Exeter College is celebrating following the news that it has been shortlisted for three national awards in the new Times Educational Supplement Further Education Awards which were announced last Friday. These awards mirror the longstanding “Times Higher Educational Supplement University Awards” which recognized the University of Exeter as University of the Year in 2007/2008. Exeter College has been shortlisted for the top award of “Outstanding Provider of the Year” as well as for awards for “Leadership & Management” and for “Innovation in Teaching & Learning”.

“We are proud that we have been shortlisted in these three categories,” said Richard Atkins, Principal, “as it shows that we are delivering an outstanding service to the community. These national nominations show that Exeter College is now one of the top performing colleges in the further education sector, not only in this area but across the country. This is well deserved recognition for our excellent staff and governors”.

Gerard Kelly, editor of The TES said “The TES FE Awards are an opportunity to recognise the dedication and expertise of staff in FE who transform the lives of learners. These nominees represent some of the best of this amazing and dynamic sector.” A judging panel will select the final TES FE Award winners, which will be revealed at a ceremony on November 11th in London.

The news comes on top of the College’s record breaking A level results at the end of August and the recent news that it has been awarded ‘Centre of Excellence’ status for the A Level Extended Project for high achieving students who plan to progress to top UK and international universities.

“This is a great way to start the academic year,” said Richard Atkins “but we’re not complacent. There are challenges for students of all ages in the current economic climate but we see this national recognition as the assurance that students and employers need that the college is determined to continue to support them to achieve their full potential – whether that is through adult learning and higher education courses, through apprenticeships or through our wide range of 16 – 18 courses.”

For further information, call Sylvia Jarman on 01392 205585 or sylviajarman@exe-coll.ac.uk