Students from the College’s Michael Caines Academy cooked for around 70 people at St Thomas Baptist Church, raising more than £600 for Royal Devon Hospitals Charity’s Super Theatre Appeal.
Tickets for the event, which also raised £600 for Dementia UK, completely sold out, and those lucky enough to book a table enjoyed dishes including smoked salmon crostini, mushroom and spinach pasta, and mascarpone and strawberry tart.
The event was organised by 17-year-old Lana Cousley, who is studying for her Diploma in Professional Cookery at the academy, which was inspired by former student, Michelin-starred Michael Caines.
Lana spoke to cookery school tutors, who were not only on board with the idea but also agreed to cover the cost of the food. She said:
“It was a great opportunity for us to show people our cookery skills, and we were delighted to be able to also raise so much money for two worthwhile causes.
“The team of girls who helped me are all absolutely incredible and none of what was achieved would have been done without them.
“Huge thanks also to everyone who came along on the evening, and to the college for providing all the ingredients, ensuring that all the money we raised could go to our two chosen charities.”
Ian Biggar, the academy’s Tutorial Area Manager for Hospitality, said he couldn’t be prouder of his students.
“They all did an amazing job and showed real enthusiasm, teamwork, and professionalism. It was great to see them put their skills into action while supporting such a great cause.”
Tom Darby-Clark, community fundraiser at Royal Devon Hospitals Charity, added: “Lana and the team were brilliant; not only was a real treat to be served such delicious food by some of Exeter’s most talented young chefs, it was also incredibly inspiring to see them supporting our Super Theatre Appeal.
“This new state-of-the-art operating theatre will revolutionise the type of surgery the hospital can provide, meaning fewer procedures, reduced risk of complications, faster recovery times after surgery, and less time in hospital.
“It will do so much for patients across Devon and the money Lana and her team have raised will take us one step closer to making this exciting project a reality.”
Exeter College students help to plant trees and make history at Killerton
The Community Forest project at Killerton has engaged local schools, colleges, and community groups in planting trees across three locations: Columbjohn, Elbury, and Beare Farms. Over the course of the project, trees have been planted by over 750 members of the public and local community groups, including The Royal College of GPs, Exeter College, The Duchy School, Exeter City Community Trust, Devon Carers, University of Exeter, Bradnich Scouts, Met Office, Cornerstone Academy – Broadclyst and Westclyst Schools, Exeter Age UK, HIVE (home school group) and Cranbrook Education Campus.
One of the project’s highlights includes the story of Josh Mills, a 10-year-old from Cranbrook Education Campus, who planted trees on land worked by his grandfather and great-grandfather at Elbury Farm.
Josh’s mother Bekki said; “Josh was possibly digging the same land as his grandad and great grandad! Sadly, they have both passed away now but they would have loved to hear about the tree planting too.”
Josh and his peers in years 3-6 at Cranbrook Education Campus walked to this site to plant 985 trees across 3 weeks – representing one tree per pupil at the school.
More than 120 young people from Exeter College visited Columbjohn Farm as part of a student wellbeing initiative, planting native saplings and learning about the importance of trees in storing carbon.
Lucy Welch, an A Level Environmental Sciencestudent, said:
“The best part about tree planting with friends was making memories together for a good cause, especially when in a few years we can come back and see the difference when all the trees have grown, knowing that we helped to make a difference.”
The tree species planted, including sycamore, elm, and oak, were selected for being native to the area, with the intention for them to become the veteran trees of the future, creating new habitats for native flora and fauna.
Programme Leader in Maths and Science, Jon Read, said;
“The National Trust have provided us with a fantastic opportunity for our A Level Environmental Science students to get hands on experience of conservation. Our students helped to create a new habitat for native species of flora and fauna as well as providing an outdoor recreational space for locals to engage with, benefitting their health and wellbeing.
“The tree planting, habitat management and agricultural practices are an essential part of the Environmental Science syllabus and the National Trust gave us tailored tours to increase our students learning and appreciation of countryside and conservation issues. A worthwhile visit for all our learners.“
This year, Exeter college students will continue to work with Killerton to design artwork, build wildlife boxes and monitor the establishment of trees and species populations over time.
The initiative includes the addition of 6.9km of permissive paths and improvements to existing paths, enhancing public access to the new woodlands and the wider parkland.
