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Technical Education Offers Students a Stepping Stone into Devon’s Growing Sectors

As Open Day season continues, students are being encouraged to explore technical education routes that can open the door to some of the region’s biggest job growth areas in Digital, IT and Healthcare. 

Young people in Devon are being encouraged to consider the range of technical education routes on offer into some of the biggest growing sectors in the region. Apprenticeships, traineeships and the new T Levels are just some of the different education and training pathways being showcased this Open Day season, with clear routes into Devon’s growing industries.  

This follows the launch of the government’s new ‘Get the Jump’ Skills for Life campaign, which launched on 24th January. The campaign brings together in one place all the training and education choices that are available for 14–19 year olds, so that young people can see how they compare and where they can lead, to help them take their next step. 

“I chose the T Level as it is a course that represents a combined way of learning, blending classroom and practical training.“

Josh Dyer – Exeter College student studying a T Level in Digital Design, Production and Development

Digital, IT and healthcare are three of the region’s biggest job growth areas, with the number of jobs in the digital sector doubling since 2012 – and this trend is expected to continue.1 The healthcare sector is also steadily growing and accounts for around £1 billion annually to Devon’s economy.2 The demand for more nurses means there are also 810 projected new job openings between now and 2024.  

Employers, schools and colleges in the region are offering a range of support to young people who are considering their next steps. Technical education routes, including the new T Levels, are a helpful source for local employers looking to find, nurture and secure young talent.   

“The placement has offered us a new perspective on what we learn at college and helped us put our skills into practice.“

Meg Wall – Exeter College student studying a T Level in Health

One student, Josh Dyer from Kingsteignton, is studying a T Level in Digital Design, Production and Development at Exeter College and is currently completing a work placement with Teignbridge Propellors.  

Josh commented, “I chose the T Level as it is a course that represents a combined way of learning, blending classroom and practical training. I have dyslexia so prefer this style of learning. The course is amazing – there have been so many opportunities and projects to get involved in.  

“The placement at Teignbridge Propellers has been really great. It has improved my team skills and given me good insight into how a software development team fits into a business and has reinforced what we’ve been studying at college. When I complete my T Level, I will be working at Teignbridge Propellers as they have offered me a graduate job, following on from my work placement with them.” 

Another student, Meg Wall from North Devon, is studying for a T Level in Health at Exeter College and has been doing her work placement with the Devon Partnership NHS Trust. 

Meg commented, “I chose a T Level because it offered new opportunities for my learning and the chance to complete an industry placement. I have found the course so interesting and enjoyable, and I am looking forward to future learning. The placement has offered us a new perspective on what we learn at college and helped us put our skills into practice. In the future I hope to go to university to study Midwifery.” 

Meg Wall is studying for a T Level in Health at Exeter College

Technical education routes being spotlighted in the area include: 

  • New T Level qualifications. T Levels are designed with employers and include practical on-the-job training. They can help you find your way into a job, higher apprenticeship or university. There is a whole range of T Levels available to study at Exeter College – you can find out more about the different courses here: https://exe-coll.ac.uk/school-leavers/t-levels/  

To find your nearest T Level you can look here: Find your nearest T Level  

  • Apprenticeships. You don’t have to choose between getting paid and gaining skills. With an apprenticeship, you can do both. Apprenticeships help you develop skills, knowledge and behaviours in preparation for progression into further training or work. There is a whole range of apprenticeships on offer in the area. Data & Science, Education & Early Years, and Digital & Technology are just some of the apprenticeships available at Exeter College. To find and apply for an apprenticeship in your local area, search here. 
  • Traineeships. A traineeship gives you the support and skills to find your way into an apprenticeship or work. Traineeships can boost your skills and confidence, which can help you get into an apprenticeship or a job. To find and apply for a traineeship visit: Find your nearest traineeship or find a local training provider.  
  • Kickstart Scheme Jobs. These are open to 16–24 year olds claiming Universal Credit and at risk of long-term unemployment. Thousands of Kickstart Scheme jobs are available right now in a wide range of sectors. Talk to your Work Coach to find out how to apply or read more on the JobHelp website.  

