Youngsters encouraged by Exeter Progression Awards

£1,000 over two years is awarded to each student to help them achieve their full potential and is paid in instalments in recognition of their effort and attainment as they progress through their course. Previous students have used this income for buying books, laptops and to fund additional courses to support their educational ambitions. In addition, the University and College offer support and guidance to encourage them to aim high.

Exeter Progression Awards recipients, and their chosen College course, are:
West Exe Technology College, St Thomas
Laura Harris (A-levels in drama, geography, maths and psychology)
Calem Phillips (Catering course)

St Peter’s Church of England Aided School
Abbie Harris (A-levels in PE, geography, human biology, business studies)
Jess Vickery (psychology, history, drama, English literature)

Isca College of Media Arts
Aaron Gibson (BTEC in applied sciences)
Verity Ashburn (A-levels in biology, chemistry, environmental studies and film studies)

St Luke’s Science and Sports College
Aimee Leaman (A-levels in history, English  literature and photography)
James Chalker (A-levels in politics, business and classical studies)

St James School, Beacon Heath
Bryony Barney (A-levels in politics, law, psychology and English literature)
Leanne Burns (A-levels in English, psychology, law and textiles)

40 students have received awards over the years. The awards are intended to make a real difference to students, who have had to overcome barriers to achieve high academic results. Bereavement, illness, troubled social experiences and having caring responsibilities are examples of the challenging circumstances that these young people have had to overcome.

Emma Stephenson, Outreach Manager at the University of Exeter explains: “As far as we know the Exeter Progression Awards are unique in the way that the University and FE College have come together to jointly fund and support students. They demonstrate the University’s commitment to raising aspirations in the city.”
 
As part of the Award Agreement, recipients are asked to work with their schools during the course of their studies to act as role models to younger pupils. 

Richard Atkins, Principal of Exeter College said: “The schools in Exeter are now working more closely than ever before with the College and University. This puts our young people at an advantage and helps keep them on the path of education. We hope they consider university as a serious option.”
 
The nominated students, their families and teachers came to the University on Wednesday 24 February for an evening presentation to receive certificates and to sign award agreements.