Nature’s SAFE is a living biobank dedicated to collecting and cryopreserving genetic samples from threatened and endangered species. With an estimated 45,300 species at risk of extinction, the organisation’s work is a race against time to preserve the planet’s biodiversity. By partnering with educational institutions like North Devon College, Nature’s SAFE is expanding its reach and inspiring the next generation of conservationists.

The North Devon College Animal Care Centre is home to several at-risk species, some even listed as critically endangered. As part of the collaboration, North Devon College students will collect tissue samples from select animals, fill out detailed documentation, and send the samples to Nature’s SAFE for secure storage. While many of the samples will be collected from deceased animals, staff take pride in knowing that these creatures will continue to contribute to conservation science long after their lifespans, helping educate and inspire future generations.

This partnership offers a unique opportunity for our students, they’re not just learning about genetics, conservation, and veterinary science, they’re actively contributing to global efforts to save endangered species.

It’s hands-on experience with real-world impact.

Behind the scenes, North Devon College’s skilled Animal Care technicians have played a vital role in making this partnership possible.

It was during the UK Animal Care Technicians (UKACT) conference in 2024 that technicians and staff first learned about Nature’s SAFE. Following a presentation and conversation with the charity, North Devon College’s team began compiling a list of notable species in their care. Their enthusiasm and dedication helped drive the collaboration forward, leading to a formal partnership after months of careful planning and coordination.

The technician team is the backbone of our centre, their attention to detail, knowledge of our species, and commitment to conservation are what make partnerships like this not only possible but successful.

As a now-recognised partner of Nature’s SAFE, North Devon College joins a growing network of institutions committed to ensuring that the animals we share our planet with today are not lost to future generations. Through this meaningful collaboration, North Devon College continues to lead by example, proving that even small contributions, when combined, can make a lasting impact on global conservation.

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The duo led the design and creation of bat boxes, which will provide essential roosting spaces for local bat populations in Woolacombe. The initiative saw Nikkita and Sky coordinating efforts among fellow students, ensuring a well-organised and efficient building process.

Working in the Pannier Market, the students used sustainable materials to craft the bat boxes, following expert guidance from the National Trust. Their teamwork and commitment to wildlife conservation were evident throughout the project.

“It was a fantastic opportunity to not only learn practical skills but also contribute to protecting local wildlife,” said Sky. “Bats play a vital role in our ecosystem, and it’s great to know that our work will support their habitats.”

The National Trust will soon install the bat boxes in strategic locations around Woolacombe, offering much-needed shelter for these nocturnal creatures. By providing safe roosting sites, the project aims to bolster bat populations and enhance biodiversity in the area.

The collaboration between North Devon College APP students and the National Trust showcases the power of community-driven environmental action. With projects like these, young people are not only gaining valuable skills but also making a lasting impact on local wildlife preservation.

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A big thank you to the Animal Care team who spent an afternoon planting the trees, which include traditional apple, pear, and plum varieties. Over time, this mini orchard will provide food and shelter for local wildlife, support biodiversity, and offer a beautiful outdoor space for learning and relaxation.

“We’re so grateful to National Trust North Devon for their generous donation,” said Jessica Owens, Animal Care Centre Manager. “These trees will not only benefit the environment but also serve as an educational resource for our students, helping them understand the importance of conservation and sustainable land management.”

The Animal Care Centre mini orchard is expected to flourish into a buzzing pollinator paradise, supporting bees, butterflies, and other vital species. This initiative aligns with North Devon College’s commitment to sustainability and hands-on learning experiences for students.

A huge thank you to National Trust North Devon for supporting North Devon College and helping to create a lasting, positive impact on campus!

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In his video message, Kurt covers topics including Graduation celebrations, record breaking open event attendee numbers, launch of the aim higher academy, key stage 4 provisions, learner survey engagement and future improvements, performing arts and adult learning successes as well as investments in curriculum planning and the college estate.