Devon Partnership NHS Trust is offering a number of T Level students industry placements.  Jo Horne, Apprenticeship Development Manager at the Trust, said: “T Levels form an important part of Devon Partnership NHS Trust’s plan to develop additional career pathways and progression routes into the NHS. These new qualifications provide an excellent opportunity for young people to explore careers in Mental Health and Learning Disabilities. It’s crucial that we start a relationship with young people who will become our nursing workforce in the next five years.” 

Jo Horne, Apprenticeship Development Manager at
Devon Partnership NHS Trust

Commenting, Sam Hillman, Assistant Principal for Curriculum at Exeter College said: “It’s more important than ever for young people to get ahead and start thinking about their choices, whether they take a technical education pathway like a T Level, or choose to do A levels or BTECs.  

“We’re encouraging all young people to explore all their options. Our courses offer a range of exciting routes for young people which will ensure they are well-equipped to maximise the wealth of opportunities out there and get a foot on the ladder in the region’s growth areas. The perfect way to do this is to attend one of our Open Events where you can learn more about our whole offer, including the fantastic new T Levels.”   

Kat Woodman, a careers adviser from the National Careers Service said, “Whether you know where you’re headed in the future or not, exploring the work and study choices available to you is a great place to start. Our friendly and professional advisers at the National Careers Service can help you better understand your next steps or talk you through all the choices to get you where you want to go.”  

The ‘Get the Jump’ Skills for Life campaign has information and advice about all the choices on offer, so young people can choose the best path for them.

If you need help or advice about learning, training and work, to make informed decisions about your future, you can contact the National Careers Service via webchat or by calling 0800 100 900 (8am-8pm Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday).  

You can also find out more about upcoming Open Events at Exeter College. 

School Leavers’ Course Guide for 2021 Entry Out Now

Our School Leavers’ Course Guide for students interested in joining us from September 2021 is out now. 

Inside your guide, you’ll find complete course information on our wide variety of study options, including A Levels, BTECs, Apprenticeships and, the government’s brand new T Levels; a technical-based qualification that prepares students for industry with practical skills and knowledge. 

We have also included information on what it’s like to be a student at Exeter College, with personal stories from current and former students. As well as this, you will find pages on all that makes Exeter College outstanding, including information on: 

You can request a Course Guide here and we will post a copy to you. Inside, you’ll find information on EVERY course available for school leavers with Exeter College.  

Need help choosing the right level of study and course for you? 

Contact our College Advice Team to arrange a visit or chat. They can be contacted on 01392 400500 or cat@exe-coll.ac.uk. 

Thinking of joining Exeter College in 2021? 

Register your interest in joining Ofsted Outstanding Exeter College today and we’ll send you exclusive content and details to give you all the information you need to make an informed decision about joining us in September 2021. 

Follow our three easy steps to becoming an Exeter College student: 

  1. Request a School Leavers’ Course Guide 
  2. Register for an open event
  3. Apply online

Exeter College’s Construction Centre extension welcomes new T Level students

Exeter College’s new Construction Centre extension has welcomed its first cohort of Construction T Level students following a £1million transformation creating a bespoke learning area for the new qualification.  

Exeter College is one of the first providers in the country – and the only one in Devon – to offer T Levels for the 2020 academic year, with two year, full time courses now running in Construction, Digital and Education and Childcare.  

“Our T Level learners will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers need and will be the talent of the future.”

Sam Hillman, Assistant Principal

T Levels follow on from GCSEs and are set to revolutionise the technical education landscape, providing learners with a qualification that is the equivalent to three A Levels and combines classroom-based learning with 20% of time spent on an industry placement. T Levels can be used to move directly in to industry or to support an application to university. Further T Level courses are set to be rolled out across the country in the coming years, providing additional study routes in a variety of industries.  

