Students have been celebrating today after receiving their GCSE results, marking the culmination of months of hard work and determination.
The atmosphere on campus was full of excitement as learners collected their grades, many achieving results that will propel them to the next step in their education or career. For some, this means progressing to higher-level courses here at EKC Folkestone College, while others are preparing to begin Apprenticeships or move into employment.
We caught up with some of our successful students to hear their thoughts and what they’re off to do next.
Kira Gutsell | GCSE Maths
“I done my A Levels and I didn’t find it the best, I felt like I was getting treated like a child as I was still at school. So, I thought make a bigger option and go to college and see what opportunities they had for me here at EKC Folkestone College, and I’m glad I did because I love it. I feel like I’m learning and doing so much more and it’s just a better place to be.
“I’m going into Year 2 in my T Level Education and Early Years course this September and the lecturers are all lovely and I get on really well with them. My advice if you’re thinking of going to college is just do it. Make sure you choose the right course for you. Put yourself out there and join the College because it’ll be the best decision you’ll ever make.”
Grade achieved: 4
Next step: “To finish my T Level Education and Early Years course and going to university or go into an Apprenticeship course in the police force that I’m looking to do. I’d like to be a police officer and then go into child psychology or become a child counsellor.”
Ben White | GCSE Maths
“It’s a lot more relaxed than secondary school. The lecturers have been supportive, and they try and help you as much as possible no matter what your background.
“I was telling myself I passed but whether I did or not was a different story, but I came in this morning, collected my result and passed so I’m relieved.
“After college, I want to possibly do an apprenticeship in Carpentry or work for a firm and shortly open my own business afterwards, that’s the dream.”
Grades achieved: 4
Next step: “I’m going to do Level 3 Carpentry next year or do Level 2 at EKC Folkestone College.”
Robyn Irving-Reynolds | GCSE English
“I was home-schooled for five years, so I was taken out of school when I was in Year 5. When I came to EKC Folkestone Junior College it was to get more of an education because I found home-schooling quite hard, especially without socialising. So, it was very different for me going into Junior College, but it was one of the best two years of my life and I’m really happy with my GCSE English result.
“My advice if you’re coming from a home-schooling background is don’t be too anxious about it, it’s very laid back and a great environment. My favourite part has been studying Art. I love Art so I’m going to study Art and Design in EKC Canterbury College next.”
Grades achieved: 5
Next step: “Continuing to study Art and Design at EKC Canterbury College.”
Sky Sullivan | VTCT Level 2 Diploma in Hairdressing Studies
“I really liked the course and found it really fun. I loved my teacher and made lots of friends as well, they all made it even better.
“I felt OK coming in this morning, I was excited to see my friends again as I knew they were coming in to collect their results too. I didn’t know I had definitely passed but my teacher and I had hoped for the result.
“I want to have my own business and be a mobile dresser once I’ve finished at college and maybe learn how to do nails as well so my clients can have fresh hair and nails at the same time.”
Grades achieved: Pass
Next step: “I’m going to continue my studies at EKC Folkestone College and study Level 3 Hairdressing.”
Thomas Owen | GCSE Maths
“All the staff have been really friendly and there’s good people that come here to EKC Folkestone College, so I’ve made some good friends. My favourite part of my course was the practical lessons as I studied Level 2 Catering, so it was quite fun and hands-on.
“I came here to study Catering but then I changed my mind halfway through but that’s the good thing about the College because there’s lots of different pathways and it’s accessible to change if you want to. I was a bit worried whether I’d get into a completely different course, but everyone has been happy to help and made it easy for me.
“I was nervous coming in to collect my GCSE Maths result this morning as I didn’t expect to pass so I’m very happy that I did.”
Grades achieved: 4
Next step: “I’m going to EKC Canterbury College to do a Uniformed Public Services course, so hopefully I can go into an Apprenticeship with the police.”
Principal of EKC Folkestone College, Clare Brown, commented: “I’m incredibly proud of their achievements and I’m honoured that EKC Folkestone College could be part of their educational journey. I’d like to wish them every success in their future, whether staying with us at Folkestone or moving onto employment or further training elsewhere.”
We would like to congratulate all our students on their fantastic achievements and wish them every success for the future.
Still deciding your next steps?
If your results have made you rethink your plans, or you haven’t decided yet – it’s not too late to start a course with us this September.
We offer a wide range of programmes to help you gain skills, qualifications and confidence for your future.
Explore our subject areas and apply today.
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