On Thursday 15 August, students at EKC Ashford College collected their Level 3 results. This included learners who have studied T Levels and the National Diploma.
We caught up with some of our students to congratulate them on their success and find out what their next steps might be!
Level 3 Photography
Olivia Slater Accepted at University of Leeds, studying Photography
“My time at College has really helped me build my confidence. Being on a course with likeminded people meant I felt able to be myself and relax. My self-belief has also grown, meaning I’ve been able to achieve a good grade and be able to progress onto university.
“My time at College has flown by, so I’d advise other students to make the most of every opportunity when they can. College life is fun, so take time to enjoy it!”
Belle Vasselin Accepted at the Fashion Retail Academy
“College has really helped push me towards where I want to be, I’m excited to take on a new challenge at the Fashion Retail Academy. I’m looking forward to learning more about the Fashion industry and deciding what kind of career I’d like to pursue.
“College really helps you build confidence, and I’m grateful for that. I’d tell students to just take things as they come. Don’t over think things and allow yourself to enjoy the course.”
Level 3 Advanced Manufacturing Engineering
Josh Evans Going into employment in Manufacturing Engineering
“My time at College has been great. I really enjoyed my course, especially the hands-on experience we’ve gained using various machinery. My goal is to become a Professional Civil Engineer.
“I started College as a quiet, timid person but over the years I’ve built a lot more confidence in myself, my knowledge, and my skills. I’m so proud of what I’ve achieved and to have secured a full-time position in the industry already.
“The Level 3 Engineering course can be quite daunting at first, but if you enjoy the subject and have an interest in Manufacturing or Engineering then it really isn’t as hard as it seems. Don’t let all of the technical aspects or the amount of work overwhelm you.”
Access to HE
Phoebe Hartshorne Accepted at University of Kent, studying Forensic Psychology
“This time last year I wasn’t in education, so it just goes to show that it’s never too late to come to College. My transition was smooth, helped by the fact I already knew the course tutor from my time studying at EKC Canterbury College a few years earlier.
“I’d advise students not to stress about workload. It is all manageable if you’re sensible with your time, focus and utilise the help from your tutor.”
Tul Chhantyal Applied to study Politics at University of Kent
“One piece of advice I’d give someone considering studying an Access to HE course is to really be sure it’s what you want to do. Because it’s only one year, there’s a lot of studying to fit in and it’s definitely full on. Be focused, organised and prepared for a lot of hard work.”
Level 3 Health and Social Care
Chloe Barnes Undecided
“I think the most important thing I’ve learnt during my time at College is to be organised. If you want to get the most out of your course then you need to be focused, level-headed and plan out your time. Your lecturers are also always on hand to help, so make sure you utilise them. Book meetings and get support if you need it.”
Gabriella Morgan Undecided, considering applying to university in the future
“I think I have really matured during my time at College. I’ve learnt to be organised, reliable and work hard. I’m still undecided what my next steps are, but I’ve decided I don’t want to rush the decision. I’m going to take my time and really consider what I want to do as I have a few potential options.
“Studying at Level 3 is hard and there is a lot of work to do, but don’t let that put you off. The course is fun and really rewarding. Looking back, I can also see that studying Health and Social Care has also taught me so many transferable skills that I now use on a daily basis.”
Emily Archard Accepted onto Level 3 Early Years
“During my time at College I’ve learnt that it’s important to ask questions. No question is ever too silly, and tutors are always happy to help if you don’t understand a topic. I’ve also learnt the importance of note taking in class. Making your own notes really helps when you’re completing independent study and coursework.
“I’ve really appreciated my time at College. Over the past couple of years, I feel like I’ve matured lots and I’m now more focused on what career I want in the future. I’m more academically minded and now have the right mentality to achieve what I need to.”
Level 3 Information Technology
Tynan Farmer Undecided, considering an Apprenticeship or full-time work
“I originally started my College journey just one month after moving to the UK from South Africa. To begin with I was nervous to be in a completely foreign environment, but I was really surprised that it was much easier to adapt than I first thought. Everyone was welcoming and supportive in helping me adjust. I’ve since progressed from Level 1 through to completing my Level 3 diploma. During that time I have built a lot of resilience, and have also matured and become more responsible.
“My advice to other students is firstly make sure you always know when your exam dates and times are, and make sure you turn up. Secondly, don’t leave work to the last minute, especially larger projects. Plan out your time effectively and make sure you give yourself enough time to complete everything you need to. I’d also advise students to make use of the support available at College, because there are so many staff members who are there to help.”
T Level Digital Production, Design and Development
Georgie Wagstaff Degree Apprenticeship with Dunelm
“I’m excited to be starting a Degree Apprenticeship with Dunelm, in the future I’m aiming to become a Senior Data Analysist, working on large scale projects.
“I am thankful for my time at College. Originally, I thought I would study something within the arts or a more creative field, but when I saw the new Digital T Level advertised it caught my eye and sounded really interesting, so I figured I’d give it a go. I’m so glad I did as I’ve now found a new passion and a completely different career path that excites me.
“My time at College has really helped build my confidence. I’ve matured so much and am now much more comfortable and ready to pursue new things. One thing I learnt during my time at EKC Ashford College is to really take every opportunity as they come. Make the most of the opportunities available to you at College, especially during work placements. Network, meet new people and try new things when you can! And use the tutors and support whilst it’s available to you.”
When speaking with Lucy Clark, Deputy Principal, she commented: “I think I speak for all teachers when I say that it is a truly wonderful feeling to witness your students open their envelopes, and read the results they were hoping for.
“We are exceptionally proud of our students, their teachers, and the EKC Ashford College community. I’d like to congratulate all those who did well, and remind anyone who did not get the results they were expecting that we will support you to find and take your next steps, no matter where they might lead.“
We would like to congratulate all our students on their fantastic achievements and wish them every success for the future.