the world of Politics.

“The last two years have gone so quickly and been amazing. The people and the learning – together they make learning fun. Even though you only know some teachers for a year, you get a personalised learning experience. I loved discussing world economic affairs with my teachers. The last two years have been a real highlight of my life.”

A Level student Howard Carter studied Environmental Science, Biology and Geology and achieved triple A*. He will now go to the University of Exeter to study Environmental Science. Howard describes his college experience as brilliant and goes on to say;

“From start to finish it’s been brilliant. I’ve had enthusiastic teachers which make it easy to learn, when you enjoy the subjects you’re doing, that’s half the battle. The work I have done has paid off today and I’m really excited about the future.”

In the creative subjects, Fine Art and Graphic Design both excelled with 71% of Fine Art students achieving high grades and an impressive 25% of Graphic Design students achieving an A*. In Music 69% of students achieved an A*, A or B.

In the Humanities and Social Sciences learners also excelled. History and Law saw an impressive number of high grades, with students achieving 76% high grades and 69% respectively. 66% of Literature, 63% of Classics and 61% of Spanish students achieved an A*, A or B.

Two students smile at the camera — A Level student Evie (right) was delighted with her results.

A Level student Evie Fairclough-Kay studied History, English Literature and Fine Art and took the Extended Project in her final year. She achieved two A*’s and two A’s and will be progressing to Oxford University. She said;

“I am going to study History and English combined honours at Regents Park College in Oxford. I would really like to go into journalism, that may change, but I’m going to just enjoy everything as it comes.

“My experience at college has been awesome. I’ve worked really hard and met lots of amazing people and it’s all paid off today.”

Exeter College and the College Governors would like to thank and congratulate the class of 2023 and thank staff, parents and partners for making this a year to celebrate.

Exeter College Students Excel in the International Baccalaureate

Exeter College students studying the International Baccalaureate (IB) received their results last week, with two students achieving an impressive score of above 40 points (out of a maximum 45).

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 25 students took the highly academic IB and achieved an average point score of 35, which is significantly higher than the world average.

Principal and CEO, John Laramy CBE, said;

“The IB is an amazing academic programme of study which pushes students in a fantastic array of subjects.

“Students often praise how this group of students and staff feels like family. I would like to thank the staff who lead, coordinate, and teach on the IB programmes for their dedication and support.

“These results are a credit to the students; I am delighted that Exeter College continues to perform way above the world average.”

A student poses with her parents and they all smile at the camera. — Eleanor Keay, with her parents, on IB Results Day

Student Eleanor Keay is planning to travel before deciding on an academic route. She said;

“The IB has been a phenomenal course both in terms of my academic and personal development. The teachers are passionate about their subjects and always there for support.

“The interdisciplinary nature of the course is excellent for developing well-rounded students: despite my subjects having seemingly little overlap (English, History, Spanish Higher Level, Maths, Environmental Science, and Global Politics) I found there to be overlap that really furthered my understand of the subjects.

“The small cohort size set within the large background of Exeter College cohort gives students a strong relationship with peers and tutors while still having access to a wide variety of extracurricular activities at the college – mine included Debate Society, Law Society, and History Reading Society.

“My results have opened lots of doors – partly because of this I am taking a gap year to develop my Spanish in a native environment, as an Au Pair in Spain and through volunteering/backpacking in South America. I have very broad academic interests, but will probably study some combination of Social Anthropology, Politics, History, Spanish and Environmental Science. In the future I would like to work in the foreign service, for IGOs or NGOs or in Education”

A student poses with her teacher on IB results day. — Grace Pamplin with Assistant Principal, Billie Stokes

Student Grace Pamplin also collected her results today. She is planning to progress to the University of Reading to study History. Speaking about how much she enjoyed the IB, she said;

“The diversity of subjects, the support you get from the teachers and the tight-knit community that the IB is, it just felt like a nice community to foster knowledge and confidence in your abilities.

“The best times in lessons were when we were debating and with the teacher support, the whole experience was amazing.”

Bille Stokes, Assistant Principal, added;

“Our IB learners have worked incredibly hard to achieve these results and we are so proud of them all.

“The IB is a fantastic stepping stone into the world, with many students choosing further study in the UK or abroad. Exeter College wishes all our IB students all the best for their bright future.”

Find out more about the International Baccalaureate at Exeter College.

Reform tertiary education and kickstart the great British recovery

A groundbreaking new report from Association of Colleges, ‘Opportunity England‘, has called on whoever wins the next general election to create a new system for lifelong learning from the age of 16 to make sure that the country can rise to the challenges of a sluggish economy, flat-lined productivity with widening skills gaps, and the prospect of millions of people being left behind as technology takes over our lives and work.

