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Celebrating our Great Western Railway Apprentices on the Apprenticeship Train

For the second year in a row, Exeter College and Great Western Railway celebrated National Apprenticeship Week aboard the Apprenticeship Train, a special train service entirely crewed, driven, dispatched, and controlled by current and former apprentices.

Jenny Nansuga, Apprentice Driver Manager: “I really enjoy working for GWR, it’s a giant and there are so many diverse opportunities. Railways are so much more than driving trains, there are so many different roles. Apprenticeships allow you to learn as you earn, and get skills which lead to a direct line of employment as you are already working in the field.”

Left: Jenny Nansuga, Right: Ewan McDermott

The train was a fantastic way to recognise the contributions of over 260 apprentices across GWR’s 2,000-mile network and to inspire the future generation of rail professionals. Apprentices were on board handing out flyers and goody bags and offering advice and guidance to passengers who were curious to know more about career opportunities in rail.

Apprentices on board the Apprenticeship Train!

Rachel Geliamassi, Customer Service Director said: “To see our apprentices thrive is everything. They support each other, they give each other confidence and they’re paving their way in their career in a way that is so inspirational.”

Welcoming the train into Exeter St Davids, John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive CBE said:

“Exeter College is delighted to partner with GWR in offering exceptional apprenticeships. We are excited to welcome many of our current and former apprentices back to Exeter today to celebrate the world that is apprenticeships. Our partnership with GWR is a great example of what can be achieved when a college and fantastic employer work together to create something truly sector leading.”

Passengers on the Apprentice Train learnt about hidden careers in the rail industry, from train crew, engineering, and customer service, to IT, operational management, and finance. If you want to become a GWR apprentice, you can find out more on their website.

Considering an apprenticeship in a different sector? Take a look at our vacancies.

Contact the Apprenticeship Team on 01392 400800 or apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk

Apprentice and Employer Awards: Nominations Now Open

We are thrilled to announce that nominations are now open for the Exeter College Apprenticeship and Employer Awards 2025! These prestigious awards celebrate the exceptional achievements of our apprentices and the unwavering support of our employer partners.

Why Nominate?

The Exeter College Apprenticeship and Employer Awards recognise:

Outstanding Apprentices: Individuals who have demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and growth in their respective fields.

Supportive Employers: Organisations that have provided exemplary training, mentorship, and opportunities for apprentices to thrive.

How to Nominate

Submitting a nomination is straightforward:

For Apprentice Nominations: Complete the Apprentice Nomination Form

For Employer Nominations: Complete the Employer Nomination Form

Each form will guide you through the necessary steps to ensure your nominee receives the recognition they deserve.

Please submit all nominations by the 14th of March.

Join Us in Celebrating Excellence

By participating in the Exeter College Apprenticeship and Employer Awards, you contribute to a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Let’s come together to honour those who make a significant impact in the world of apprenticeships. Winners will be honoured at a special ceremony on the 20th of June 2025.

For more information or assistance with the nomination process, please contact us at apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk or 01392 400800. We look forward to receiving your nominations and celebrating the achievements of our outstanding apprentices and employers.

Exeter College Launches New Level 5 Assistant Practitioner (Health) Apprenticeship

Start Date: 1st October 2024

Exeter College, in collaboration with Plymouth Marjon University, is excited to announce the launch of the new Level 5 Assistant Practitioner (Health) Apprenticeship, starting on the 1st of October 2024. This program, aligned with the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, is designed to meet the growing demand for highly skilled health and social care professionals.

This apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity for experienced individuals in support roles to enhance their clinical expertise while working alongside registered healthcare professionals. Upon completion, apprentices will be well-equipped to deliver, supervise, and coordinate compassionate care for diverse patient groups across a variety of health and social care settings.

Key Details:

  • Course Title: Level 5 Assistant Practitioner (Health) Apprenticeship
  • Length: Up to 24 months
  • Study Mode: Day Release every Tuesday
  • Location: Hele Road Centre, Exeter College
  • Start Date: 1st October 2024 (Welcome Day)

Employers across the healthcare sector have already recognised the essential role of Assistant Practitioners in improving patient outcomes. “Our Assistant Practitioner has helped tremendously on the ward, bridging the gap between our HCAs and our Band 5 nurses. She is the first line of defence in patient care and is a highly skilled member of the team, due to both her educational and clinical training,” said Rhi Humphreys, NHS Midwife.

