Public consultation opens on merger of colleges

Exeter College says the proposal is a voluntary merger

A public consultation has been opened over a proposed merger between Exeter College and Petroc.

The merger would see the two Devon colleges come together to form a new College Group, called the Exeter and North Devon Colleges Group (ENDC).

It would serve more than 16,000 students and employ nearly 2,000 staff across the county.

The consultation will run from Monday until 30 September, with the consultation document available on the Exeter College and Petroc websites.

Exeter College said the proposal was a voluntary merger, with neither college in any form of intervention.

'Exciting opportunity'

John Laramy CBE, principal and chief executive 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."

The outcome of the consultation will be published by 30 November, with a proposed merger date of 5 January 2026 if it goes ahead.