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”

You can read the College’s full Ofsted report here.

Ofsted Inspections

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.

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:

Advice on choosing between courses/subjects
Information about college life, such as academies and EXtra
Information about support on offer at Exeter College
Useful resources to research careers and universities
The chance to ask the team questions relating to Exeter College

Appointments will be held on a first come, first served basis from 4:30pm to 6:30pm on the following dates:

Thursday 5 January
Tuesday 17 January
Wednesday 1 February
Wednesday 15 February – as this is during half term, we can also offer appointments during the day, see the booking page for available times.

Book your session now.

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.

Exeter College Women’s Rugby Assessment Evening

Elite Rugby Programme at Exeter College – Partnered with Exeter Chiefs

Join us on Wednesday 30 November to take part in our Assessment Evening.

Are you interested in being part of one of the best female rugby academies in the country?

Would you like the opportunity to study full time on a BTEC or A Level programme whilst training as part of your timetable?

You will benefit from:

Regular strength and conditioning and analysis sessions with trained professionals
Highly experienced and qualified coaching staff including current Exeter Chiefs players and international players
Direct links to Premier 15’s Rugby and Apprenticeship opportunities and professional relationship with Exeter University
Weekly fixtures in the most competitive U18 competition in the country.

We create international players year on year and have great representation at England TDG Camps.

There is DiSE opportunity for selected high-level performers.

To book a place on the Assessment Evening please contact Chris Wall via email on chriswall@exe-coll.ac.uk

Find out more about the Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy.

Exeter College Students Celebrate Achievements at Prestigious Graduation Ceremony

On Friday 7 October, Exeter College graduates took to the stage in Exeter Cathedral to collect their degree certificates. Graduates from a wide range of programmes gathered with their friends and family to celebrate this special educational milestone.

Exeter College has a proud history of delivering Higher Education courses which range from Business to Engineering to Football Coaching and Early Childhood Studies. Many students have already secured employment or will now go on to their next steps in education.

Louise Fisher progressed from a Level 3 course at the College and has now completed a BA in Business Management. She has secured a graduate job in Financial Services. She said:

“I’m a Financial Executive and Insurance Broker which I started in July. My employer opened a new branch in October, so I have used my degree with that and I’m continuing my professional development by doing my CII (Chartered Insurance Institute).

Speaking about her experience at College, Louise said:

“The lecturers and teachers were all supportive. It’s been hard work but rewarding in the end. I’m really excited for graduation today but I also feel really proud because it’s a great accomplishment.”

Principal and Chief Executive, John Laramy CBE, said;

“The Exeter College graduation ceremony is one of the highlights of our College year. The iconic setting of Exeter Cathedral always adds some extra magic to the day and I am sure that the experience will stay with our graduates for many years to come.

“This year’s event was given an international flavour, as our guest of honour joined us from Daytona Beach, Florida. William J Muldoon is Vice Chancellor at Embry-Riddle Worldwide and Managing Director of Europe, part of the esteemed Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. Our unique partnership has seen Engineering students visit the university in Florida, as part of the Government’s Turing Scheme. We were delighted he could join us at the Graduation where he gave our graduates and guests an inspirational and fascinating address, outlining the dynamic world of work that our graduates will now join.

“The last few years have not been straightforward, and all our graduates will have learnt new skills, beyond the content of their programmes. It has been a privilege to celebrate with all our graduating students today whether they had completed a degree, a professional course, or an apprenticeship. I would like to congratulate all our 2022 graduates and wish them well for their future endeavours.”

Among this year’s graduates were two award winners. The University of Plymouth Academic Partnerships Prize went to Adam Coombe, a FdA Graphic Design student. He is described as an exemplary design student by his tutor, Nigel Lowe, who said:

“His endeavours to push boundaries and “go the extra mile”, both conceptually and technically, have resulted in professional and innovative design solutions. He has developed not only as a talented designer, but also as a person who now has the confidence to progress to Level 6 at the University of Plymouth.”

Lucy Chard-Maple was awarded the Exeter College Award. She has just completed a BSc (Hons) in Public Services. Talking about her achievements, her tutor, Rev Dr Edgar Mihas, said;

“Lucy has demonstrated exceptional aspiration, determination, effort, motivation, and a pro-active attitude, all of which paved the way for the exceptionally high First-Class Hons degree. Lucy has been a Special Constable throughout her three years as a Higher Education student and is now in the process of joining the Police as a full-time officer.”

