Careers and Progression

What could your next steps look like?

Your journey doesn’t stop when your course ends, it’s just the beginning.

From continuing your studies and progressing to university, to securing an apprenticeship, starting your career or becoming self-employed, there are many exciting directions you can take.

If you’re a prospective student, parent, guardian or carer, explore the options below to find out more about where a College course can lead.

Apprenticeships

College courses

Start your career

Self-employment

University

Career Support Services

We offer a wide range of support services in College to help you with your Careers and Progression goals.

These include:

Tailored course advice and guidance
Careers advice and planning
Advanced Learner Loan advice
Individual progression support up to Level 1
Range of workshops for Level 2 and 3 students
University advice and UCAS application support

We also hold a series of guidance sessions where you can speak to an advisor about a range of topics including career progression, funding advice, course guidance and support services.

Hear from our students

Rio, Employability

“I feel very emotional about winning a student award. I wasn’t so keen on school but coming to College has been a great experience and it’s been so much better. I’ve loved all of it.

“I’m so proud to have completed my Employability course and I’m really looking forward to starting the Level 2 Business course.”

Sammy-Jo, Hairdressing

“I loved going to College, it was the best time of my life.

“After studying Hairdressing at EKC Sheppey College, I went straight to a local salon in the High Street and grew my career from there. Now I’ve opened my own business, Beez Neez.”

Elsie, GCSE Maths

“Everyone here was really welcoming when I looked around the college and I knew it was the place for me.

“The staff here have helped me a lot. They’ve found alternate ways for me to learn Maths and to help process it, which if it wasn’t for that I don’t think I would have passed.”

Jack, Business

“Canterbury Christ Church University, was one of the best trips we went on.

“It gave me an idea of what university life is all about, so I can think about this in the future as an option.”

Elvis, Computing

“I’d like to progress to a higher-level course or possibly an apprenticeship, ideally in data engineering because I’m interested in coding and understanding how websites and apps work.

“The course has given me a strong foundation and has opened my eyes to the opportunities available in IT.”

Ross, Bricklaying

“I’ve had a lot of unique opportunities on this course – just the other week we went to Holywell Primary School to price up a job for them.

“It was such an interesting experience, and showed me the types of things I’ll be doing in my future career.”

Jess, Hairdressing

“Coming to College effectively gave me a second chance, in that whilst studying I could not only get my Maths and English GCSE’s, but also I could study in an area that I was really passionate about. I was able at College to prepare myself to be in a job role that I really wanted, and the course led to my first employment in a Salon.”

Dawn, GCSE English

“I needed to gain an English GCSE so I could continue my studies to become a Nurse.

“Thanks to EKC Sheppey College I have now achieved a Grade 7 so will be able to move away and start this exciting new career.”

Student lands prestigious Engineering Apprenticeship

Construction student Michael secured a place on a high-profile Engineering apprenticeship, after networking with a major employer at one of our Careers Fairs.

The four-year apprenticeship program will combine academic studies and hands-on experience with Peel Ports, the second-largest port group in the UK.

Michael’s success is just one example of the positive impact our industry partnerships have on our learners, as they benefit from expert skills and knowledge to help them unlock a bright future.

Featured blogs for your next steps

If you’re considering your future, explore some of our blogs below.

Workplace tips from our industry experts

Work experience is an excellent chance to put your knowledge into practice, and it can serve as a valuable stepping stone towards your future career.

Hear our Industry Liaison Officers top tips for making the most of a work placement.

Read their top tips

An introduction to Apprenticeships: FAQ's

Wondering where to start with apprenticeships?

We have put together some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to hopefully answer all your questions.

Learn about Apprenticeships

Creating an effective CV – our top tips

Whether you want part-time work to fit alongside your course or a full-time job to follow your studies, you will need a CV that shows off who you are and what you can do.

Take a look at our top tips for creating a CV that stands out.

Read our CV top tips

EKC Sheppey College students celebrate GCSE and Level 2 success

21 August 2025

This GCSE and Level 2 Results Day, we caught up with students to hear all about their successes, achievements and what they’re doing next.

How do we support your next steps?

To help you with your next steps, our Careers team provides a confidential, impartial, and accessible experience tailored to your needs.

Delivered by professionally qualified staff, we support learners of all ages with expert guidance to help you achieve your goals during and after College life.

Meet your Careers Officer

Ben Lassnig

Our Careers and Progression Officer, Ben Lassnig, is located in the Student Zone, on the Ground Floor.

He can talk to you about your next steps including course options and career exploration. He can also support you with university applications and give general advice regarding finding employment.

EKC students can book a one-to-one appointment with Ben, or alternatively, you can also receive advice by sending a Teams message or email.