WINGS ANNOUNCEMENT OCT 2026
‘Very sadly, following the merger between Exeter College and Petroc (now North Devon College) and the subsequent termination of all their subcontracting agreements, we have had to make the extremely difficult decision to close the Wings post-16 College. After a successful eight-year partnership with Petroc, benefitting scores of young people, this has been devastating for students, their families and the Wings staff.
Since we became aware of the loss of our post 16 contract at the start of 2026 we, families, supporters, MPs and councillors have been exploring possibilities with Devon County Council (DCC) as well as looking for alternative funding. In spite of the Department for Education stating that Wings could be named on EHCPs (Education Health Care Plans) this has not been translated into any breakthroughs with DCC.
From the start of September 2026 we have been using our own limited funds to provide short courses for young people who needed them and to help them adjust to the changes. However, as of December 10th 2026 we will no longer be able to offer even these courses.
What has been delivered to 140 young people over these last eight years has been amazing and an incredible testimony to the children, parents and College staff. The Wings College should not be closing and the needs and numbers of SEND (special education needs and disabilities) children will continue to grow and a wide range of provisions will be needed, one of which is ‘Wings-shaped’. The Trustees are so grateful for the skill, patience, determination and care that has been shown by all the Wings staff and volunteers. The children who have already come through the Wings College will be the lasting legacy.
We are planning for the charity to continue running Unity, Youth Work, Interventions (motor-mechanics, media and health and fitness) and the Ukrainian Hub.
Alongside this, we are also exploring new opportunities to continue to serve the people of North Devon as we have done over the past 26 years and to give a future and a hope to individuals within our community’
Paul and Anne Bowser
Founders
Wings South West
You can donate and help us do more
The work that we do at Wings is only possible because of the grants we receive from organisations and donations that we are given by individuals. We would be very grateful if you would consider partnering with us as we reach out to more people, by donating to us.
Since we became aware of the loss of our post 16 contract at the start of 2026 we, families, supporters, MPs and councillors have been exploring possibilities with Devon County Council (DCC) as well as looking for alternative funding. In spite of the Department for Education stating that Wings could be named on EHCPs (Education Health Care Plans) this has not been translated into any breakthroughs with DCC.
From the start of September 2026 we have been using our own limited funds to provide short courses for young people who needed them and to help them adjust to the changes. However, as of December 10th 2026 we will no longer be able to offer even these courses.
What has been delivered to 140 young people over these last eight years has been amazing and an incredible testimony to the children, parents and College staff. The Wings College should not be closing and the needs and numbers of SEND (special education needs and disabilities) children will continue to grow and a wide range of provisions will be needed, one of which is ‘Wings-shaped’. The Trustees are so grateful for the skill, patience, determination and care that has been shown by all the Wings staff and volunteers. The children who have already come through the Wings College will be the lasting legacy.
We are planning for the charity to continue running Unity, Youth Work, Interventions (motor-mechanics, media and health and fitness) and the Ukrainian Hub.
Alongside this, we are also exploring new opportunities to continue to serve the people of North Devon as we have done over the past 26 years and to give a future and a hope to individuals within our community’
Paul and Anne Bowser
Founders
Wings South West
You can donate and help us do more
The work that we do at Wings is only possible because of the grants we receive from organisations and donations that we are given by individuals. We would be very grateful if you would consider partnering with us as we reach out to more people, by donating to us.
Wings Students Support Local School
There were "Chairs" all round at St Mary's Primary School after Wings College Students delivered a bench that they made to replace one that fallen apart.
The school PTFA raised funds for the materials and the Wings College students helped build it as part of their work.
Hopefully this project has set a "benchmark" for the college working with local community groups.
Head teacher Zoe Stevens said that the bench will be very popular with the pupils who have missed having one to use.
The school PTFA raised funds for the materials and the Wings College students helped build it as part of their work.
Hopefully this project has set a "benchmark" for the college working with local community groups.
Head teacher Zoe Stevens said that the bench will be very popular with the pupils who have missed having one to use.
Wings on your Radio
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Wings staff members Steph and Kathryn who work in our education provisions were interviewed by The Voice FM for their breakfast show.
It was great to have the opportunity to share about what we have been doing across our different projects, especially the Wings College and also talk about our new Youth Clubs that have started. Click on the image to hear the interview yourself. |
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New Youthwork Provision Starts
A new youth work initiative is being established in Bideford, bringing positive opportunities, support, and safe spaces for young people in the area.
The project, led by Wings South West Charity, aims to engage young people aged 11-18 through a range of activities, including informal education, social action, creative projects, and wellbeing support. The service is designed to listen to young people’s voices and respond to the issues that matter most to them.
Set to begin on Monday 19th January, the youth work provision will operate from The Wings Hall, Lower Meddon St, Bideford, EX39 2BJ, with trained youth workers offering regular sessions during evenings and school holidays. The initiative seeks to build confidence, develop life skills, and create a sense of belonging for young people in Bideford.
Steph Rogers, Youth Work Manager from Wings SW said:
“We are excited to be setting up youth work in Bideford. Young people have shared they want safe, welcoming spaces where they can be themselves, have fun, and get support when they need it. This project is about working alongside them and helping them reach their potential.”
The project will also work closely with local schools, families, community groups, and partner organisations to ensure young people receive the right support at the right time.
Local young people and families are encouraged to get involved, whether by attending sessions, sharing ideas, or helping shape future activities.
The project, led by Wings South West Charity, aims to engage young people aged 11-18 through a range of activities, including informal education, social action, creative projects, and wellbeing support. The service is designed to listen to young people’s voices and respond to the issues that matter most to them.
Set to begin on Monday 19th January, the youth work provision will operate from The Wings Hall, Lower Meddon St, Bideford, EX39 2BJ, with trained youth workers offering regular sessions during evenings and school holidays. The initiative seeks to build confidence, develop life skills, and create a sense of belonging for young people in Bideford.
Steph Rogers, Youth Work Manager from Wings SW said:
“We are excited to be setting up youth work in Bideford. Young people have shared they want safe, welcoming spaces where they can be themselves, have fun, and get support when they need it. This project is about working alongside them and helping them reach their potential.”
The project will also work closely with local schools, families, community groups, and partner organisations to ensure young people receive the right support at the right time.
Local young people and families are encouraged to get involved, whether by attending sessions, sharing ideas, or helping shape future activities.
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Wings south west
01237 472 000 admin@wingscharity.com The Wings Hall Lower Meddon Street Bideford, North Devon EX39 2BJ |
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