Junior College Alumni: Dylan, Students’ Union President

EKC Folkestone Junior College alumni, Dylan, discovered his passion for media, developed new skills, and grew in confidence during his time in the Junior College. 

We caught up with Dylan to hear about his journey, how Junior College shaped his future, and his advice for current students. 

Can you tell us about your journey from Junior College to where you are now? 

Joining Junior College allowed me to grow and become more comfortable with the industry I wanted to go into, which was Art and Media. 

I used to be shy, really shy, when I started Junior College and now, I’m the Students’ Union President, in a role where I can make decisions and get to talk to students across the entire College. 

I couldn’t talk in front of more than about four people and now I can talk in front of large crowds and present myself in a very professional manner. 

I really think that studying at Junior College has helped me with that. 

What initially attracted you to study at Junior College?  

The Junior College seemed like a place where they cared about you and your education, and they wanted to see people grow and thrive in their choice of industry.  

I really enjoyed how much freedom it gave you with the subjects you study. The creative aspect of Junior College and how the art course worked really appealed to me.  

It was really interesting because I did art at secondary, but there, it was quite controlled in terms of what work you did. At the Junior College, the staff encourage your creativity and enable you to follow your passions. 

I loved that as my main art style was abstract surrealism, which I’m not sure was understood at school. 

How did your time at the Junior College help you discover your passion for media? 

It was always fun to use equipment relating to photography and film, which wasn’t just for students in the Junior College, but also the rest of the main College as well.  

No matter what year group or course you’re on, they supply cameras and recording equipment, which was helpful to develop my career and my interests.  

Jez, Head of the Creative department, likes painting and his art style is quite an inspiration for me. Whilst at Junior College, I met people who also had an interest in media areas, like film and photography.  

One of my closest friends is really into the film industry and spending time with him made me really interested in cinematography. This is why I went onto the Media course to pursue film. However, over time, I’ve realised that I’m much happier looking into Photography. Being on this course is giving me aspirations to make Photography into a profitable career for myself. 

What role did Junior College play in building the confidence and skills that helped you become the Students’ Union president?  

It allowed me to do things that I never thought I could do, like directing people on Open days and talking to massive crowds.  

I think pushing myself into those situations really helped me build up my confidence. I am also very grateful to my tutors at Junior College as they were incredibly supportive to me throughout my time there. 

What was the biggest difference for you between Junior College and the main College?  

I think the biggest difference was adapting to a completely new timetable. At Junior College we had multiple lessons: Maths, English, Art, etc.  

At the main College, it feels like I have only one lesson with breaks in-between. For me, that lesson is Media as that is what I’ve specialised in. 

How has being the Students’ Union president influenced your College experience? 

I feel like I’m able to get involved with a lot more and that I have a say in how Student Experience is here. I get on really well with all the staff members, and I always have done. However, I feel like I’m now treated as a member of staff here in my role. Everyone is really friendly. 

What advice would you give to current Junior College students? 

I would suggest that they take all the opportunities that the Junior College offers. That’s what I did, and it’s done nothing but wonders for my progression and mental health. 

If you’re worried about anything, they are plenty of people you can talk to and they just provide help in general. All the teachers are so supportive and it’s a really nice friendly environment. 

I’d say don’t be scared to try new things, and try and go out of your comfort zone. 

Junior College is a provision for those currently in Year 9 to study Art and Media across two years, whilst also preparing for their GCSE’s. For students like Dylan, who have a real passion for these areas, it’s a great next step before their time in post-16 education.  

To learn more and to apply, visit our Junior College page.