Teenage boys to learn from athletes, tech experts and musicians as part of inspirational new community programme

Teenage boys in Devon and Somerset will work with experts including athletes, technology experts and musicians as part of an inspirational new programme designed to help them find and achieve their future goals.

Community Exe has been set up to give those aged 13 to 16 opportunities to learn exciting and fun new skills, as well as broadening their access to positive role models and careers insight

The brand new, free programme will help participants build confidence and be inspired to reach their full potential.  Demonstrating a shared commitment to supporting young people in the region, Community Exe is a partnership between the University of Exeter, the Angus Lawson Memorial Trust, the Exeter Community Chiefs, Exeter City Community Trust and Somerset Cricket Foundation, as well as Sound Communities, Yellow Mouse Animation Studios, the Exeter Northcott Theatre and the Devon Music Education Hub, with more partners expected to join throughout the first year.

Those eligible should be from Devon or Somerset and meet one of a number of individual criteria which include being eligible for free school meals, being a young carer, being care experienced, having a declared disability, and living in a low income household or area with socioeconomic challenges.

Young people who take part will also have access to Community Champions including sports broadcaster Rob Walker, science communicator and YouTuber Dr Simon Clark and barber and mental health ambassador Tom Chapman.

Applicants will choose one of four Award Pathways: sport, young leaders, music and communication or AI and technology.

Them and their families will attend on-campus Award Days at the University of Exeter and depending on their Award Pathway some will take part in sport tasters with professional coaches, meet industry experts from a range of sectors, get creative with music production equipment and even find out what goes into building and racing a formula student racing car. Others will get a behind the scenes glimpse in the world of theatre and theatre production – both on and off stage, learn how to start a business and test out cutting-edge technology such as VR in brand new technology labs.

Melissa Ruddock, Widening Participation Manager at the University of Exeter, said: “Community Exe is designed to help teenage boys use their interests to push themselves, create a sense of personal achievement, gain new life experiences and meet new people.​

“This programme gives them chance to develop specialist skills, learn about possible careers through working with experts in their field and shine a new light on the role that education can play in becoming your future self in a welcoming and inspirational environment.”  ​

Steve Gass, Community Programmes Manager at the Somerset Cricket Foundation said: “We are thrilled to participate in this initiative led by the University of Exeter, which aims to offer young individuals from underprivileged backgrounds the opportunity to be inspired, unlock their potential, and pursue a bright future. Our goal is to encourage these young people to recognise the range of opportunities available in professional sports beyond just becoming a professional cricketer. We look forward to delivering an engaging cricket session while also highlighting the relevance of academic knowledge in coaching.”

Community Champion and Founder of HereToTalk Training Tom Chapman said: ‘I am really excited and honoured to be asked to be part of this project, I honestly believe it will make a difference to many lives of young people in the area. I cannot wait to see the results and success of those involved”

Martin Berry, Creative Director and Joint Chief Executive at Exeter Northcott Theatre said: ‘We are delighted to be a part of the Community Exe programme. Raising aspiration and inspiring teenagers has rarely been so important, and Exeter Northcott’s commitment to young people and social cohesion is a perfect fit for this excellent programme from the University of Exeter.’

Simon Clark, scientist, video producer, podcaster and Community Champion said: “Having benefited from similar outreach programs and the amazing opportunities the University of Exeter provides, I am thrilled to take in this partnership. I hope that I can show participants a possible career combining artistic and scientific skills while making a real difference. It’s always a genuine delight returning to the university, and I am excited to meet the cohort of brilliant students.”  

Applications are now open for current Year 9’s who fulfil the eligibility criteria! Find out more here.