What is Junior College?

EKC Folkestone Junior College offers a unique opportunity for young people going into Year 10 (or home school equivalent) who want to specialise in Art and Design and Creative Media. Find out more about our Junior College below.

What is Junior College?

EKC Folkestone Junior College is for those currently in Year 9 who are interested in studying Art and Design, and Creative Media 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 and English, PE, and PSHE (Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education). 
 

Where is Junior College based?

The programme is set within its own area of the EKC Folkestone College campus, with specialised tutors and staff onsite to support, nurture, and teach the students in a small class setting. 

What is the Art and Design, and Creative Media specialism at Junior College?

Students will focus on Art and Design, and Creative Media over the course of the two years. 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 EKC Folkestone 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

“I really enjoy Art and heard that Folkestone Junior College focuses on Art and Business. The lessons have been really fun as we don’t just sit there and get told what to do.

“There’s a bigger focus on how we get to make things and interact with each other.”

– Satya, Junior College student

How do I apply?

Applications are open from 1 December 2024 until 31 March 2025. After applying, students attend a mandatory information session to learn about the programme and its expectations. They then participate in taster sessions that include workshops in their chosen vocational area, baseline assessments in Maths and English, and team-building activities. Both the student and their parent/carer will attend a meeting with a senior representative from EKC Folkestone 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. Applications are open until the end of March for a September 2025 start, so please click here to start the first step in the process.