Watch the full video here:

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Programme Highlights include:

• Meeting with the IFMEREE management board in Casablanca, where Jackie and Bob will discuss opportunities for collaboration and training in renewable energy technologies.
• Travel to Rabat for an exclusive dinner meeting at the British Embassy, where they will connect with the British Council’s Country Director and Regional Director to explore shared goals in green education and skills.
• A visit to the IFMEREE Tangier campus, where the team will meet with the Director General, institute leadership, trainers, and students. This will include a site tour and discussions on sustainable technology training methods.
• A seminar on Green Hydrogen, hosted at IFMEREE Tangier, focusing on cutting-edge developments in this emerging sustainable energy source.
• A visit to local employers in Tangier, offering insights into the region’s renewable energy sector and workforce needs. This will provide valuable information to shape North Devon College’s own green skills curriculum.

A Commitment to Green Skills

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Firstly, I would like to give a special thanks to Dr Caroline Chipperfield and Hannah Rollins, you have guided and supported us on this trip and truly changed our lives. You have challenged us to think in new ways, see things from different perspectives and nurtured our growing passions and curiosity in renewables and international relations. Words cannot express how grateful we all are to you both and we will forever be thankful.

It’s perfect, that renewable energy experts in the land of the setting sun[1], as it is so aptly named, are leaping forth in the race to develop new technologies towards a more renewable and sustainable future using innovative renewable energy solutions. We have recently witnessed the jaw dropping sunsets in Morocco, and the drive to develop renewable technologies and a skilled workforce, during our trip to IFMEREE SA in Tangier.

The purpose of this visit was to further develop international collaboration with other institutions that share the values of our university centre, hence gaining an insight into the world of green skills, renewable energy, and sustainability. Our hosts immersed us both into the taught programmes and Moroccan culture, going above and beyond. To say that the visit was impactful would be an understatement and we will forever be grateful to have been given this opportunity especially as mature students.

We were guided through many educational workshops by the dedicated teaching staff and supported by both staff and students. The level of dedication and expertise in their chosen disciplines, shows through the brilliant projects and innovative ideas. We all made strong connections in just a few days, and it resulted in quite an emotional farewell. We didn’t want it to end! The passion, enthusiasm, and entrepreneurial spirit witnessed, was infectious and has sparked something within us all.

Reflecting on our experience, many of us have made it our mission to further strengthen that connection with Morocco, and with IFMEREE SA. Losing sleep for many nights, my mind processed all this new information, my emotions and excitement of future prospects, not just for myself but for my fellow students, both establishments and our wider communities. Eventually, making sense of the basics of an idea to develop the North Devon College Sustainability Society using the idea to develop the multidisciplinary nature of this trip, to further the concept and develop it back in the U.K.

North Devon College Sustainability Society

The Sustainability Society is made up of a multidisciplinary team of students who collaborate on innovative projects, supported, and implemented by other organisations and policymakers. Under the umbrella of this Society the teams of students work together on sustainability projects striving towards a net zero future. Running a number of projects alongside one another applying our skills to projects that require them.

Through our research, the Society would work together to solve problems such as how to engage communities in renewable technologies, for example, making wind turbine designs or solar panels more appealing or creating new ideas to fight climate change.

Developing and carrying out a collaborative research project provides an opportunity to gain insight into new areas and enhance research that has or is already being conducted elsewhere.  It can broaden horizons and aid in the development of mutually beneficial partnerships with each party (and in our case) contributing to solving global problems.

Collaboration is a part of evolution, it’s in human nature, especially in situations that are complex. Usually, people come together in times of crisis and to stop bad things from happening. This project, like many others we know of, focuses on using collaboration for good. Collaboration begins with people and is vital for firms to survive and to thrive. We can pool our resources, skill sets and curious minds to become more innovative, effective, and efficient. After all, Innovation is the machine that powers the continual transformation of the worlds energy system[2].

Many organisations within the renewables sector say that it is the time for a new evolution, to ‘embrace digitisation’ and use these platforms as a catalyst for collaborative projects. It is no longer a luxury that organisations work on solutions individually. Input and ideas are needed from a variety of sources – whether this is in the adoption of renewable technologies in communities or other installations where the costs of developing projects can be quite high.

As a student of psychology and with a particular interest in behavioural science and renewables, there are many project ideas and research questions that could be investigated.  This project can act as a catalyst for any future research. Alongside the global goal of achieving net zero by the year 2050, The North Devon College Sustainability Society, would like to contribute to this with the development of a new model, using a digital platform and software.

What does the software include?