Exeter College and Bradfords Building Supplies Host Successful Retrofit and Renewables Awareness Events in Partnership with East Devon District Council
Exeter College, in collaboration with Bradfords Building Supplies and East Devon District Council, successfully completed a series of events aimed at raising awareness of retrofit and renewable technologies. These events, held at Bradfords’ Axminster, Honiton, and Exmouth branches, were part of the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) project designed to benefit East Devon residents and businesses.
The SPF project, a joint initiative between East Devon District Council and Exeter College, seeks to extend the reach of retrofit and renewable technology education beyond traditional learning environments. Bradfords and Exeter College joined forces to explore innovative ways to engage a broader audience, including both Bradfords customers and the public.
On specific days in February and March, Exeter College, along with renewable suppliers and members of the Green Skills Advisory Panel, took over the three Bradfords branches. These events provided valuable information, advice, and guidance on renewable technologies, the whole house retrofit approach, sustainable materials, and the training opportunities available at Exeter College.
The events were designed to serve as a one-stop shop for attendees to learn about the latest advancements in renewable technologies and sustainable building practices. Through targeted advertising, the events successfully attracted a diverse audience, eager to explore the benefits of retrofitting and renewable energy solutions.
Giles Bradford, Head of Sustainability at Bradfords commented;
“The scale of the retrofit challenge in the region is huge. It’s great to see local authorities getting behind schemes like this to help people understand retrofit and the solutions available. We were pleased to be able to provide a platform for this given our close relationship with both those who are going to need to do the improvements required and the supply chain for the solutions they will install.”
Luke Moss, Skills and Project Manager at Exeter College added;
“Our collaboration with Bradfords has expanded our reach, enabling us to share vital information on retrofitting, renewable energy, and essential skills. By offering a comprehensive one-stop shop for the public and trades professionals alike, we are breaking down barriers and facilitating engagement with the broader supply chain. We are excited to continue this partnership through our Green Skills Advisory Panel and Building Greater Exeter connections.”
We extend our thanks to East Devon District Council for their unwavering support with the SPF project and to Bradfords Building Supplies for generously allowing us to take over their branches for these events. We would also like to thank the suppliers and retrofit professionals who kindly gave up their time to attend the events, providing their expert advice.
Upcoming Courses
There is still time to sign up for our remaining courses, including Introduction to Heat Pumps, Solar, and Retrofit, as well as our Level 2 Understanding Domestic Retrofit qualification.
To find out more please contact: Luke Moss, Skills and Project Manager, lukemoss@exe-coll.ac.uk, 01392 400996.
Exeter College and Exeter City Women Relaunch Women’s Football Academy
Exeter College is excited to announce the relaunch of its Women’s Football Academy in partnership with Exeter City Women, offering an enhanced pathway for aspiring female footballers. This renewed collaboration will provide students with access to high-level coaching, top-class facilities, and elite playing opportunities, all while studying at an Outstanding college.
With a stronger alignment between Exeter College and Exeter City Women, the academy now offers even more opportunities for players to develop their game both on and off the pitch.
What’s New?
This refreshed partnership strengthens the academy’s existing offering, allowing players to:
Train a minimum of 3 times per week within their college timetable
Compete in the highest level college leagues and national cup competitions
Access Strength & Conditioning and Sports Therapy support
Benefit from video analysis and game reviews to enhance performance
Play beyond college within Exeter City Women’s playing pyramid
A Renewed Partnership for Greater Opportunities
Sports Academy Manager, Chris Wall, said:
“This relaunch is a fantastic step forward for the Women’s Football Academy. Our renewed partnership with Exeter City Women strengthens the pathway for female players looking to develop at an elite level. With top-quality coaching, excellent facilities, and the opportunity to progress beyond college, this is an exciting time for women’s football at Exeter College.”
Additionally, the partnership now includes accommodation support, making the academy more accessible to talented players from outside the local area.
Upcoming Trial – Be Part of the Next Chapter!
To celebrate this exciting relaunch, we are inviting aspiring female footballers to attend our upcoming trial session. This is a great chance to showcase your ability, train with our expert coaching team, and experience the academy’s professional environment.
Exeter College Success Rate for Oxbridge is Ahead of Private Institutions
Exeter College is celebrating another strong year of Oxbridge success, with 16 students receiving offers from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Despite a competitive admissions process, Exeter College continues to surpass national averages, demonstrating its commitment to academic excellence and student support.
