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Exeter College Celebrates Exceptional Results and National Recognition in Landmark Week  

Exeter College is celebrating another exceptional year of success, with outstanding results across its A Levels, T Levels, and vocational programmes. The College continues to set the bar for academic excellence with an A level pass rate of 99.52%, well above the national average of 97.4%. Among the many highlights, an impressive 23 A Level subjects achieved a flawless 100% pass rate. 

Today’s exam success marks a double triumph for the College, as it was selected as one of only ten Construction Technical Excellence Colleges in the country earlier this week, making it one of the most memorable weeks in its history. 

Results Day 2025 Celebrations
Students celebrating their success on Results Day 2025.

John Laramy CBE, CEO and Principal, said: 

“Today is always a special day, but this year students have achieved stellar results across the board, breaking records and setting a new bar for next year’s results.  I would like to congratulate the class of 2025 and wish them well in their future endeavours, whether that is another year at college, progression to university or starting a career or an apprenticeship.   

“Todays success is not luck, we have amazing students, who work with talented staff, I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to these results. Our vision is to be a ‘exceptional college’ and this year our students have helped us on that journey.” 

High grades were a particular success. 59% of A Levels were awarded at the highest A*, A or B grades, well above the national average of 55%. A staggering 86% of Exeter College A Levels were awarded at A*-C grades, significantly above the national average of 78%. 

Results Day 2025 Celebrations
Florence Skinner studied Geography, Chemistry and Biology and is studying Chemistry at Birmingham Uni. Pictured here with her mum.

Exeter College’s broad and inclusive A Level curriculum once again delivered exceptional achievements across the range of subjects . Fine Art students excelled, with almost half achieving an A or A* and over a quarter securing the very highest A* grade. Film Studies impressed with nearly four in five students attaining high grades, while Philosophy reached 80% high grades. In the sciences, Chemistry saw more than two-thirds of students achieve high grades, with over a third gaining an A or A*. Mathematics, the College’s largest A Level subject, secured over two-thirds high grades, and in Further Maths almost half achieved an A or A*. Economics and Law both performed strongly, each with over 70% high grades and around a third at A or A*. Languages also shone, with German achieving 78% high grades and over a third at A or A*.  
 
Jade Otty, Deputy CEO, said: 

“Congratulations to all learners receiving results today. We are so proud of you all! Thank you to our amazing teaching and support staff at Exeter College who have gone above and beyond to help our learners to thrive and succeed.” 

The College’s outstanding educational approach, which includes a rigorous externally set and marked AS exam in the first year, has played a significant role in these outstanding outcomes. AS results saw an impressive 43% of learners awarded the highest grades (A and B), and were an impressive 6% ahead of the national average pass rate. 

Results Day 2025 Celebrations
Honey Forty studied A Levels in Geography, English Language and French, pictured here celebrating with her family.

Honey Forty (pictured above) from Exeter is one such A Level student who is celebrating today. Studying Geography, English Language, French and taking an EPQ, Honey achieved 3 A*s and an A. She is now heading to the University of Exeter to study English, Media and Communications with the hope of pursuing journalism. While celebrating today, she said; 

“I beat my University of Cambridge offer today, which I’m really chuffed about, but I decided to turn it down, because I would rather study my chosen degree at the University of Exeter.  

“I ultimately decided to come to Exeter College because I thought it would give me more independence and prepare me for university, and that’s 100% been the case. The College has been nothing but completely supportive. My tutor, my teachers, not a bad word to say. It’s been amazing.” 

Results Day 2025 Celebrations
Adam Daly from Dartington studied Maths, Further Maths and Physics A Levels.

Adam Daly (pictured above) from Dartington studied Maths, Further Maths and Physics A Levels and achieved an A* in all three subjects. His love of Maths will now take him to the University of Manchester to take the subject further. 

“Both of my Maths teachers were incredible. I couldn’t have hoped for any better. I feel very well prepared for university, especially through tutorial, we were given lots of support about steps beyond college.” 

Students completing technical and applied Advanced Level programmes have also achieved outstanding results, with a 99.3% pass rate for two year Extended Diplomas (the equivalent of taking three A Levels). Applied Science saw 71% of students achieve high grades (Distinction* or Distinction). 76.8% of Health and Social Care learners gained high grades and a record 98% of Sport and Exercise Science learners secured the highest grades.  

