International Student Exchanges
At South Devon College we offer once-in-a-life-time international experiences via the Turing Scheme. The Turing Scheme is the UK government’s programme for study and work abroad.
The exchange includes a study and/or work experience at partner organisations, along with cultural activities.
Participants bring back new knowledge and improve their employability in the UK and global job market.
The overall aim is to develop our learners’ awareness and aspirations for their employment prospects and further studies.
South Devon College’s learning culture promotes three core values, Ambitious, Inclusive, and Respectful. We are committed to providing high quality teaching and learning with comprehensive progression routes. The College has therefore highlighted an important need to develop more internationally relevant curriculum and raise awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals in the form of student exchange.
This will give students broader employment opportunities, whilst having a memorable experience which this project will ensure. Participating students will get the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge including cultural awareness. Horizons will be broadened by breaking down perceived barriers that may limit learners’ aspiration and bring new knowledge back to the UK improving employability on the UK and global job market. Also optimising social value by encouraging the students’ aspiration regarding employment and further studies.
If you would like to find out more about the Turing scheme:
Global Destinations
A typical exchange will be a group of 8-16 learners and 2 accompanying staff on a 2-week placement.
The most recent destinations were:
- Engineering – Soderhamn, Sweden, May 2023
- Sports Science – Arnhem, The Netherlands, June 2023
- A Levels – Kiel, Germany, November 2023
- Auto, Engineering & Marine – Brittany, France, March 2024
- Catering – Cannes, France, April 2024
- Sports – South Africa, June 2024
- Outdoor – Zanzibar, June 2024
Want to find out a bit more about what students have done whilst being abroad?
Benefits of going abroad
An international exchange can benefit you in many ways. It can help you to:
- Learn new life skills
- Build personal independence
- Practice team working and communication skills
- Experience a new language and culture first-hand
- Build a global network
- Enhance your career opportunities
Contact your Tutor to find out if international exchange opportunities are currently available on your course.
Students’ Stories
Find out about study, work or travel abroad from students who’ve been there, done it, and want to share their experiences with you.
“After returning from the trip I have had a chance to reflect on the two weeks that I spent in France. There is no doubt in my mind that it was an enjoyable experience and thoroughly worthwhile.”
“Along with both the work experience and the culture experience, these two weeks away developed my independence…”
“This trip allowed me to make new friends and bonds with people as we all shared this experience, which I feel helped my people skills and my ability to work as team. In conclusion I can say that this trip was one of the best things I have ever done as it has really boosted my confidence in a load areas and I would happily do it all over again.”
“My first few days on the mobility, I was very nervous because I’ve never been abroad, so being away from my family was something new to me. I met some fantastic people as well as the other students I already knew from college supported me through the entire trip. This in itself has given me a confidence boost.”
“Once in a life time opportunity.”
“I would recommend it because it helps to grow your confidence meet new people and have an amazing experience whilst still learning.”
“I would recommend this Trip to another student because it’s the best opportunity and you learn so much from the experience and it’s something you will never forget.”
“It was one of the best experiences of my life so far.”
“Really enjoyed my experience will defiantly recommend it to other students. Can’t thank the tutors, organises, funders and people involved enough for making sure we had an amazing experience in Arnhem. I have learnt so much for my chosen job career and will help me be more confident in. I actually had the confidence when getting back from Arnhem to apply for a job in hairdressing.”
“Very enjoyable experience, I would recommend it to anyone wanting to try something a little out of the their comfort zone.”
“I was extremely lucky to go on this trip, and have been provided with many memories that will stay with me for a very long time.”
