Football Academy scores historic double National Championship gold

Exeter College’s Football Academy secured a historic double success as both the Men’s and Women’s sides were crowned National Champions at the 2026 Association of Colleges (AoC) Sport National Championships in Nottingham.

This marks the first time in 20 years that an Exeter College football team has claimed the coveted AoC gold medal and represents a first-ever national title for the College’s Women’s Football Academy. With both teams lifting trophies, the achievement stands as one of the most significant moments in the Academy’s history.

To reach the national finals both sides progressed through their respective regional competitions, earning the right to represent the South West at the championships. At the tournament the Men’s team went unbeaten, drawing the opening game before winning their remaining eight matches, while the Women’s team also recorded eight wins from nine games, including a tightly contested 1–0 victory over Sunderland College in the final match.

Two Exeter College football players on a pitch — Women’s Academy Footballers Jas Barker (L) and Lily Dowling (R)

Lily Dowling is the women’s team captain. She plays centre back at the Academy and is studying BTEC Sport at Exeter College. Lily said:

“I was very proud of the team. I think we all worked so hard for it, and getting through the regionals was quite tough, so being able to win the whole competition was so good. It was nice vibes, everyone was up for it, the coaches were up for it, and it was exciting coming up against teams we’ve not played before from around the country.

“No (women’s) team at the Academy has done it before, so it kind of didn’t seem possible, and it was a big challenge. But I think now we’ve done it, it shows other people that they can go and win it if you want it that much.”

Jas Barker is a striker in the Women’s Academy side and is currently completing her BTEC Sport qualification at Exeter College. Jas said:

“I think we definitely deserved to win it. We’re really close as a football academy, so I think we wanted to work hard not just for ourselves, but for each other as well. I think we definitely deserved to win it.”

Asked who she told first after winning the championship, Jas said it was Lily, who missed the final after injuring her knee earlier in the tournament. She said:

“She (Lily) was in A&E, so we FaceTimed Lily, and she was in the X-ray room. We were screaming down the phone at her, so she couldn’t reply.”

Two Exeter College football players on a football pitch — Men’s Academy Footballers Zack Williams (L) and George Murford (R)

Zack Williams plays on the wing for the Men’s Academy and is due to complete his A Levels in Business, Economics and PE this year. He described winning the championships as one of his standout memories from his time at Exeter College. Zack said:

“We had a shaky start to the season and didn’t think we were going to get much from it, so to get this and go unbeaten is definitely something to remember. I think we all just wanted it more, and we all just worked hard for each other. Everyone was behind each other, and it felt like we were all together as a team.”

Men’s Football Academy striker George Mulford is completing his BTEC in Sport and Exercise Science at Exeter College. He said:

“It’s not something I thought I’d ever win, but it’s one of the best feelings, considering it’s against the best teams around the country. We started the season a bit shaky, and then we managed to pull it back and actually win the nationals as well. That made it a lot better overall.

“The whole journey back, the vibes were really high. Nobody was low, everyone was in a really good mood the whole time, and everyone was just happy we managed to win it.”

Two AoC trophies on a football pitch at Exeter College

Jack Gill, Deputy Head of Faculty for Sport and Physical Education at Exeter College, said:

“We are incredibly proud of both our Men’s and Women’s Football teams. To see them both achieve gold at the AoC Sport National Championships is a testament to their attitude, commitment and skill. This double success highlights the strength of football at Exeter College, as well as the culture of excellence and high standards within our programme.

“This is a fantastic way to end the season and a well-deserved reward for the hard work and progress shown by players and staff across both teams. The men’s team faced a challenging start to the season, losing their first three games, but showed great resilience to bounce back, to finish third in the Tier 1 league, and go on to win at nationals, making it a truly outstanding season.

“The College’s Football Academy, delivered in partnership with Exeter City FC Academy and Exeter City Women, continues to play a vital role in developing talented students, providing them with opportunities to excel both on the pitch and, importantly, in the classroom.”

This season, Exeter College has relaunched its Women’s Football Academy in partnership with Exeter City Women, creating an enhanced pathway for aspiring female footballers. The renewed collaboration has introduced weekend playing opportunities, with students competing in the Junior Premier League at Exwick Sports Hub on Saturdays.

This development helps provide a clear progression route into the Exeter City Women’s First Team. Notable alumni include current captain Bow Jackson and vice-captain Leah Burridge, as well as current Exeter College student Georgia Vaccaro, who scored the winning goal in City’s 2–1 victory over Gwalia United at St James Park on Sunday 26 April.