Speaking about her time at Exeter College, Lucy said:

“It’s been fantastic, they have always been there for students. They have excellent tutors, and you always get opportunities to progress any skills, not necessarily related to your degree or your course but extra skills that help you every day. I’ve learnt a huge amount from that as well.”

Speaking about graduation, she said:

“I think it’s amazing. The opportunities I’ve had, I’ve been so lucky and had such supportive friends and family, tutors and staff members encouraging me. So, it’s a huge day and I think it’s going to be really good to celebrate that with everyone I love.”

Find out more about university level learning at Exeter College at the next Open Event on Thursday 13 October.

Out Now: Exeter College School Leavers’ Course Guide for 2023 entry

Our School Leavers’ Course Guide for students wishing to join Exeter College in September 2023 is out now.
You can view the new guide online, download a copy or request a copy to be posted out to you. It is bright, easy to use and jam-packed with information.

How to use the guide
To make your life simple, we have broken the guide down into clear sections to help you navigate to where you want to go.

Your choice.
In this section, you will find information about what we offer, how to choose the right course for you and what level to study at.
Your College.
Here you will find information on where you will study along with a site map and information on transport links. This is where you will also find details about timetables, enrichment, and support.
Your application.
This explains the six simple steps from school to College and you can find out more about the application process.

Look out for….

Apprenticeships – these are clearly marked in pink
T Levels – these are clearly marked in purple, there are lots of new T Levels for next year too!
Make sure you take a look at EXtra – this is everything available to you over and above your core curriculum

What’s in the guide?
Inside you will find information on all the courses and Apprenticeships available to School Leavers at Exeter College. We have a wide variety of study options available so take your time in choosing what is right for you. As well as A Levels and Apprenticeships, there is a fantastic range of vocational courses on offer, including T Levels. You can also find out more about our courses by looking at the course search.

Find out more
The best way to discover all that Exeter College has to offer is by visiting us at one of our Open Events. We hold three Open Events throughout the year. Click here to register for an event.

All sites, all courses.

Thursday 13 October, 2022, 4-8pm
Wednesday 23 November 2022, 4-8pm
Wednesday 26 April 2023 , 4-7pm

Need some advice?
Our College Advice Team are experts in supporting you to find the right course. You can contact them to arrange a visit or chat. Call 01392 400500 or email cat@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Don’t forget you can view the new guide online, download a copy or request a copy to be posted out to you.

Best Year Yet for Apprenticeships at Exeter College

This summer saw students across the country collect exam results for the first time in two years, but for Apprentices, every day is results day. The last academic year has seen high Apprenticeship pass rates for Exeter College across all programmes.

Motor Vehicle Apprentices have done particularly well, achieving a 100% pass rate. Construction has had an excellent year too, with a 90% pass rate for Level 4 Construction Management and 96% pass rate for Carpentry and Joinery, with the majority of learners achieving a Distinction at end point assessment.

“Apprenticeships are an integral part of our offer at Exeter College. We are incredibly proud of our Apprentices and what they go on to achieve.”
John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive

Bench Joinery student Laura Michell has also gained national recognition having come first in an Institute of Carpenters competition this summer. She will be collecting her award in London this November. She said;

“After the first year of my Apprenticeship, I was entered into the Institute of Carpenters competition. When I found out that I had not only won the Regional’s but also the National stage, I was completely overwhelmed and shocked. I’ve always been passionate at trying to be the best at anything I apply myself to and joinery is no exception.

“I am incredibly grateful and honoured to the Institute of a Carpenters to be receiving my award in London in November. Finally, I would like to praise and give recognition to my tutor, Gill Taylor, who from day one has encouraged me to believe in myself and given me an infinite amount of knowledge to perfect my craft. He was a huge inspiration as to why I entered the competition, and I am forever grateful.”

For the third year in a row Exeter College has enrolled over 1000 new apprentices. Not only that, but this year saw the College deliver their biggest ever contract for Apprenticeships, serving more employees than ever before and delivering to a record number of Apprentices. New partnerships with businesses such as Taylor Wimpey have seen the College expand their employer network, offering Apprentices some of the best job opportunities available nationally.

Exeter College celebrates the start of 1000 Apprentices

Director of Future Skills and Apprenticeships, Mike Blakeley, said:

“We set the bar high for our Apprentices at Exeter College and they always deliver. This year we have seen our Apprentices represent us at National Awards, conferences and in government campaigns to help raise awareness about the fantastic opportunities that come with doing an Apprenticeship.

