Great city college, one of a kind in rural Devon. Fantastic range of courses available for all levels - something for everyone with the right guidance and support. Multiple sites across the city could take some getting used to, but most seem to embrace and thrive on the city life offered here. Worth a visit and worth spending the time researching the courses to make it work.
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Overview & data
- Pupil numbers
- 5,000 ·
- Sixth form numbers
- 1,880 ·
- Local authority
- Devon County Council
- Area guides

Headteacher
Principal
Mr John Laramy
Since 2016, John Laramy, previously vice-principal. After a career in the construction industry, John decided it was time for a change. So in 1996 he sold his sports car and studied for a PGCE at the University of Greenwich. He also holds an MSc in
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Learn what pupils and parents really think of this school, along with our expert opinion on the headteacher’s leadership style, the school’s academic results and facilities, the focus on pastoral care, and the range of extra-curricular activities.

Entrance
There are five main secondary schools in Exeter; none has a sixth form so Exeter College is the main destination. Having said that, 66 per cent of students come from outside the city.
For A levels (Level 3), entry requirement is eight GCSEs to
- Open days
- Check school website

Exit
Some 40-50 per cent to university. Some years see 10-ish students study medicine, and similar numbers going to Oxbridge. Some 30 per cent go employment, training or an apprenticeship. A few stayed on for a university-level course at Exeter College.
% students progressing to higher education or training (2021 leavers)
What is this?
The proportion of 16-18 students that progressed to degrees, higher apprenticeships or other study at level 4 or above for at least 6 consecutive months in the 2 years after taking advanced level qualifications (level 3) at this school or college.

Latest results
In 2024, 57 per cent A*-B at A level.
Average points score (2024)
What is this?
These figures tell you the average grade and average points that pupils achieved in their academic qualifications. A maximum of 60 points are available for a grade A* at A level.

Teaching & learning
Huge range of courses on offer. Around 60 per cent of students opt for vocational courses and 40 per cent for academic subjects. As well as over 40 A level choices and the International Baccalaureate, there are over 90 vocational and industry-led
- Qualifications taken in 2024
- A level
- BTEC
- EPQ
- IB
- VRQ

Learning support & SEN
Students with learning difficulties are given good support including individual one-to-one additional tuition or support from an enabler during lessons. This is an inclusive college and each individual is assessed and accommodated if possible. One

Arts & extracurricular
As well as the Centre for Music and Performance, the college has opened a new Performing Arts Academy. The current facilities include the latest recording and sound equipment and studios, a theatre, an amphitheatre, plus dance and rehearsal rooms.

Sport
Sporty types will be more than happy here. Outstanding sports facilities at the new Exwick Sports Hub including playing fields, rugby and football pitches, tennis courts and a state of the art sports hall and fitness centre. A new 3G pitch is on the

Ethos & heritage
In 1970 Exeter Technical College became the UK’s first tertiary college: the former grammar schools' sixth forms joined Exeter Technical College to provide all post-16 education and training in Exeter. The college has now almost doubled in size,

Pastoral care, inclusivity & discipline
As well as a personal tutor to support academic progress, and an employability and progression team for guidance and advice, there is a student services team and a welfare and well-being team to help with any other areas of concern in life. For

Pupils & parents
Students travel from all over the south west. Exeter is easily accessible and college sites are within walking distances of train stations. Most parents and students we spoke to said they were drawn to the college because the city centre has so much

Money matters
Bursary fund available for those in care, in receipt of benefits or with a household income of less than £23K. This can help with the costs of transport, meals, books, resource fees and equipment. Army bursary scheme for anyone looking to join up

The last word
Great city college, one of a kind in rural Devon. Fantastic range of courses available for all levels - something for everyone with the right guidance and support. Multiple sites across the city could take some getting used to, but most seem to