Some stand out T Level successes were T Level Accountancy, with 100% of learners achieving a Merit grade or higher, T Level Education and Early Years which saw a 100% pass rate and 97% of students achieving a Merit grade or higher. T Level Health also saw a 100% pass rate. 

Results Day 2025 Celebrations
T Level students celebrating their success on Results Day 2025.

Jessica Fry (pictured above, 3rd from right) from Cullompton, studied the T Level in Health and has secured a place to study Paramedic Science at university. She praised her experience of the T Level, saying; 

“I’m really excited, I can’t wait to go to university. I came here for an open day and I really enjoyed it, and I just thought it was really friendly and would give me a lot of opportunities.  

“The placements we go on as T Level students has developed my knowledge and helped support my university application. I chose a T Level for the hospital industry placement; you get practical knowledge as well as theory knowledge and sitting exams. 

“I would definitely recommend Exeter College, the support systems and educational support is brilliant.” 

Exeter College is also celebrating the success of its alumni, with an impressive 87% of former students who graduated from Russell Group universities in 2023/24 achieving a first-class or upper second-class honours degree. Across all UK higher education institutions, the proportion of Exeter College alumni reaching this standard remains remarkable at 81%. 

Exeter College to Lead the Way as Construction Technical Excellence College

Exeter College is proud to announce it has been chosen as one of 10 Construction Technical Excellence Colleges by the Department for Education, an accolade that underscores the exceptional quality, innovation, and impact of its Construction provision. 

This prestigious recognition is a testament to the outstanding expertise and dedication of Exeter College’s Construction Team, whose tireless work continues to set the benchmark for excellence in technical and vocational education. It positions the College as a national leader in Construction training and opens exciting opportunities to collaborate with providers across the country, share best practices, and drive further investment into the South West region. 

John Laramy CBE, Principal and CEO at Exeter College said; 
“We are absolutely delighted to be selected as the one of the Construction Technical Excellence Colleges. We look forward to working with our students, staff, stakeholders and employer partners across the region to turbo charge construction training.   

“It is a particular personal privilege, as an education leader who began their career in construction, to be part of a national initiative to ensure our region benefits from the career opportunities that excellent technical education enables. No education system can be better than the quality of its teachers and it is brilliant to see their professional development as a key part of this initiative.  

“We are excited about working with colleagues in the DfE and wider Government to ensure this national policy has meaningful impact and benefits for the South West and beyond.” 

The College’s exceptional track record of collaboration with regional and national employers has created a vibrant construction network that is impacting significantly on the national construction skills shortage. This ‘Technical Excellence’ Status recognises the eco system Exeter has in place. Through initiatives like Building Greater Exeter and the Green Skills Advisory Panel, the region is working to make a real impact on the government initiative to ‘Get Great Britain Building Again’. 

Steve Race, Labour MP for Exeter, commented; 
“Awarding Construction Technical Excellence College status to Exeter College means brand new skills training in construction for young people and will help others already in the construction sector to upskill. This new approach will help us deliver the new homes and the economic growth we need across our region, in partnership with the construction sector. It’s a testament to the hard work and educational excellence of the College team, and I’m excited about this new future for skills training in Exeter.” 

In securing Technical Excellence Status, the College received an impressive 120 endorsements from local organisations and stakeholders, including FE colleges, schools, councils, and construction employers, reflecting strong community backing. 

Pete Sadler, Managing Director for Vistry South West said; 
“Vistry is delighted to see the roll out of Construction Technical Excellence College’s across the country — they will provide a significant boost to skills, innovation, and developing the future workforce our country needs. At Vistry, we’re deeply committed to skills development and building strong industry partnerships.  

“This achievement will not only strengthen our collaboration with Exeter College but also help ensure we have a pipeline of talented, work-ready individuals to support the future of construction and housebuilding across the region.” 

This is a timely investment as the College has seen unprecedented growth in Construction in recent years. Full time learner growth surged by 32% in the last academic year, while apprenticeships have also seen consistent increases, with over 650 trade and professional construction apprentices enrolled for the 2024/25 academic year. With a total of over 1150 Construction learners (2024/25), helping to provide a solution to the UK’s construction skills shortage over the next few years. Furthermore, the faculty’s achievement rates significantly surpass national averages, underlining its dedication to high quality teaching, learning and student success. 