“Working with local and national partners, we continue to adapt and evolve our Apprenticeship offer to maintain a clear line of sight to industry. This ensures Apprentices have a career to progress to and that we are delivering what our local economy needs.”

Working with local partners in response to employer demand, this year has also marked the launch of several new Apprenticeship programmes. A partnership with Exeter Aerospace has meant the launch of an Aircraft Technician Apprenticeship. There are also exciting developments underway in Hospitality and Catering. New professional Construction courses, such as Geospatial Survey Technician and Construction Support Technician, have also been introduced.

John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive, said:

“Apprenticeships are an integral part of our offer at Exeter College. We are incredibly proud of our Apprentices and what they go on to achieve. We have seen record growth in the sector this year and I believe our accolade of being the best in the South West is down to, not only our Apprentices, but the incredible employers we work with to provide our Apprentices with an outstanding education.”

This year also saw the seventh year of growth for the College’s Pre-Apprenticeship provision. A Pre-Apprenticeship is a skills development programme, through which a young person can gain work experience, industry and employability skills, and Maths and English support if required. Pre-Apprentices has seen a 93% pass rate, with 70% of learners progressing onto an Apprenticeship or full-time work upon completion.

One learner, a care leaver from Eritrea with many skills, enrolled on the Pre-Apprenticeship programme to upskill their English. After working with Pathfinder Homes, they overcame many personal and learning challenges to achieve their long-term goal of securing a full-time job in maintenance.

The Exeter College Apprenticeship team gleaned national recognition on a number of fronts last year. This includes being awarded CMI Learning provider of the Year, an AAC Award for Legal, Finance and Accountancy Provider of the Year, and the AoC Beacon Award for College Engagement with Employers. On the back of this success, the College have been invited to deliver a national best practice webinar for the Association of Colleges this month, and the Director of Apprenticeships and Future Skills, Mike Blakeley, was invited to speak at the Apprenticeships4England conference about exemplar employer partnership practice.

Find out more about Apprenticeships at the next Exeter College Open Event.

CITB and Exeter College launch a new guide to help construction businesses access grants and funding

CITB have partnered with Exeter College to launch the ‘CITB Apprenticeship Grants Guide’, a new resource to highlight the financial support packages available to businesses that employ Apprentices in the construction sector.

CITB, the construction industry training board for England, Scotland and Wales, offers several grants and training funds for businesses who employ apprentices. These include an attendance grant of up to £2500 a year for those that employ a Level 2 or higher apprentice in an eligible Apprenticeship standard, an achievement grant of up to £3500 that can be claimed when an apprentice achieves their End Point Assessment, a Skills and Training fund and a travel fund.

Despite this, uptake of grants has not kept pace with growing apprentice numbers. Due to time constraints, many employers struggle to understand the benefits and support available to them if they take on an apprentice.

To tackle this, CITB and Exeter College have joined forces to create a one-stop shop funding guide. The ‘CITB Apprenticeship Grants Guide’ is a simple and easy-to-read resource which signposts employers directly to grant claim pages, reducing time spent away from the day job.

CITB Customer Engagement Advisor, Darren Murrish said; 

“Apprenticeships are the bedrock of the construction industry. Apprenticeships are preparing the next generation of construction workers and represent an exciting option for both apprentice and employer. This is why CITB offers grants to CITB registered businesses who take on apprentices”.

“CITB is really pleased to be working with Exeter College to make sure construction employers get the help they need with recruiting and keeping apprentices in construction”.
Darren Murrish

Darren Murrish – CITB Customer Engagement Advisor

Not only will this new resource help businesses with apprentices access financial support, it will also highlight a major benefit of taking on an apprentice and encourage more employers across the South West to invest in young and emerging talent.   

 Mike Blakeley, Director of Apprenticeships and Future Skills at Exeter College said; 

‘We are the forefront of Apprenticeships in the South West and have seen record growth in the sector in the last 12 months. The key to high quality Apprenticeships is support from our outstanding employers and those that invest in young people, creating a win-win situation for their business and their young person in terms of skills acquisition and value. This unique partnership brings together Exeter College and CITB to further enhance our customer support and unlock significant funding that will inevitably benefit both employers and apprentices.’  

Mike added,  

‘It was brilliant to break new ground with CITB and we look forward to working with them in new and exciting projects.’ 

Click here to download the ‘CITB Apprenticeship Grants Guide’

With the construction industry booming and sustainable modern methods of construction paving the way to meet net zero targets, there has never been a better time for businesses to invest in Apprenticeships. Exeter College’s expert Apprenticeship team can guide businesses through the recruitment process and connect them with a talent pool of aspiring apprentices. To learn more about Exeter College Apprenticeships and access support, email apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk.