In total, 79 Exeter College athletes travelled to compete at this year’s AoC Sport National Championships, representing seven sports overall. This year’s Exeter College results are:

Men’s football – 1^st

Women’s football – 1^st

Netball – 2^nd

Mixed hockey – 2^nd

Women’s tennis – 3^rd

Men’s rugby sevens – 3^rd

Find out more about Exeter College’s Sports Academies online.

Ten Exeter College football players hold up a trophy — Exeter College’s AoC Championship-winning Men’s Football team

World-class hospital training ward to grow region’s healthcare workforce

Exeter College has officially opened its new, fully simulated hospital training ward and life sciences laboratories, giving aspiring healthcare workers in the South West access to modern hospital-standard facilities while they complete their training.

Located at the College’s Hele Road campus in Exeter city centre, the new Bakers Ward facility has been designed in collaboration with key regional partners, including the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (RDUH) and the University of Exeter.

The state-of-the-art medical training spaces will be used to deliver Exeter College’s Higher Education and adult healthcare courses, along with apprenticeships and T Levels. The new facility will help grow local nursing and healthcare talent and address existing NHS workforce needs in the South West.

Bakers Ward received £1.3m in Office for Students grant funding, and at its heart is an eight-bed simulated hospital ward designed in line with current NHS guidelines and fitted with hospital-grade equipment. The new equipment and spaces available to learners include:

Eight-bed training ward, designed to replicate real clinical environments
A fully fitted bariatric bay
State-of-the-art simulated patient mannequins in each bay, fitted with 4D-printed hyper-realistic face masks
Bespoke simulation software that allows learners to practise responses to a wide range of clinical scenarios, such as heart failure, asthma care and postoperative care
An AI training package that allows learners to interact with an AI “patient” across hundreds of simulated scenarios
Live streaming from each bay into a Skills Lab for group training and feedback

Hospital training mannequin in a bed in a hospital ward.

Alongside the new ward are two fully fitted life sciences laboratories, built to support higher-level scientific and healthcare learning, and equipped to run advanced Biology and Chemistry practicals, such as synthesising aspirin and conducting PCR testing.

Adult courses to use Bakers Ward and the laboratories will include a Nursing Associate apprenticeship delivered in partnership with the University of Exeter, Higher Education Apprenticeship in Assistant Practitioner in Healthcare, Access to Higher Education Health Professions, and Healthcare Skills Bootcamps.

Further Education learners will also benefit from using the facilities, including those studying T Level Health and Level 3 Health Science courses.

By expanding the number of learners that can access high-quality, industry-standard training, the new facility will help strengthen regional healthcare training capacity and, through partnerships with local employers and organisations, support workforce needs across the South West.

Two students look at a tablet in a hospital training settting. — Exeter College T Level Health Learners, Duha Alkhouli (L) and AJ Hutchings (R)

AJ Hutchings, a second year T Level Health and Adult Nursing Pathway learner at Exeter College, said:

“The ward is a big upgrade from what we’ve been used to. The patients have very realistic skin, which is really important for learners. Being able to have it as a ward for all of our practical lessons will allow us to really immerse ourselves in the experience, without the feeling of it still being part of the College. It feels like a real hospital ward.”

Duha Alkhouli, a first year T Level Health learner, said:

“I was quite surprised at how realistic it is. It will be easier to learn here because it’s more lifelike, so you can really do what you’ve been taught in lessons and learn about it in a more practical way. It’s very important to have these facilities because when you’re out on placement, and you’re in a real hospital ward, if you haven’t had the experience, you might be a bit shocked at how different it is.”

Vanessa Purday, Chief Medical Officer at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“Exeter has long been at the forefront of training and nurturing healthcare talent, and we’re thrilled that Exeter College is continuing this tradition with its fantastic new training facility right in the heart of the city. The hospital training ward and its state-of-the-art equipment will help to support and inspire more people to follow a career in healthcare, and the Royal Devon is proud to be supporting Exeter College in this work.”

John Laramy CBE DL, Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group Principal and CEO, said:

“Opening Bakers Ward is an exciting moment for Exeter College and for healthcare training across the South West. This brilliant new space gives higher education learners, adults and young people the chance to develop the professional skills and confidence they need in an environment that reflects real-life NHS and industry settings. As a College Group, we would like to thank the Office for Students for their support, as without their investment we would not have been able to bring on new higher education programmes to support the NHS, our City and our Region.

