Blazing footballs – the Esports Festival SW is back!
Esports is one of the most rapidly growing industries worldwide. With large scale competitions taking place across the world and big prize money to be won, it is watched by millions of fans.
Exeter College has partnered with Tech South West, Bridgwater and Taunton College, City College Plymouth, Cornwall College and South Gloucestershire and Stroud College to deliver the only region-wide corporate esports festival for the South West.
With teams from across the region taking part, the tournament brings the sector together to celebrate the esports industry and showcase the opportunities it heralds for young people, tech companies, and the wider community.
The first Esports Festival SW was held in 2022, with 16 teams competing at Rocket League for the trophy. Bath-based software development firm Rocketmakers defeated Ashfords in the final to take home the trophy.
We’re going even bigger in 2023!
Over 30 organisations from across the South West tech sector will come head-to-head at Exeter College’s state-of-the-art Digital and Data Centre, on 2 June 2023, to decide who will be crowned the champion of the Esports Festival SW 2023.
Each company will be putting pedal to the metal as they vie to be crowned Rocket League champions in the region’s biggest event of its kind in the South West.
The event will not only feature plenty of gaming, but also demonstrations, interactive experiences, networking, roundtable discussions, and insight sessions with industry experts.
Who will be crowned the winner? 32 teams, 96 competitors, only one team can win!
A huge thank you to the sponsors Jurassic Fibre, Program, Filmily and Rowe IT for making the Esports Festival SW possible.
If you would like to sponsor the event or join the waiting list in case a team spot becomes available, please contact Tech South West.
Watch out for 2024…Esports Festival SW goes national!
Exeter College Football Star Signs with Swansea City AFC at age 16
Exeter College Football Academy student, Jack Fanning, has been offered a scholarship with Championship team Swansea City AFC, at the young age of 16. Swansea City Academy develops talented young footballers from age eight to 21. Jack will be playing with the U18 team, having previously played for Tiverton Town U16’s and Crediton United.
Jack, previously from Exeter School, is studying A Levels in Maths, French and PE. He will now make the move to Swansea as part of their Academy. He said;
“The Football Academy has put me in great stead for this new opportunity and my A Levels have broadened my educational knowledge as well so my time at Exeter College has definitely helped me.
“My tutor has been great, really helped me settle in and my teachers and football coaches have helped me and supported me all the way. I’m a little bit nervous but obviously very excited.”
Jack Fanning has previously played for Tiverton Town U16’s and Crediton United.
Jack Gill, Exeter College Football Academy Lead Coach, said;
“Since starting with us in September Jack has been outstanding, not only in terms of his playing ability, but also his attitude and leadership. Jack’s successful progression pathway into professional football makes him a role model for all current and future students. Our coaching team at the College football academy are all incredibly proud of Jack Fanning and wish him every success for the future.”
Based in the shadow of the Swansea.com Stadium, the Swans Academy is situated at Landore, a multi-million-pound facility where the next generation of first team players are being developed and produced from the age of nine.
The extent of the club’s accomplishment is reflected in the city’s immense pride of the club’s recent history with seven consecutive years in the Premier League, EFL Cup winners and reaching the last 32 in the Europa League.
Jack Chapman, Head of Academy Recruitment at Swansea City AFC, said;
“We’re pleased to welcome Jack to our Academy after a short trial period. He demonstrated that he has leadership qualities, is assertive and dedicated to improving himself. It was evident quite quickly that he had the motivation to return to the professional football club setting after a short time out. It’s always important in this game to bounce back after disappointments and have good, supportive environments around you and we feel that this has been the case for Jack through his involvements with Tiverton Town, Crediton United and Exeter College.
“We look forward to helping Jack develop further as a player and as a young man. He’s moving away from home, settling into a new City and group of peers but we definitely have the staff on hand to make that as smooth a transition as possible so that football can be Jack’s main focus. Hopefully he will enjoy his time at the club, grow, develop and make an impact not just in our Academy but in the professional game.”
Exeter College Opens a New Hub for Independent Living and Learning
Exeter College is proud to open The Hill, a new Hub for Independent Living and Learning. On 1 March, students were joined by college staff and professionals working in the Special Educational Needs (SEN) sector to celebrate the opening of this new facility.