This tool will be designed with collaboration in mind. A modern application with a variety of functions such as a meeting room function with a chat feed, teams can for example, CAD design remotely, students will be able to use a knowledgebase of relevant data and research available for reference, make notes collaboratively with the document writing and a research storage facility. It will also have the additional option of data collection. Researchers can develop and distribute surveys, and similar experiments via the platform. Data is then sent straight to a secure file linked with the project in question. Each project will have its own secure area with protected files, to protect intellectual property, and any patents or copywrite.

Once projects are completed, they can be added to the green innovations map. The map will highlight the projects completed and will show progress towards the global goal. This tool will allow for seamless collaboration between international organisations. The benefits of this tool are the obvious strengthening of international relations/ collaborations by simplifying communication and that it keeps everything ‘in one place’ for researchers.

Where do you come in?

We are initially looking for students to join our inclusive society. It doesn’t matter on your background or which course you are studying; you just need to be enthusiastic about our cause. We are seeking students with computer science and/or software engineering skills to assist in the development of the digital platform. Are you passionate about climate change, do you wish to use your digital to start to change the world? Let’s join, collaborate, and make this dream a reality.

[1] The land of the sunset; the west, with the Kingdom’s official Arabic name being al-Mamlakah al-Maghribīyah (المملكة المغربية; transl. the kingdom of sunset/the west)

[2] Understanding the Psychology of collaboration; what makes an effective collaborator? Dr Mehmet Chakkal, Dr Maxx Finne and Dr Mark Johnson, Institute for collaborative working, University of Warwick; 2017)

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The Green Technology Innovation Vouchers give businesses access to up to £10,000 for the use of their ESLL facilities and expertise. The scheme is open to any UK-based business but has a key focus on building Southwest regional capabilities that require the use of ESLL facilities based in Devon.

Anthony Higson, Business Innovation Manager for Environmental Space Living Lab, Satellite Applications Catapult, said: “We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to aspiring innovators. Our Green Technology Innovation Vouchers are not just about funding; they’re about empowering individuals to turn their environmental ideas into reality. If this opportunity resonates with you, we’re excited to hear from you and support your journey towards a sustainable future.”

By using the vouchers, businesses will have access to:

• 5g Mast and supporting digital connectivity expertise.
• Clean room, virtual reality hub, and events space.
• Engineering and electronics facilities.
• 3D printing, prototype development space and production robotics.
• Inclusive Innovation Access 24/7 365 annual membership package for in Barnstaple.
• User-centred design and commercialisation strategy support.
• Introductions to their networks and showcasing opportunities.

If you have a project that meets their suitability criteria or would like to know more, they would be excited to hear from you.

Find out more on the or contact businessengagement@sa.catapult.org.uk for more information.

The voucher scheme will run until 11 October 2024 but may close earlier if all vouchers are awarded before the stated end date.

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by Vanessa Carter

Whilst sitting in quiet contemplation with a pen in hand, I reflected on the weeks past I spent under the blue skies of a far distant land of the African continent. A land full of colour and contrast, of twinkling eventide lights that added to the mysticism and brighter noonday sun that demanded attention. Morocco had turned my head and romanced me into its adventure.

Little did I know as I climbed the steps to board my flight from London, things would have quite such a dramatic and life-changing impact on me and in turn the choices and decisions I would need to consider about my future upon my return.

As a mature student, now having 55 years under my belt, I was fortunate to be given an opportunity on the Turing Scheme, the UK’s global programme for studying, working and living abroad, offering once-in-a-lifetime opportunities for personal and professional development for students, I would be visiting a college in Tangiers in northern Morocco with a group composing of three Art students ( including myself ), three from the Health and Social Care Sectors and one from Engineering. Along with the tutors, there would be nine of us in total.

Before embarking on the trip, I was aware that the work I created as an artist and the work created at IFMEREE, the college in Morocco may well not align too smoothly due to the fact that they were primarily an engineering college. However, I was determined to engage and learn as much as possible whilst there and began some research before going. This prior groundwork became the solid springboard from which I, along with one of the other Art students, Jess Johnson engaged with the students from IFMEREE resulting in an astonishing outcome.

All North Devon College H.E. pupils have been given the opportunity to participate in this excursion. Owing to the vision of the Head of H.E. Dr. Caroline Chipperfield, unexpected outcomes resulted from pioneering chances to combine students from a varied cross-section of North Devon College. Although coming with cultural and linguistic differences, it soon became clear that a wide range of revolutionary discoveries could be developed and put to use.

