Why choose EKC Sheppey College after Year 11?  

The time has come to think about your next steps after Year 11. 

Maybe you’ve already decided on the sixth form route to stay at the same school? 

We get it completely, but have you considered all your options? It is really important you make an informed decision as this is your future.   

Read on to discover more about studying at EKC Sheppey College:  

Focus on one subject  

At College you will choose one subject to focus all your efforts on. This gives you time to grow your skills in the area you are most interested in. You’d be amazed how much you’ll learn and progress when you can dedicate your time to just one subject.  

We have a wide range of courses for you to choose from and impressive facilities which replicate actual work environments.  

For example, if you study Engineering you will be working in our workshops, complete with CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. 

If you study Hairdressing, you’d work with clients in our salons and get to use top industry products.   

Our Open Days are a great way for you to explore our campus and see our facilities for yourself.  

Work placements   

During your time at College, you will complete a work placement. This placement will give you an idea of what it will be like to work in the industry you’re training to enter. Your placement will help to prepare you for life after College.  It’s also a great thing to add to your CV! 

We have dedicated staff to ensure that you find the perfect work placement which suits you and your long-term career goals. They are called Industry Liaison Officers, ILOs for short, and will be able to link you with the top employers around Sheppey, Swale, and the surrounding area. 

Level 2 Hairdressing student, Frankie, was just one of the students making an impact this year at Ginger Hair and Beauty, located in Sheerness. By carrying out tasks such as colouring, blow-drying, styling, and working with the salon’s clients, she’s gaining an idea of where she’d like to go next.  

She said of her experience: “The best part might sound a bit cheesy, but it’s the people. The salon staff I’ve worked with are so friendly, and being here gives you a real insight into what it’s like working in a salon, which makes it a nice environment to be in. I like how you get to know the clients over time and give really good customer service.” 

Unique opportunities   

Have you wanted to travel while you study? This is possible at College. Last year, we took some of our Early Years students to Tenerife to learn about education and how children there learn. This gave them a brilliant experience  to explore another country whilst learning skills that will help them in their future careers.    

You’ll also have the chance to take part in various Inter-College competitions. We are part of East Kent Colleges Group, of which there are six Colleges including Sheppey.  

Our Colleges challenge each other to various exciting competitions in the year. In the past, these have included a football tournament, and a Soapbox Derby race, which our Junior College students proudly took part in this summer. 

A new student experience   

At College you are given the freedom to manage your own time. You’ll call the lecturers by their first name, and you’re able to head into town to get your lunch.  

Many students find this freeing and feel like they’re treated as adults. This will help your confidence grow and enable you to feel more independent, preparing you for future study at university or entering the world of work.   

At College you will be a member of the Students’ Union, known as the SU. This is run by the students for the students, to make sure that you have the best possible experience whilst at College.  

The SU works with the College’s Student Experience Officer. They are responsible for organising trips and activities to enhance your time outside of your classroom. Previous events have included going bowling, visiting Bluewater and end-of-year celebrations across the College. 

Those are just a few of the reasons why EKC Sheppey College is a great option for you after Year 11.  

If you’re interested in finding out more explore our courses and apply today.