Donna Manson, the new Chief Executive for Devon County Council, officially opened the building, unveiling the plaque to great applause. She spent time speaking with students about their experience at the College and finding out about their future aspirations.
The Hill is a dedicated space for young people studying on Exeter College’s Gateway to Independence course. This area has been created with the needs of these students in mind; with a purpose-built kitchen, bright, airy classrooms and green outdoor space. It is a great location for students to build their confidence and thrive.
John Laramy CBE, Principal and CEO said;
“We were delighted to welcome colleagues to The Hill today. One of the magic ingredients of the College is the wide mix of students, including some who are working towards living, operating and travelling more independently. I am therefore delighted to be part of opening this specialist facility today and look forward to the difference it will make to lots of students and, over time, the Community of Exeter and Devon.
“I would like to thank Donna Manson, Chief Executive of Devon Country Council for joining us today as our Guest of Honour. I would also like to thank Devon County Council for their partnership, support and challenge. We recognise that the support of both the County Council and City Council are critical if we are going to realise our vision to become exceptional in every facet of the operation of the College”
Chris Petheram, Head of Foundation Learning and Support, added;
“I am very excited for our learners to have such a fantastic special needs centre in the heart of the college. It will enable our learners to be an integral part of the college community.
“The Hill is an outstanding facility that has been equipped with our learners needs in mind to ensure they are learning in an environment that is fit for purpose and supportive of study.
“This new site enables our Independent Gateway students to be closer to the wider resources and opportunities available at Exeter College and will give the students a whole new range of exciting opportunities.”
With the aim of building skills in small, supportive groups, students will learn through classroom, community and work-based activities, giving them the opportunity to develop both life and work skills. The space will ensure that all aspects of the College’s independent living curriculum are delivered in a safe and accessible location.
James Crompton, Preparing for Adulthood Lead at Southbrook School in Exeter was one of the guests at the event, he said;
“I think it’s a great stepping stone into a college, after coming from a school where it’s a very enclosed environment, college can be quite daunting. Having a safe space and consistent staff can help prepare students for the next steps and hopefully help them move on to another course at college.
“Meeting the students has been lovely – they’re very proud, showing me some of the work they have done. Just being in the city centre with all those great links is an important step towards independent living.”
Find out more about our specialist programmes and learning support by contacting our Learning Support Team on learningsupport@exe-coll.ac.uk or visit us at our next Open Event on 26 April.
Exeter College Beats National Average with Oxbridge Applicant Success Rates
Students at Exeter College are celebrating their offers from two of the UK’s most prestigious universities, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. Sixteen students hold offers for a wide range of subjects including; Veterinary Medicine, Biomedical Science, English Literature, Natural Sciences, Classical Civilisation, and History, reflecting the broad curriculum available at Exeter College.
In total, 66 students applied to these two top UK universities, commonly known as Oxbridge. Seven hold offers for the University of Oxford and nine for the University of Cambridge. To obtain an offer they have had to stand out through a rigorous application and interview process.
The national average success rate for independent schools applying to Oxbridge is approximately 20%. Exeter College applicants have exceeded this by a strong margin, with an overall success rate of 24%.
Exeter College Lecturer Martin Gilbert, who leads on the Reach Academy, said;
“I am so pleased for the students; they have worked so hard to gain the skills and academic evidence that these world-class universities are looking for. With the help and guidance from all the outstanding staff at Exeter College these learners have shown themselves to be independent, explorative, with the ability to think critically and analytically.”
Abby Williams, previously from Chulmleigh School, is studying A Levels in Biology, Chemistry, and English Literature, and has been offered a place to study English Literature at the University of Cambridge. Reflecting on the application process, she said;
“The application process was quite rigorous, first I filled out my questionnaires from Cambridge, then I had to do my interview. I had a mock interview at college prior to this with a subject specialist, which was helpful to get feedback on, as I hadn’t experienced that before.
“The College, and particularly Martin, were so helpful, I feel I wouldn’t have got anywhere near to an offer without them.”