Why IFMEREE, why North Devon College and why renewable energy?

Clearly, climate change is impacting the planet at an alarming rate. Dependency on other countries for their depleting Fossil Fuels will eventually become problematic combined with fluctuating and variable wind energy within the U.K. means alternative sources of energy must be addressed as a matter of urgency. The Xlinks project is forging those links through an undersea pipeline to Morocco, bringing Solar Energy from its deserts along an undersea pipeline and making landfall in North Devon. This direct connection to the North Devon area brings a wealth of opportunity to regenerate the economy currently dependent on Tourism and Agriculture. Due to these limited opportunities and the rural locale of the region, often our young people leave to find greater career choices elsewhere thus depleting the workforce of fortuity and aspiration.

“The Xlinks Morocco-UK Power Project is a proposal to create 10.5 GW of renewable generation, 20 GWh of battery storage and a 3.6 GW interconnector to carry solar and wind-generated electricity from the to the United Kingdom. Morocco has far more consistent weather, and so should provide consistent solar power even in midwinter.

If built, the 3,800 km (2,400 miles) cable will be the longest undersea power cable by far, and would supply up to 7.5% of the UK’s electricity consumption. The first phase of the project is expected to be operational in 2029, with the second phase due in 2031.” ()

“The Xlinks Morocco-UK Power Project will be a new electricity generation facility entirely powered by solar and wind energy combined with a battery storage facility. Located in Morocco’s renewable energy rich region of Guelmim Oued Noun, it will be connected exclusively to Great Britain via 4000 km (2485 miles) HVDC subsea cables.

This first of a kind project will generate 11.5GW of zero carbon electricity from the sun and wind to deliver 3.6GW of reliable energy for an average of 19+ hours a day. This is enough to provide low-cost, clean power to over 7 million British homes and once complete, the project will be capable of supplying 8 percent of Great Britain’s electricity needs.

Alongside the consistent output from its solar panels and wind turbines, an onsite 22.5GWh/5GW battery facility will provide sufficient storage to reliably deliver each and every day, a dedicated, near-constant source of flexible and predictable clean energy for Britain, designed to complement the renewable energy already generated across the UK.

When domestic renewable energy generation in the United Kingdom drops due to low winds and short periods of sun, the project will harvest the benefits of long hours of sun in Morocco alongside the consistency of its convection Trade Winds, to provide a firm but flexible source of zero-carbon electricity.” https://xlinks.co/morocco-uk-power-project/

Mission of the IFMEREE

The main mission of is to contribute, in a concrete way, to the success of the national energy strategy, by providing the renewable energy sector with the skills it needs for its development.

In this regard, IFMEREE must ensure:

• Initial training courses for technicians specialised in renewable energy and energy efficiency professions
• Continuing training and development sessions for the benefit of employees of companies in the sector
• Participation in research work, laboratory tests, technical assistance, advice, etc.

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Dr Caroline Chipperfield, Director for Higher Education at University Centre for Northern Devon and trip leader, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating: “Our collaboration with IFMEREE Colleges provided a unique opportunity for our students to engage with both the students and trainers at the College, exploring joint projects that spanned construction, engineering, art, psychology, and health and social care. This trip showcased the power of international cooperation in developing skills and creating learning experiences, which is at the heart of what we do here at the University Centre.” 

Beyond academic pursuits, the students had the chance to absorb the rich cultural tapestry of Morocco. Iconic landmarks such as the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca and the Hercules Caves in Tangier enhanced the student’s global perspective. A meeting with the British Council in Morocco allowed them to share their insights, ideas and plans, whilst learning more about soft power, diplomacy and trade. 

Chloe Boyle, a Psychological Studies Degree student at the University Centre, expressed her gratitude, stating: “I feel very honoured to have been on this trip amongst these dedicated and amazing people. The impact on me is immeasurable, and I am excited about implementing the ideas we’ve gained.” 

Adam Barnett, employed at Eaton Aerospace and undertaking a Higher Apprenticeship in Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering at the University Centre, commented on the trip: “It was an eye-opening and awe-inspiring experience, which has really changed my perspective on sustainable projects. I hope to get the opportunity to come back and continue working with IFMEREE and the British Council.”  

