Kingsbridge Students Gear Up for Safer Driving

Students at Kingsbridge Community College have taken part in a road safety workshop this month run by Learn2Live, an organisation which works to highlight the dangers young drivers face. 

Representatives from Learn2Live came along to the college to give a presentation. The talk included expert speakers from Local Authority Road Safety Teams, Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, Devon and Cornwall Police, South West Ambulance, and Devon Air Ambulance.

Over the past five years young drivers in Devon and Cornwall have been involved in over 4,800 collisions, this represents 25% of all collisions despite young drivers only representing around 7% of licence holders. To help address this, the workshop was specifically designed to get young people thinking about road safety and to help them better appreciate specific dangers and consequences when on the roads.

Attendees fed back that they gained useful, practical insights into how their behaviour when driving can impact not only their safety but the safety of others. 

Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said: "Being a rural college, many of our students are on the road regularly, often driving long distances. This workshop was a vital opportunity for them to understand the real risks and make safer choices behind the wheel."

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: "With so many young drivers involved in collisions, it’s crucial we equip our students with practical knowledge. Road safety isn’t just about rules; it’s about protecting lives, and initiatives like this make a real difference."

Kingsbridge Students Gear Up for Safer Driving Students at Kingsbridge Community College have taken part in a road safety workshop this month run by Learn2Live, an organisation which works to highlight the dangers young drivers face.  Representatives from Learn2Live came along to the college to give a presentation. The talk included expert speakers from Local Authority Road Safety Teams, Devon and Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, Devon and Cornwall Police, South West Ambulance, and Devon Air Ambulance. Over the past five years young drivers in Devon and Cornwall have been involved in over 4,800 collisions, this represents 25% of all collisions despite young drivers only representing around 7% of licence holders. To help address this, the workshop was specifically designed to get young people thinking about road safety and to help them better appreciate specific dangers and consequences when on the roads. Attendees fed back that they gained useful, practical insights into how their behaviour when driving can impact not only their safety but the safety of others.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said: "Being a rural college, many of our students are on the road regularly, often driving long distances. This workshop was a vital opportunity for them to understand the real risks and make safer choices behind the wheel." Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: "With so many young drivers involved in collisions, it’s crucial we equip our students with practical knowledge. Road safety isn’t just about rules; it’s about protecting lives, and initiatives like this make a real difference."

CareYourWay Becomes Official Friend of Kingsbridge Community College

 

Kingsbridge Community College is pleased to share that CareYourWay, one of South Devon’s top rated home care providers, is now an official ‘friend’ of the college. The partnership is already providing KCC students with valuable insights into careers in health and social care.

Founded over 20 years ago by Sarah and Manuel Sabater in East Allington, CareYourWay began after the couple recognised the need for compassionate, high quality home care. Their model and service that is rated ‘Outstanding’ with the Care Quality Commission was then in 2021 launched into franchise opportunities across the UK, led by former KCC students Yasmine and Jonathan Sabater. Jonathan, at just 19 years old, became the youngest franchisor in the country. Today, CareYourWay operates 13 franchise offices across the nation, delivering award-winning, person-centred care.

In addition to Yasmine and Jonathan, former KCC students Giles Sabater and Anna Potgieter hold key leadership roles at CareYourWay, driving the business’s national expansion and continuing its commitment to local communities.

As a ‘friend’ of KCC, the CareYourWay team are engaging directly with current students, sharing their experiences and providing practical guidance on post-college pathways. They are also supporting careers activities, offering insights into apprenticeships, employment opportunities, and running workshops to inspire the next generation.

CareYourWay’s achievements have been widely recognised; being named as part of the ‘Best in Franchising’ for 2025, as well as winning one of the highest-regarded awards for the whole of the UK franchising sector at the BFA HSBC British Franchise Awards: ‘Emerging Franchisor of the Year’. In addition, the brand has proudly and consistently been ranked among the Top 20 Home Care Groups in the UK by Homecare.co.uk for the last three years, reflecting the company’s dedication to high-quality, client-centred care.

Through this partnership, KCC students will gain first-hand insight into a growing sector, learn about the variety of career routes available, and benefit from mentorship from experienced professionals who were once in their shoes.

Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:

“Having CareYourWay as a ‘friend’ of the college is a fantastic opportunity for our students. Their team’s journey from KCC students to national business leaders demonstrates the value of ambition, hard work, and community focus. We so appreciate the knowledge and support they are providing to our students.”

Anna Potgieter, Head of Brand & Marketing at CareYourWay, added“We are thrilled to give back to the college that shaped our early journeys. Meeting students, sharing real experiences, and providing guidance on careers in care is a way for us to inspire and support the next generation.”

