With more than a decade of experience working in ecology and conservation across North Devon and beyond, Jamie offered a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to work as an ecological consultant in the region. Her talk explored the vital role ecological professionals play in balancing development with environmental protection, and the rewarding challenges that come with safeguarding local habitats and wildlife.

Jamie spoke candidly about her day-to-day activities, which range from conducting habitat and protected species surveys to producing detailed ecological reports and working closely with planners, developers and conservation bodies.

Drawing on her own career pathway, Jamie highlighted the experience and qualifications that can help aspiring ecologists stand out. She emphasised the value of gaining hands-on field experience, volunteering with conservation organisations and developing strong species identification skills.

Students were encouraged to make the most of work placements, networking opportunities and additional training such as protected species licences, all of which can open doors within the sector. Jamie’s honest reflections on building resilience, maintaining attention to detail and staying adaptable in a varied role resonated strongly with learners considering careers in environmental science.

The post Inspiring Future Ecologists: Industry Expert Jamie Buxton-Gould Shares Career Insights at North Devon College appeared first on North Devon College.

Viv and Kay visited the College accompanied by Athos, a calm and charismatic guide dog whose presence immediately captured students’ attention. The session offered learners a valuable opportunity to see first-hand the incredible partnership between a guide dog and their handler, while also learning more about the charity’s wider work supporting people with sight loss.

Athos demonstrated the focus, intelligence and gentle temperament that guide dogs are known for, as Viv and Kay explained the extensive training process that prepares each dog for its vital role.

The talk linked closely to students’ studies, highlighting the importance of animal welfare, behaviour, and responsible training techniques. It also encouraged learners to think about the broader impact animals can have in society.

Athos, who took the attention in his stride, gave students the chance to observe a working dog up close while reinforcing the importance of respecting guide dogs when they are on duty.

The College looks forward to continuing its links with charities and industry organisations, ensuring students gain meaningful, real-world perspectives alongside their classroom learning.

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The session gave students valuable insight into the wide range of work carried out by the National Trust, from protecting natural habitats to conserving wildlife and landscapes. Students also learned about the variety of career and volunteering opportunities available within the organisation, helping them to see how their studies could lead to future employment in the environmental sector.

The talk directly supported students’ current assignment for LBS18 Aquatic Environments, making the learning experience both relevant and practical. As part of the unit, students are studying aquatic ecosystems through hands-on investigation, including kick sampling (pond dipping). This involves completing a risk assessment, safely collecting samples, and identifying a range of aquatic flora and fauna.

Following their fieldwork, students present their findings and discuss the importance of conservation, biodiversity, and habitat management. Hearing first-hand from the National Trust helped reinforce the real-life significance of these activities and highlighted how scientific monitoring plays a vital role in protecting aquatic environments.

This collaboration not only enhanced student engagement but also strengthened the link between classroom learning and professional practice. North Devon College is proud to work with organisations such as the National Trust to enrich the student experience and inspire the next generation of environmental and land-based professionals.

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The evening welcomed organisations from across the region’s most dynamic sectors, including Landmark Theatres, ArtMakers, The Plough Arts Centre, Flourishing Cultures, Blackbeam Cinematic, Southwest Business Council, Devon County Council, Barr Media, Energy 361, Littledart Fulfilment, Ace Holds the Space, Evans Transport, Lineal, TDK, the Devon and Torbay Combined Authority, and Exeter College, among others.

Guests enjoyed a three-course meal prepared by North Devon College students while taking part in discussions on skills needs, economic growth and the future of education-led workforce development.

Two expert guest speakers guided the conversation between courses:

Phill Adams, Deputy Director of Economy & Skills at Devon County Council – “Meeting the Skills Gaps in Northern Devon”, offering insights into the Adult Skills Plan, devolution and employer-focused funding.

Sean Anstee, Director of Operations at the Devon & Torbay Combined County Authority – “Supporting Growth in Northern Devon”, outlining the region’s Growth Plan and the key opportunities emerging for employers.

Strengthening the education–industry connection

The event aims to expand North Devon College’s Business Advisory Groups. These groups will work directly with curriculum leaders to ensure programmes remain aligned with real workforce needs, helping learners build the skills, knowledge and behaviours employers are seeking.

Julie Yates, Head of Business Development at North Devon College, said:

“We’re building something that puts employers at the heart of everything we do. Apprenticeships, adult training, and higher technical programmes – none of it works without collaboration. Tonight’s turnout shows how committed North Devon’s employers are to shaping the skills pipeline for the future.”

A milestone moment for North Devon

Reflecting on the strong employer engagement, Kurt Hintz, North Devon College’s Interim Principal and CEO, said:

“This evening has been a brilliant demonstration of what happens when education and industry sit at the same table. Local businesses told us clearly that they want more collaboration, more alignment and more opportunity, and these advisory groups are exactly how we’ll deliver that. As we move towards the merger in January, this kind of partnership working will be at the centre of our mission to support the region’s growth.”