The extension in the Construction Centre makes space for a new computer suite, as well as an electrical workshop and testing area for students. Underneath the mezzanine is a painting and decorating room and workshop for teaching trades. The renovation also includes a new café and staffroom.  

The extra space has also led to the conversion of the Learning Resource Centre. This will become two bespoke teaching rooms, each boasting 15 brand new specialist Computer Aided Design (CAD) computers. These facilities will provide Exeter College’s Construction T Level students with industry standard technology, software and packages for the design and project management side of the new course.  

The folding acoustic partition separating these two classrooms also means that this new space can easily transform into one large seminar room, where all learners can learn together. This will give the College flexibility in terms of numbers and how to deliver certain aspects of the new qualification.  

Sam Hillman, Assistant Principal at Exeter College, said, “We are very excited to be one of the first FE providers in the country and the only College in Devon to deliver T Levels.  

“Learners studying with us on a T Level will benefit from subject specialist teachers who have worked in industry as well as have access to state of the art facilities and resources.  

“Our T Level learners will develop the knowledge, skills and behaviours that employers need and will be the talent of the future.” 

Dave O’Connor, Head of Construction at Exeter College, said, “The investment in facilities will provide our T Level learners with bespoke training areas supported with state-of-the-art technology to really enhance the teaching and learning experience. Our industry specialist staff can take teaching to the next level and we’re all excited about delivering this new qualification.” 

The T Level qualification will consist of 80% of time spent in the classroom gaining technical and theoretical skills and the remaining 20% is a valuable placement in industry. 

Dave explained, “The College has Industry Placement Liaison Officers to create all the partnerships with local businesses to create these placement opportunities. Students will generally spend four days in College and have one day working in the industry.  

“The bespoke industry placement will support students and will help to create the next wave of civil engineers. We’re excited to help students create a career for themselves and make a big difference in society.” 

Applications to join Exeter College in September 2021 are open now, with a total of ten T Levels set to be offered, including in Design and Surveying, Healthcare Science and Science.  

Find out more about T Levels with Exeter College.

Request our 2021/22 School Leavers’ Course Guide for information on every course we’re offering for the next academic year.

Register now to find out more about the subjects that interest you at Exeter College, including information on our next live interactive seminars.

Vocational Students Celebrate Results Day Success

Exeter College’s vocational students are celebrating remarkable success ahead of the College’s further investment in technical-based qualifications.  

Students across the College’s broad range of BTEC and vocational subjects, from Healthcare to Construction, have achieved incredible results in line with recent years, cementing the College’s reputation for delivering an exceptional education for vocational courses.  

“Huge congratulations to all of our learners who are celebrating their results and thank you for continuing our legacy of success,” 

Sam Hillman, Exeter College Assistant Principal.

Achievement rates for students on BTEC Sport, BTEC Construction and NCFE Diploma in Childcare and Education were at 100%, while 98% of students studying the BTEC in Health and Social Care achieved a pass mark or better.  

There was also great success beyond pass marks, as multiple subjects revealed high percentages of students achieving high grades. A massive 75% of BTEC Health and Social Care students achieved three distinctions or higher and over half of the cohort achieved the absolute top grade of three starred distinctions. 

The success of this year’s vocational students reinforces the College’s status as a leading provider of workplace-designed qualifications, helping students to excel directly into industry, further study or an Apprenticeship. 

Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy said, “I’m thrilled for all our students who have worked incredibly hard alongside our staff to achieve these amazing results.” 

“Once again, our students have gone above and beyond in their learning in extremely challenging circumstances. I’m so pleased that many of them have gone on to achieve the grades they need to move on to further inspirational opportunities.  

Exeter College’s student led Zeal Salon

“I’d like to thank each and every student for how they have adapted, worked and contributed to life at the College and to the staff who have shown once again why we’re recognised across the country for our Ofsted Outstanding provision.”  