The report suggests that colleges, universities and other providers should be regulated through one tertiary system to avoid excess regulation and unnecessary competition and to enable a clear strategy to support all adults get the skills they need throughout life. The new national post-16 education and skills strategy should be developed in partnership with learning organisations and a range of other institutions including local government, employer groups, unions and community organisations. Devolution will play a vital role in this overhaul, with devolved authorities having the opportunity to push local priorities to help bolster communities as well as regional and national economies.

Colleges are clear that this is not about pitting themselves against universities or training providers, instead it’s about them working better together so that all parts of the post-16 skills eco-system thrive to deliver for the country. They urge the focusing on five central elements:

A new statutory right to lifelong learning
An apprenticeships system that works
A curriculum for all
A workforce strategy
Investing in our future

‘Opportunity England’ also shows how with a proper commitment, government can:

Drive economic growth and improve productivity
Overcome regional inequalities
Offer better life and work opportunities for all
Bring about the green transition
Deliver the health and social care workforce revolution
Build safe, cohesive and integrated communities

David Hughes, Chief Executive, Association of Colleges said:

“The challenges the country faces are numerous and well-known. What we need to focus more on are the opportunities. The next Government has the chance to unleash the power of colleges to re-balance the country, grow the economy, become world leaders in green technology, harness the potential of people of all ages and make sure that millions of people are not left behind as technology takes over our lives and work. But that requires a boldness and clarity of vision which our report outlines.

Whoever holds the keys to Number 10 will need to do things differently – business as usual is not working. We need a new approach to education and skills and we need a revolution in lifelong learning. If colleges did not exist, the government would have to invent them, to upskill the next generation, to re-train existing workers, and to drive forward innovation in business and technology. Now is the opportunity to use them and kickstart the great British recovery.”

Prestigious Michael Caines Academy Celebrates Successful 10 Years at Exeter College

Designed for budding head chefs and those aspiring to a career in front of house, the Exeter College Michael Caines Academy gives students the opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s best. On 21 June, the College celebrated the Academy’s 10 year anniversary with a special evening dedicated to students past and present and to its patron, Michael Caines MBE.

This competitive Academy provides students with a mix of challenging practical and theoretical workshops, with high profile experiences and masterclasses from leading chefs to promote excellence in hospitality and catering. The Academy now boasts over 160 graduates with a 100% pass rate.

Michael Caines MBE DL, said;

“We had the vision 12 years ago to start the process of setting up the academy and we now have 10 years of graduating students, many of them making an impact on the industry. It is the right thing to do; to pause and reflect and celebrate the achievements of all these students but also the Colleges achievements in having the vision to set the academy up. The academy has been part of the excellence that has been created here for students.

“Cooking with the students at the dinner here in the College is a very special moment for me, for the graduating students, the parents and guardians, and of course the lecturers that have all added their enthusiasm and passion for nurturing this generation of students that have come through the College.”

Speaking about the Academy’s success, he said;

“It takes partnership and commitment, that’s why we have an Outstanding College here, that’s what makes colleges Outstanding. Going that extra mile for their students – it does not surprise me that Exeter College continues to grow because its focus on excellence across all the areas and the celebrations make students feel like they have been a part of something special, which of course they have. It’s a very proud moment for us all.”

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

“As an ex-student and Patron of the College, Michael fully understands the ambition and ethos of the College. In working with us to create the Michael Caines Academy he has embodied our pursuit of excellence.

“He is an aspirational role model for all our young people, not just those who have an interest in hospitality. His passion, energy and dedication mean that students at the College have benefited not just from his talent and expertise, but from the partnerships and networks that he has so successfully cultivated over his career. Oxford and Cambridge are often identified as the pinnacle of academic study, for me the Michael Caines Academy has set the same bar, but for the technical discipline of hospitality and catering.

“The opening of the world class Lympstone Manor has also created new opportunities for the students on the Academy. The thing that makes this Academy different is that Michael has not just added his name, he has invested his knowledge and time, which has made a massive difference to the College and our students.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Michael for his amazing and ongoing contribution to the College, his wisdom and energy have ensured this partnership has been a sector leading success. The people in the room tonight are absolute proof of that.”

During the evening guests were treated to a special three course meal, prepared by Michael and the first year Academy students. Alumni were invited to stage to talk about their experiences in the Academy and what they are doing now before graduating students were presented with certificates.

Grace Blake-Grove, 2023 Michael Caines Graduate, with Bindu Arjoon, Exeter College Chair of Governors and Michael Caines MBE

Grace Blake-Grove, graduating student, said;

“My time at the Academy has been exceptional, from the things I have learnt to the amazing lecturers and young chefs on the course with me.

“A huge highlight of the last two years was our course trip to Italy. Surrounded by all my friends, culture, and great food, it was not only an educational trip but a moment we could all bond over.

“Though I am sad to be leaving, I hope to gain a place at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, where I completed my six-week work placement this year, an opportunity I was fortunate to have received thanks to the Micheal Caines Academy.”

