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School Leavers

Our courses for school leavers are focused on future careers or higher education, that allow any student the opportunity to achieve their goals and ambitions.

students take a selfie photo in Sheppey

What’s your next step?

Explore the pathways available to you after school. Whether you’re interested in Apprenticeships or a Specialist Subject, we’ll help you find the route that’s right for your future.

Start your career and gain a nationally-recognised qualification, while being paid at the same time.
Turn your passion into a profession with industry-focused courses designed to prepare you for your future career.

Qualifications Explained

This guide shows you what our courses mean in terms of qualifications, so that you can make the right decisions for your future.

Level 2 Award/Certificate

Equivalent to approximately GCSE Grade 4 or above.

Level 3 Extended Certificate

Equivalent to one and a half A Levels.

Level 3 Foundation Diploma

Equivalent to Two A Levels.

Level 3 Extended Diploma

Equivalent to Three A Levels.

Make the Most of College Life

Explore the Students’ Union and discover opportunities to get involved, make new friends and help shape the student experience at college.

“I love college because it’s a fun place to come to. I get to see my friends, meet people and do things that are interactive.

“It’s way different to school because you’ve got a lot more freedom and independence. At college it feels like you’re doing the work because you want to do it, rather than because you have to.”

Lawrence
Level 2 Site Carpentry

“I have enjoyed my time at College, I now feel ready to get a full-time job.

“The best part of College has been the experience, I have made so many friends and there is so much more freedom than school. The teachers are really supportive and helpful.”

Katie
Level 2 Early Years Practitioner

“I like studying at Sheppey. It’s close to home and small, so you know all the people, you get to know everyone in one year.

“The staff are also really nice. You get to know them well. It’s a smaller College, which is much nicer, it’s more personable. After school, I had no idea what I wanted to do. College helped me figure that out earlier.”

Craig
Level 3 Creative Media

How you apply for a course at EKC Sheppey College

Step 1 – Find a subject you’re interested in

Explore our range of subject areas on our website and find a course that interests you.

Step 2 – Apply

Click ‘Apply’ and then follow the steps on the Kent Choices application portal.

Step 3 – Come to an Applicant Day

Come along to an Applicant Day in College, where you’ll discover what studying is like and if the course is right for you.

Book an Open Day to experience our College in person

Term dates

Explore the term dates and learn more about when each term starts, when our half terms are, and when the College is closed.

How to apply

If you have decided on a course or study programme, find out how to apply for EKC Sheppey College.

Need help and advice?

Our College team are here to support you in a number of ways, such as to help you explore your options.

We’re part of six community-based colleges

Our mission is to empower our communities to develop their economic and social prosperity in a rapidly changing world.