 

 

CareYourWay Becomes Official Friend of Kingsbridge Community College   Kingsbridge Community College is pleased to share that CareYourWay, one of South Devon’s top rated home care providers, is now an official ‘friend’ of the college. The partnership is already providing KCC students with valuable insights into careers in health and social care. Founded over 20 years ago by Sarah and Manuel Sabater in East Allington, CareYourWay began after the couple recognised the need for compassionate, high quality home care. Their model and service that is rated ‘Outstanding’ with the Care Quality Commission was then in 2021 launched into franchise opportunities across the UK, led by former KCC students Yasmine and Jonathan Sabater. Jonathan, at just 19 years old, became the youngest franchisor in the country. Today, CareYourWay operates 13 franchise offices across the nation, delivering award-winning, person-centred care. In addition to Yasmine and Jonathan, former KCC students Giles Sabater and Anna Potgieter hold key leadership roles at CareYourWay, driving the business’s national expansion and continuing its commitment to local communities. As a ‘friend’ of KCC, the CareYourWay team are engaging directly with current students, sharing their experiences and providing practical guidance on post-college pathways. They are also supporting careers activities, offering insights into apprenticeships, employment opportunities, and running workshops to inspire the next generation. CareYourWay’s achievements have been widely recognised; being named as part of the ‘Best in Franchising’ for 2025, as well as winning one of the highest-regarded awards for the whole of the UK franchising sector at the BFA HSBC British Franchise Awards: ‘Emerging Franchisor of the Year’. In addition, the brand has proudly and consistently been ranked among the Top 20 Home Care Groups in the UK by Homecare.co.uk for the last three years, reflecting the company’s dedication to high-quality, client-centred care. Through this partnership, KCC students will gain first-hand insight into a growing sector, learn about the variety of career routes available, and benefit from mentorship from experienced professionals who were once in their shoes. Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said: “Having CareYourWay as a ‘friend’ of the college is a fantastic opportunity for our students. Their team’s journey from KCC students to national business leaders demonstrates the value of ambition, hard work, and community focus. We so appreciate the knowledge and support they are providing to our students.” Anna Potgieter, Head of Brand & Marketing at CareYourWay, added“We are thrilled to give back to the college that shaped our early journeys. Meeting students, sharing real experiences, and providing guidance on careers in care is a way for us to inspire and support the next generation.”    

  Citizen’s Advice Bureau Tracy Doody from the Citizen’s Advice Bureau will be available to meet with Parents/Careers on Wednesday 3rd December, in the afternoon. If Parents/Carers would like to self-refer to CAB, they can call 0808 278 79 48 Or visit this link for information about further support on different issues, and how to access support https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/contact-us/ or the specific South Hams CAB page https://southhamscab.org.uk/  

KCC Students Step Back in Time on Buckland Abbey History Trip

Year 11 History students from Kingsbridge Community College recently enjoyed a two-day trip to Buckland Abbey, set on the edge of South Dartmoor. 

The visit provided students with a hands on opportunity to explore the rich history of the abbey and gain valuable insights into the many changes the building has undergone over the centuries, supporting their GCSE studies.

Buckland Abbey offers visitors a journey through over 700 years of history, from the Cistercians who built the abbey to seafarers Grenville and Drake who shaped its future. Part museum, part historic house, the abbey is home to treasures including the medieval great barn. 

Staff and members of the public were impressed by the students’ behaviour throughout the trip. Students were praised for their maturity and for representing the college exceptionally well, acting as excellent ambassadors on both days.

The trip reflects KCC’s commitment to providing enriching educational experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom. The history curriculum at KCC is designed to help students understand the world today by exploring how human experiences and societies have developed over time. Covering nearly a thousand years, from the Anglo-Saxon era to the modern day, the curriculum balances British and international perspectives while highlighting the diversity of voices from the past. 

Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said: 

“It was fantastic to see our Year 11 students engaging so enthusiastically with history outside the classroom on this field trip. Experiences like this bring their learning to life and give them a real understanding of the historical contexts they study for their GCSEs.”

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said: 

“It’s fantastic to see Kingsbridge Community College providing students with opportunities to experience history first-hand. Trips like this help students understand historical events in context while developing curiosity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation of the world around them.”