Councillor David Thomas, Chair of the Devon and Torbay Combined County Authority (DTCCA), said:  
“Exeter College’s appointment as a Technical Excellence College in construction is welcome news for our region. This will strengthen local skills and help Devon and Torbay contribute to the government’s 1.5 million homes target. 

“To meet these ambitions, we must expand construction training across the whole of our region. The DTCCA looks forward to working with Exeter College to address local needs and challenges. 

“We are also committed to collaborating with the West of England Combined Authority, Plymouth and Cornwall, to align skills strategies and share expertise with other training providers, ensuring a joined-up approach to building a skilled workforce across the South West.” 

As a Construction Technical Excellence College, Exeter College is excited to lead the way in tackling the skills shortage, driving innovation, and building a stronger future for the South West, and looks forward to sharing more exciting developments on this initiative in the near future. 

Pictured above: Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern, Minister of State for Skills at the Department for Education, launching Foundation Apprenticeships earlier this year at Exeter College.

Eat Your Greens: Free Webinar Series to Support Green Skills in Education

Exeter College is proud to support the Eat Your Greens online webinar series, running throughout June and into July. This free, four-part series is brought to you by NOCN Group, in partnership with EducationScape, and builds on the success of their previous Green Skills webinar initiative. 

As part of the Green Skills Advisory Panel (GSAP) offer to colleges, Eat Your Greens is designed to equip tutors, lecturers, careers advisors, and educators with the foundational knowledge needed to deliver renewable construction technologies with confidence. Each session is lunchtime-friendly, CPD-accredited, and rich with practical insight. 

Who Should Attend? 

  • FE Colleges & Training Providers 
  • Tutors, Lecturers & Curriculum Leads 
  • Careers Advisors & Skills Planners 
  • Sustainability & Retrofit Champions 

Whether you’re just beginning to explore green curriculum development or looking to deepen your expertise, this series is tailored for educators at all stages. 

About the Webinar: 

Each 45-minute session starts at 12:15pm and focuses on a key pillar of the UK’s green transition: 

  • Week 1 (10 June): Introduction to Insulation 
  • Week 2 (17 June): Introduction to Solar PV, EV & Battery Storage 
  • Week 3 (24 June): Introduction to Heat Pumps 
  • Week 4 (1 July): Introduction to Retrofit 

Why Attend? 

  • Discover light, mid, and dark green skills solutions from NOCN Group 
  • Learn how to embed green technologies into your curriculum or apprenticeship offer 
  • Gain real-world insights from leading delivery partners, including: 
    • Exeter College
    • Quantum Group
    • HS Energy
    • SWIFIX Ltd
    • Daikin
    • EWI Pro
    • Installation Assurance Authority (IAA)
    • NOCN
    • Members of the Green Skills Advisory Panel
  • Explore a broad portfolio of qualifications, short courses, and online CPD learning 

Supporting a Net Zero Future 

NOCN Group, a leading international education charity, is committed to powering the UK’s transition to a Net Zero economy. Through a robust suite of sustainability-focused qualifications and training, they are helping to shape the workforce of tomorrow. 

By participating in Eat Your Greens, you’ll be helping to bridge the green skills gap and prepare your learners for the jobs of the future. 

Register now and be part of the change! 
Book your free place.

Exeter College and University of Exeter Strengthen Education Partnership  

The University of Exeter and Exeter College have signed an updated Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), deepening their shared commitment to enhancing education across the region. 

The agreement, formalised during a ceremony at the University’s Streatham Campus on Tuesday, June 3rd, marks the next chapter in a partnership spanning around 20 years between two of Devon’s leading educational institutions. 

The renewed MoU strengthens a shared ambition to shape a dynamic and inclusive local education ecosystem, strengthening community wellbeing, and promoting regional development across Exeter and the wider region. 

A piece of paper is signed and four people smile at the camera.
Exeter College Principal and CEO John Laramy CBE and University of Exeter President and Vice-Chancellor Lisa Roberts sign renewed Memorandum of Understanding with Deputy CEO Jade Otty and Professor Tim Quine.