“We’re proud to be working with the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Exeter to realise the full potential of Bakers Ward and shape the future of healthcare training in the region. It’s a truly world-class facility, and we’re looking forward to seeing learners make the most of it as they prepare for careers in healthcare.”

Find out more about Exeter College’s Adult, Apprentice and T Level courses.

Welcome to Bakers Ward sign at Exeter College

Rugby Academy unveils kit and confirms squad for SANIX World Youth Rugby tournament

Exeter College Men’s Rugby Academy has launched its official touring kit ahead of the SANIX World Rugby Youth Tournament in Fukuoka, Japan, and confirmed the squad that will represent England at the prestigious international schools’ competition this April.

Hosted annually by the Japan Rugby Football Union, the SANIX tournament is recognised as one of the world’s leading international schools’ rugby events and brings together top youth teams from across the globe. Exeter College was selected to represent England at this year’s tournament and will face sides from countries including New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Fiji, and Namibia.

The 30-player squad travelling to Japan features athletes from this season’s unbeaten ACE League-winning sides, as well as three current England U18 players in Jeremy Keys, Harry Westlake and Archie Guyver.

The newly unveiled kit, which includes playing, training and leisure wear, stays true to the iconic blue, white and black of Exeter College’s Sport Academy. It also incorporates subtle design elements inspired by the upcoming tour to Japan and features sponsors who have generously supported the team.

The support from more than 60 businesses and organisations, combined with fundraising efforts of players and Sports Academy staff, has raised over £51,000 towards the trip, helping make this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the players possible.

In the build-up before their departure on 25 April, the squad will be fully focused on training and preparation. Confidence across the group is high, and players are looking forward to showcasing their hard work and ability on the international stage.

Ruben Chugg, who plays fly half and full Back, and is studying BTEC Business at Exeter College, said:

“It was quite a surprise hearing that we would be going to an international tournament. It was a really positive feeling. We’re all really excited about the trip, and it’s a great opportunity to show what the College and the team can do.

“We’ve had a good year this year, one of the best years the College has had. We’ve been undefeated, and I think we can really go and get this challenge.

“The aim we set out at the start was to win this tournament, and I think we will go and do that. Confidence is high, but we still have to stay humble and do the job when we get there. Everyone is really motivated.”

Harrison Riley, who plays number 8 and is studying BTEC Sport (Performance and Excellence) at Exeter College, said:

“It’s been unreal coming over to this team, meeting loads of new boys, playing the amount of rugby we’ve been able to and the quality of rugby we’ve been playing.

“Playing in this tournament is such a great opportunity for all the boys to get their names out there and show their quality. I think it’s going to be an amazing experience. We all know it’s going to be competitive. There are some strong sides out there, but it’s definitely a chance for us all to compete and go and just show what we can do.”

Harry Batten, who plays centre and is studying BTEC Sport (Performance and Excellence) at Exeter College, said:

“The first chance playing internationally, playing rugby in a different country, I think it’s going to probably be the best experience we’re going to have at College.

“When we found out about Japan, all the lads knew it was an opportunity to represent both the college and individually. Your name’s going to be out there, there’ll be people watching, so it’s a really good opportunity to go out there and show what we’ve earned.

“The mood is good. We know there are some strong teams out there, but we’ve earned this tournament, so we’ve just got to get out there and play what we’ve been playing all season, and hopefully we’ll be successful.”

Jon Hill, Men’s Rugby Academy Lead at Exeter College, said:

“It is an absolute privilege for the players and the members of staff to have been selected to represent the England RFU at the SANIX World Youth Championships.

“We’ve all worked hard to raise funds via individual and team sponsorship, as well as through a range of fundraising events. The buy-in from a parent fundraising group and a wide range of local and national businesses has been nothing short of remarkable, and we are truly indebted to them for their contributions.

“The opportunity to play against some of the best under-18s sides in the world from countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Fiji, Namibia, etc., is not only unique and challenging, especially in a tournament format, but it’s also very exciting and an opportunity to learn and develop as a player.”

