Staff Spotlight: Kelly Hough, Head of Technical Industries

Kelly Hough, our Head of Technical Industries, is passionate about helping students reach their full potential.

With a background including teaching, curriculum development and subject leadership, she is dedicated to creating engaging learning experiences and strong industry connections for our learners.

We spoke to her about her new role, the opportunities available at College, and her advice for students starting with us in September.

What is your role in the College?

“I am the Head of Technical Industries, responsible for leading and developing our curriculum areas, which include subjects such as Maths, Bricklaying, Carpentry, Engineering, IT, Creative Media, and our Junior College.

“My role involves ensuring that students receive an outstanding, inclusive learning experience, by working closely with my team, employers, and industry partners to develop the skills, knowledge, and opportunities that prepare students for successful careers.”

For those who are unaware, what is the EKC Sheppey Junior College?

“Our Junior College provides younger learners with a pathway that combines core academic studies with vocational and technical specialisms, such as Engineering and Digital Skills.

“It allows students to explore areas they are passionate about while developing the confidence, skills, and knowledge needed for future success.

“The programme offers early exposure to industry related learning, helping students make informed decisions about their next steps and potential career pathways.”

What can students expect to learn in Technical Industries?

“Students will develop a combination of practical skills, technical knowledge, and professional behaviours that are directly relevant to their chosen industry.

“Learning takes place with hands-on activities in industry standard workshops and facilities, (in our brand-new building) allowing students to gain real-world experience.

“Alongside technical skills, students also develop essential employability skills such as communication, teamwork, problem solving, and resilience that employers highly value.”

What is your background in education?

“I have built my career within further education, progressing through a diverse range of teaching and leadership roles.

“I began as a Business Lecturer before expanding my experience across several curriculum areas, including GCSE Maths, Functional Skills English, IT, and Logistics.

“During this time, I was appointed as a Maths Advanced Practitioner, working across East Kent Colleges Group to lead and support a range of maths improvement projects. This included the Department for Education-funded Centres for Excellence in Maths programme, which focused on improving maths teaching through Teaching for Mastery approaches.

“My leadership journey began when I completed a maternity cover position as Head of Business and IT, which provided valuable experience and led to my appointment as Deputy Head of Service Industries.

“Following my return from my own maternity leave, I took on the roles of Maths Programme Director and Teaching and Learning Innovator, working closely with the Senior Leadership Team to drive continuous improvement in teaching, learning, and assessment across the College.

“Throughout my career, I have remained passionate about helping students achieve their full potential. I am committed to creating engaging learning environments, supporting high-quality teaching, and developing strong links with industry to ensure students gain the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for future success.

“My experiences have enabled me to support both staff and students in achieving excellent outcomes and progressing into employment, apprenticeships, and higher education.”

What’s an exciting thing about the courses?

“One of the most exciting aspects of our courses is the opportunity for students to learn in specialist facilities that replicate a modern industry environment.

“Students also benefit from practical projects, employer engagement activities, industry visits, competitions, and opportunities to work with the latest equipment and technologies.

“We have recently received huge investment in our facilities at EKC Sheppey College, which ensures students are developing skills that align with current industry standards and future workforce needs.”

What advice would you give a new student in September? 

“My advice would be to embrace every opportunity available to you.  

“Be willing to ask questions, challenge yourself, and make the most of the experiences on offer both inside and outside the classroom. Success comes from commitment, curiosity, and a positive attitude.  

“The more you engage with your lecturers, fellow students, and industry opportunities, the more you will gain from your time at College and the better prepared you will be for your future career.” 

A big thank you to Kelly for giving us an insight into their journey. To discover more about our wide range of courses and what life at EKC Sheppey College is like, explore your options today.