This summer, Exeter College has celebrated remarkable success in placing students into highly competitive fields such as Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Dentistry. A record 20 students secured places at the prestigious universities of Cambridge and Oxford, representing 30% of those who applied. This is nearly double the national success rate from state schools and significantly ahead of those of independent schools. 

Among these exceptional students is Ruby Wallace (pictured below), who thrived at Exeter College. Ruby studied English Literature, Philosophy and Early Modern History at A Level and has now earned a place at Oxford University to study Philosophy and Theology. 

“I’ve really enjoyed College and found it very supportive; it’s been a wonderful experience. My tutors have all been amazing. I’d recommend it – all the teachers are passionate and knowledgeable about their subjects. I’ve really liked it here.” 

Ruby explains that she had “high aspirations” and so joined the Reach Academy to support her goals.  

“It was very supportive, we had weekly lectures in our first year and that opened us up to a wide range of different speakers and ideas that you can then use in your personal statement. I applied to Oxford which had admissions tests and written work, but all my teachers were incredibly supportive.” 

Ruby says she is “very happy” with her results of three A’s. 

“I’m going to Oxford to study Philosophy and Theology. I’m very excited to have some more independence and to learn more about these subjects in greater depth. The course looks incredible and I’m looking forward to the experience of it all.” 

Students wishing to go on to careers in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Dentistry have also had successful results this summer. The College supported 28 applicants with Medical School applications, with a success rate of 57%. 

One student going on to Medical School is Honor Bickley. She says her decision to apply to Medical School came from a passion for Science and enjoying the interactions that will come with being a doctor. She added; 

“Exeter College was excellent at signposting me to various work experience options which allowed me to gain experience and interactions with surgeons and doctors. They were also proactive in arranging talks by outside professionals and guest speakers which included past and present medical students. 

“Martin Gilbert (from the Reach Academy) was really encouraging and helpful with guiding me through writing my personal statement – I genuinely believe that this made all the difference to my application.” 

Harry Price is an adult student who has just completed the Chemistry and Biology Access to HE (Higher Education) course at Exeter College. He now has a place to study at the University of Exeter Medical School. Harry has been a Mountain Rescue Medic since the age of 17 and this has grown his love of medicine and helping people. He said; 

“I didn’t know I wanted to do medicine until I was 19, hence I didn’t have the right A Levels to apply for medicine. I spent a long time working out suitable courses for me to study that would enable me to go to university and become a doctor. 

“I really enjoyed doing the Chemistry and Biology Access course, the teachers were excellent and if I needed support, they were always simply an email away. The communication was good, and feedback was clear and supportive on all my submitted works.” 

Students at Exeter College can choose to study from a diverse range of courses, including T Levels. The College was chosen as a pilot provider of T Levels in 2020 and now delivers over 14 courses. In 2024, Exeter College students achieved two of the 14 Distinction Stars (the equivalent to an A* at A Level) awarded nationwide—a remarkable achievement. 

Emma Green, who studied the T Level in Education and Childcare is progressing to Bath Spa University to study Sociology with a plan to work in youth work and child protection. 

“The T Level allowed me to focus on my passion for working with children. My work placement has been so valuable in gaining the skills I need for my future studies and career. 

“I’ve been able to explore areas of my subject I hadn’t considered before and been challenged to explore my ideas both in the classroom and in my placements.” 

George Cheeseman, another top achiever, continues his studies at Exeter College on the HNC Applied Computing course. He said; 

“I’m really happy with the grade I received and enjoyed my time studying the T Level (in Digital Support Services) as I got to specialise in a subject I’m passionate about.” 

Overall, 80% of Exeter College’s university applicants secured their first choice, a testament to the students’ dedication and the College’s exceptional support through the UCAS process.  

You can find out more about all the courses mentioned above at an Exeter College Open Event.