The College’s vocational students on creative-based courses are also celebrating terrific success. 95% of students studying for the Advanced Technical Diploma in Theatrical, Special Effects and Media Make-up Artistry achieved pass marks or better, 96% of Performing and Production Arts students achieved the same feat and UAL Extended Diploma students of Art and Design had a 95% achievement rate. In addition, students studying the 90 credit Diploma in Music Performance also excelled with 87% of learners getting a distinction and merit grade profile or better.  

Exeter College Assistant Principal Sam Hillman, who oversees vocational and technical training at the Ofsted Outstanding College, said, “I am so pleased that in the majority of cases our learners have received the excellent results they so deserve, building on our legacy of outstanding success for vocational and technical courses.  

“It’s also important to celebrate that many of our vocational and technical learners volunteered and worked alongside their studies to support Exeter and Devon’s Coronavirus efforts and of this, we are equally proud.   

“Our vocational and technical learners leave us not just with amazing results, but we hope with the confidence, behaviours and skills that will enable them to continue to progress in their future. The resilience of our 2020 cohort has been incredible. We are super excited to see what they go on to achieve.”  

The success of vocational students continues Exeter College’s long history of delivering these qualifications, a commitment that has strengthened in recent years with significant development and investment into specialist vocational facilities and provision.  

Exeter College’s Technology Centre

Students on vocational courses with Exeter College could find themselves studying in the inspirational learning environments of the state-of-the-art Technology Centre, the recently developed £5.9million Sports Hall or in the professional workplace environments of the hairdressing salon or @thirty-four restaurant.  

More recently, the College and the Department for Education has invested significantly for the delivery of new T Level qualifications from September 2020, with a new £1million mezzanine in the Construction Centre to aid in the delivery of the new technical-based qualifications. Further multi-million-pound investments have included providing learners with specialist industry equipment and learning facilities and revitalised learning and social spaces on the College’s Hele Road site.  

Exeter College will be the only provider in Devon offering T Levels from September 2020. Courses are available in Construction, Digital and Education and Childcare.  

Sam continued: “We pride ourselves on providing our technical and vocational learners with the very best dual-qualified teachers, world class facilities and resources, all enhanced by exceptional employer partnerships. Our diverse curriculum is of the highest quality and has a direct line of sight to industry for our learners.  

“Huge congratulations to all of our learners who are celebrating their results and thank you for continuing our legacy of success.” 

Find the right course for your future on the Exeter College course search.  

Ministers take part in virtual tour of Exeter College

Government Ministers attended a virtual tour of Exeter College as part of their plans to continue the gradual reopening of schools and colleges in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

“I was impressed and inspired by the passion and enthusiasm shown by their students who have continued to receive the best education and training possible during Covid-19,”

Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson MP

The Secretary of State for Education Gavin Williamson MP and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Apprenticeships and Skills Gillian Keegan MP joined the College’s students, staff and leaders to discuss how the College adapted to online teaching and learning during the lockdown, how the College has further opened to more students from the 15th June 2020 and how the College is looking forward to welcoming students in September.

The Ministers also heard directly from current College students and Apprentices about their experience and future plans. 

Secretary of State for Education, Gavin Williamson MP

Education Secretary Gavin Williamson MP said, “It was a pleasure to virtually visit Exeter College and meet their students and staff.  It was great to see how by working in partnership with local schools, universities and employers, they are making sure young people get the skills and experience they need to have rewarding careers. 

“I was impressed and inspired by the passion and enthusiasm shown by their students who have continued to receive the best education and training possible during Covid-19. 

“Now, more than ever, it’s vital young people have access to high quality technical education. Exeter College offers our new T Levels as well as high quality Apprenticeships and by being a part of the wider South West Institute of Technology ensures students have the skills and support they need to succeed. I wish them all the best and look forward to hearing more about their brilliant work.”  

The College also provided an update on the ongoing developments at the College, including the construction of a range of new facilities which will be ready for September to support the introduction of T Levels.  In one group session the College shared its approach to partnerships and the delivery of Apprenticeships, which was recognised this year by being shortlisted in the coveted Beacon Awards.  

Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan MP

Apprenticeships and Skills Minister Gillian Keegan MP said, “It was a pleasure to virtually visit Exeter College and hear about the fantastic work they are doing to make sure more young people get the skills they need to reach their full potential. 

“It was great to talk to students and staff, and find out more about how the College is preparing to deliver our exciting T Levels from September, and their new state-of-the-art Digital and Data Centre which will help more young people learn a range of important skills.  

“I wish them all the best and look forward to hearing more about their great work.” 

College leaders also spoke on the ongoing construction of a new £10m Digital and Data Centre as part of the South West Institute of Technology, which will help to revolutionise digital and data training within Exeter, and engineering and manufacturing technology education across the wider region. The building is set to be completed in early 2021 and will play a core part in making the South West a leading area for technical education in the country.  

Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy said, “It was an absolute pleasure to welcome the Ministers today, albeit virtually.  The College was able to talk about its reaction to the challenges of the lockdown, but also able to share how brilliantly staff and students quickly adapted to working in a different way. 

“We were able to outline our College’s contribution to the City of Exeter, as a key civic partner that works closely with the University of Exeter and schools to create a clear and successful education eco-system.” 

The College was also able to share its ambitious plans for the future and outline how colleges, such as Exeter, can play a key part in economic recovery.  In addition, the College spoke about the new Future Skills Centre, which is a new partnership with Devon County Council, to support SMART Aviation, technical education and adult retraining, based at Exeter International Airport. 

Find out about T Levels with Exeter College.  

Digital and Data Centre Flythrough

March 2000: Exeter College ranked as ‘best in the west’

As part of Exeter College celebrating 50 years as the UK’s first ever tertiary college, we’re talking to some of the inspirational students, staff and alumni who have helped make us the Ofsted Outstanding education provider we are today. 

Then: 

In March 2000, we welcomed Further Education Funding Council bosses into our College, who completed a breakdown inspection over a week-long period.  

Ranked against seven other local education centres, Exeter College came out on top. We obtained the best score for two performance levels and came second for a third.  

The inspectors commented on the outstanding student support and the impressive increase in our overall A Level pass rate, with a 13% increase since 1998.  

Tim Smith, Principal at the time, said, “At a time when education is coming under such intense scrutiny, it is good to achieve a grade profile that is probably the best in the west in the current academic year.”  

Now: 

Two decades later and we continue to uphold these incredible results, currently standing as Devon’s only Ofsted Outstanding further education College. 

We have also been named as the best in the South West for employer satisfaction in Apprenticeships and we’re on the Sunday Times Top 100 Not for Profit Employer list. On top of this, we’ve been selected as one of the first colleges in the country (the only one in Devon) to offer the T Level qualification, rolling out this September. 

Additionally, we’ve maintained our amazing results, setting new records for the latest academic year. Our A Level students achieved an overall pass rate of 99.7%, well above the national average. Our International Baccalaureate results were the best in the College’s history, with 100% of students passing and nearly a third of students achieving more than 40 points out of a possible 45.  

We couldn’t be prouder of all our students, staff and partners who have helped to shape and uphold the success of our college.  
 
Interested in joining Exeter College? Apply now online.  

Exeter College is celebrating 50 years since being named as the UK’s first tertiary college. Although our roots date back to the 1800s, our status as a tertiary college marked a revolution in further education and 2020 marks our 50 years of excellence since that landmark. If you have a memory of Exeter College through the years that you’d like to share then contact marketing@exe-coll.ac.uk or get involved on social media using #ExeColl50 

Why it’s a Great Time to Apply to Exeter College

Choosing where you’re going to college is an exciting milestone in any teenager’s life. You want to make sure you make the right decision for you and your future.  

Here are a few highlights of how our Ofsted Outstanding institution is continually improving; ensuring our place as an exceptional college in the heart of the South West, ready to welcome new students.  

Applications are open now to study with us in 2020. 