This year, 60 students applied to Oxbridge (37 to Oxford and 23 to Cambridge). Of these, 36 were shortlisted for interviews—representing 60% of applicants (49% for Oxford and 78% for Cambridge). Following the rigorous selection process, 16 students secured offers, achieving an impressive 27% success rate (29% Oxford, 22% Cambridge). Notably, this remains above the national averages for both Further Education (FE) colleges (21%) and independent schools (25%).
However, the most impressive statistic is Exeter College’s interview-to-offer conversion rate. Of those shortlisted for interviews, 44% received offers—an exceptional achievement. At Oxford, this figure stands at an outstanding 61%, underscoring the strength of Exeter College’s preparation and support for its students.
Student Success Stories
Among the successful applicants is A Level student Ved Kumar (pictured above), who has received an offer from Clare College, Cambridge, to read Natural Sciences. Studying Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, Ved expressed his excitement about the opportunity:
“I stayed at the university for a residential last year and I loved every aspect of it—the people, the city, the mindset. Now that I’m months away from potentially securing that as my environment for the next three years, I’m completely ecstatic! Aside from the incredible experience of studying at Cambridge itself, I’m so glad that I will be in a very musical environment in my college—the regular gigs and jam sessions are the main reason I chose Clare.”
Reflecting on the application process, Ved highlighted the support he received:
“The application process for Oxbridge felt pretty daunting at times, but I felt really supported by my tutor and my teachers. All the dates, deadlines, and next steps were really clearly laid out from the start. I got a lot of really useful personal statement feedback, mock interviews for both Biology and Chemistry, plus some more informal interview preparation.”
Niamh McLaughlin (pictured above), from Barnstaple, also received an offer to read English at Cambridge. Studying English Literature, English Language, and Philosophy, she spoke about how the process helped her grow academically and personally:
“It was definitely a long process, but it wasn’t all stress and hard work. In many ways, it made me grow to like my subject more. I’ve found some new favourite books in the personal statement-making process! I’m also a part of the Reach Academy, which has been really helpful since the start of the first year. They’ve taken us on university visits, held talks with guest speakers, and have offered sessions on how to build a personal statement. The mock interview process offered by college was also really helpful; the whole style of a Cambridge interview isn’t something you get to practice much in everyday life, so having a taste of the sort of questions they might ask was a great opportunity.”
Elena Carey (pictured above), from near Barnstaple, has secured an offer to study Chemistry at Oxford after achieving A*s in Physics, Maths, and Chemistry last summer. She has spent the past year on a gap year, using the time to further explore her academic interests:
“I’m really happy. I’m so glad that I decided to apply this year. I feel like it paid off. It’s definitely a difficult process, but a wholly rewarding experience. I applied quite late, and the college was great at getting my references in and arranging mock interviews for me, even though I had already left.”
Looking ahead, Elena is particularly interested in nanotechnology:
“Currently, I’m really interested in nanotechnology, and I want to research more about that. I’ve had a few lab placements which were really interesting. I’m sure my interests will change at university, so I’m looking forward to exploring that.”
Billie Stokes, Assistant Principal at Exeter College, expressed her pride in the students and staff:
“We’re so proud of these students and everyone who applied to Oxbridge this year, their hard work and dedication have been truly inspiring. A huge thank you to Martin Gilbert and our fantastic teaching staff, whose support and commitment provide our learners with invaluable guidance and experiences. Their dedication has been instrumental in helping our students secure such an incredible number of Oxbridge offers across a wide range of courses, from the sciences and humanities to social sciences and linguistics. It’s fantastic to see our learners pursuing such diverse and exciting academic pathways!“
Martin Gilbert, Head of Academic Aspiration, praised the students’ achievements:
“I am so pleased for the Oxbridge offer holders; they have worked so hard to gain the skills and academic evidence that these world-class universities are looking for. The application process is long and rigorous, and the range of subjects they hold offers in, from Physics to Classics, highlights the breadth of specialists that we have here at Exeter College. With the help and guidance from all our outstanding staff, these learners have shown themselves to be independent, explorative, and capable of critical and analytical thinking.”
With continued success in Oxbridge admissions, Exeter College remains a leading institution for students aiming to study at the most prestigious universities in the world.