John Brimacombe is pastry chef for Acleaf at Boringdon Hall, who were recently awarded a Michelin Star. Speaking about his favourite memories of the Academy, he said;

“A lot of the trips were genuine fun, you become really good mates with your class. When you go to some of these incredible places, for example we went to Lucknam Park, it is a great experience with not only industry leaders but your friends as well which is pretty enjoyable.

His advice for students looking to work in the industry is;

“Just question everything and enjoy it. If you don’t enjoy it, there is no point. Have fun. There are easier jobs out there, but they aren’t as rewarding.”

Michael Caines MBE in the kitchen with Michael Caines Academy 1st year students.

Part of the success of the Academy is also due to the staff at Exeter College who work to deliver Michael’s vision and support the students through their time at College.

Ian Biggar, Programme Lead and Tutor at Exeter College, said;

“The opportunities this partnership with Michael has provided to our students is invaluable. It means we can be as confident as possible when they leave us that we have provided them with everything they need to succeed.

“The passion and drive that Michael and the team here instil in our students will see them through even the toughest days of their career.”

Paul Carne, Programme Lead at Exeter College, said;

“We are incredibly lucky to have worked with such a variety of talented students over the years who have gone on to do exceptional things and make a real impact on the hospitality industry.

“Thanks to the passion of Michael and the commitment from the College, we know this will continue and we are excited about what is to come.”

Congratulations to all our graduating students. This year’s students are;

Bethany Addicott
Oliver Ashfield-Donaldson
Grace Blake-Grove
Meg Burnell
Ellie Fairchild
Talia Hutchings
Freya Hole
Sophia Joakim
Joshua Power
Joe Sandham
Isobel Simpson
Jasmine Timms
Tomasz Waszkiewicz
Maddie Webb
Bryher Wilson

Thank you to the sponsors of this event, without their kind support, events like this would not be possible.

Timewade Win Region’s Biggest Esports Festival

Timewade have won the biggest esports event of its kind in the South West, after a showdown of over 30 corporate teams hosted by Exeter College.

The Exeter-based IT firm came out on top in an energetic Rocket League tournament, with the Exeter Chiefs rugby team, Bishop Fleming and the Ted Wragg Trust among those taking part.

The festival was supported by ultrafast broadband provider Jurassic Fibre, software engineering firm Rowe IT, tech marketing agency Program and fan engagement platform Filmily.

Heat events took place at Cornwall College, City College Plymouth, South Gloucestershire College and Bridgwater & Taunton College ahead of the final showdown in Exeter.

Alongside the gaming, attendees to the event took part in an industry roundtable discussing the future of the industry in the South West and an interactive cyber escape room run by the Police SW Regional Cyber Crime Unit.

Rob Bosworth, Vice Principal and Deputy CEO at Exeter College, said: “The esports movement is building, and I believe colleges have an essential role in maintaining the momentum.

“It’s been fantastic to build on the success of last year’s Esports Festival and bring colleges and businesses from across the South West together. In the last year we have seen esports grow in the UK with it now being represented at events like the Commonwealth Games so we can see it is vital to provide students with the opportunity to perform in this type of arena.

“We are seeing our esports students go on to a wide range of successful careers due to the highly transferable skills they are learning here at college. I look forward to seeing where the Esports Festival 2024 will take us!”

Exeter College students were involved in making sure the day ran smoothly. Charlie Stone, currently studying A Levels, is hoping to progress to the HNC in Esports at the college next year. He said;

“Today’s been interesting because I’ve met people I never would have interacted with, met businesses I didn’t know existed in the South West and it’s nice to know they are committed to pushing out esports.

“I’ve been helping out officiating all the games, making sure they run smoothly and sorting out any tech issues which is great experience and it’s been a brilliant atmosphere.”

Robert Thornberry, studying the HNC in Applied Computing said;

“Today I have been doing a bit of everything from camera work to making sure the tech is working and running between the live games and the live streaming space.

“It’s great work experience working on an event like this because you have to be a good communicator and solve problems on your feet just like you would in a real work environment.”

Esports is one of the fastest-growing parts of the tech economy, with Newzoo predicting the industry’s total audience to surpass 640 million by 2025.

The South West is well placed to take advantage of this booming industry, according to Tech South West, a membership organisation that supports and connects the tech ecosystem in the South West.

Tech South West co-founder Dan Pritchard said: “The global rise of esports brings opportunities for gamers, event organisers, developers and creatives to pursue great careers in tech, and the South West of England is well positioned to support and take advantage of this growth.

“With strong universities, tech hubs and college groups, we are building a strong pool of creative and tech talent. We are delighted to be working with Exeter College and our partners to showcase the opportunities the industry brings to the South West tech ecosystem, its young people, and the regional economy.”