The apprenticeship offers 12 comprehensive modules, including:

  • Providing high quality, evidence-based clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic care
  • Foundations of professional practice
  • Anatomy and Physiology
  • Communicating effectively
  • Communication and working in teams
  • Quality improvement, audit and research activities
  • Leading and Integrating Care

The programme is carefully designed in partnership with healthcare employers and service users, ensuring that students are equipped to meet real-world demands.

“The course is intended to prepare students to become independent practitioners specialising in their chosen pathway. The programme has been designed in collaboration with employers and service users, combining study that is university-based alongside learning in the workplace. A high level of evidence-based clinical training, embedded with new knowledge attained from the programme, is a vital component and makes Assistant Practitioners a valued member of the nursing team.” – Donna Lucas PgCert Clinical Education, Programme Leader Assistant Practitioner and T Level Adult Nursing

The program is designed with extensive support and learning resources, including access to a state-of-the-art simulation suite, replicating hospital, GP, and community care settings.

Entry Requirements:

  • A Level 3 BTEC or QCF in Health and Social Care (or equivalent)
  • T Level P (C+ in core elements)
  • Three A-levels at grades DDD or higher
  • Level 2 GCSEs (grade C or above in English and maths) or equivalent Level 2 Functional Skills

This apprenticeship is an excellent pathway for those looking to develop their careers in health and social care while contributing to the future workforce. Exeter College is committed to ensuring apprentices have access to all the necessary resources, including our Learning Resource Centre (LRC), with additional recommended readings available for those wishing to explore further.

For more information and how to apply, please contact us on 01392 400800.

Exeter College Celebrates the Best of the Best at Apprentice and Employer Awards

Held at Sandy Park, the annual Apprentice and Employer Awards was a night of celebration and recognition, displaying the incredible achievements of Apprentices and the employers who support them. This year’s event featured former Exeter Chiefs Captain Gareth Steenson as the guest speaker, adding extra inspiration and motivation to the evening. 

With over 20 categories spanning various fields, the awards highlighted the diversity and excellence within the Apprenticeship programmes.  

Nigel Fenn MBE was presented with the Outstanding Contribution to Apprenticeships Award by Gareth Steenson and Sam Wilson

Mike Blakeley, Executive Director of Future Skills, and Apprenticeships expressed his admiration for the nominees, stating; 

“These awards showcase the amazing Apprentices and employers that Exeter College has the pleasure of working with. This year, with over 250 nominations, we have selected the best of the best to be rewarded for their dedication, hard work and support that make apprenticeships genuinely great. 

“Our employer network continues to grow and delivers some of the best support young people and adults will receive to make sure they are a success and have lifelong careers in their chosen sector.” 
Jessica Cowlard was presented with the Health and Care Apprentice of the Year Award

Tracey Mills, Apprenticeships and Early Careers Manager from Devon County Council, shared a story about one of their own apprentices, Luke Freathy, who won the Business and Professional Services Apprentice of the Year award. She praised Luke’s contributions, saying, “Luke winning tonight is a testament to his hard work and brilliant recognition of him and all he has put into his Apprenticeship. He thoroughly deserves it.” 

She emphasized the positive impact Apprentices have on businesses, saying;

“We have quite a big Apprenticeship programme at the council – they bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm, and apply what they’ve learnt through their Apprenticeship and that drives our business forward. We have a motivated, enthusiastic workforce, who are learning the latest skills, knowledge, and behaviours and applying it in their work. They are our future.”

Luke Freathy was this years winner of the Business and Professional Services Apprentice of the Year

Luke Freathy, a Level 3 Business Administrator Apprentice at Devon County Council in the Public Transport Team, took home the award for the Business and Professional Services Apprentice of the Year. He said; 

“I chose an Apprenticeship because I wanted to carry on with my education, but I didn’t want to go to university. After my A Levels I realised how much I wanted to get into some practical skills and earn whilst I’m learning. 