HepcoMotion Apprentice Raises Awareness of Disabilities and Apprenticeships

First year manufacturing Apprentice Sky-Elouise Hopkins is keen to raise awareness of having a disability and being an apprentice.

Sky-Elouise has Congenital Nystagmus, a disability that causes uncontrollable movements of the eyes, which can make everyday tasks quite difficult. However, Sky-Elouise has not let this stop her, and after completing a National Foundation Diploma in Engineering at Exeter College in 2021, Sky-Elouise decided to pursue a career in Engineering through an apprenticeship with linear motion expert HepcoMotion and Exeter College.

“When I first applied for HepcoMotion I was apprehensive of how my disability would affect me and whether I would be given the same opportunities as others. However, sat here six months later, I can positively say that my disability does not hold me back, and that is thanks to companies like HepcoMotion”.
Sky-Elouise Hopkins

Sky Elouise explains: “After the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered my career plans due to future uncertainties, I decided I wanted to jumpstart my career with an apprenticeship. When the opportunity came to apply for HepcoMotion’s apprenticeship scheme, I knew I had to.”

Sky-Elouise was particularly drawn to HepcoMotion as it has an award-winning apprenticeship programme where many former apprentices have progressed into full-time roles within the company.

Having started her apprenticeship in September 2021, Sky-Elouise decided early on that she wanted to raise awareness of being an apprentice with a disability in the hope that it will inspire others to overcome their fears and pursue their careers. Nystagmus Awareness Day, which takes place annually on 20^th June, provides the perfect opportunity.

“Nystagmus is a condition that few people know about, but one that has a huge effect on thousands of people. For me personally it has a significant impact on my confidence, and I often struggle to interact with people because of the way my Nystagmus makes me look. My Nystagmus also affects my co-ordination and balance so I can often find some simple things, like sports, quite difficult” says Sky-Elouise.

Although she faces everyday challenges, Sky-Elouise continues to push the boundaries of her disability and be resilient in order to be able to do things. This is highlighted through her choices of hobbies: taekwondo and cycling. Indeed, Sky- Elouise has already been graded for her first coloured belt in taekwondo and has set many goals in order to progress within these areas, such as charity mountain bike rides and competing in more competitions.

Sky-Elouise highlights that employers have a crucial role in breaking down the barriers for apprentices with disabilities: “When I first applied for HepcoMotion I was apprehensive of how my disability would affect me and whether I would be given the same opportunities as others. However, sat here six months later, I can positively say that my disability does not hold me back, and that is thanks to companies like HepcoMotion. Any challenges I have had, such as finding suitable safety glasses, or doing a specifically challenging task, they have supported me every step of the way to find a resolution and get me through it.”

Training providers also play an important part in supporting apprentices. Exeter College has a dedicated apprenticeship learning support team with experience in supporting learners with a wide variety of needs, with or without a specific diagnosis. Apprentices with Exeter College can access 1 to 1 or group support for any non-practical parts of their apprenticeship, whether that be completing assignments, making the most of in-class learning, or Functional Skills maths or English. The college also offers training to apprentices to make the best use of available learning technologies, including dictate and immersive readers.

Sky-Elouise shared, “Exeter College has supported me whilst I am training by adjusting my apprenticeship pathway around my strengths, to a technical support position. This new pathway works very well with my current placement within the Research and Development department at HepcoMotion. I have been aiming for this placement since I first started at HepcoMotion, and daily I am progressing my knowledge and skills of SolidWorks, through modelling and animation.”

Celebrating Nystagmus Awareness Day is vital for raising awareness and ensures that adults and children with Nystagmus can access the support they need in work and education. If you would like to find out more about Nystagmus Awareness Day, visit www.nystagmusnetwork.org.

If you would like to learn more about undertaking an Apprenticeship with Exeter College or HepcoMotion, please contact apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk or applications@hepcomotion.com

Exeter College takes the lead in championing apprenticeships with ‘Apprenticeship Awareness Week’

Last month, Exeter College’s Apprenticeship Awareness Week returned for an ambitious second year.

An exciting week of activities held across multiple College sites highlighted the College’s award-winning Apprenticeship provision and demonstrated the progression opportunities Apprenticeships offer to the College’s full-time learners.