Looking ahead to the formation of the Exeter and North Devon College Group (ENDC), Mike Blakeley, Executive Director of Apprenticeships and Partnerships at Exeter College and soon to lead on the newly formed group’s stakeholder engagement, added:

“Employers are the bedrock of a huge amount of work that we in education deliver. It was amazing to see the passion and expertise in the room. I was and am inspired. Employers here are showing great ambition for North Devon, and we are here to help fuel that. The new college group will give us the scale and strength to respond to evolving skills needs, invest in the identifiable local needs and create outstanding opportunities for learners across the county. Tonight is the start of a powerful partnership.”

Employers interested in joining the Business Advisory Groups or collaborating with the College are encouraged to contact North Devon College’s Employer Engagement Team: business@petroc.ac.uk.

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The team briefed learners on a unique chance to join the Army’s Military Insight and Personal Development (MIPD) residential course – a four-day experience designed to build confidence, leadership, and real-world skills. The programme, which runs 9–12 February 2026, is fully funded by the Ministry of Defence and counts towards students’ work experience requirements.

During the session at North Devon College, Major Smith outlined what learners can expect from the residential, including leadership challenges, teamwork tasks, military skills, and the opportunity to meet serving soldiers to learn about the broad range of Army careers – from engineering and healthcare to music, sport, and beyond. The Army has selected North Devon College specifically for this opportunity, offering places for up to 100 students.

The course also offers:

• Free accommodation, meals, and transport

• Hands-on activities and outdoor exercises

• First-hand insight into Army life and apprenticeships

• A significant boost to students’ CVs and future employability

This experience forms part of the Army’s wider mission to help young people explore potential career paths and gain valuable life skills. With the Army recognised as one of the UK’s largest apprenticeship providers, the course gives learners the chance to ask questions, try new challenges, and broaden their horizons.

North Devon College is proud to offer its learners this exclusive opportunity to step outside the classroom and develop the skills and confidence needed for their next steps – wherever their future may lead.

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Dr Moore, who grew up locally and attended Braunton School before studying at North Devon College (then known as North Devon College), returned to share his career journey and advice for students considering their next steps in science.

Originally drawn to genetics because of his love for X-Men comics, Dr Moore studied Biology, Chemistry, and Physics at A Level. Encouraged by his parents, who both worked in healthcare, he chose to pursue Biomedical Science at university — a decision that launched a diverse and fascinating career.

After graduating, Dr Moore began working in dental science, where his PhD research contributed to the development of the formula that later became the basis for Sensodyne toothpaste. Although not directly affiliated with the company, his early research played a key role in understanding the science behind it. He later moved into bone science research before discovering a passion for teaching, a path that eventually led him to his current role at UWE Bristol, where he has been leading the Biomedical Science programme for the past seven years.

During his talk, Dr Moore spoke candidly about his own uncertainty as a student and reassured learners that it’s okay not to have everything figured out. He offered practical advice on pathways into university and careers in science, inspiring students to stay curious and open-minded about their futures.

North Devon College would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr Chris Moore for taking the time to visit and share his experiences. His honesty, enthusiasm, and encouragement made a lasting impression on students and staff alike.

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The visit wasn’t just about storytelling, though. Students gathered to watch a live spray painting demonstration, where they saw first-hand the techniques and creative flair that have made @maumauart’s work so distinctive.

Inspired and eager to try their hand at the craft, students were thrilled when @maumauart returned the following week to guide them through creating their very own spray paint artworks. The collaborative workshops gave students the chance to experiment with colour, form, and expression in new and exciting ways, under the expert eye of a professional artist.

The results have been nothing short of spectacular. The student pieces, filled with creativity and individuality, are now proudly on display at the college, showcasing the fresh talent and imagination of North Devon College’s young artists.

The visit from @maumauart has left a lasting impression, sparking inspiration and opening up new possibilities for students pursuing their own creative paths.

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The demonstration gave students at Bideford College a taste of the professional techniques taught at North Devon College, while highlighting the skills and career paths available in the food and catering industry. With a focus on practical, industry-relevant learning, the session was both informative and inspiring.

This outreach initiative was one of the many ways North Devon College continues to build strong connections with local schools and support young people as they explore future study and career options.

“I really enjoyed connecting with students at Bideford College,” said Tom. “Experiences like this help students see where their interests can take them, and give them a flavour of what studying at North Devon College is really like.”

Students interested in hospitality, catering, or simply passionate about food responded positively, making the event a great success!

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Launched earlier this year, the campaign challenged local employers to pledge apprenticeship placements for students beginning their studies at North Devon College in September 2025. The goal: 100 pledges in 100 days. Thanks to overwhelming community support, the college reached the target well ahead of schedule, and by the end of the campaign, an outstanding 204 apprenticeship pledges have been made!

