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Spring Lane Campus Careers and Progression Fair inspires students

26 September 2025
Our EKC Canterbury College Spring Lane Campus has welcomed its' learners for a Careers and Progression Fair. 

The EKC Canterbury College Spring Lane Campus has welcomed Landbased, Environmental, and Animal Care students, in addition to Access to HE (Higher Education) learners, for a Careers and Progression Fair.  

This exciting event gave learners the chance to explore career pathways, consider higher education options, and connect with employers and training providers in a supportive setting.

Throughout the day, students moved around campus visiting stands, gathering information, and speaking directly with representatives from a wide range of organisations. These conversations offered valuable insights into progression routes, the qualifications and experience needed in different sectors, and the opportunities available through apprenticeships, placements, and higher education. 

Level 3 Countryside Management student Phoenix, found the event a great way to learn more about their career paths, saying:  

“There’s so much information here focused on what I could do next with my course which is great to see. I’ve spoken to lots of universities and quite a few places are recruiting for volunteers too.  

“This has been particularly helpful as I can take part and gain work experience during my course. In addition, I can think about what my future might look like and what I could go onto after College.” 

Christina, a Recruitment and Widening Participation Specialist for Canterbury Christ Church University, said of the chance to help inform the next generation:  

“Even if students are considering university or are unsure, events like these are a great chance to give them a feel for university life, the subjects and what it would involve getting on the courses. It’s so beneficial to ask as many questions as you like and to gain information from a wide range of sources. 

“My advice would be if you’re considering university, have a chat with the team, come to an Open Day and really understand the feel of the place you’re applying for beforehand.” 

Throughout the day, learners also took part in specialist workshops in the ‘Chestnut’ building, which were designed to offer practical guidance and the chance for in-depth questions. 

These sessions enabled students to explore the skills needed for their chosen careers, gain confidence, and ask questions in a smaller, focused setting. The workshops were tailored to the needs of what employers are actively looking for and has helped our learners to consider the next steps in their journey. 

Level 3 Animal Management student, Phoebe said of the Therapy Dogs workshop, run by Pets as Therapy: “It’s been lots of fun and really relaxing. They’re very well trained and are very loving and it’s been great to learn more about them and their roles.” 

Speaking overall about what she’s got out of the day, Phoebe added: “I’ve just started my second year and I’m thinking about going to the Royal Veterinary College.  

“Today’s been really helpful as I’ve been thinking about my personal statement, and how I can make it stand out. I’ve been able to speak to students who are doing the exact some course I’m looking at, so they’ve given me some tips and have helped me feel more confident about my application.” 

Overall, the day left students feeling informed, motivated, and confident to start exploring the next step in their studies or career.  

Lisa Hadler, our Uni Connect Project Officer, thought the day was a success for all learners, saying:  

“Uni Connect is all about widening young people’s access to Higher Education so it was fantastic to have the support of a range of universities at the event. 

“We were supported by both our local partners – University of Kent and Canterbury Christ Church University as well as some institutions we regularly work with from further afield like Writtle College and Plumpton College. Meeting and hearing from these institutions helped the students to explore the option of university.” 

This dedicated Spring Lane Campus Careers and Progression Fair has further highlighted the value of connecting education with industry leaders, and we’re looking forward to further encouraging students with guidance and inspiration they need to plan for their futures. 

We would like to thank all the organisations who attended, including: 

If you’re interested in your next steps, learn more about our Careers and Progression support, or discover our Spring Lane Campus and see what courses are available.