“I’m enjoying it so far; it’s been good from a social standpoint and being able to save money and build practical skills that will stand me in good stead in my career. 

“It’s nice to be nominated and it feels like my hard work has been recognised. I am really excited to be here this evening.” 

The awards were hosted by two current Exeter College Apprentices, Lucy Joyce (Level 3 Business Administration Apprentice) and Sam Osman (Level 4 Junior Management Consultant Apprenticeship at GWR.) Speaking about hosting and being an Apprentice Sam said; 


“I feel honoured, it’s a privilege to be here this evening. I’m halfway through my Apprenticeship and I have gained so much valuable experience already from different areas of the business at GWR. The mixture of academic work and practical work is what makes Apprenticeships so special.” 

Exeter College’s Annual Apprentice and Employer Awards continues to be a cornerstone event, celebrating the achievements of Apprentices and the vital role of employers in shaping future careers. The evening not only recognised individual accomplishments but also underscored the importance of Apprenticeship programmes in building a skilled and enthusiastic workforce for the future. 

Many employers were also recognised at the awards for the contribution to the success of Apprenticeships

Luke’s Civil Engineering Apprenticeship Journey

Luke, a recent graduate of A Levels in Psychology, Law, and English Language, found himself at a crossroads. Unsure about his next step, particularly regarding university education without a clear career plan, Luke sought guidance from his father, who worked in the construction industry. Steering away from traditional site-based roles, Luke explored various professions within the sector and stumbled upon Civil
Engineering.

Motivated by the diverse career paths within Civil Engineering, Luke reached out to Awcock Ward Partnership (AWP), a renowned firm known for its support of apprenticeships in Exeter, through his father’s connection. A meeting with AWP’s Apprenticeship Manager, Dan Hart, shed light on the opportunities available within the firm and the broader industry.

Following his A Level exams, Luke wasted no time and embarked on a week-long work experience stint at AWP, immersing himself in different teams to grasp the scope of services and projects. Impressed by his dedication, AWP offered Luke an apprenticeship opportunity. Despite living in Dorchester, Luke opted to relocate to Exeter at just 18 years old! Starting his apprenticeship shortly after the move, Luke initially grappled with nerves, navigating his first full-time job and the nuances of Civil Engineering. However, AWP’s supportive induction process and gradual training, along with ample shadowing opportunities, eased his transition. Now six months in, Luke confidently tackles projects backed by the
guidance of senior colleagues.

My lecturers are flexible and supportive, and my Skills Officer supports me in the workplace. Doing an apprenticeship means getting paid, gaining experience, and building a career.

Luke, Civil Engineering Apprentice

Simultaneously, Luke commenced his Level 3 Civil Engineering college course, albeit with a minor hiccup on the first day due to a transportation mishap — an experience he advises others to avoid with a trial run of the commute. Nevertheless, Luke found his college lecturers accommodating, and he found that his Skills Officer provided invaluable assistance throughout his apprenticeship journey.

Enthusiastic about his future in Civil Engineering, Luke plans to pursue a Level 4 apprenticeship upon completing his current programme, continuing to enjoy the perks of earning while learning and gaining practical experience.

With boundless opportunities in the Civil Engineering realm, Luke’s apprenticeship marks just the beginning of what promises to be a fulfilling career.

If you’re thinking of an Apprenticeship or you’re a business considering an Apprentice, our team can support you with the next steps. You can contact the Apprenticeship Team by calling 01392 400800 or by emailing apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk

You can find out more about AWP Apprenticeships here.

“I’ve never looked back.” – Three Exeter College Apprentices on Why They Love Their Career Choice. 

As part of #CollegesWeek2024 we caught up with some of our fabulous Apprentices to hear about why they love being an Apprentice. Colleges Week is an initiative spearheaded by the Association of Colleges to celebrate the work of colleges around the country. 

As well as supporting students to find an Apprenticeship, Exeter College also employs a wide range of Apprentices across the organisation. 