Exeter College SANIX World Rugby Youth Tournament squad list:

Sennen Harris (Prop), Henry Tanner (Utility Forward), Josh Bratt (Prop), Jeremy Keys (Second Row), Soloman Plowman (Second Row), Hudson Edkins (Second Row), Harry Westlake (Back Five Forward), Harrison Riley (Back Row), Joe Brookfield (Front Row), Theo McKay (Front Row), Jed Smith (Utility Forward), Angus Carruthers (Front Row), Billy Geis (Second Row), Hamish Terry (Back Row), Ted Wakeham (Back Row), Archie Parsons (Back Row), Ronnie Amestoy (Back Five Forward), Alex Evans (Scrum Half), Will Lane (Fly Half), Bailey Stapleton (Wing), Harry Batten (Centre), Jack McIntosh (Centre), Archie Guyver (Wing), Will McIntosh (Full Back), Ben Whysall (Scrum Half), Tom Bettesworth (Utility Back), Ruben Chugg (Full Back), Andy Cuthbert (Fly Half / Full Back), George Blackburn (Fly Half / Centre), Nathan Blackmore (Wing)

Team Sponsors:

Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation, Armada Construction, Perform Better, Drum Construction, 6 Talent Management, Titan Wealth, Adore of Appledore, All Sport Insurance, Bettesworths, Boulter Bowen, Bridport Rugby Club, Burnham Portable Toilet Hire, Devon Care Group, Devondale, Exeter Chiefs Supporters Club, Focus Group, Granny Gothards, IT Champion Ltd, The Scoffs Group (Itsu), James Electrics Contractors, Joyner Group, Mark Evans Planning, Mortimers Jewellers, Plymouth Safety, Plymouth Shoulder & Elbow, Progressive Systems, Quantum Drylining, RV One, S&D Services, Secretariat, Collard Security, First 2 Protect

Individual Player Sponsors:

Access All Printing, Acorns Pre School, Airey & Coles, Brend Hotels, Canonteign Falls, Chunky Monkey Furniture, Cornish Arms (Tavistock), Greenwood Accountancy, IEASTE, Kit McGrath Tutoring (Exeter), Landra Developments, Mount Quarry Supplies, Place Planning, Princess Yachts, Russell Ham Cars, Shift It Ltd, Signature Cars, Spoken (Exmouth), SSG Training & Consultancy, Start Point Flooring, A&S Pest Control, Stuart Selway, Webb & Company, Womble Bond Dickinson

Coach Sponsors:

The Big Step, VX3 Sportswear, Ideal Cleaners, Crediton Milling, XL Planning, Inspire Sports Tours, Physique, Redwoods Coaches, Lockerstash

Programme supporting adults back into work marks first anniversary

An Exeter College and Jobcentre Plus initiative that offers an alternative approach to helping adults return to work has seen a successful first year, helping people across Exeter build confidence and re-enter the job market.

Launched in January 2025, the Career Builders programme provides free support through sessions and courses focused on jobseeking, health and wellbeing, and practical workplace skills. It also offers confidence-building activities and informal try-it-out sessions for adults who may have been out of work for a long period and need a gentler, less pressurised route into work.

By tailoring support to individuals with a wide range of personal circumstances that may be preventing them from re-entering the job market, Career Builders has helped participants move into employment or start seeking opportunities.

Woman holds up a bookmark — Kelly Walsh, Career Builder

One of those adults has been Kelly Walsh. Kelly is an unpaid carer who often puts the needs of others before her own and found the idea of exploring new opportunities daunting. With encouragement from her work coach, she joined a Try It Out Tuesday session, which offers a calm and informal introduction to learning for adults who may feel anxious about starting a course.

The sessions helped her build confidence, and she is now attending regular one-to-one employability advice sessions with the Devon County Council Employment Hub through a warm handover referral. Kelly is continuing to explore her next steps and feels positive about future opportunities.

Kelly Walsh said:

“Career Builders provided a gentle introduction to meeting other people, where you can carry out an activity that puts you at ease and allows you to be yourself without the pressure to be the best. Plus, cake and tea to make the experience even more enjoyable.”

Courtney Dyson, Work Coach at Exeter Jobcentre Plus

The programme is also supporting Jobcentre staff in their work with customers. Courtney Dyson, a Jobcentre Work Coach based in Exeter, is a strong advocate of Career Builders and regularly attends sessions alongside the adults she supports.

This approach helps build trust and creates a more relaxed space for conversations away from a formal Jobcentre setting. It gives Courtney a clearer understanding of how the programme works, which helps her make informed referrals and provide consistent support to learners.