Jade Otty, Vice Principal, said;
“We are so proud and delighted for these learners, and of everyone who made an application for Oxbridge this year. I would like to thank Martin and all our amazing teachers; a huge amount of extra support and wider curriculum experiences go into helping our young people to gain such a great number of Oxbridge offers.”
Therese Walsh speaks about her experience at Exeter College.
Therese Walsh, previously from Torquay Girls Grammar School, is studying A Levels in Politics, English Literature and Film Studies. She said;
“I received an offer to study English Literature at the University of Cambridge and honestly, I am still shocked. I’m the first in my family to go to Oxbridge, so it’s quite hard to wrap my head around it. I feel very grateful and honoured to have this opportunity. From my secondary school education to all the support at college, I’m in a really privileged position that this was a door open to me and to have a place I can go on and study.
“I’ve absolutely loved college. I have loved the freedom of it. I love the academic culture, all the opportunities and extra things you can do. It’s a fantastic step between secondary school and university, it’s a great place to be as a young adult and has been a great step into adult life.”
Students with offers to study will find out if they are guaranteed a place after their 2023 exam results.
South West Female Players Dominate England U18 Rugby Selection
The Exeter College Women’s Rugby Academy has beaten its own record, with six players being selected to represent England in the U18 squad. Last year, the Academy, in partnership with Exeter Chiefs sent five players to the three-day training camps.
The Exeter College Women’s Rugby Academy teams have had a fantastic season so far, just like their professional counterparts. Exeter Chiefs have just secured their place in the Premiership Rugby Cup Final and Exeter Chiefs Women’s side are maintaining their hot streak in the Allianz Premier 15s, having recently won against the Sharks.
So far this season the Academy players have been working as hard off the pitch as they have on it. A concerted effort to improve their strength and conditioning, with some excellent guidance from Harry Wright and the Chiefs coaching team at the Centre of Excellence, has meant a big impact on the pitch.
Players representing squads from all over Devon were selected, with the final six being:
Josie Plant (Exeter Chiefs, Exeter)
Lilly Plowman (Crediton, Exeter)
Kayleigh Priest (Exeter College, Exeter)
Hannah Sams (Ivybridge, Exeter)
Lucy Ward (Exeter College, Exeter)
Ellie Wood (Sidmouth, Exeter)
David Kimberley, Women’s Rugby Academy Coach at Exeter College said;
“The women’s selection for the England Talent Development Group is down to a dedicated attitude, undeniable potential and being part of two excellent programmes in Exeter College Sports Academy and the Exeter Chiefs Centre of Excellence. The partnership between club and college is allowing many young players to flourish in a well-managed environment.
“All players have gone from strength to strength during their time at Exeter College and their selection is down to a work ethic and desire to be the best they can be. Finally, they are supported by amazing teammates, clubs, parents and volunteers who should all be thanked in these early stages of their rugby journey, and we are delighted for them.”
Ellie Wood, selected for the England U18 women’s rugby squad
Ellie Wood is studying BTEC Sport and is hoping to pursue a professional career in rugby. She said;
“What drew me to the course was the time you get with the academy and how you get allocated Wednesdays to play fixtures. It also involves quite a lot of coursework which works better for me.
“We’ve had loads of fixtures this year and performed really well and had some trips away which has been great and the facilities at college are brilliant.”
Lucy Ward has only been playing rugby for four years and is excited about the opportunities this selection may bring. She said;
“I think it will open my eyes to professional sport and help me further my knowledge and it will be good to get to know everyone else on the squad.”
With rugby in the South West being at the peak of the game, it is no surprise that the Academy’s partnership with the Exeter Chiefs goes from strength to strength and these players are benefitting from that expertise.
Lucy Ward is excited about the opportunities this selection may bring.
Susie Appleby, former English female rugby union player and Women’s Head Coach for the Exeter Chiefs women’s side, said:
“It’s great that the pathway for female players in Exeter is mirroring the men’s pathway. The calibre of players graduating from the college is excellent and to have six players representing England at Under 18s level is fantastic. These players are our future and I’m excited to get them involved with us and see where they can take us.”
England’s player pathway programme – of which the women’s U18 is an important part – is a vital development tool for future international rugby and growth of the women’s game, especially during a new era ahead of a home 2025 Rugby World Cup.