Exeter College hosts record-breaking Apprenticeship Expo
The Apprenticeship Expo, which is now in its 11th year, continues to grow in both size and impact. This year’s Expo was a fantastic opportunity for students, parents, and local employers to come together and explore the exciting world of apprenticeships. We welcomed over 2200 attendees, a record number, which included Exeter College learners, students from local schools, parents/guardians and members of the public.
This year, we welcomed representatives from 50 employers, who offered a variety of apprenticeship vacancies, part time jobs, and work experience opportunities. Employers of all sizes, from small businesses to large corporations, represented various industries, including business, construction, education, engineering, healthcare and hospitality.
A huge thank you to our employer partners, many of whom went above and beyond to make their stalls interactive and engaging. They also brought their current apprentices to share their experiences with attendees, providing invaluable insights into the apprenticeship journey.
Our Apprenticeship Team was on hand in the Apprenticeship Advice Zone, offering support to help learners secure their dream roles. They provided guidance on choosing courses, applying for vacancies, and future progression. We also hosted the South West Apprenticeship Ambassador Network, who spoke to our learners about the benefits of apprenticeships for building successful careers. Additionally, the University of Exeter showcased degree-level apprenticeships.
The Apprenticeship Expo successfully highlighted the value of apprenticeships in shaping the future workforce and providing young people with the tools they need to succeed. We’re hoping next year’s event is even more impactful!
Prospective apprentices and employers can contact the Apprenticeship Team on 01392 400800 or apprentices@exe-coll.ac.uk
Exeter College and JobCentre Plus Launch Career Builders Programme for Adults Re-entering the Job Market
Exeter College, in partnership with Exeter Jobcentre Plus, is proud to announce the launch of the Career Builders programme – a new initiative designed to support adults on their journey towards employment, volunteering or further training.
Career Builders is a tailored learning programme aimed at adults who have been out of the job market for an extended period. Many participants in this cohort are living with disabilities and the programme’s inclusive approach ensures that all individuals receive the guidance and support they need to achieve their goals.
“We are really pleased to collaborate with the Job Centre on this important initiative,” said Lucinda Sanders, Director of Higher Education and Adult Learning at Exeter College. “Career Builders is more than a learning programme; it’s a bridge to opportunity, helping individuals regain confidence and build resilience. The response has been incredible, with strong interest from Jobcentre Plus customers eager to return to learning, build skills and pursue job opportunities in Exeter and surrounding areas.”
The programme will offer a series of free courses focused on:
Job seeking skills: Providing practical tools for navigating the job market, from crafting compelling CVs to succeeding at interviews.
Health and wellbeing: Equipping participants with strategies to maintain physical and mental health while preparing for re-entry into the workforce.
Work-ready skills development: Building essential skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic workplaces.
Richard Dart, Employer Advisor at Jobcentre Plus, said: “We’re hopeful that we can help many individuals get on track to improved wellbeing, better training opportunities and ultimately, employment and independence.”
The Career Builders programme reflects Exeter College’s ongoing commitment to meeting the needs of the local area, fostering community engagement and creating pathways for lifelong learning. By addressing the unique challenges faced by adults re-entering the workforce, this initiative aims to make a meaningful impact on individual lives and the broader community.
Santina, a local job seeker, said: “I’ve always enjoyed learning something new. My Job Coach recommended Career Builders and it looks really interesting. I’m excited to get back into studying.”
For more information about the Career Builders programme and the series of courses on offer, please contact JobCentre Plus on 0300 046 5817.
Exeter College Celebrates Student Achievements at Iconic Exeter Cathedral for its 55th Year
On Friday, Exeter College celebrated its annual student awards at the iconic Exeter Cathedral. This extra special event marked 55 years of the tertiary college, further to its inception in 1970 as the first of its kind in the UK. To mark the occasion, 23 past and present students were awarded for excellence in their field. This celebrated the diversity of student achievements across academic, professional, and personal milestones.
Exeter Cathedral was the setting for the Student Awards 2025
John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive at Exeter College congratulated students, saying;
“This year’s awards marked 55 years since we became the first tertiary college in the UK and this year’s award winners really showed the impact of an education system where the schools, university and college all work together.
“The award winners were inspirational, achieving maximum marks, winning awards, excelling in sport and engaging in all that the College has to offer. For me the students and apprentices that won awards were living our values of ambition, collaboration and energy.