 

 

KCC Students Step Back in Time on Buckland Abbey History Trip Year 11 History students from Kingsbridge Community College recently enjoyed a two-day trip to Buckland Abbey, set on the edge of South Dartmoor.  The visit provided students with a hands on opportunity to explore the rich history of the abbey and gain valuable insights into the many changes the building has undergone over the centuries, supporting their GCSE studies. Buckland Abbey offers visitors a journey through over 700 years of history, from the Cistercians who built the abbey to seafarers Grenville and Drake who shaped its future. Part museum, part historic house, the abbey is home to treasures including the medieval great barn.  Staff and members of the public were impressed by the students’ behaviour throughout the trip. Students were praised for their maturity and for representing the college exceptionally well, acting as excellent ambassadors on both days. The trip reflects KCC’s commitment to providing enriching educational experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom. The history curriculum at KCC is designed to help students understand the world today by exploring how human experiences and societies have developed over time. Covering nearly a thousand years, from the Anglo-Saxon era to the modern day, the curriculum balances British and international perspectives while highlighting the diversity of voices from the past.  Tina Graham, Principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:  “It was fantastic to see our Year 11 students engaging so enthusiastically with history outside the classroom on this field trip. Experiences like this bring their learning to life and give them a real understanding of the historical contexts they study for their GCSEs.” Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West, said:  “It’s fantastic to see Kingsbridge Community College providing students with opportunities to experience history first-hand. Trips like this help students understand historical events in context while developing curiosity, confidence, and a deeper appreciation of the world around them.”    

KCC Students Get Hands-On Experience with Professional Filmmakers

Year 12 media students at Kingsbridge Community College (KCC) took part in a workshop with The Really Good Media company this month.  

As part of their media diploma, students learn industry standard skills and create short films and advertising campaigns. Thanks to Jack Gorman and Will Cotterall from The Really Good Media Company the group got to experience, and get their hands on, professional video equipment.

They worked together to create a promo for the media department, while learning all about insider film making techniques, including lighting, interview techniques and shooting B roll. They then listened to a talk from the two visitors on their company's background and the different routes into and roles within the media industry.  

The Really Good Media Company is a South Devon-based commercial film and photography studio offering a complete end-to-end production service. Jack Gorman, the company’s co-founder and director, brings a unique blend of commercial film, photography, and music experience, alongside CAA-qualified drone expertise. Will Cottrell works behind the camera and in post-production, combining advanced technical skills with strong client-focused communication. 

Kingsbridge Community College boasts an outstanding and welcoming Sixth Form, attracting students from across South Devon with its impressive range of A Level, vocational, and specialist subjects. Students benefit from personalised support, target setting, and mentoring, including guidance for Oxbridge, medical, and law applicants, ensuring the vast majority progress to university. 

Alongside academic excellence, their enrichment and tutorial programmes nurture confident, articulate young adults, empowering Sixth Formers to shape the school’s future and leave a lasting legacy. 

Tina Graham, principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said: 

"It was fantastic to see our Year 12 media students working directly with industry professionals. Experiences like this give them practical skills, inspire creativity, and help them understand the exciting opportunities available within the media sector."

Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said:

"Workshops like this demonstrate the real impact of combining education with professional experience. We are proud that our students can gain hands-on knowledge and insight that will help shape their careers and aspirations."

 

 

KCC Students Get Hands-On Experience with Professional Filmmakers Year 12 media students at Kingsbridge Community College (KCC) took part in a workshop with The Really Good Media company this month.   As part of their media diploma, students learn industry standard skills and create short films and advertising campaigns. Thanks to Jack Gorman and Will Cotterall from The Really Good Media Company the group got to experience, and get their hands on, professional video equipment. They worked together to create a promo for the media department, while learning all about insider film making techniques, including lighting, interview techniques and shooting B roll. They then listened to a talk from the two visitors on their company's background and the different routes into and roles within the media industry.   The Really Good Media Company is a South Devon-based commercial film and photography studio offering a complete end-to-end production service. Jack Gorman, the company’s co-founder and director, brings a unique blend of commercial film, photography, and music experience, alongside CAA-qualified drone expertise. Will Cottrell works behind the camera and in post-production, combining advanced technical skills with strong client-focused communication.  Kingsbridge Community College boasts an outstanding and welcoming Sixth Form, attracting students from across South Devon with its impressive range of A Level, vocational, and specialist subjects. Students benefit from personalised support, target setting, and mentoring, including guidance for Oxbridge, medical, and law applicants, ensuring the vast majority progress to university.  Alongside academic excellence, their enrichment and tutorial programmes nurture confident, articulate young adults, empowering Sixth Formers to shape the school’s future and leave a lasting legacy.  Tina Graham, principal at Kingsbridge Community College, said:  "It was fantastic to see our Year 12 media students working directly with industry professionals. Experiences like this give them practical skills, inspire creativity, and help them understand the exciting opportunities available within the media sector." Matthew Shanks, CEO of Education South West said: "Workshops like this demonstrate the real impact of combining education with professional experience. We are proud that our students can gain hands-on knowledge and insight that will help shape their careers and aspirations."