If you’re in Year 9 (or equivalent if home-schooled), and looking for an exciting, hands-on approach to learning, EKC Canterbury Junior College is the perfect choice.
Located on the picturesque Spring Lane campus, the Junior College offers a unique program in Landbased and Horticultural studies.
With dedicated Junior College areas and small class sizes, students gain practical skills and academic qualifications in a welcoming, supportive environment.
Read below to hear from three Year 11 students about how Junior College has given them the skills, knowledge and development they need to progress into a wide range of areas for post-16 education.
Caleb came to Junior College as he wanted to specialise in the Landbased studies that the campus offers. With this unique focus, Caleb found an environment where he could thrive.
As he works towards qualifications in land management and his GCSEs, Caleb is gaining the confidence and experience he needs to pursue his dream of a career in animal care or farming.
Why did you choose Junior College?
“I decided to study at Junior College to make a career for myself in the Landbased and Horticultural industry. I’ve always preferred to work with other people that are interested in similar things to me and understand what I want to do. Choosing here was an easy decision as I knew the other students would also be passionate about these areas.”
What practical experiences stand out?
“One of my highlights at Junior College so far was building fences for the pond. It was quite cool and allowed us to practice our teamwork and building skills. We also learn a lot about running estates and how the teams make an impact on the surroundings, which fits in well with that task.
“In terms of trips, we recently to Wildwood which was exciting. It was still cool to see some of the animals and learn a bit more about the running of the Zoo and the roles available.”
How does the College help you academically?
“Whilst at Junior College, we do GCSE Biology, GCSE Maths, and GCSE English, plus a City & Guilds land management course, which is worth five GCSEs.
“If you need help, you can take part in extra Maths and English lessons. You can also do one-on-ones with teachers if you’re unsure about anything or need extra guidance when it comes to a topic being explained.”
What would you say are the benefits of Junior College?
“I like the fact that there are smaller class sizes, and that the work is more based around one subject. Being able to work in the greenhouses and outside areas a lot of the time and working in a closer environment with people has been so much fun.
“I feel like I’ve got better social skills because of this and you get to know people a bit better. Compared to school, the staff work with you in a closer proximity, and are all very kind.”
What do you hope to do once you finish College?
“When I finish my studies, I’d probably like to go into the animal sector as this is something I want to study further after Junior College. Ideally working in maybe a zoo or a farm, or having a role in the farming industry would be the dream.”
Do you have any advice for Junior College students?
“My advice would be to do it. It’s a good way to spend Year 10 and Year 11. It’s so different to school but I’ve loved it. There’s so much more practical learning, and the environment feels like a home in a way.”
Kira has rediscovered her confidence and love for learning thanks to Junior College. She saw it as a fresh start to improve her grades and pursue her passion for hands-on projects.
Since joining, she’s flourished in the supportive environment, gaining valuable skills in English, Maths, and Biology, as well as practical experience in construction and outdoor work.
With newfound confidence and a clear plan for her future, Kira is excited to transition to the wider College.
Why did you choose Junior College?
“I chose to study here to improve my grades and focus on the Landbased studies. I really liked the idea of doing lots of practical work such as construction projects and working within the different facilities here.”
“I had issues at my previous school with bullying which held me back a bit. I saw about the Junior College here in Canterbury, and I decided to look into it further and then applied. It’s been the right decision as it’s helped me a lot with my GCSE work in English, Maths, and Biology so that I can get better grades.”
Has the Junior College helped you regain confidence?
“Oh yes – It’s improved on my confidence skills. Everyone’s so comfortable with each other and very talkative which helps bring out the person that you know you are.
“Having such a nice campus where you can go wherever and feel a bit more relaxed has also helped me a lot.”
What sort of support is available?
“There’s a lot of support here for everyone to access. For me it’s having that extra maths help, as there’s a lot of tutors available that you can go and talk to, if you need help improve your GCSE results.
“We get regularly graded on our work as well, so that you can see where you’re at and see what you need to do to boost your grades.”
