Devon students could benefit as Exeter College and Petroc plan merger

Exeter College and Petroc have launched a public consultation on a proposed merger that the colleges say could expand learning opportunities for students across Devon while strengthening the county’s workforce.

If approved, the Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group (ENDC) would provide apprenticeships, adult education, higher technical courses, and specialist support for young people with additional learning needs, the institutions said.

They added that the merger would also help meet local skills and employment needs by pooling resources and expertise.

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The consultation, which runs from 1 to 30 September 2025, allows staff, students, and members of the public to give feedback on the plans.

The outcome is expected to be published by 30 November, with the merger proposed to take effect on 5 January 2026.

Petroc’s Barnstaple campus would be renamed North Devon College, and the Tiverton campus would become a Centre for Progression for learners with additional needs.

Exeter College told Exeter Today exclusively that its priority in the merger is “to create the best place-based college group in England, ensuring we deliver outstanding education and skills opportunities across Devon.”

The college said it aimed to provide greater resilience, enhance student choice, invest in staff and facilities, and respond more effectively to local skills needs.

The colleges said the merger is voluntary and that “current students will continue their studies on the same campuses, with no disruption to their learning… the existing breadth of courses, high-quality teaching, and commitment to staff remain central.”

They added that over time, the merger would allow an expansion of apprenticeships, adult education, higher technical courses, and SEND provision.

John Laramy CBE, Principal and CEO of Exeter College, said: “This is an exciting opportunity to create the best place-based College Group in England… The consultation is a chance for everyone to help shape this vision.”

Kurt Hintz, Interim Principal and CEO of Petroc, said: “This merger will give learners more choice, better progression routes and access to specialist facilities, while employers gain a single, stronger partner that is responsive to local skills needs. Above all, it will ensure North and Mid Devon continue to have high-quality, inclusive education at the heart of their communities.”

Full details of the consultation, including the consultation document and an online feedback form, are available on the Exeter College and Petroc websites.

The colleges said the consultation allows anyone, students, staff, and members of the public, to share their views on the proposed merger.

Feedback will be considered before a final decision is made, with the outcome expected to be published by 30 November 2025.