The Junior College programme at EKC Canterbury College is a unique opportunity for students currently in Year 9 (or equivalent if home-schooled) who want to specialise in the Landbased industry. Find out more about this specialist provision below.
What is Junior College?
EKC Canterbury Junior College is for Year 9 students who are interested in the landbased industry and would like to specialise during their Year 10 and Year 11 studies.
It is a unique two-year provision that blends academic learning with practical, industry-based training, helping students explore career interests early on.
This two-year course includes specialised studies along with core subjects like GCSE Maths, English, PE, and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education).
Where is the Junior College based?
The programme is set within its own area of the EKC Canterbury College campus, with specialised tutors and staff onsite to support, nurture, and teach the students in a small class setting.
What will students learn at EKC Canterbury Junior College?
Students will focus on their Landbased and Horticultural skills over the two-year programme. All Junior College students have access to College facilities and will learn with industry-standard equipment to grow their confidence in their chosen career.
Students will build their skills in their specialised area as well as GCSE Maths and English, Physical Education, and Wellbeing PSHE (Personal, Social, Health and Economic Education).
The Junior College programme offers a safe environment with distinct lanyards, so they are easily identified as pre-16 learners for safety and community purposes.
Direct progression routes are available to learners when they are ready to move into Further Education at the end of the programme.
What Extra Support is Available?
There is extensive support available to students. Students can access wellbeing support teams and Careers Advisors who assist with everything from subject choices to future education planning.
Learners are also invited to be involved in the EKC Canterbury College Students’ Union, and can take part in group trips, events, and social activities. They also have opportunities to engage in community projects that benefit their education and their communities.
Hear from a Student – Tiernan, now progressing to a Carpentry Apprenticeship.

“I really enjoyed Junior College. It’s a more mature environment and I liked the smaller class sizes. When you’re in a smaller class, your voice gets heard, and the teachers really helped me.
“I focused a lot on my Maths this year. I put everything into it and I’m happy with my result. I’m looking forward to starting my Carpentry Apprenticeship at the College. My dad’s a Carpenter and I’ve been helping him out since I was nine.
“I love being on the tools – I’m excited to get started. I would definitely recommend going to the Junior College as it’s helped me in so many different ways.
How do I apply?
Applications are open from 1 December until the end of March 2025. After applying, students and parents/carers will attend a mandatory information session to learn about the programme and its expectations.
The student will then participate in a taster session that includes workshops in their chosen subject area, baseline assessments in Maths and English, and team-building activities.
Both the student and their parent/carer will also attend a meeting with a senior representative from EKC Canterbury College and a curriculum team member.
Applicants must also complete a subject-specific project at home and submit a school reference.
During the admissions process, they receive career guidance to help them and their parent/carer make an informed decision about the programme.
If you’re interested in Junior College, applications are open until the end of March for a September 2025 start.
Apply for Junior College here.