What are your next steps after Junior College?
“I’m aiming to go on to the main College, although in a new area, which would be Public Services.
“I’d love to do something around dog handling and working in a role in the army or the police. I’ve been given a lot of skills from my time here at Junior College, which can help me go into a number of jobs. It’s also given me confidence to explore my options.
“A benefit of studying at the Junior College is being able to get career guidance, so that you can secure a place into the main College afterwards or even an apprenticeship.”
What’s been the best part of Junior College?
“I would actually say it’s getting to know the teachers. Although we have separate teachers for different courses, so one for English, one for Maths, one for Landbased studies for example, they understand us perfectly.”
“It’s a lot easier than school for me as with the teachers, once they get to know you, they understand how we deal with aspects of the work and how we communicate differently sometimes.”
What are you most proud of achieving so far?
“I’m most proud of getting my confidence up and being able to feel free in the Junior College. It makes a difference walking around in the outdoors, feeling like I have my own space, instead of being stuck in a classroom all the time.
“Instead of worrying, I get to take part in practical sessions and have fun whilst I learn.”
For Isabel, joining Junior College not only marked her first time in a school setting but also provided a perfect balance of practical learning with focused GCSE studies.
With her newfound confidence and improved grades, Isabelle is excited about continuing her studies at the College, using the skills and experiences she’s gained to shape her future.
Why did you choose Junior College?
“As someone who was homeschooled, I thought this was a really good opportunity to learn in a new environment. This is my first time going to a school as well, so I knew I wanted somewhere that suited me.
“Here, you don’t always work in a classroom and there’s not so many tests as there’s a big focus on the practical skills. This means for me it’s a bit easier to get on with my GCSEs as there’s less stress.”
“I really like the social aspect because there’s quite a small class, so we all get to know each other. The fact that we work outside a lot more is also a bonus.”
What’s different compared to studying Year 10 and Year 11 at a school?
“Most of my friends go to a traditional school, and I feel like compared to them, I’ve learned a lot more practical skills than they have.
“I know that whatever I do in my future, I’ll be able to use my specialist skills in areas such as gardening in my day-to-day life.”
“Here we study Personal Growth and Wellbeing (PGW), and I’ve learned a lot about myself overall too.”
Which practical experiences have stood out for you?
“We’ve done lots of work around the pond, learning about ecosystems and the different animals there.
“We also practiced building fences on the campus to protect the pond and the wildlife that live in and around it. This was really fun as we got to work into groups and see what an impact our work has.”
What’s next after studying here?
“I’m planning to carry on my studies in the College afterwards. I think this is a really good gateway to learn how to cope in the classrooms and what it will be like on the main campus.
“We’ve taken part in events with the 16+ students such as the Spring Fayre. That was really interesting because you got to see where this course could take you if you want to carry on in a similar area and you got to speak to loads of different people.”
What support have you found most helpful?
“There’s loads of support available here at Junior College. We have our Student Mentor who sits with us in class, and every member of staff is always happy to help you with any problem. They try and support your needs as much as they can.”
Which achievements are you most proud of?
“All my grades were very low when I started, but they’ve gone up a lot now. I’ve also learned to talk to people more. I didn’t talk much before, but now it’s nice to feel much more confident and realise that I can have my say.”
“I’ve realised I can achieve more than I thought I could. I’ve learnt that even though I might not be the most talkative in the classroom that’s not a bad thing.”
What’s your advice for other students?
“If you’re looking for something different and want to improve yourself, I’d apply. It’s great to get hands-on experience and learn in an environment that feels comfortable.”
Caleb, Kira, and Isabel’s stories highlight how EKC Canterbury Junior College is more than school and that with practical skills, personal growth, and academic support, they’re on a path to success.
The Spring Lane campus, complete with greenhouses, wildlife ponds, and an orchard, offers the perfect environment to grow your knowledge and explore new opportunities.
If you’re interested and want to learn more, apply today.
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