Speaking after the ceremony Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter said: “I am delighted that the exceptional partnership between the University of Exeter and Exeter College has once again been strengthened through this new, updated Memorandum of Understanding.  

This partnership has provided a strong, positive and successful foundation for both institutions to make a genuine and impactful difference not only in the provision of key opportunities for our students , but in providing important skills for our city and region as a whole. 

“We are determined to use this opportunity to build on the successes and ambitions we have shared for a decade and more, and to work together to help create opportunity and regional growth.” 

The MoU outlines a number of key areas for the partnership. 

These include Acting as Education System Leaders through joint initiatives such as the Ted Wragg Multi-Academy Trust, Exeter Mathematics School, and the South West Institute of Technology; Shaping the Community Together through the Exeter Civic University Agreement;  and Driving Academic Excellence through complementary educational pathways. 

Exeter College Principal and CEO, John Laramy CBE, added: “I am delighted to sign an updated Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Exeter. We have worked together for over twenty years, and our partnership deepened nine years ago when we signed our first MOU. 

“Today’s updated agreement reflects the shared ambition of the College and the University, placing our partnership at the forefront of higher and further education collaboration. It stands as an exemplar of a world-class university working with an outstanding college to help shape a clear, coherent, and impactful education ecosystem. 

“I would like to thank Professor Lisa Roberts and her team for their collaborative approach, which is making a real difference to our community, city, and region.” 

Students complete 2025 Ten Tors challenge on a high 

This year marks 63 years since the Ten Tors expedition was first established. Fast forward to 2025 and the event has grown from one that attracted just hundreds of participants in its early years to one that now sees around 2400 young people take on the challenge each year.  

This large-scale outdoor adventure event is organised by the British Army’s Headquarters South West and sees teams navigate allocated routes across the northern part of Dartmoor in under two days. Teams are comprised of six individuals and successful completion of the expedition is dependent on teams crossing the finish line together: a real test of teamwork and determination for all those involved.  

Exeter College has entered teams for the Ten Tors expedition for many years and continues to do so through its extra-curricular offer. This year the College was delighted to enter four teams for the challenge: two undertaking the 45 mile route and two tackling the 55 mile route across Dartmoor’s wild and sometimes unforgiving terrain.  

Just before heading off to the Okehampton base camp on Friday, student Freddie Davidson (Team A – 45 miles), who studies A Levels in Biology, Maths and Environmental Science, told us; 

“I have done the 35-mile route twice now and this will be my first time doing the 45 miles. I am feeling good. Nervous but excited. I am looking forward to the buzz, the pre-event festivities, and meeting other teams out on the moor. Training has been amazing but difficult at times. There’s been a lot of rain, then lots of sun recently.” 

The weather has significant impacts on outcomes for participants. In 2007 severe wet weather saw the event cut short for safety reasons. This year, after a week of warm and dry spells the Ten Tors weekend itself saw a turn in the weather, moving from hot on the Saturday to cold and wet on the Sunday. Despite this all four College teams crossed the finish line successfully; testament in part to the importance of training in all weathers and under a variety of conditions. An army spokesperson described the weekend as ‘a safe event’, in spite of the challenges the weather and terrain might have presented for those taking part.  

There is significant preparation that goes into readying challengers for Ten Tors, students having spent many weekends away from home, camping in the cold and rain and walking for miles with heavy packs, often with blisters.  

Exeter College Principal and CEO, John Laramy, said; 

“What the students have achieved in completing the challenge is truly brilliant. Not many people are aware of the level of commitment required to be able to complete Ten Tors successfully. These students have had to learn essential skills to survive independently including navigation, tent pitching, cooking meals to name a few, and have had to ride the highs and the lows of two days unaided by others, trekking across open moorland. We are extremely proud of them all.”  

Crossing the finish line is the culmination of months of training together, building friendships and learning to work as a team along the way. Issy Williams (Team B – 45 miles) attends Exeter Maths School and studies her A Level in Chemistry at the College’s Maths and Science Centre. She reflected;  

“Training has been really enjoyable; we’ve all had a good time. There are lovely people in my team. We’ve all banded together. I am excited for us to cross the finish line.”  

