Why choose EKC Ashford 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 learn the benefits of choosing EKC Ashford 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 and robotic arms. 

If you study Hair or Beauty you’d work with clients in our salons alongside 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.  They’re 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, ILO’s for short, and will be able to link you with the top employers around Ashford and the surrounding area. 

If you decide to study a T Level you will have a 45-day work placement. This gives you time to really understand the sector you are entering by developing your skills as an employee and putting all your learning from College into practice.  

T Level Business Management and Administration student, Kacper, worked with Construction company, Bowmer and Kirkland. During his placement he worked alongside the HR and Administration teams.  

He said of his experience: “My work placement has equipped me with essential business skills, from managing paperwork to using professional software. These skills will be valuable in my future career. The support from my mentors has also been fantastic. They’ve provided me with great advice and insights, helping me understand what it takes to succeed.” 

Unique opportunities   

Have you wanted to travel while you study? This is possible at College. Last year, we took some of our Students’ Union to Bali to learn about culture and leadership. This gave them a brilliant experience to be able 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 Ashford.  

Our Colleges challenge each other to various exciting competitions in the year. In the past, these have included a football tournament and Soapbox Derby race at EKC Broadstairs College.  

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 Ashford College is a great option for you after Year 11.  

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