“I would like to extend my thanks to our sponsors: without their support, these awards would simply not happen. Their contributions help us celebrate the incredible achievements of our students and the positive impact they make to college life.
“Our ongoing success is rooted in a unique and collaborative education ecosystem here in Exeter, where amazing students, great employers, world-class partners, fantastic staff, and strong connections between schools, the college, and the university all work together effectively. It is an absolute privilege to celebrate the people that make Exeter College and our amazing community truly special.”
Musical Theatre students performed for guests
Sir Michael Barber KB, Chancellor of the University of Exeter, served as the guest speaker at the event. In his address, he emphasised the critical need for raising skill standards across the South West to support the region’s growth and prosperity. He highlighted the vital role that institutions like Exeter College will play in shaping the workforce of the future, over the next decade and beyond. He said:
“It’s a huge honour to be at the awards evening at Exeter College, partly because I live and work in Devon and Exeter is the centre of our county, partly because it is outstanding and recognised nationally as being one of the best colleges in the country. But most importantly, it is a chance to recognise the substantial student achievements and it a real pleasure to be part of this celebration.
“Events like this are so important. Important to recognise all types of achievement, from all types of courses in all circumstances, at a wonderful college like Exeter.”
Megan Ginsberg (pictured above) won Higher Apprentice of the Year, saying;
“It’s a privilege to receive the Exeter College ‘Higher Apprentice of the Year Award’ in the historic Exeter Cathedral this evening. A brilliant way to start 2025.”
Megan is now working hard on her Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship at Exeter University. Additionally, she has joined AtkinsRéalis as an Assistant Project Manager on the Project and Programme Services (PPS) Team and Infrastructure Team. She has also set up an initiative ‘Construct Ability’, which aims to make construction accessible to all.
“As a wheelchair user, this is particularly meaningful to the projects that I deliver and my life outside of work.
“Exeter College provided me with a foundation that I could build my career on, supporting my academic studies with outstanding lecturers and facilities. I cannot thank the college enough for providing the resources that I needed to gain a distinction and finish my apprenticeship six months early.”
Another award winner was Finn Phillips (pictured above), who won an award for Academic Excellence. After studying A Levels at Exeter and earning un unparalleled five A*s, he is now reading Maths and Physics at the University of Bath. He said:
“It is really nice that I am receiving an award from Exeter. I very much enjoyed my two years at college, and this will be a great reminder of these times.”
Speaking of his future aspirations, he said;
“I would like to get into the water-polo first team at Bath. I am going to try really hard to get a first-class degree in Maths and Physics. My course allows me to have a year abroad and I am considering going to Australia to study at the University of Brisbane.”
Hasina Rahmani (pictured above) arrived in Devon in November 2021, she initially joined our community classes and has since worked tirelessly to progress to ESOL Level 2 whilst also passing GCSE Maths and is now enrolled on a Diploma in Professional Cookery. She was awarded the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Student of the Year. She commented;
“I am really proud of how hard I have worked, and this award proves how much time I have dedicated to studying.” She added;
“My professional cookery course wouldn’t be possible if I hadn’t studied ESOL. I have learned so much which has given me knowledge and confidence to study something I am passionate about.”
Higher Technical Learner of the Year went to Annabel Hodnett (pictured above). She is described as an exceptional student on the Foundation Degree in Sports Therapy, actively supporting and assisting with medical cover for the College’s successful Sports Academies. Annabel is now a registered Sports Therapist at Osteo and Physio in Honiton and Exmouth. She said;
“Receiving this award is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s not just recognition of the hard work I’ve put into my studies, but also a reminder that challenges like dyslexia don’t define what we’re capable of achieving. It’s proof that perseverance and the right support can lead to great things.
“Exeter College provided a supportive environment where I could thrive despite my learning difficulties. The tutors were understanding and tailored their teaching methods to help me learn effectively. The skills I gained, both technical and personal, have been invaluable in my current journey.”
The final award of the evening was the #ExeCollProud Award, this year going to Ayomide Okesola.
Ayo was an exceptional student who fully immersed herself in all aspect of Exeter College life. She has now been recruited to the College’s Student Experience Team as a Level 5 Apprentice, with one of her responsibilities being to lead the Learner Leadership Team. Commenting on receiving the award, she said;
“Receiving this award is an incredible honour. It feels like meaningful recognition of the hard work and dedication I put into my time at Exeter College, and it motivates me to continue striving for excellence in all that I do.”