Results Day Success 

A Level Results day (2019)

This year Exeter College’s academic results have, once again, gone above and beyond national averages.  

Our inspirational A Level learners achieved an overall pass rate of 99.7%, well above the national average of 97.6%, while well over 50% of students were awarded ‘high grades’ of A*, A or B. 

On top of the impressive A Level results, our International Baccalaureate results are the best in the college’s history, with a 100% pass rate and almost a third of students achieving over 40 points out of a possible 45, putting them in the top 5% in the world. 

T Levels 

Last year we were announced as the only college in Devon to offer new T Level qualifications for 2020 delivery. This has helped cement our status as an education innovator and pushing new boundaries with technical education.  

In addition to our school leaver offering of Apprenticeships, A Levels and BTECs, T Level courses last for two years and aim to give learners practical skills for the workplace following their studies. 

You can apply now to study a T Level with us in Construction, Digital or Education and Childcare in September 2020. 

Additional courses will be rolled out from 2021. 

Personal Development Programme 

This academic year has seen the launch of our new Personal Development Programme for learners. This initiative enables students to tackle issues around citizenship, the environment and employability skills. 

This programme aims to boost the long-term progression and wellbeing our students and gives tutors extended time to tackle any individual issues our students want to raise about their studies.  

Gym and Dance Studio  

Exeter College’s New Gym (2019)

Our brand new Gym and Dance Studio opened its doors for the first time in 2019, giving our learners the opportunity to access industry-standard fitness equipment and a spacious dance studio. 

Students on sports-related courses use the equipment as part of their studies, while other learners can get student memberships to use the inspirational facilities.  

Mini Data Hub 

2019 also saw us open our brand new Mini Data Hub; a state-of-the-art facility complete with IT suites with industry-standard analytics software and specialist wide-screen display screens. 

Our Mini Data Hub is on the cutting edge of the digital world, helping our students to learn the IT skills required to thrive in data and analytics.  

Learner Voice and Student Representation  

It is important to us that we listen to our students. 

The Learner Voice programme gives students a say in the way that they learn and the experiences they have here at Exeter College. 

We use surveys and the Exeter College Students’ Union (ECSU) to hear your ideas, comments and concerns to inform how we do things around the college. 

The ECSU is and the Learner Voice programme is your chance to tell us how we can be the best college for you, so we can continue developing in line with the needs of our learners.  

Next Steps

If you would like to find out more about what Exeter College has to offer, pre-register and join us at our next Open Event on 15th January 2020.  

If you already know Exeter College is the right place for your future, apply online now. 

Galliford Try Partnerships First to Benefit from Employer Fund for T Levels

Leading regeneration specialist Galliford Try Partnerships is the first to benefit from a government-backed initiative to encourage employers to provide valuable industry placements to T Level students.  

The FTSE 250 business has partnered with Exeter College to provide industry placements to T Level construction students studying with the College from 2020. 

T Levels mark a revolution in the provision of technical education for the UK and Exeter College have been selected as an ‘early adopter’ of the new qualifications. The aim is to provide students with the technical skills required to move in to employment, providing a true insight into life in the industry, while still providing UCAS points to support an application to study at university. 

Exeter College is the only provider in Devon selected to deliver T Levels for 2020 entry, with full-time, two year courses available in Construction, Digital and Education and Childcare. By signing up to take on T Level students, Galliford Try Partnerships have agreed to provide industry placements for construction students for 45 days over a two-year period and will receive a £750 grant per student from the government to help facilitate the placements. 

Galliford Try Partnerships have previously worked with Exeter College offering work experience placements and are looking forward to a more formal arrangement thanks to the new T Level qualifications.  

Charlotte Olver, Development and Communities Manager commented; “We are eager to work with colleges to deliver T Levels for the learners of today, it gives us the opportunity to build, shape and mould young people and prepare them for work in the industry. 

“T Levels promote the variety of careers available within construction and break down stereotypes of the onsite world and we can set aside time and space to help students grow while also getting them working in an industry they’re interested in. 

