Annual awards showcase outstanding student achievements

The South West’s most promising learners were celebrated on Friday 16 January 2026 as Exeter College hosted its annual Student Awards at Sandy Park, showcasing the inspirational learners from the 2024/25 academic year and their remarkable achievements.

More than 170 guests, including sponsors, VIPs, College lecturers, and students’ families and friends, attended the ceremony, where 17 awards were handed out, recognising learner success across a variety of topics, from academic excellence and sport to adult learning and apprenticeships.

A highlight of the College calendar, the evening shone a spotlight on Exeter College students and their achievements. This year’s winners reflect the breadth of the College community and include students who have overcome adversity, progressed to Oxford and Cambridge, the England Women’s U18 rugby captain, and a learner returning to study after 30 years.

John Laramy CBE DL, Group Principal and CEO at Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group, said “Exeter College had another outstanding year. In my 17 years at the college, I can’t remember a year when our students and apprentices achieved such consistently outstanding results and success right across the college. 

“None of this is luck. Our ongoing success is because we have amazing students, great employers, world-class partners, fantastic staff and, in Exeter, the schools, college and university all working together in a cohesive and effective education ecosystem. 

“I also want to say a huge thank you to our award sponsors, many of whom support us every year. Without their support, these awards would not happen.”

Bindu Arjoon, Chief Executive at Exeter City Council, said: “It’s a privilege to be here tonight, and an honour to celebrate the students at the heart of this evening. To the award winners, huge congratulations.  

“The qualifications they’ve achieved of course matter. But equally importantly, so does the resilience, determination and thoughtfulness they’ve shown along the way.

“The world they’re stepping into is fast-moving, at times unpredictable, and sometimes it may appear overwhelming. But how they feel tonight – the belief of others, the support around them, the confidence they’re building – that will help them navigate all of it.” 

Reach Academy Student of the Year - Ved Kumar

One winner from the evening was Ved Kumar, who studied Biology, Chemistry, Further Maths and AS Physics at Exeter College. He was also described as a cornerstone of Exeter College’s Reach Academy, an initiative that encourages the most academically gifted students to enhance their learning and is now studying Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge.

After being awarded Reach Academy Student of the Year, Ved said: “I’m very proud to receive this award and am grateful to the College for selecting me. I really enjoyed my two years here, which prepared me well for the different aspects of uni life, both socially and academically.

“Now, I’m loving studying and living in Cambridge, and hoping to go down the path of scientific research, inspired by many of my teachers back home.

“If I had to give one piece of advice to students at Exeter College, it would be to seize every opportunity that comes your way - you never know where they could lead.” 

Higher Apprentice of the Year - Darren Westlake

Another winner was Darren Westlake, who was named Higher Apprentice of the Year. Darren, who is registered blind, returned to education after a 30-year absence, and was described as a dedicated and committed learner during his time at the College. Darren is enthusiastic about his future and applying the knowledge, skills and behaviours he acquired during his Level 4 Data Analysis Apprenticeship.

Speaking about his time at Exeter College and being awarded Higher Apprentice of the Year, Darren said:

“Embarking on a qualification to enhance my data analysis skills brought about some apprehension, especially as a blind student returning to formal education after three decades.

“Being presented with this award is a tremendous privilege, acknowledging the dedication and obstacles I have overcome in the last two years. I hope my achievement encourages other disabled individuals and shines a spotlight on the strengths, expertise, and determination within our community.

“I would like to officially take this opportunity to thank my tutors, Larisa and Hilary, who ensured course materials were adapted to accommodate my visual impairment. None of this would have been possible without their support.”

Exeter College Student Awards 2026 winners: