The achievements of the Class of 2025 celebrated at Exeter Cathedral
Last Friday marked the annual celebration of Exeter College students who had successfully completed their higher-level programmes in the 2024/25 academic year.
Graduates began their day processing through Exeter city centre to cheers and applause from proud family and friends before arriving at Exeter Cathedral.
There were over 140 graduating students across a range of levels, sectors and subject areas. Exeter College partners with awarding bodies and Higher Education institutions to offer programmes as wide-ranging as Data Science to Coaching and Fitness, Teaching to Health and Social Care, and more. These important partnerships enable the College to continue to deliver world-class training and education for the city and region.
Exeter College Principal and CEO, John Laramy CBE, welcomed graduates and guests, congratulating those who had achieved their qualifications:
“Many of you have undertaken your studies alongside other life commitments, from raising a family to jobs, and more. Today marks a truly remarkable achievement, and we are grateful for the contribution you have made to the Higher Education community at Exeter College.”
Amongst graduates was Shrika Palakaden who attained her Level 5 CELTA qualification, an internationally recognised qualification for those who wish to teach English to speakers of other languages. She commented:
“One of the best things about studying at College has been the flexibility of the course. The structure of the course means we are only in class one day a week and can then continue to work on the other days. It has been amazing to be back in the classroom. It really has been an unforgettable experience.”
Tom Drawert’s parents watched proudly as he graduated with a Foundation Degree in Aircraft Engineering, awarded by Kingston University. He said:
“It was tough, especially as we had both the university course and then the Civil Aviation Authority licence exams to contend with. But I’m very, very happy today. The teachers were the best part of the course. They knew their field really well and never hesitated to help us and to get us through the tougher parts.”
Tom now plans to progress to employment at a regional airport.
Samatar Osman celebrated with others graduating from the Level 4 Junior Management Consultant Apprenticeship. He told us:
“This apprenticeship helped me to land a full-time position. I was able to go around to different placements whilst studying different theories and how to get projects over the line. All of this has helped me secure what is now a full-time post at Great Western Railway as a Position Delivery Manager.”
Graduates were addressed by guest speaker, Julian Tagg BEM, President and Director of External Affairs at Exeter City Football Club and Chairman of Exeter City Community Trust who spoke with passion and sincerity about his journey and his long-established and enduring connections with Exeter College:
“My connection with Exeter College is the reason I feel particularly honoured to be here today. Exeter College has given you a start, just as it did for me. You can rightfully take pride in being part of Exeter’s story.”
For anyone interested in learning more about Higher Technical Education programmes at Exeter College, please visit https://exe-coll.ac.uk/university-level/, or head along to our next open event on Thursday 20 November, 4- 8pm, to learn more about the courses on offer.