“Our partnership with Exeter College provides the perfect platform to address the industry skills shortage and encourage students to enter the industry. 

“We’ve been delighted with the calibre of students that have joined us in the past, and what’s exciting for me is that you get access to people who are eager to learn and can genuinely provide a great resource to businesses. 

“The funding from the government will ensure that we can put in place excellent resources to help the students with us make the most out of their experience.”  

T Levels are being launched at selected providers like Exeter College in 2020 before a national rollout the following year, when Exeter College will be offering a wide variety of courses with a view of providing students a direct line of sight to industry following their studies. 

Exeter College Assistant Principal Sam Hillman, who is leading on the college’s T Level delivery, was delighted Galliford Try Partnerships volunteered to take on students studying the Construction T Level and be the first to access the money available to employers who provide industry placements. 

“It’s great that our students will have access to such a proactive and forward-thinking construction company like Galliford Try Partnerships,” said Sam.  

“It’s vitally important for us to be able to offer students valuable industry placements that are meaningful, worthwhile and full of learning opportunities. I’m certain that’s exactly what our students at Galliford Try Partnerships will get and I can’t wait to see the progress they make in the construction business. 

“I firmly believe the experience will be a positive one, not just for students, but for businesses themselves that want to be involved with T Levels. Businesses will get access to enthusiastic students who genuinely want to progress in the industry and learn as much as they can as well as provide a tangible contribution to the company.” 

Adam McIntyre did a work placement with Galliford Try Partnerships during his Level 3 course Construction and the Built Environment, immersing himself in different areas of the business to learn which part of the construction industry he was most interested in.  

Adam said, “It has definitely been a great experience for me. The staff at Galliford Try Partnerships have helped me out a lot, not just with industry experience but also with my coursework and assignments at college. 

“I did some work in the office learning about the pre-build processes that take place at a company like this. I then went and did some on-site work, learning more on how a professional construction site works and getting a feel for the industry. 

“I knew I was interested in the health and safety side of things but my placement with Galliford Try Partnerships has really helped to confirm that I want to go that way in terms of my career. I went around sites with an expert and learnt about what they look out for when it comes to the safety aspects of a construction site.” 

Adam is set to build on his expertise as he enters his second year at Exeter College, as he gears up to undertake 300 hours of an industry placement with Galliford Try Partnerships in the current academic year.  

Exeter College is actively seeking employers willing to provide industry placements to T Level Students on Construction, Digital and Education and Childcare courses. Those interested should contact Alison Brown on alisonbrown@exe-coll.ac.uk.  

Secretary of State Visits Exeter College to Talk T Levels

The Secretary of State for Education Gavin Williamson MP visited Exeter College to learn more about the impact new T Level qualifications will have on the region’s learners.  

As a government-selected ‘early adopter’ of the new technical-based qualification, Exeter College is the only provider in Devon offering T Levels for 2020 delivery, with courses initially available in Construction, Digital and Education and Childcare. Further T Level courses will launch from 2021 as part of a national roll out.  

T Levels mark a revolution in technical education in the UK as the qualification, which is the equivalent of three A Levels, provides learners with a clear line of sight to industry thanks to technical skill acquisition both in the classroom and as part of an industry placement undertaken during studies.  

(L-R) Rob Bosworth (Exeter College Vice Principal), Janice Kay (University of Exeter Provost), Gavin Williamson MP (Education Secretary), John Laramy (Exeter College Principal) and Sam Hillman (Exeter College Assistant Principal).

Secretary of State Gavin Williamson spent time at Exeter College talking to college leaders on how preparations were going for the launch of T Levels and how the new qualification would address the changing needs of industry. 

“It was an absolute pleasure to visit Exeter College. They are doing brilliant work helping thousands of young people across the region to get the skills they need to thrive,” said Education Secretary Gavin Williamson.  

“Our new T Level qualifications are a game changer – a once in a generation opportunity to revolutionise technical education in this country and put it on a par with top performing countries like Germany. 