Issy admits she also cannot wait to “go home and wash my face”. In being self-sufficient during the course of the expedition students have to forgo many of the comforts of home. Harry Newman, Exeter College’s Ten Tors Manager, told us;     

“All four College teams have shown real dedication in training. They’ve learned to be self-sufficient, they’ve developed important life skills in leadership and problem-solving, they’ve grown as a team. They should all be proud of their achievements.  

“This is a real landmark moment for those who have completed the 55 mile expedition, especially if they have finished all three distances. For the 45 mile teams I hope they have loved it enough that they will join us again next year to take on the 55 miles.”   

Overall, participants commit to eight training weekends, plus planning meetings and briefings, in addition to their core study programme. There is a lot of time and effort that goes into preparing for this final Ten Tors event. General Sir Roland Walker, Chief of the General Staff for the British Army, kicked off the expedition and echoed notions of commitment in his opening speech;  

“Ten Tors is a tradition that brings together communities in a shared celebration of resilience, determination, and above all else, teamwork.” 

Exeter College Outdoor Adventure staff from Haven Banks also trained and supported 10 teams from local schools and youth organisations to be able to participate in the weekend. These included three 35 mile teams from both St James School in Exeter and Newton Abbot College, and four teams undertaking the Jubilee Challenge, a one day event with four different routes aimed at young people with special needs. Jubilee teams came from Orchard Manor (7.8 miles), Southbrook School (8.7 and 11 miles), and Devon Girl Guides (11 miles).   

Congratulations to all our teams and to all those staff at the Haven Banks Outdoor Education Centre who supported them in completing their Ten Tors expedition so successfully.  

Our 2025 Ten Tors Teams were: 

45 Mile Team A
45 Mile Team B
55 Mile Team A
55 Mile Team B

Exeter College host Young Enterprise Devon Final

Entrepreneurial students from across Devon and Cornwall gathered at Exeter College on the 30th April for the final of the Young Enterprise Devon Company Programme.

The Young Enterprise company programme gives young people in the region an opportunity to develop life skills such as teamwork and working to deadlines. Supported by their schools to set up a student company, the young people are responsible for branding, managing the company finances and selling to the public.

Students from St Peters Church of England Aided School with their products made from electrical waste at the Young Enterprise Devon Final
Students from St Peters Church of England Aided School with their products made from electrical waste

Students had to work as teams to produce an innovative idea, market their product and build their brand to get to the final. Businesses ranged from car valet services to reusable make up wipes.

‘I’m glad I started this, it’s become bigger than I expected it to be’ said Tendi, a Truro College student, who led his team ‘Keyframes’ to the final with his creative idea to sell keychains that cue music to play from your phone via a unique spotify code.

The experience can be instrumental for young people to get out of their comfort zone and see what they can achieve with their creativity, energy and determination.

Olivia from Bideford College reflected ‘My favourite part has been being able to apply all the skills I’ve learnt into real life situations, helping me build my confidence up.’

Exeter College were represented by our Progression Gateway cohort. Their business ‘My Way to Okay’ sold customisable journal pages and habit trackers. Their entrepreneurial spirit even took them to Greendale Farm Shop where they carried out valuable market research as part of their product development.

Claire, Programme Leader for Progression Gateway expressed ‘It’s exceeded my expectations, I have a lot of positive things happen here at Exeter College but this one has exceeded it and I’m so proud of the journey these young people have been on’.

After months of selling at tradeshows and building an online presence for their business, the competition concluded with finalists giving a presentation to a panel of judges.

Congratulations to WEEE Enterprise from St Peters Church of England Aided School, who were awarded overall winners with their business, turning e waste into jewellery. 

David, Marketing Director of WEEE shared ‘It’s honestly been one of the most fun experiences I’ve had, it’s amazing for your CV, you will meet so many new people doing it that it will probably become one of the highlights of your time in education.’

Topping Out Ceremony Marks Major Milestone for Centre for Law and Social Sciences at Exeter College

Exeter College and Willmott Dixon celebrated the topping out of the new Centre for Law and Social Sciences building on Tuesday 22 April, located on the College’s main site on Hele Road. This significant milestone signifies the completion of the building’s main structure, before the building opens in the autumn term. 

The new Centre for Law and Social Sciences (CLS) building consists of four floors and covers 2,800sqm. The £12million centre is the college’s largest investment in a new building and will host 25 new classrooms alongside new staff and study spaces to meet the demand of the increase in learners looking for academic qualifications. 