Courtney Dyson said:

“I cannot say enough good things about Career Builders and the positive impacts it is having on my claimants. It is a special thing to see their confidence and self-esteem grow in such a short period of time, they are also a lot more engaged in other services as a result. Career Builders is a safe space for all, and I feel privileged to work with Maddy and her team on such an incredible project.”

Woman presents to a group at Exeter College — Maddy Hearn, Adult Community and Partnerships Manager at Exeter College

Adult Community and Partnerships Manager at Exeter College, Maddy Hearn, said:

“We’ve learned a great deal in the first year of this programme. One of the clearest lessons is that many people who are out of work sometimes need to take small, manageable steps. For some, this means rebuilding their confidence; for others, it’s simply about reconnecting with people before they feel ready to move forward.

“Career Builders has developed into something really special. We’ve welcomed people who felt unsure, disconnected or overwhelmed, and after enrolling and accessing the right support, they have gradually regained their confidence and begun developing the skills they need to move towards employment.

“It’s been brilliant to work so closely with the Jobcentre and the many adults who’ve taken part so far, and we look forward to supporting many more people in the future.”

To find out more about Career Builders or how to attend one of the sessions, people can contact the Adult Learning team at Exeter College or Job Centre Plus.

Apprenticeship Expo draws thousands of visitors to Exeter College

An estimated 3,000 people attended Exeter College’s annual Apprenticeship Expo on Thursday 12 February 2026, which saw College faculties and 55 employers showcase the learning and career pathways available to young people and adults through apprenticeships.

Held at the College’s Sports Hall in Exeter city centre, the event gave prospective learners, parents and adults the chance to meet employers, ask questions and explore vacancies across sectors including transport, construction, engineering, media and more.

As the South West’s leading apprenticeship training provider, Exeter College currently supports just under 2,000 apprentices across 85 different programmes. These programmes span engineering and aerospace, healthcare, hospitality and catering, as well as being the only UK college to offer a specialist apprenticeship in counter fraud.

In January this year, Exeter College confirmed its merger with North Devon College, forming the Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group. The merger will create one of the UK’s leading apprenticeship training providers and will see the number of apprentices in learning across the group reach close to 2,500.

To meet growing employer demand, Exeter College will expand its offer for the 2026/27 academic year, adding a Level 5 Coaching Professional programme, along with new sheeting, cladding and waterproof membrane pathways in its Roofer Apprenticeship.

Mike Blakeley, Group Executive Director of Partnerships and Apprenticeships, said:

“It was brilliant to see over 3,000 future Apprentices from across Devon and the wider South West region come together with 55 employers at our annual Apprenticeship Expo. An apprenticeship is a brilliant route for anyone to start, switch or progress a career, while also helping employers shape and train the skilled workers they need. Employer appetite as ever is very strong, and we thank them for their unwavering support.”

“With nearly 2,500 apprentices in learning, and after merging with North Devon College, as a group we are proud to be amongst the UK’s leading apprenticeship training providers. We’re continuing to develop our offers to people across the region, and we’re excited to be helping more people into brilliant careers and addressing skills shortages in key industries.”

A man infront of a pull of a pull up banner — *(Jacob Tear, South West Metal Finishing)*

Jacob Tear, an Engineer at South West Metal Finishing, completed his apprenticeship at Exeter College in 2023 and was representing the company at this year’s Expo. He said:

“Doing an apprenticeship was the best decision I made. I got paid to do my work and learn my college course. I started my apprenticeship during Covid, so it was a bit difficult, but the College always helped us out, kept us going if we needed support.

“Everyone (at South West Metal Finishing) is friendly, and whenever I needed to chat they would always be open. And going on to train apprentices now, I knew how they would feel, so I can help them get out of their shells.”

A man in front of a banner at a show — *(Oliver Brewer, Commis Chef Level 2 apprentice)*

Oliver Brewer is currently completing a Commis Chef Level 2 apprenticeship with ESS Compass Group, a company specialising in catering, cleaning, vending and facilities management services. Speaking about his Exeter College and industry experience, he said:

“My favourite part about my apprenticeship is I’m learning on the job, instead of just being in a classroom and learning it. I find this is a lot better for me.

“The best bit about working with ESS is all the opportunities you can get. It’s such a big company, there are so many different things I could do, and places I can go afterwards.”