The 204 pledges span a wide array of industries, reflecting the diverse opportunities available to students. Leading the way is the Engineering sector with an impressive 64 pledges, followed by Construction (36), Health & Social Care (35), and Business & Management (31). Other sectors also demonstrated strong support, including Hair & Beauty (12), Early Years (10), Motor Vehicle (8), Hospitality (6), and Digital (2). This broad sectoral representation underscores the community’s commitment to nurturing talent across multiple career paths and ensures that students can pursue their passions while gaining real-world experience.

“We are absolutely thrilled with the response,” said Julie Yates, Head of Business Engagement at North Devon College. “This campaign has highlighted the incredible commitment of local businesses to invest in young talent and support the future workforce of our region.”

In addition to traditional apprenticeships, North Devon College is also championing supported internships for students who may require additional assistance but are eager to gain real-world experience. These tailored placements provide structured support both in the workplace and through the college, helping students with learning difficulties or disabilities to build confidence, develop key skills, and transition into paid employment. By partnering with inclusive employers, North Devon College ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive and contribute meaningfully in a professional environment.

To thank businesses for their support and to celebrate the end of the successful campaign, North Devon College invited all participating employers to a special celebratory dinner at The Taw restaurant, located on the college’s Barnstaple campus. The evening served as both a gesture of appreciation and a chance to strengthen the partnerships that made the campaign such a success. Guest speakers Richard Foster-Fletcher, Global AI Advisor and Stuart Dagley, Manufacturing Engineering Manager for Cytiva, offered thought provoking presentations, underscoring the importance of apprenticeships within our community.

North Devon College continues to work closely with employers across North Devon to build on this momentum and ensure students have access to a wide range of high-quality opportunities when they start their apprenticeships this September.

A special thank you to: AB Accountancy, Absolute Heating Solutions, Account Shop, Adaptacar, Alban House, Anderson and Evans Ltd, ASAP Carpentry, Atlantic Racket Centre, Beautylines and Headlines, Bott Engineering, Bott Ltd, Bratton Fleming Pre-School, BT Plymouth, Cafe Du Parc, Carrington Care, Charleys Hairdressers, Clark Construction (SW) Ltd, Clover Cars Ltd, Cream of the Westcounty, Croyde Motors, Cytiva, D Rodgers General Builders, Dave Joslin, Devon 4 X 4, Devon County Council, DS Electrical, Earlybirds Nursery, Eaton, ECL – Dave Smith, Exe Valley Farm Shop, Exeter Inn, Felicitys Fledglings, Gist Electrical, Golding Construction, Golds Ltd, Greenfield Engineering, H&A Catering, Halo Hair and Beauty, Harvest Green Developments, Headlines, Herons Lea Residential Care Home, Highfield Homes of Distinction, Icon Sport Industries, Investacast, Ivy Bae Care Ltd, James Electrics, Jenkinson Potts, Krempel Industries, Kugel Motion Limited, Ladybirds Daycare, Little Berries Pre-School, Littledart Fulfilment, M&E Alarms, Marland School, Martech Autos, McMurray Davis Plumbing & Heating, Mike Steer, MSW Engineering, Astrabenz, Mullhollond Care, Navantia UK Appledore, Norris Auto Services, North Coast Bricklaying, North Devon Council, Parker Hannifin, Parklane Care Home, Pearce Construction, Peter Prouse Construction, Phil Parsons Constuction, Pinehurst Care Home, R J W Electrical, RDB Electrical, RES (Devon) Ltd, Riverside Auto Services, Royal Devon University Healthcare, Sams Hair and Beauty Salon, SEA, Shires Construction Ltd, Smoke on the Waters, Solman Davies, South West Apprenticeship Company, SPR Services, Stenner, Tarka Agricultural Services, Tarka Home Improvements, TCi GB Limited, The Color Lounge, The Gas Man South West, The Harry Care Home, Thorne Manor Day Nursery & Preschool, Torridge District Council and Waterfall Nursing Homes Ltd.

To find out more or to pledge an apprenticeship, local businesses can contact North Devon College’s Business Team at business@petroc.ac.uk.

The post North Devon College’s ‘100 Apprentices in 100 Days’ Campaign Exceeds Target with over 200 Pledges from Local Employers appeared first on North Devon College.

During their talk, Bee shared insights into their journey as an artist, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of working in the creative industry. They also discussed their experiences collaborating with iconic brands and offered invaluable advice on carving out a successful career in design.

Students left the session feeling motivated and excited about the possibilities in the creative field, with many praising Bee’s relatable and empowering approach.

This visit was a unique opportunity for students to learn from a professional artist at the forefront of the industry.

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