Two major Devon colleges seek to merge as they launch public consultation

Petroc and Exeter College are proposing to merge together into the largest college group in the South West.

The colleges are today (Monday, September 1) launching a public consultation, which runs until September 30.

If approved, the new organisation, the Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group (ENDC), would serve more than 16,000 learners across Devon, employ almost 2,000 staff and have a combined turnover of more than £100million.

Petroc currently has two sites – its main campus at Sticklepath in Barnstaple and one in Tiverton.

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The proposal is a voluntary merger and the colleges say by combining their resources and expertise, they aim to create a ‘stronger, more resilient group with the capacity to invest in learners, staff and facilities, while responding more effectively to local and regional skills needs’.

Petroc currently has around 4,500 learners, 650 staff and a turnover of £31m. Exeter College has more than 12,500 learners, 1,200 staff and a £75m turnover.

The new group would provide two sixth forms in Exeter and North Devon, alongside an expanded apprenticeship, adult, SEND and higher technical education offer across the county.

Petroc’s Tiverton campus would evolve into a Centre for Progression, supporting young people with additional learning needs.

Above: Petroc’s Barnstaple campus. The college currently has around 4,500 learners and 650 staff. Credit: Petroc

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.

“By joining forces, each college aims to deliver even greater opportunities for learners, employers and communities across Devon; underpinned by the capacity, capability and resilience offered by being part of a larger group. The consultation is a chance for everyone to help shape this vision.”

Kurt Hintz, interim principal and CEO of Petroc, added: “This is a fantastic opportunity to pool our strengths and knowledge, building economic resilience and maintaining outstanding sixth-form provision on both sides of the county.

“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 that North and Mid Devon continue to have high-quality, inclusive education at the heart of their communities.”

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The public consultation will run from 1 to 30 September 2025. Full details, including the consultation document and online feedback form, are available on the Exeter College and Petroc websites.