Exeter College in merger talks

In a move that could reshape the landscape of Further Education in the South West, Exeter College and Petroc in North Devon have formally announced that they are entering into a “merger in principle,” following several months of exploratory discussions.

Since Christmas, the leadership teams and governors of both colleges have been engaged in robust conversations about what a deeper collaboration could look like. With encouraging early findings, both boards have now agreed to move forward with detailed investigations into the potential merger.

This next stage involves a period of due diligence, where legal, financial, and strategic considerations will be closely examined. A team of external consultants will guide the process, working alongside the senior leadership teams from both institutions.

College representatives emphasise that this is a voluntary initiative—neither Exeter College nor Petroc is under government intervention.

Instead, both boards are proactively looking to position their institutions for long-term success in service of their students, staff, employers, and communities.

“This is a unique opportunity to strengthen Further Education across Devon and the wider South West,” a joint statement from the colleges read. “We are focused on building a future-proof institution that can meet regional skills needs and respond to the changing educational landscape.”

If realised, the merger would create the largest college group in the South West—and one of the largest nationally—with a combined annual turnover of £100 million. The proposed group would become a regional powerhouse for education and skills development, with the scale and resources to invest, innovate and deliver on government and industry priorities.

The colleges say their focus remains firmly on current learners—young people, apprentices, adult learners, and the businesses they work with. Outstanding sixth form provision in Exeter will be maintained, while a similar ambition is being set for North Devon. The Tiverton campus is also earmarked for development as a specialist centre supporting young people with additional needs.

College leaders have outlined three key advantages if the merger goes ahead:

• Greater resilience: A larger organisation would be better positioned to navigate future funding changes and seize opportunities arising from government policy and devolution.

• Broader opportunities: Growth in Adult Education, Higher Technical Education, and Apprenticeships would be more achievable through combined resources.

• Stronger curriculum: A more diverse, future-facing curriculum could be developed, with potential investment in sectors like offshore wind and other priority industries.

A final decision on whether to proceed with a full merger is expected in November 2025. In the meantime, both colleges will launch public engagement campaigns, including FAQs and a detailed brochure outlining the proposal. Stakeholder input will be invited as part of a full consultation.

“Today, it remains business as usual,” the joint statement concluded. “But we’re excited about the possibilities this could unlock, and we look forward to working closely with our communities throughout this important journey.”

Public feedback will play a central role in shaping the outcome, and both institutions are urging partners, students, staff, and local residents to share their thoughts in the months ahead.