Launched in addition to the Apprenticeship Week celebrated nationally in February, the curation of this week demonstrates Exeter College’s commitment to promoting a variety of training and education routes to young people.

The College was pleased to welcome 18 employer partners on-site as part of the week’s activities.

An employer exposition held at Exeter College’s Construction Centre, enabled full-time learners from Plumbing, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, and other trades to meet with recruiting businesses face-to-face.

Similarly, Exeter College’s Technology Centre hosted an Engineering Apprenticeship event at which 12 local engineering organisations exhibited Apprenticeship opportunities to over one hundred student attendees.

The ‘Apprenticeship Festival’ brought a vibrant atmosphere to Exeter College’s Hele Road campus. This exciting new event gave students the opportunity to meet employers from a variety of sectors including IT, the NHS, and telecoms, whilst also participating in Apprenticeship-based games.

Mike Blakeley, Director of Future Skills and Apprenticeships, said:

“We are incredibly proud of the Apprenticeship provision that we provide here at Exeter College, it’s been great to dedicate a whole week celebrating and showcasing our opportunities with the vast range of employers that we are partnered with.”

Hosting virtual events enabled the College to maximise engagement with the student body. An ‘All you need to know about Apprenticeships’ webinar achieved record-breaking attendance with over 150 guests joining the event.

‘Apprenticeship Week’ made a splash on social media too, with Apprentices from partnering Exeter College organisations such as Adopstar, IT Champion and HepcoMotion taking over the College social media channels for the week and showcasing a typical ‘day in the life’ of an Apprentice.

Such events demonstrate Exeter College’s commitment to providing excellent career guidance through engagement with employers and promoting a diverse range of education opportunities to their students.

If you would like to find out more about Exeter College’s Apprenticeships, please email apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Exeter College lifts the trophy for Engagement with Employers at prestigious Beacon Awards

Exeter College has won the much-coveted City & Guilds Award for College Engagement with Employers at the Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Awards, the most prestigious awards in further education.

The AoC Beacon Awards celebrate the best and most innovative practice among UK colleges each year. This award is supported by City & Guilds and seeks to recognise examples of colleges who are responsive to the needs of employers and their region, demonstrate a whole college approach and who demonstrate systematic networking and collaboration with other organisations.

The College and Great Western Railway (GWR) forged a relationship based on shared values and focus on their customers. The partnership between the College and Great Western Railway which originated in 2017, was ambitious from the outset. Adoption of a commercial mind set by the College and significant investment on both sides has enabled both GWR and College to support each other’s aims and ambitions. There is a shared clear long-term vision, enabling the development of a vibrant learning community of both Apprentices and College staff with a mutual passion for professional development and thirst for knowledge. Shared values of ambition, collaboration and enthusiasm have driven Apprenticeship growth in GWR.

This Partnership has succeeded in developing exceptional Apprenticeship programmes, not only driving knowledge, skills, and behaviours, but also building confidence, Apprentice voice and giving economic opportunity to a diverse group of learners across a geographically dispersed area.

Rob Bosworth, Jenny Vince, Mike Blakely and Lucinda Sanders with the Beacon Award

Mike Blakeley, Director of Future Skills, and Apprenticeships at Exeter College, said:

“We celebrate the engagement and partnership of over 1050 employers here at Exeter College. They are a vibrant element of our organisation and help us shape our skills offer and support 1000’s of our students with employment and progression opportunities. The Association of Colleges Beacon Award for engagement with employers is hotly contested every year. To be shortlisted was an honour and after an arduous judging visit, we are delighted to have been recognised as the top college in the country for our endeavours.”

He added, “The focus of our submission was our extensive partnership with GWR. It is a truly unique collaboration that supports hundreds of Apprentices across the rail network. The award recognises the outstanding work of both GWR and Exeter College staff who all work tirelessly to support our Apprentices and I want to thank them all for their outstanding contribution to our learning community and partnership.”

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

“Our aim is to work with employers, not as provider, but as a true partner which makes a difference to their business. This National Award, is the highest accolade available in the Further Education Sector, related to working with employers.

“To have won this prestigious award for our extensive partnership with GWR is a fantastic achievement for the College, our staff, our apprentices and our wider employer partners – I would like to thank and congratulate everyone involved.”

Mark White, Chair of AoC’s Charitable Trust, said:

“The AoC Beacon Awards showcase exactly why colleges are so important to every community and why people value them. This award recognises examples of excellent practical teaching and learning. The work of the winning college shows how important colleges are in providing students with the necessary skills for the real world.”