Top 10 Best Colleges in Mid Devon

Further Education Options for Mid Devon Students

After completing their GCSEs, young people in Mid Devon face an important decision: continue in a school sixth form, move to a further education college, begin an apprenticeship or combine work and study. Adults returning to education also need flexible options to retrain or upskill. Fortunately, the district and its neighbouring areas offer a broad range of colleges providing academic, technical and vocational pathways.

Colleges are central to the local economy, training the engineers, care workers, construction professionals, agricultural specialists and digital talent that Mid Devon's employers need. Below we look at ten colleges and sixth forms serving the district.

What to Look for in a College

Consider the range of courses, the quality of facilities and links with employers. Industry placements, apprenticeship opportunities and progression routes to university or employment are key indicators of success. Support services, including careers guidance, learning support and wellbeing provision, help students thrive. Travel time is also important, so check college bus services and train connections.

The Top 10 Colleges for Mid Devon Students

1. Petroc

Petroc's Mid Devon campus in Tiverton is the district's main further education college. It offers A levels, vocational courses, apprenticeships and university-level qualifications, with modern facilities for engineering, construction, health, creative arts and more.

2. Exeter College

Exeter College is one of the UK's highest-performing further education colleges, attracting students from across Devon, including many from Mid Devon. Its extensive range of A levels, technical qualifications and apprenticeships is backed by strong results and employer partnerships.

3. Bicton College

Located in East Devon, Bicton College is renowned for land-based education, including agriculture, animal management, equine studies and horticulture. It is a natural choice for students from Mid Devon's farming families.

4. Richard Huish College

Based in Taunton, Richard Huish College is a highly regarded sixth form college known for excellent A level results. Students from the eastern parts of Mid Devon often travel there for its academic reputation.

5. Bridgwater and Taunton College

Bridgwater and Taunton College offers a wide range of technical and vocational programmes, including specialist engineering and nuclear-related training linked to major regional infrastructure projects.

6. Blundell's Sixth Form

The sixth form at Blundell's School in Tiverton provides independent education with a broad choice of A levels, small class sizes and extensive co-curricular opportunities.

7. Queen Elizabeth's Sixth Form, Crediton

Queen Elizabeth's sixth form allows students to continue their education in a familiar setting, with a strong range of A levels and supportive teaching that helps many progress to university.

8. Uffculme School Sixth Form

Uffculme's sixth form offers academic courses in a focused environment, building on the school's reputation for high achievement and excellent pastoral care.

9. Exeter Mathematics School

Exeter Mathematics School is a specialist sixth form for students with a passion for mathematics, physics and computer science. Partnered with the University of Exeter, it provides challenging study for talented young people from across the region.

10. Duchy College

Part of the Cornwall College Group, Duchy College offers land-based and rural skills training, including agriculture and engineering, with strong industry links. It complements Bicton's offer for students pursuing countryside careers.

Apprenticeships and Adult Learning

Colleges serving Mid Devon work closely with local employers to provide apprenticeships in engineering, construction, business administration, healthcare and hospitality. Adult learners can access part-time courses, access to higher education diplomas and free skills bootcamps in digital and green technologies. These flexible options help residents change careers and keep pace with a changing economy.

Trends in Further Education

T Levels, technical qualifications equivalent to three A levels, are becoming more widely available, combining classroom learning with substantial industry placements. Colleges are investing in green skills training, including renewable energy installation and retrofit construction. Digital skills are in high demand, with courses in cyber security, software development and data analysis expanding. Blended learning, combining online and face-to-face study, is also more common.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I choose a sixth form or a college? School sixth forms offer continuity, smaller cohorts and familiar teachers, which suits many students taking A levels. Further education colleges provide a wider range of vocational and technical courses, a more adult environment and strong employer links. Consider your learning style, career plans and preferred subjects when deciding.

Is college education free? For learners aged sixteen to eighteen, most full-time courses at state colleges and sixth forms are free. Adults may be eligible for free or funded courses, particularly for first qualifications, basic skills and some digital or green skills programmes. Advanced learner loans can help cover the cost of higher-level courses.

Can I do an apprenticeship instead? Yes. Apprenticeships combine paid work with study and are available at levels ranging from intermediate to degree. Colleges serving Mid Devon partner with local employers to offer apprenticeships across many industries.

How do I get to college from rural Mid Devon? Many colleges run dedicated bus services from towns and villages across the district. Bursaries may help with travel costs for eligible students, so ask the college's student services team.

When should I apply? Most colleges open applications in the autumn of Year 11, with interviews and offers following in the spring. Applying early gives you the best choice of courses.

Final Thoughts

Mid Devon students and adult learners enjoy access to an impressive range of colleges. Whether you want to study A levels, train for a skilled trade or pursue a university-level qualification close to home, take time to attend open events, speak to tutors and choose the path that best supports your ambitions.