Students on why they choose Exeter College

There’s no doubt we’re #ExeCollProud to have an amazing community here at Exeter College. Offering Ofsted Outstanding education students, across a range of subjects and course types, we pride ourselves on tailoring college life to each individual in our college community.

We know there are many reasons to choose Exeter College, but we asked our students the main reasons they chose us to be their further education provider…

Students learning in our @34 training kitchens.

THE WORLD CLASS FACILITIES

“I came to Exeter College for the industry standard facilities on my course. I do media make-up artistry at Exeter College and it’s really fun. This is a course I can’t really do anywhere else; Exeter College is one of the only places who offer it. I feel really lucky that I got onto my first choice of course,” – Jasmine Price.

“Exeter College’s @34 training facilities have provided me with an accurate workplace experience and prepared me appropriately for the working environment,” – Tilly Morris.

Teachers with a real passion for their subject.

OUR TEACHING STAFF

“The teachers here have had all the right training; they’re fantastic in how they teach us and how they work with us. They train us like they’re preparing us to work in the industry before we even get to university,” – Jasmine Price.

“Every member of staff has been very supportive and I feel really cared for at this college,” – Ella Edmonds.

ACADEMIES AND ENRICHMENT

“I came to Exeter College for the great sports academies they have here. I took part in the rugby sports academy last year. I trained in the mornings, so it fitted in really well around my college timetable. I also play for a local rugby club, so it supported that and was really enjoyable,” – Max Davies.

“I was lucky enough to get into the performing arts academy which was an amazing opportunity for me because I love drama. Exeter College also offers a lot of clubs and extracurricular opportunities,” – Ella Edmonds.

“I chose Exeter because of the quality speakers that come in. I have been to so many outstanding talks from people all over the country and some international ones as well, I wouldn’t have got this opportunity where I’m based in Bideford,” – Tom Matthew.

We’re Devon’s only Ofsted Outstanding College.

COURSE REPUTATION

“The reputation Exeter College has is fantastic, everyone recommends Exeter as it’s such a good college,” – Bayleigh Bewes.

“I can’t think of anywhere around here that has the range of A Levels that Exeter College does. I know that a lot of my friends came here for the niche courses that Exeter College could offer them,” – Will Stredwick.

GROWTH

“I’ve gained a lot of confidence from being at Exeter College,” – Ella Files-Butler.

“Sixth form is a comfort zone; at college you will get something that you won’t experience somewhere else. I’ve gained a lot of confidence from being at Exeter College. I’m a lot more comfortable with new people and understanding new ideas,” – Ella Files-Butler.

“I came to Exeter College for the university-like feel, which I think is really good preparation. I like having more independence, it’s really helped me to learn how to manage my time,” – Will Stredwick.

We love hearing all of the motivations and reasons our students choose Exeter. If you would like to share why you chose Exeter, send us a message, or tag us in a post using #ExeCollTogether.

If you’d like to find out more about the subjects and courses you can study here, you can now re-watch our Online Showcase.

Access chapter one and chapter two of our Flying Start pre-enrolment work now, giving you the best introduction to your future courses.

You can still apply to study at Exeter College for the September 2020 start. For help with your application, email info@exe-coll.ac.uk.

Exeter College is preparing to enrol students to start in September 2020. Find out the latest plans for enrolment.

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in high demand in South West

Exeter College students have helped to contribute to the South West’s increasing demand for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, developing vital life skills along the way that will help them in their future careers.

The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) award is a youth programme which recognises young adults for completing a series of self-improvement exercises.

Those aged between 14-25 have the opportunity to work towards a bronze, silver or gold award. Participants complete a range of activities, from volunteering to fitness, developing practical skills and completing an expedition.

With 15,794 young people in the South West achieving their DofE award over the last 12 months, the demand in the region is well above the national average. 

Devon has seen a 25% increase in students who have achieved their DofE award over the last year. Furthermore, 18.5% of young people in the South West who have taken part have come from a disadvantaged background, showing how inclusive and invaluable this programme is to students.

Even during these unprecedented times, students in the South West have continued with their DofE programme. Many participants have taken part in fitness challenges and have supported vulnerable members of the community.

“We are incredibly proud of our students who are willing to remove themselves from their comfort zones to achieve these prestigious awards,”
Megan Snell, Deputy Head of Student Experience at Exeter College

Heather Thompson, South West Director for the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, said, “Despite the disruption and challenges the Coronavirus pandemic has brought, the flexibility of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award allows young people to continue their journey despite being required to stay at home. 

“This will have a positive effect on young people’s mental and physical wellbeing. It will also provide a positive focus, a sense of purpose and support to their local community in these unsettling times.”

There’s increasing popularity for DofE as an enrichment opportunity among Exeter College students, with 43 pupils in 2019-2020 starting either a silver or gold award.

Megan Snell, Deputy Head of Student Experience at Exeter College, said, “Exeter College recognises the value in broadening the personal skills sets of our learners and are committed to providing a diverse range of enrichment activities alongside their main programme of study.

“Our Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards in particular have proven to be a life changing experience for many or our learners. It provides them with the important soft skills employers and universities are looking for, as well as developing a greater understanding and respect of their community.

“We are incredibly proud of our students who are willing to remove themselves from their comfort zones to achieve these prestigious awards.”

Heather Thompson added, “I would like to thank Exeter College and their DofE team for doing all they can to ensure cohorts this year don’t miss out. 

“Even with the uncertainty of running expeditions, there is so much young people can gain from undertaking their volunteering, physical and skills sections.”

Following government advice, expeditions will not take place when originally planned. However, all participants will have the opportunity to complete their DofE award in the future. The programme will also be offered to new cohorts in the autumn.

Exeter College is preparing to enrol students to start in September 2020. Find out the latest plans for enrolment.