Chris Wall, Sports Academy Manager at Exeter College said;
“We are extremely proud of the girls who have been selected. The environment and culture the students and coaches are installing, based around enjoyment and hard work, is creating opportunities for players to start thinking about reaching their potential. Having had five girls selected last season and six this academic year, shows the lengths we are going to in providing the best possible training and playing opportunities we can. This is a testament to the growth of the game, rugby clubs in the area, performance pathway opportunities such as Devon DPP, the Centre of Excellence and our continued effort to work in partnership alongside Exeter Chiefs to strive for excellence.”
The Exeter College Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programme is run through the College’s partnership with Exeter Chiefs and is an RFU endorsed scheme for 16–18-year old’s, requiring 12 hours per week of Rugby specific delivery alongside student’s full-time course. Selected students can choose to study a Level 3 BTEC National Diploma in Sport, Sports and Exercise Science, or a choice of A Levels. Find out more.
Colleges awarded grant to improve region’s Maths and English skills
Exeter College, in partnership with City College Plymouth, has been awarded a fantastic grant to run a project focusing on empowering post-16 lecturers throughout the region, so they can best support students who are hoping to gain or improve their English and Maths qualifications.
Teachers and lecturers across the South West will be offered free CPD opportunities that will draw upon the latest research and provide access to some of the most relevant and up-to-date pedagogies that have been devised specifically for the post-16 environment.
Sam Hillman, Assistant Principal at Exeter College, said:
“We are incredibly excited to be working in partnership with City College Plymouth on this project. Outstanding English and Maths provision at post-16 is transformative and these vital qualifications shape the futures of our young people. For many, studying Maths and English at college is their best chance of achieving these qualifications and we are delighted to be sharing innovative practice and working with colleagues across the peninsula”.
Katie Fremlin, Plymouth’s Maths Centre for Excellence Project Manager, said:
“In addition to offering a range of face to face CPD opportunities, we will be setting up a dedicated onlineplatform that will provide teachers and lecturers with access to high-quality digital content. There is also the opportunity to conduct research and we will be leading a series of forums on this.
“It is a very exciting opportunity that we have been given along with our colleagues at Exeter College and we would encourage all those who are supporting post-16 learners to consider being part of this project.”
With numeracy and literacy skills linked to economic growth, there is currently a push across the South West to improve people’s English and Maths qualifications. The regional team is eager to improve outcomes and raise the confidence of both lecturers and students, supporting the career progression of individuals alongside strongly contributing to an ambitious vision to raise attainment levels throughout the region.
City College Plymouth’s Chief Executive and Principal, Jackie Grubb, said:
“Maths is vital for some of the key industries here in Plymouth and beyond. We’re delighted to be working in collaboration with Exeter College for the benefit of the wider South West region, and giving more people the skills that will help transform their futures.”
The project started in January and will run until 2025.
Multiply your Maths knowledge with a Free Course or Workshop
Are you an adult that struggles with Maths? Are you looking to improve your Maths skills to help you with budgeting, progress in your job, or to support your child in their Maths studies?
Whether you are new to Maths or simply want to brush up on existing skills, Exeter College, in partnership with the Urban Learning Academy, is offering a whole host of free courses, workshops and events.
Multiply is a government initiative aimed at increasing the levels of functional numeracy in the adult population across the UK. If you are aged 19+ and do not already have a GCSE at grade C (or equivalent) in Maths, Multiply is available to you.
It includes:
Pop Up Maths events
Maths for life (budgeting, managing bills etc)
Pre-GCSE Maths (6 x weeks)
Come and say hi
Maths is out in the community soon with Pop Up Maths beginning in February in various Devon Libraries. You could be in with a chance of winning a Lenovo Chromebook through a fun and simple Maths challenge. Visit our Facebook page to find out which library we are visiting next.
Book your place today
There are a series of workshops and courses running throughout February and March. These are free and available to book through Eventbrite. Find out more and book your place.
More about Multiply
Multiply offers easy access to free numeracy courses and initiatives that can help you brush up on your Maths skills and help you become more confident with numbers.