A woman in front of a banner and a sign at a show — *(Abi Kinsey, ESS Compass Group)*

Abi Kinsey, a General Manager at ESS Compass Group, was representing the company and meeting potential new apprentices at the Expo. She said:

“The best part about training apprentices is watching and seeing them grow and their confidence improve. It’s seeing them be able to do the things they might not have been able to do before, just through the guidance and support you’ve been able to give them. It’s like you’ve had a part to play in their development through life!”

Adam Holloway trains apprentices for Great Western Railway and works closely with Exeter College. He said:

“It’s been a pleasure (working with Exeter College), they’re a great educational provider, and it’s great to work with them in delivering apprenticeships and delivering for people to better themselves.

“Being an apprentice, you have the chance to prove to yourself that the impossible is possible. It’s about working, not giving up, showing up and being resilient, and to achieve whatever you want. As an employer, it’s phenomenal to see that they’re following their dreams. For me, that’s the greatest feeling there can be.”

For more information about Exeter College apprenticeship opportunities, visit: https://exe-coll.ac.uk/apprenticeships/

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Exeter College Apprentice Scoops Two Awards at National FE Marketing Awards

Former Exeter College Apprentice, Rachel Nicholls, has been recognised for her hard work and impact at the College Marketing Network national FE Awards, picking up two awards at the celebration on Monday 2 February 2026.

The awards bring together colleges from across the country and recognise the skill, dedication and creativity that marketing teams contribute to the further and higher education sectors.

At this year’s ceremony, Rachel was awarded the Marketing Apprentice Star Award and a Silver in the Social and Digital Media Impact category for her work launching Exeter College’s TikTok channel and its ongoing success.

Rachel Nicholls started at the College in April 2024, studying on a Multi-Channel Marketer Apprenticeship. Part of Rachel’s role as an Apprentice was to launch the College’s TikTok channel, which she did with great success, quickly gaining followers and creating a channel for students to have an authentic voice. Rachel has now successfully completed her apprenticeship, gaining the highest award, a Distinction.

In her award entry, she was described by her team as “marketing gold”.

“What Rachel brings to her role and to the college is something you can’t buy. The effect of what she does and will go on to do, is in all the little things and the big things, she is pure marketing gold, and we cannot imagine anyone better suited to winning this award.”

Rachel now works full-time at Exeter College as a Marketing Assistant and has continued to have a positive impact on both the marketing team and the wider college. Included in the award entry were comments from students and staff.

Lucy, an A Level student at Exeter College, said:

“I would describe Rachel as someone who pays it forward and delivers kindness. I think it is evidenced in all her videos that she has a natural ability to do this. I know that whatever the initial idea, we would take it further. This not only encouraged me but motivated me in college as I would be excited to see what would happen post-production and tell everyone about it at the dinner table.

“Because of Rachel’s work, more people engage with being a part of the Exeter College community. From sharing puns to advice, all the little things have had a big impact.”

Amelie Foster, Industry Placement Liaison Officer for T Levels at Exeter College, said:

“Rachel is phenomenal, her ability to engage with students and staff and make content that shows the joy that it is to study and work at Exeter College is quite simply outstanding. She has created a buzz with her fun, joyful and inspired content and helped to inspire future students to want to study here and be part of our learning community.”

Exeter College and Amazon to build new tech talent with T Level project

Exeter College and Amazon have announced a new industry-linked project that will give T Level students direct experience with Amazon Web Services (AWS) infrastructure, helping prepare them for careers in software development, digital support and security.

Launching in June 2026, the collaboration will see 30 Digital Software Development and Digital Support and Security T Level students at Exeter College work with Amazon on a business case using AWS. The unique opportunity will give aspiring learners practical experience of cloud architecture, cybersecurity and modern software delivery with the world’s leading web service provider.

Across a three-week project, students will:

Design and implement a live business website using AWS cloud infrastructure
Apply secure systems thinking and modern software development practices
Work in agile teams, mirroring professional industry environments
Receive mentoring and feedback from Amazon and AWS professionals

T Levels are a technical-based qualification and focus on skills related to a specific industry, with 80% of learners’ time spent in the classroom and 20% on a work placement. Ahead of the Amazon-led project, the students will have completed their industry placements, putting the skills learned during their course to practical use in the workplace.

Morgan Cotter, a current T Level Digital Software Development student at Exeter College, is looking forward to the experience of working directly with Amazon. He said:

“I am most looking forward to seeing how a large business like Amazon operates. The experience will help with my course by giving me valuable work experience, and the T Level is helping my future plans by gaining knowledge and experience at the same time.”

