Exeter Uni backs A Levels in St Austell

A new partnership between Cornwall College and the University of Exeter will support progression opportunities and raise aspirations as A Levels return to Cornwall College St Austell in 2027.

The collaboration comes ahead of the launch of A Levels at Cornwall College St Austell in September 2027 and reflects a shared commitment to raising aspirations, improving progression opportunities and supporting regional development across Cornwall and the wider South West. 

Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, said: “We are absolutely delighted to support Cornwall College Group in this work with A-Level students.   

“By working together, we can provide tailored support that helps students to access higher education, including pathways to world-class University of Exeter degrees on our campuses in both in Cornwall and Exeter.   

“We’re extremely excited about the positive impact that this collaboration will have on the opportunities for young people over the coming years.” 

The partnership was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding between the two organisations, setting out plans to work together across a number of areas including student progression, skills development and widening participation in higher education. 

“This partnership gives real strength to what we are building in St Austell,” said Anneka Wass, Assistant Principal for A Levels at Cornwall College St Austell. 

“It means our students will be part of a wider academic journey, with clear progression routes and the confidence that they are being prepared for ambitious next steps.” 

The collaboration will support the development of a high-quality academic offer alongside stronger progression pathways into higher education. 

The new A Level provision will form part of the multi-million-pound redevelopment of the Cornwall College St Austell campus. New developments include a dedicated A Level centre and modern teaching spaces, due to open in the first half of 2027. 

Students will study within a college rated Outstanding by Ofsted, with access to enrichment opportunities, modern facilities and the wider college experience, alongside clear progression pathways into higher education. 

Mark Wardle, Executive Principal and Deputy CEO of Cornwall College Group, added: “This collaboration reflects our shared ambition to raise aspirations and create opportunity for young people across Cornwall. 

“Students will be able to begin their academic journey in Cornwall and progress towards leading universities, supported by strong collaboration across the region.” 

The upcoming A Level provision at Cornwall College St Austell is also being developed in close collaboration with local secondary schools and Cornwall Education Learning Trust (CELT), helping support progression for students across mid Cornwall. 

Parents, students and schools can find out more about the A Level subject offer, new facilities, enrichment opportunities, entry requirements and progression routes by visiting the Cornwall College website.

For more information, visit cornwall.ac.uk/alevels

Applications for the first cohort, starting in September 2027, will open at the beginning of the new academic year on 1 September 2026.