Dr Caroline Chipperfield added: “All our students have taken something away from this amazing trip, whether it’s the experience, the inspiration to do more for the Green Skills agenda, or the desire to return to Morocco for an internship or work placement. Allowing our learners to partner and collaborate on a global scale is invaluable to their time with us.” 

As part of the University Centre’s commitment to experiential learning, the institution has already sent its next group of students to Japan for further exploration into Green Skills with partner Fukushima College. The final trip of this academic year will be in May to Malawi, partnering with LUANAR. 

The team plans to share their experiences through a series of exhibitions and a celebration evening upon their return, highlighting the University Centre’s dedication to driving internationalisation and the Green Skills agenda. 

For updates on the University Centre’s upcoming events, including the Morocco and Japan expedition exhibition, please visit the events page at    

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The maritime sector in the South West is gearing up for a year of unprecedented growth and innovation in 2024. From the highly anticipated launch of the Celtic Sea Floating Offshore Wind’s leasing round by The Crown Estate to the dedicated Innovate UK Launchpad for the region, the landscape is ripe with potential. Local businesses stand to thrive through the rise of aquaculture, discussions surrounding the future role of green hydrogen, and other cutting-edge opportunities.

On 31 January 2024, industry leaders interested in maritime innovation gathered at North Devon College’s South West Institute Of Technology (SWIoT) to discuss, network and collaborate. Guests were updated on the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre, and the support offered by Maritime UK South West and learnt more about the research at the Centre for Future Clean Mobility at the University of Exeter. Devon County Council discussed the importance of skills and Innovate UK also provided an update on the South West Maritime Launchpad. 

Dr Caroline Chipperfield, Director of Higher Education for North Devon College and host of the event, presented on the new courses in Marine Technologies that are on the horizon. She said: “A huge thank you to everyone who attended this event – what a fantastic launch! It was great to see everyone talking, making introductions, linking with contacts and working collaboratively to make things happen here across Northern Devon. People in the room were passionate about ensuring these new opportunities positively change the life chances of our young people and our communities, whilst at the same time valuing our natural environments and the importance of the circular economy. The new jobs and careers that the maritime sector will bring will be transformational – it is great to see us reconnect with our maritime past and redefine it for our sustainable future.”.

Chris Fuller of Torridge District Council and co-host of the event, said: “The Maritime sector is incredibly vibrant across the South West at the moment. Events like this, and the progress being made with the development of the Appledore Clean Maritime Innovation Centre, put the activity in North Devon and Torridge firmly on the map and at the forefront of both government and business attention. Having government agencies alongside university partners and businesses in attendance from Shanghai to Bradworthy demonstrates that the opportunity to create true economic, environmental and social gain in the region is both real and hugely significant.”.

Mark Burnett, regional champion for the Northern Devon Maritime Cluster, and guest speaker representing Seiche Group, said: “Thank you to all the team at North Devon College, with a special nod of appreciation to Dr Caroline Chipperfield and Laura Holman for their tireless efforts in organising and delivering the event and Principal & Chief Executive of North Devon College, Sean Mackney for hosting. The launch of the Northern Devon Maritime Cluster is intended to capitalise on the significant growth forecast in the fields of Offshore Renewable Energy, Aquaculture, Clean Maritime, Ocean Environmental Data and Green Hydrogen. The vision is to work collaboratively to build thriving and resilient marine and maritime sectors that benefit our region now and in the future. Industries that foster both Biodiversity Net Gain and Marine Net Gain and create the right sort of growth for the good of our local communities. I am thrilled and excited to be a part of the Northern Devon Maritime Cluster, and eager to see where this journey takes us, working alongside like-minded people towards a compelling common goal.”.

Employers found the event hugely beneficial with Dr Dan Cornford of IGI, Bideford saying “This event for me is about building local connections, connections to both other businesses and the academic side. It’s a pivot for us, a new area to take the technology we’ve built in the oil and gas sector into a more sustainable arena.”.

A special thank you from North Devon College to all those who attended. This event signifies an exciting leap forward in maritime innovation and collaboration within Northern Devon. For more information please contact Dr Caroline Chipperfield at c.chipperfield@petroc.ac.uk.

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