Multiply offers easy access to free numeracy courses and initiatives where you can gain a qualification and build your confidence in using numbers at work or in everyday life.
You will be able to learn at a pace that suits you.
Exceptional Exeter College once again awarded “Outstanding” by Ofsted
Exeter College is celebrating after a full Ofsted Inspection, which has resulted in the College retaining the impressive accolade of Outstanding.
Eight years since its last inspection Ofsted again confirmed that Exeter College is an Outstanding College. The College also scored the top assessment of ‘strong’ for its approach to meeting the skills needs of the area. This makes Exeter College the first college in the country to achieve the highest judgement in both elements of Ofsted’s new enhanced inspections.
The 21-strong Ofsted inspection team visited every College site and reviewed every facet of the College offer from 29 November to 2 December 2022.
Exeter College Principal and CEO, John Laramy CBE said:
“At a time when the national press is talking about Ofsted raising the bar for their top grade the team at Exeter College has demonstrated that we have sustained Outstanding, even in the new rigorous enhanced framework.
“I would like to wholeheartedly thank everyone who contributed to this exceptional sector-leading outcome, especially our amazing learners, apprentices, staff and governors. Ofsted has recognised what I see from our students, apprentices and staff every single day.”
Students and staff celebrating their Ofsted Outstanding rating.
Bindu Arjoon, Chair of the Board of Governors, added:
“We are delighted that the hard work of everyone at the College has been recognised in this way. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank all the students, staff and stakeholders for their personal contribution to our Outstanding College.”
The College achieved the top Ofsted rating of Outstanding in all four cross-college judgements; Quality of Education, Behaviour and Attitudes, Personal Development and Leadership and Management. The College’s Sixth Form provision, adult learning and apprenticeships were also rated as Outstanding. The Outstanding grade for apprenticeships is extremely hard to achieve, with very few colleges nationally having achieved this.
The report praises the standard of teaching and learning across the College as well as the standards of behaviour and culture, citing that teachers and other staff are excellent role models who work tirelessly to meet the needs of learners.
Zakia Volschenk, from Exmouth, is studying A Levels at Exeter College and is part of the Learner Leadership Team. Speaking about the Outstanding grade, she said:
“I believe it’s well-deserved and feel extremely proud to be a part of a constantly developing institution that really takes into consideration the student’s opinions. I know that the opportunities at Exeter College will give me an advantage when it comes to applying to university or finding future jobs.”
As national exams returned last year, Ofsted’s inspection included scrutinising learner results and outcomes in exams. This meant that the summer’s record-breaking A Level results and top 10% value added performance were assessed as part of the inspection process.
Jade Otty, Vice Principal and Ofsted Quality Nominee, said:
“I am so pleased that the exceptional work of our teachers and support staff has been recognised by Ofsted. The College is Outstanding thanks to their expertise, care and commitment. I am proud too that this report reflects how amazing our learners and apprentices are in working with us to create a college community in which everyone can thrive and develop. We were also delighted that the report credited the support and work of our community and industry partners”
The new Education Inspection Framework (EIF) came into force in September 2019. This rigorous inspection framework means fewer schools and colleges have been awarded outstanding nationally.
Ofsted’s new enhanced inspections of Further Education providers and Sixth Form colleges came into force in September 2022. It means that in addition to the EIF focus on Quality of Education, colleges are also judged on how well they link with community, civic, industry and education partners to meet their region’s skills needs.
Exeter College is the first college in the country to receive the top grade of Outstanding and the top grade of ‘strong contribution’ to skills needs.
Exeter College Alumni Celebrated at Glamourous Awards Night
Exeter College was delighted to return to an in-person event for this year’s Student Awards. Over 100 guests attended the 2023 awards ceremony at the Mercure Rougemont Hotel, celebrating the very best from a wide range of courses and achievements.
This group of students emerged from the pandemic and managed to deliver a set of exceptional results from all areas of the College. Their level of ambition has ensured they have achieved what they set out to do, with students progressing to an impressive list of universities, graduate schemes or directly into employment.