Nico Bautista, Kitty Coulson Byng and Lucy Joyce are completing the Level 3 Business Administration Apprenticeship and are all employed at the College. Apprenticeships cater to various career paths and interests, from Business to Health and Care, to Engineering and Construction and much more. 

Kitty works with the Exams Team. Speaking about what she loves about being an Apprentice, she said; 

“If you’re not quite sure what you want to do or how to go about getting a job, an apprenticeship is a fantastic way to learn things at the same time as working. It’s a really nurturing environment and can start you off on a certain career path.” 

Lucy, who works in the Apprenticeship Hub, added; 

“It’s a good foot in the door but you are still learning so even though you aren’t going to university, you are still learning skills that you can apply elsewhere.” 

One of the many benefits of doing an apprenticeship is that you learn things in the classroom that you can immediately put into practice in your job role. 

Kitty says her role has boosted her confidence. 

“We work on a wide variety of projects and having to do things like presentations has really developed my confidence. Just speaking to a lot of new people and joining a big employer has really helped me and all my peers with that.” 

Lucy added; 

“What I’ve learnt from my apprenticeship is probably time management, having to prioritise work and college work, our work is fast paced so I’ve had to really get organised.” 

Nico has come from a role where he was working alone a lot and is really enjoying being back in a team. He works in the Apprenticeship Hub with Lucy. He said; 

“What I like most is the variety of stuff we do and getting hands on, not just theory but practicing the theory too. 

“Learning those specific skills does make a big difference (like time management), you learn to collaborate, and its team orientated.” 

So, what would they say to someone considering an Apprenticeship? 

Lucy said; “For anyone thinking about doing an apprenticeship, just remember university isn’t your only option. I looked on Instagram one day and found an apprenticeship and haven’t looked back since.” 

Nico added; “If I knew about apprenticeships earlier, I would have gone down this route, rather than university. I feel like you get hands on experience, and you just figure things out.” 

Explore the Apprenticeship zone on our website to find the right Apprenticeship for you. 

You can find out more about Apprenticeships at the next Open Event on Wednesday 24 April or call our Apprenticeship Team on 01392 400800. 

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.

Apprenticeship Case Study: Somerset Council

Apprenticeships at Exeter College

An Apprenticeship is for people of all ages, 16+, to help kick-start a career in a job that suits their skills and interests, to facilitate a career change, or for people who would like to progress in their current role. With Apprenticeships now in a wide variety of sectors and roles, and at different levels, there is a programme with Exeter College for you.

Somerset Council

At Somerset Council, Catherine Temple is a Business Intelligence Analyst. They said;

“We value having apprentices in the workplace and we want to encourage both the recruitment of apprentices and upskilling of current employees wherever possible and since 2020, Somerset Council has supported 474 apprentices through various qualifications with a mixture of recruited apprentices and upskilled staff.

“Apprenticeships are becoming more of a viable option in the workplace due to the increasing variety of courses available. We are now able to support employees across all educational apprenticeship stages, GCSE to Master’s Degree equivalent qualifications.” 

Read Catherine’s story below…

I started the 2 year, Level 4 Data Analytics Apprenticeship last September at Exeter College. Our class has members from Somerset Council, Devon County Council, South West Water, and various private sector companies.

The course consists of 20% “off the job” training, in the main this is one day per week at college, during college holidays we work on our portfolios and projects. I am extremely fortunate to have a supportive and understanding manager who has been invaluable at finding opportunities for me to put into practice what I am learning.

I have learnt an enormous amount since beginning my apprenticeship and it has really helped me in my day-to-day work. The friends I have made at college and our brilliant lecturer have helped me at times where I have struggled, in particular with coding which I had never done before! I have relished the learning experience, especially learning the latest analytical techniques and where best to use them. In addition, I am enjoying designing and delivering the presentations which are preparing us for the end point assessments with external assessors.

In May, I was honoured to be asked to present to the alumni at Exeter College’s digital summit. I talked about the apprenticeship, the highs, and lows, how it has helped me, how I have used what I have learnt, and what I will do next with the knowledge and experience. I received incredibly positive feedback from the attendees who said it was nice to see someone so enthusiastic and open to sharing their experience.

Learn more about Apprenticeships at our next Open Event.

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