Jade Otty, Vice Principal and Deputy CEO at Exeter College, said; 

“It’s incredible to see this new building taking shape – it’s been designed with our students at the heart of it.  
 
“The Centre for Law and Social Sciences will give them the space and environment they deserve to grow, explore big ideas, and prepare for the future.  
 
“It’s exciting to know this space will inspire the next generation, just like Charlotte.” 

Rhys Gamlin, Assistant Site Manager and Charlotte Barons, Trainee Site Manager

The College was delighted to see a past student return to the site as part of the Willmott Dixon Team. Charlotte Barons was one of the first students in the country to study a T Level in Construction and the Built Environment and is now a trainee site manager.  

Thanks to a work experience placement organised by the College, she joined Willmott Dixon as a management trainee. Now in her third year of a degree apprenticeship with the company, she’s already working on notable projects, including a Passivhaus build for Exeter University and a new Centre for Law and Social Science, back at Exeter College. 

Speaking about working on the project, she said; 

“It’s amazing to be back. It’s so interesting to see it from the other side, knowing how the students will appreciate it the way I did when I was in the Construction Faculty. It’s so nice to give back to the College, after all they have done for me.” 

Rob Woolcock, Director of Operations at Willmott Dixon said; 

“We have a long-standing relationship with Exeter College, and we are delighted to have reached this milestone on the build of the Centre for Law and Social Sciences. We have significant experience in delivering facilities like the new Centre across the Southwest and we’re confident of the positive impact it will have on the students and the faculty for many years to come.” 

A Level students, Ebony, George and Theo.

One of the students who will be studying in the new Centre for Law and Social Sciences is A Level student, Theo Veliyeth. He studies Business, Economics, Law, and Computer Science and said;  

“It’s great to see the investment happening in these subjects, investment in Law and Social Sciences is important so this really does show the college cares.” He jokily added; “I am also looking forward to not having to climb up all the stairs of the Tower building!” 

George Chubb is studying A Levels in History, English Language and Law enjoyed the tour of the new building. He said; “I liked the open area where they are going to bring in some sculptures from Exeter Cathedral. I’m excited to continue my studies in the new building next term.” 
 
Students, staff, governors, and contractors were invited for a tour of the building, including a gathering on the roof. A huge thank you must go to all the partners and teams who have made this project possible such as AWW Architects, Hydrock, Peninsula Projects and the whole team at Willmott Dixon.  

The next major milestone will be the external cladding and brickwork before the project is completed in the autumn. 

Exeter College Students Shine at International Salon Culinaire 

Exeter College’s hospitality and catering students have showcased their culinary excellence at the prestigious International Salon Culinaire competition, walking away with an impressive array of medals. Demonstrating both exceptional skill and professionalism, the team secured five gold, six silver, 11 bronze, and five merit awards—cementing their status as rising stars in the industry. Notably, two silver medals were also awarded Best in Show. 

The students, who competed in a range of cooking and butchery challenges, received high praise from their tutor, who commended their dedication.

Deputy Head of Hospitality, Hair and Beauty, Matt Pickett, said;  

“Our students performed brilliantly and were a genuine credit to the college. Not only in their cooking skills, but their professionalism, manners, and hygiene. They walked away with an incredible set of medals.” 

Among the standout performers was Mia Walter, a Level 3 NVQ Hospitality and Catering Management student, who earned an outstanding five medals. Her accolades included gold for French trimming, chicken butchery, and sea bass and trout preparation. She also received silver for her avocado starter (Best in Class) and knife skills, along with a bronze for lamb butchery. 

A young female chef stands in her chef whites wearing her medals
Mia scooped an impressive five medals at the competition.

Reflecting on the experience, Mia shared, “The morning was amazing. I got to try different foods, speak to professionals, and take in all the opportunities. Then I had all five competitions in a row – it was really intense. By the time I got to the lamb butchery, my arms were dead! But overall, it was an amazing experience.” 

When asked why she participated, Mia explained, “I wanted to gain experience, especially with lamb butchery, which I’d never done before. I also wanted to see where I stood and how well I’m doing. Hopefully, I did pretty well!” 