John Laramy CBE, Chief Executive and Principal at Exeter College said;
“I would like to congratulate all of tonight’s award winners, last year’s students and apprentices across the college combined to create one of the most successful years in our long History – thank you! Students delivered our best ever A Level results, outstanding T Level results and a stunning range of achievements, that covered every facet of college life. We are proud that you now become an Exeter College alumni.
“Our partners continue to work positively and proactively with us to make a meaningful difference to the student experience. I would also like to thank our sponsors and our employers; their ongoing support is, simply superb!”
College Patron Professor Sir Steve Smith, Vice Principal Jade Otty, Chair of Governors Bindu Arjoon, Principal John Laramy, Simon Jupp MP and Suzanne Tracey, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Trust.
The College was delighted to welcome Suzanne Tracey as guest speaker to the awards. Suzanne is the Chief Executive Officer for the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and has been instrumental in creating a sector leading relationship with the College which means that students can access work experience opportunities and occupationally specific pathways, such as midwifery.
Suzanne Tracey, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said:
“I’ve been delighted to be part of these special awards, celebrating the extraordinary achievements of students at Exeter College.
“We are really proud of our partnership with the College, which offers students the opportunity to find their future career, through a number of innovative qualifications and hands-on work experience, in both clinical and non-clinical roles.
“The students we work with are fantastic and we are excited to see what we can do together next.”
Students from the 2021/22 academic year were invited back to celebrate their impressive achievements and have the chance to catch up with past tutors and teachers.
Lily Tomlinson achieved the outstanding accolade of being the highest performing A Level PE student in the country.
Lily Tomlinson studied A Levels in Maths, Biology and PE and won an award for Academic Excellence. She is now studying at Loughborough University doing Sport and Exercise Science and is hoping to work in elite sport. She said;
“It’s an honour to be here, the college is so big, and all my friends did very well too so it’s a nice surprise.
“College really widened my horizons; it was a great steppingstone from school before university and made me take more responsibility for myself but there was still a lot of support when I needed it.”
Louis Skilton captained the College’s Esports League of Legends team in two national Esports finals.
Louis Skilton studied Esports Production and Management at College and is now doing a degree in Coaching and Management at the new College of Esports in London. He is planning to play internationally and is already speaking with companies about managing teams. Louis won the award for Esports Academy Student of the Year. He said:
“I’ve never seen as much passion and enthusiasm as I did at Exeter College in all my years of education, it changed learning for me. I had amazing opportunities like being interviewed by BBC Spotlight and competing in National Championships.
“This award feels like gratification for all the hard work, but I also feel like anyone could have got it as the whole team was amazing.”
Joshua Dyer studied the T Level in Software Development and did his work placement with Teignbridge Propellors where he now works as a Junior Software Developer. He won an award for Vocational and Technical Excellence and said;
“I’m really happy to be here tonight. My time at college was amazing, the way the course was taught was dynamic, practical, and hands-on. I would recommend it. The tutors and staff were amazing. Everyone is really friendly, I made lifelong friends.”
The College would like to congratulate all the 2023 award winners and say a big thank you to all our Sponsors who make this event possible.
Get Individual Advice on Courses and Careers from our College Advice Team
Our friendly team of College Advisers are here to help any students looking to join Exeter College in September 2023.
They are offering free 30-minute appointments which can take place either in person at the college, or via a video call. These sessions are a fantastic opportunity to have all of your questions answered. Our advisers happy to chat through your choice of subjects and courses, as well as to discuss the application and interview process. Book your session now.
Find out more about life at Exeter College including:
There are a limited number of spaces available so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Please note that if you attend one of the following schools in Exeter, you will have the opportunity to speak to a college advisor during the school day and we kindly ask that you contact your lead advisor prior to making a booking online.
Isca Academy: Jay Henney – jay-annehenney@exe-coll.ac.uk
St Lukes: Jack Keogh – jackkeogh@exe-coll.ac.uk
St Peters: Emily Skinner – emilyskinner@exe-coll.ac.uk
St James: Caroline Earp – carolineearp@exe-coll.ac.uk
West Exe: Rebecca Shaw – rebeccashaw02@exe-coll.ac.uk
If you haven’t yet visited Exeter College, our next Open Event is taking place on Wednesday 26 April, from 4-7pm. Register today.