Speaking of her current role, she said;
“This feels like a full-circle moment for me, as the learner voice provision was something that had a significant impact on me during my time as a student. I immersed myself in it, and it helped shape who and where I am today. To now be in a position where I manage and oversee that same provision — empowering other students and ensuring their voices are heard — is truly rewarding. I am incredibly grateful to Exeter College for this opportunity to give back and make a meaningful difference.”
The student awards evening not only celebrated the individual achievements of the winners but also served as a testament to the collective effort of the entire Exeter College community. The dedication of the broader student body, the unwavering support of staff, and the contributions of industry partners all play a pivotal role in the college’s success.
The Exeter College Student Award winners for 2025 are:
Award Category
Winner
Sponsor
Award for Academic Excellence
Gracie Bauer
Peninsula Project Consulting
Award for Academic Excellence
Finn Phillips
Exeter Science Park
Award for Academic Excellence
Ruby Wallace
IB Learner of the year
Freya Gray
YESSS Electrical
Award for Vocational & Technical Excellence
Lincon Croft
Exeter Aerospace
Award for Vocational & Technical Excellence
Erin Price
Focus Group
T Level Learner of the Year
Lewis Attwood
NatWest
Apprentice of the Year
Isaac Bruce
Timewade
Higher Apprentice of the Year
Megan Ginsberg
Higher Apprentice of the Year
Digital Media Academy Student of the Year
Josh Tate
Optix Solutions
Music Academy Student of the Year
Yuri Warburton
The Purple Company
Michael Caines Academy Student of the Year
Oscar Mott
Lympstone Manor
Reach Academy Student of the Year
Amy Dunbavin
University of Exeter
Reach Academy Student of the Year
Ella Greed
Sports Academy Student of the Year
Hannah Sams
Exeter City Community Trust
School of Art Student of the Year
Lucie Sivier-Voller
Pollards
ESOL Student of the Year
Hasina Rahmani
Refugee Support Devon
The HILL Student of the Year
Emily Adams
Stagecoach
Bootcamp Learner of the Year
Rachel Vowles
Cartridges Law
Bootcamp Learner of the Year
Louise Worlin
Higher Technical Learner of the Year
Annabel Hodnett
Coreus Group
EXtra Learner of the Year
Max Slaney
Exeter Cathedral
The #ExeCollProud Award
Ayomide Okesola
Great Western Railway
Thank you to our sponsors for making this event possible.
Academy of Cheese Launches New Training Collaboration with Michael Caines Academy in Exeter
Top trainee chefs and hospitality students at the renowned Michael Caines Academy in Exeter were the first cohort to receive a full day of bespoke cheese training as part of their two-year programme.
Delivered by the Academy of Cheese and funded by Chiswick Cheese Market, the Academy’s Level One Certification course was tailored specifically for hospitality students, bringing a brand-new training experience incorporating a hands-on, practical approach to learning about cheese.
The collaboration with the Michael Caines Academy – an initiative led by Michelin-starred chef Michael Caines MBE – was an exciting opportunity for the 32 students currently studying at Exeter College. Led by Academy of Cheese Training Partner, Patrick McGuigan, the day started in the professional kitchen where the class got to make a basic ricotta cheese.
Patrick McGuigan explaining how to make a basic ricotta cheese.
The training continued in the college’s Lecture Theatre, where the 16-18 year olds were guided through a tasting of a selection of cheeses, including an award-winning Le Gruyère AOP, a Gorgonzola PDO and a clothbound cheddar from local cheesemaker Quicke’s Cheese.
“I didn’t know how complex a Gruyère could be and how versatile it is as a cheese”, commented Finn Clark, a 2nd Year Student.
The afternoon session commenced with a demonstration on cutting and wrapping cheese, focussing on portion control and how to minimise waste in a professional kitchen, and finished with a pairing masterclass in the on-site restaurant, @thirty-four, where students were inspired to play around with different cheeses and accompaniments.
This partnership marks an exciting and significant milestone in the Academy of Cheese’s mission to expand cheese education and certification across the UK, ensuring that the next generation of chefs and hospitality professionals are equipped with essential cheese skills and knowledge, whilst empowering them with the confidence to incorporate cheese into their menus in thoughtful, innovative and impactful ways.