Looking to the future, Mia has ambitious plans to travel the world and work in high-end catering. “I’d love to work on super yachts, but first I need to get my STCW qualification. I’m also considering a free nutrition and dietitian course when I turn 19. I just want to keep gaining experience and move around the UK before I start traveling with a work visa.” 

The success of Exeter College’s students at International Salon Culinaire highlights the high standards of training and dedication at the college. If you want to join us, find out more at our next Open Event.

Exeter College Welcomes Institute of Carpenter’s Royal Patron at Final Nationwide Timber Industry College Hub Event

Exeter College was honoured to host the Institute of Carpenter’s (IOC) latest Timber Industry College Hub event, graced by the presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, Royal Patron of the IOC. This landmark gathering marked the final milestone in a series of events that have connected industry leaders, educators, and aspiring carpenters and joiners across the UK.

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester, greets special guests at the Exeter College Construction Centre

Royal Endorsement

The royal visit and the success of this event highlighted Exeter College’s commitment to preparing students for rewarding careers in the timber industry, while promoting sustainable practices that will shape the future of construction and forestry.

The presence of HRH The Duchess of Gloucester underscored the necessity of equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge required to excel in this essential trade.

Industry and Education: A Powerful Partnership

The Exeter College event opened with a warm welcome from John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive of Exeter College, who stressed the importance of fostering links between education and industry. Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, then set the scene, emphasising the vital role that these events play in supporting the next generation of skilled professionals.

The event featured a lineup of industry expert speakers and practical demonstrations by students, and covered key themes such as sustainable forestry, the evolution of timber in construction, and the variety of employment pathways in the trade. Darren Murrish (CITB) provided an insightful overview of the employment landscape and career opportunities, while Dave O’Connor (Exeter College) shared a college perspective on how industry partnerships help shape student futures.

Key Highlights of the Event:

Leading professionals from across the timber sector provided in-depth insights into sustainability, technological advancements, and employment trends. Speakers included:

  • Nick Boulton (Timber Development UK & Trussed Rafter Association), who explored UK raw material supply, sustainability, and the green agenda.
  • Roly Ward (Medite/SmartPly), who discussed MDF and OSB production and technical developments.
  • Neil Summers (American Hardwood Export Council – AHEC) shared perspectives on sustainable global forest resources and the international timber industry.
  • John Bailey (Benbow Group – NAS) offered personal insights on career opportunities in the shopfitting and interiors industry.
  • Ed Suttie (BRE) presented on new developments in the construction industry.
  • Samantha Barnes (Historic England), who discussed conservation work and the importance of the heritage sector.

Students participated in interactive workshops, showcasing cutting-edge woodworking techniques for the Duchess and attending guests. Axminster Tools, Reisser UK, CITB, and IOC also provided hands-on displays. The event also gave students direct access to potential employers and industry mentors, bridging the gap between education and real-world career opportunities. The IOC Mentoring Champions initiative was a central theme, reinforcing the importance of experienced professionals guiding the next generation of carpenters and joiners.

Celebrating Success and Looking Forward

This event was the culmination of the latest series of ten IOC Timber Industry College Hub gatherings, which have taken place over the last two years at Lincoln College, Building Crafts College (Stratford, East London), West Suffolk College, Neath Port Talbot College (Wales), UHI Inverness (Scotland), New College Durham, Leeds College of Building, Newcastle & Stafford College Group, Northampton College, and Exeter College. These events have successfully provided woodworking learners and apprentices with crucial industry insights, career guidance, and direct engagement with professionals from the timber sector.

Geoff Rhodes, President of the IOC, reflected on the impact of the initiative:

“The IOC Timber Industry College Hub events have been a tremendous success, offering students across the UK an invaluable glimpse into the future of the timber industry. These hubs have demonstrated the power of partnerships between colleges and businesses, and Exeter College was the perfect venue to mark the conclusion of this national initiative.

“We are honoured to celebrate this milestone at Exeter College with our Royal Patron, The Duchess of Gloucester, and are already planning our next series of college events, which will continue our journey around the UK.”

John Laramy, Principal and Chief Executive said:

“Hosting this final IOC Timber Industry College Hub event has been an incredible honour for Exeter College and for me personally, as I started my career in the construction industry. I am delighted that we have been able to support this event.