Student standing in a college — (Harley Welsh, T Level Digital Software Development learner at Exeter College)

Harley Welsh, who is also studying T Level Digital Software Development at Exeter College, said:

“I’m looking forward to collaborating with the Digital Support and Security students and deploying real-world software in collaboration with AWS. This experience will help me understand how real-world software works, how it is deployed, and its integration with the hardware.

“My future plans are to get involved with system administration, preferably with Linux systems. This course has taught me Python, which can be used to deploy automations and wider programming theory to understand future languages.”

Students working on a project on their computer

Bradley Chinn, Curriculum Area Manager for Digital at Exeter College, said:

“This partnership represents exactly what T Levels were designed to achieve. By working directly with Amazon and AWS professionals on real infrastructure and real challenges, our students develop the technical confidence, professional behaviours, and industry insight needed to succeed from day one.”

Jo Simovic, Senior Programme Manager of Global Youth Programs at Amazon, said:

“Amazon is delighted to be working with Exeter College to support future digital professionals. This project enables students to engage directly with AWS technologies in a meaningful, applied way, building skills that are highly relevant across the tech sector.”

Discover T Level courses at Exeter College: exe-coll.ac.uk/school-leavers/t-levels/

Annual awards showcase outstanding student achievements

The South West’s most promising learners were celebrated on Friday 16 January 2026 as Exeter College hosted its annual Student Awards at Sandy Park, showcasing the inspirational learners from the 2024/25 academic year and their remarkable achievements.

More than 170 guests, including sponsors, VIPs, College lecturers, and students’ families and friends, attended the ceremony, where 17 awards were handed out, recognising learner success across a variety of topics, from academic excellence and sport to adult learning and apprenticeships.

A highlight of the College calendar, the evening shone a spotlight on Exeter College students and their achievements. This year’s winners reflect the breadth of the College community and include students who have overcome adversity, progressed to Oxford and Cambridge, the England Women’s U18 rugby captain, and a learner returning to study after 30 years.

John Laramy CBE DL, Group Principal and CEO at Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group, said:

“Exeter College had another outstanding year. In my 17 years at the college, I can’t remember a year when our students and apprentices achieved such consistently outstanding results and success right across the college.

“None of this is luck. Our ongoing success is because we have amazing students, great employers, world-class partners, fantastic staff and, in Exeter, the schools, college and university all working together in a cohesive and effective education ecosystem.

“I also want to say a huge thank you to our award sponsors, many of whom support us every year. Without their support, these awards would not happen.”

Bindu Arjoon with sponsor from Cartridges Law, School of Art Student of the Year, Celeste McDonald, and John Laramy CBE DL

Bindu Arjoon, Chief Executive at Exeter City Council, said:

“It’s a privilege to be here tonight, and an honour to celebrate the students at the heart of this evening. To the award winners, huge congratulations.

“The qualifications they’ve achieved of course matter. But equally importantly, so does the resilience, determination and thoughtfulness they’ve shown along the way.

“The world they’re stepping into is fast-moving, at times unpredictable, and sometimes it may appear overwhelming. But how they feel tonight – the belief of others, the support around them, the confidence they’re building – that will help them navigate all of it.”

Reach Academy Student of the Year – Ved Kumar

One winner from the evening was Ved Kumar, who studied Biology, Chemistry, Further Maths and AS Physics at Exeter College. He was also described as a cornerstone of Exeter College’s Reach Academy, an initiative that encourages the most academically gifted students to enhance their learning and is now studying Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge.

After being awarded Reach Academy Student of the Year, Ved said:

“I’m very proud to receive this award and am grateful to the College for selecting me. I really enjoyed my two years here, which prepared me well for the different aspects of uni life, both socially and academically.

“Now, I’m loving studying and living in Cambridge, and hoping to go down the path of scientific research, inspired by many of my teachers back home.

“If I had to give one piece of advice to students at Exeter College, it would be to seize every opportunity that comes your way – you never know where they could lead.”

Higher Apprentice of the Year – Darren Westlake

Another winner was Darren Westlake, who was named Higher Apprentice of the Year. Darren, who is registered blind, returned to education after a 30-year absence, and was described as a dedicated and committed learner during his time at the College. Darren is enthusiastic about his future and applying the knowledge, skills and behaviours he acquired during his Level 4 Data Analysis Apprenticeship.