“It was great to hear first-hand how they will help even more young people to get a head start in their careers, and ensure industry can tap into the pipeline of talent they need for the future. 

“I was really impressed with the passion and enthusiasm of the students, staff and senior leaders and I wish them all the best for the future.” 

Secretary of State Gavin Williamson spoke to college leaders and students about how T Levels would impact education.

Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy was delighted to welcome the Secretary of State to the college.  He said, “It was a real pleasure to host a visit from the Secretary of State so that he could see first-hand the impact of the college and the clarity of the educational eco-system in Exeter. 

“We spoke about our college’s enthusiasm for T Levels and how we see these integrating with a wider academic and technical offer. The college was able to share its strategy for delivering an exceptional student experience, through enrichment, excellent teaching and a clear line of sight to industry.” 

In addition to the acquisition of technical skills, a T Level qualification can also be used to support an application for degree level study, with the qualification recognised by UCAS to provide points to apply to study at university.  

Applications are open now to study T Levels at Exeter College in 2020. Find out more about T Levels on our course search.  

Find out if T Levels are the right course for you.  

Book in for an Open Event to find out more about life at Exeter College and explore our course options.

Exeter College and the Royal Albert Memorial Museum (RAMM) have teamed up to pioneer the provision of the latest technical training programmes prior to a national rollout starting in 2020.  

Exeter College is one of the first colleges in the country – and the only one in Devon – to be offering the government’s new T Levels for 2020 delivery. The two year, Level 3 technical qualification sits alongside A Levels, BTECs and Apprenticeships within a reformed skills training system for 16-18 year olds.  

As part of the provision for the new T Levels, students on the programme must gain 20 days relevant workplace experience during their studies and RAMM has provided two placements as part of a pilot programme that is crucial to the success of T Levels.  

RAMM has recently played host to the workplace development of Level 3 IT Systems and Network students Kyle and Marshall in preparation for the new T Level system.  

Marshall worked with RAMM’s in-house designed on projects around animation, design, newsletters and programmes. He said, “I’ve really enjoyed being creative and have learnt that good planning pays off. I now know that I want to be a designer.”  

Meanwhile, Kyle worked closely with RAMM’s Digital Media Officer and developed a digital display panel for their central core wall. He said, “Before I worked at RAMM I would never have thought about working in the cultural sector. 

“Now I have a much better idea of what I’d like to do in the future. Work isn’t half as scary as I thought it was.” 

RAMM’s Skills Development Officer Sophie Harbour is delighted with the partnership with Exeter College: “We are very impressed with Kyle and Marshall’s commitment and the professional manner in which they have conducted their duties. With their skills and enthusiasm, we were able to complete important projects that wouldn’t otherwise have been possible. 

“RAMM is committed to creating relevant and meaningful opportunities for young people to gain experience of working in a dynamic cultural environment.  

“Working with Exeter College on this pilot scheme is an important addition to the internships, placements, training and work experience that we currently offer and we look forward to continuing to work with Exeter College to build on this very positive start to the programme.” 

Exeter College Assistant Principal Sam Hillman said, “Industry placements provide learners with an opportunity to develop industry-related knowledge, behaviours and skills. Kyle and Marshall have worked alongside, and have been mentored by, the RAMM’s brilliant in-house designer and digital media officer. Successfully completing live projects of benefit to the RAMM. 

“Through the exceptional work-placed experience and support provided by the RAMM Kyle and Mitchell have thrived. Not only has their learning been enhanced but, they have acquired and developed skills that will stand them in good stead for the future.  

“Kyle and Mitchell are a real credit to the Faculty of Business and IT and to the College. As a key partner of Exeter College, we are delighted to be working with the RAMM on pioneering industry placements and very much look forward to continuing to build on this great start.” 

Exeter College will be delivering T Levels in Construction, Education and Digital from 2020, with a further 22 subjects to follow for 2021 delivery.

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