Reach Academy Launched to Support High-Achieving Students

North Devon College is empowering its most academically gifted students through the innovative Reach Academy – a dynamic enrichment programme designed to inspire ambition, broaden horizons, and support progression to the UK’s leading universities.

The Reach Academy has been created to help students develop not only academically, but personally and professionally, through a carefully curated programme of extra-curricular opportunities and real-world experiences. Supported by prestigious organisations such as the Met Office, the Academy offers students unique access to industry insight, specialist knowledge, and career-enhancing experiences rarely available at college level.

Students who join the Reach Academy commit to approximately 60 hours of flexible, non-timetabled enrichment activities each year – equivalent to around two hours per week. The programme is designed to complement students’ studies while encouraging intellectual curiosity, confidence, leadership, and independence.

Experiences include residential opportunities, an engaging lecture series, peer mentoring schemes, work experience placements, and a variety of clubs and societies. Together, these opportunities aim to equip students with the skills, experiences, and competitive edge needed to stand out in applications to top universities and highly competitive career pathways.