Speaking about his time at Exeter College and being awarded Higher Apprentice of the Year, Darren said:

“Embarking on a qualification to enhance my data analysis skills brought about some apprehension, especially as a blind student returning to formal education after three decades.

“Being presented with this award is a tremendous privilege, acknowledging the dedication and obstacles I have overcome in the last two years. I hope my achievement encourages other disabled individuals and shines a spotlight on the strengths, expertise, and determination within our community.

“I would like to officially take this opportunity to thank my tutors, Larisa and Hilary, who ensured course materials were adapted to accommodate my visual impairment. None of this would have been possible without their support.”

Exeter College Student Awards 2026 winners:

Award Category	Winner	Sponsor
Award for Academic Excellence	Elouise Finch	Exeter Science Park
Award for Academic Excellence	Katie Tuohey	Peninsula Project Consulting
Award for Vocational and Technical Excellence	Rheanne Richardson	Exeter Aerospace
Award for Vocational and Technical Excellence	Jacob Murphy	Focus
T Level Learner of the Year	Ruby Land	Coreus
Apprentice of the Year	James Molloy	Willmott Dixon
Higher Apprentice of the Year	Darren Westlake	GWR
Digital Media Academy Student of the Year	Charlie Wheeler	Timewade
Performing Arts Academy Student of the Year	Scarlett Hamlyn	NatWest
Michael Caines Academy Student of the Year	Finn Clark	Lympstone Manor
Reach Academy Student of the Year	Ved Kumar	University of Exeter
Sports Academy Student of the Year	Katherine Dyke	Exeter City Community Trust
School of Art Student of the Year	Celeste McDonald	Cartridges Law
ESOL Student of the Year	Asal Mahmoudi Kahrooei	Refugee Support Devon
Adult Learner of the Year	Tin Nguyen	Taylor Lewis
EXtra Learner of the Year	Izzy Wain	Exeter Cathedral
The #ExeCollProud Award	Benjamin Holland Theophile	Stagecoach

Exeter College sponsors Exeter City FC for historic FA Cup tie

Exeter College is proud to be the sleeve sponsor for Exeter City FC’s historic Emirates FA Cup third‑round clash away to seven-time winners Manchester City on Saturday, 10 January 2026. It’s a huge occasion for the club and the city, with 7,800 supporters making the trip to Manchester, and the College is delighted to show its support both on and off the pitch.

The connection between Exeter College and Exeter City runs deep. Many students and staff have links with the club, and this sponsorship for such a significant fixture celebrates the strong ties between two of the city’s most recognisable organisations.

That relationship also extends to education and player development, with longstanding links with the Club’s partner charity Exeter City Community Trust and Exeter City Women. This partnership includes Exeter College’s Women’s Football Academy, which provides elite training alongside outstanding academic opportunities for ambitious female footballers.

In the build-up to the match colleagues from Exeter College’s sport faculty visited the Grecians’ Cliff Hill Training Ground to watch a training session and meet the players as preparations continued for this landmark game.

Alex Boyle, Head of Sport at Exeter College, said:

“We’re incredibly proud to support our local team in this historic fixture! Exeter City FC is such an important part of our community, and with so many supporters, staff, and players having links to Exeter College our connection to the club runs deep, and we’re delighted to back the team on and off the pitch on Saturday.

“From everyone at Exeter College – good luck on Saturday! We’re right behind you, go out there and do our city proud!”

Tom Wenborn, Commercial Sales and Relationship Manager at Exeter City Football Club, said:

“Exeter College’s support for this landmark occasion reflects the strong, longstanding relationship between our two organisations.

“Exeter College is a valued partner and an important part of our city, and it’s fantastic to have their support for such a special occasion. The relationship between the club and the College is built on shared values around opportunity, development and community, and we’re proud to showcase that partnership on this stage.”

Football shirt sleeve with Exeter College sponsorship

Merger Update: Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group

Exeter College and Petroc College are pleased to confirm the two colleges have merged, forming the Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group and creating a regional powerhouse for young people and skills.

From today, Petroc College has become North Devon College, celebrating its place in the community, while Exeter College will continue under its existing name. The new Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group will continue delivering sixth form provision in both Exeter and North Devon.

The Group also includes a dedicated Centre for Progression in Tiverton, supporting young people with additional needs and those who need a different experience to re-engage with education.

More information about the merger is available here.

More information about Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group is available here.