“This initiative has provided our students with invaluable industry connections, hands-on experience, and insight into the future of sustainable timber and construction. 

“The presence of Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester further highlights the importance of equipping the next generation with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in this essential trade. 

“Strong partnerships between education and industry is key to our success and we will continue to ensure our learners are prepared for rewarding careers in carpentry and joinery.”

The success of the Timber Industry College Hub programme would not have been possible without the support of CITB and Timber Development UK (TDUK), whose collaboration has ensured that students receive relevant, industry-driven insights to help shape their careers.

Looking ahead, the IOC is dedicated to supporting its members and new starters coming into the sector, while strengthening the vital links between industry and education. The IOC Timber Industry College Hub events have laid a strong foundation for continued collaboration, helping to secure the future of skilled workers in the carpentry and joinery sectors.

For further details on the IOC and future events, please contact:

Institute of Carpenters
Website: www.instituteofcarpenters.com
Email: info@instituteofcarpenters.com

Celebrating the Success of Collaboration: Green Skills Achievement by Exeter College and East Devon District Council

Exeter College and East Devon District Council (EDDC) are proud to announce significant achievements through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) East Devon Retrofit Programme. This project aims to provide upskilling and reskilling opportunities for students, residents and businesses of East Devon through a broad range of retrofit and renewable courses, which is a priority in EDDC’s Economic Development Strategy.

Available to the public and construction professionals, Exeter College has designed and delivered short flexible courses to provide foundational knowledge and skills progression to promote sustainable methods of construction.

This project also focuses on school engagement, delivering green careers talks and workshops to secondary schools across East Devon. This collaborative effort has significantly contributed to raising awareness of green careers, training, and skills to pupils from Years 7 – 11.

Key achievements of the project include:

  • Raising Awareness: Over 1,000 students from East Devon secondary schools have been introduced to green careers, training, and skills in construction
  • Certification and Qualifications: More than 100 East Devon residents have gained certificates or qualifications in retrofit, solar, heat pump, insulation and teaching
  • Supporting Industry Professionals: 6 construction professionals have been supported into education by gaining the Level 3 Award in Education and Training, addressing the skills shortage in the sector

These achievements would not have been possible without the generosity, time and commitment of key contributors from across the region. We would like to take this opportunity to thank:

  • Daikin – Leading the Introduction to Heat Pumps course and providing essential knowledge on energy-efficient heating solutions.
  • Naked Solar– Delivering the Introduction to Solar course, and equipping participants with fundamental insights into solar energy systems.
  • Paul Brown, Green Skills Lecturer at Exeter College & Managing Director of Swifix – Leading both the Introduction to Retrofit and Level 2 Understanding Domestic Retrofit courses.
  • Bradfords Building Supplies – Supporting modern methods of construction by opening their East Devon branches to promote awareness of sustainable building materials.

Exeter College would also like to recognise those employers who have supported our school engagement events; BCR Associates, Taylor Wimpey, Coreus Group, Progressive, Willmott Dixon, SDS, Kier, Bell Group, Generation 4 Change, Ward Williams and Shared Apprenticeships. The generosity, dedication, and support of our valued employer partners have had a profound impact on students in the region, enhancing their understanding of green skills, guiding their next steps, and opening doors to future career opportunities in the sector.

“We are thrilled with the positive impact this project has had on our community,” said Luke Moss, Skills Manager at Exeter College. “By working together, we have not only enhanced educational opportunities for our young people and adults but also supported the growth of green careers and sustainable practices across our region.”

Cllr Paul Hayward, East Devon District Council’s Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economy and Assets, said:

“Supporting our residents to upskill and reskill into green careers is vital to developing the workforce we need to reach Net Zero by 2040. I’m delighted that we have been able to provide free opportunities for businesses and individuals to develop new skills and inspire the next generation to pursue jobs in clean growth industries.”

Whilst we are proud to celebrate our shared successes to date, we also recognise the importance of continuing this vital partnership. By ensuring the long-term impact and longevity of this project, we can continue to remove barriers to training and increase job opportunities for the students, residents and businesses of East Devon. For more information about future courses, please visit the Green Skills Advisory Panel website.

For more information, please contact: Luke Moss, Skills Manager, Exeter College, lukemoss@exe-coll.ac.uk.

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