The day’s training was funded by Chiswick Cheese Market – run by a group of volunteers who are passionate supporters of the artisan cheese industry. “As a team with chefs and cookery writers amongst our midst, we know how valuable cheese is within the world of hospitality” Lucy Cufflin, co-founder of the Market explained. “We are thrilled to be supporting this collaboration between the Academy of Cheese and Michael Caines Academy, to introduce hospitality trainees to artisan and quintessential cheeses, endorsing their importance in our restaurants and associated food industries.”
The Michael Caines Academy aims to nurture the region’s future generation of talented restaurateurs, chefs, waiters and front-of-house staff by providing high-profile experiences, challenging practical and theoretical workshops and masterclasses from the best the food industry has to offer. To be accepted onto the programme, students are required to demonstrate passion, talent and promise over a two-day selection process.
Ian Biggar, Programme Lead & Tutor at Exeter College expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership; “We were thrilled to host the Academy of Cheese Level One course at the Michael Caines Academy,” adding “Patrick McGuigan’s expert guidance and infectious passion for cheese made the experience both educational and inspiring for our students. It was an unforgettable journey into the world of cheese, and we can’t wait to build on this fantastic foundation.”
Following the success of this inaugural session, the Academy of Cheese are looking to roll out their bespoke cheese training to other hospitality institutions, whilst also offering more advanced certification courses to meet the growing demand for specialist cheese knowledge.
“This partnership with the Michael Caines Academy is a huge step in our ongoing commitment to raising the standards of cheese knowledge and appreciation,” said Academy of Cheese Director, Tracey Colley. “By offering the Level One Certification to students in such an esteemed institution, we are helping foster a new generation of cheese experts who will play a key role in shaping the future of both the UK hospitality and cheese industries.”
Building Greater Exeter: A New Chapter of Growth and Community Collaboration
Building Greater Exeter is proud to announce its transition from Exeter City Council to Exeter College, marking an exciting evolution in the group’s journey. This transition reflects the group’s steadfast commitment to fostering community engagement, enhancing educational opportunities for young people and adults, and collaborating on skills plans that drive growth and prosperity across Exeter, East Devon and Teignbridge.
Exeter College extends its heartfelt gratitude to Exeter City Council for their dedication and the significant impact and outcomes they have achieved. The City Council have laid a strong foundation, and we acknowledge their invaluable contributions to the community.
Building Greater Exeter is a not-for-profit public and private sector initiative, aimed at supporting businesses within the built environment and closing construction skills gaps in and around Exeter, East Devon and Teignbridge. It addresses the shortage of skilled construction workers and promotes developments which have a positive local impact around social value. Its mission is to inspire new candidates, support employers, and promote a culture that makes the built environment a great sector in which to work.
As we embark on this new chapter, Exeter College reaffirms its commitment to the steering group members and the broader community. Together, we will continue to champion initiatives that inspire engagement, collaboration, and progress.
Our focus remains clear:
Driving Engagement for Young People and Adults: Building Greater Exeter will prioritise innovative programmes and resources to support learners of all ages, empowering them with knowledge, skills, and opportunities to explore careers in construction and the built environment.
Fostering Collaboration Across Skills Plans: Working with partners, businesses, and stakeholders, we will create a cohesive approach to skills development, ensuring alignment with community needs and long-term economic growth.
Strengthening Community Ties: Building Greater Exeter will actively engage with the local community to ensure that their voices are heard and reflected in our initiatives.
This transition is not only a continuation of past successes but also a renewed promise to deliver impactful programmes that benefit individuals looking to embark on a career in Construction and the Built Environment. We invite the community, partners, and stakeholders to join us in shaping this next phase of Building Greater Exeter’s journey. Together, we will build on the legacy of excellence, strengthen our shared vision, and pave the way for a brighter future.
We are already busy preparing for our relaunch event on Thursday 27th February at the Future Skills Centre, Exeter. This event will welcome keynote speakers from across the sector providing timely updates on current and future local construction projects and Employment and Skills plans. To register for this event, please book your free ticket here.
If you would like to get involved with our activities or are interested in becoming a member of Building Greater Exeter, please contact the Building Greater Exeter Project Manager, Luke Moss, Project Manager; Lukemoss@exe-coll.ac.uk or 01392 400996.
