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Education and Early Years

Build a foundation for your future in childhood education and develop the in-demand skills needed to work with children aged between 0 and 5 years.

Step into a career in Education and Early Years

If you are interested in working with young children, this area of study will provide you with the first step into a challenging but very rewarding career. You will develop sought-after skills and learn how to support children in the crucial early years which are fundamental to their development and success.

Our qualifications give you the foundation to progress into a range of roles in childcare and education such as Early Years practitioner, Teaching Assistant, Special Educational Needs Officer and Speech and Language Therapist.

 

 

Get Industry Experience

You will benefit from structured work placements, which are an integral part of your qualification. Extensive links with local employers provides access to placement opportunities and real-life training.

We also have our EKC Folkestone Nursery on site, where you can gain even more practical experience during your course.

Excellent Facilities

You will gain practical experience in our training nursery, with access to specialist facilities to give you an understanding of how real childcare centres work.

Our industry-standard equipment includes programmable robots and simulation dolls to develop the skills and knowledge you need to progress into a career in education and early years.

Staff Spotlight – Leanne, Early Years Lecturer

16 July 2024
Meet Leanne, one of our Early Years Lecturers at EKC Folkestone College.

How you apply for a course at EKC Folkestone College

Step 1 – Find a subject you’re interested in

Explore our range of courses and find the one that is right for you.

Step 2 – Apply

Apply via our website and online application portal.

Step 3 – Come to an interview

Come to EKC Folkestone College in person for an applicant day to explore our facilities and meet our team.

Front of the EKC Folkestone College campus

Career prospects

Example:
Primary Education Teaching Professional
£
£40,560
Annual pay
Annual pay is per year, based on full-time employment and on the South East region.
Role description
Primary (and middle school deemed primary) and nursery education teaching professionals plan, organise and provide instruction to children at all levels up to the age of entry into secondary education.
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“I am so happy that I have achieved a Merit in T Level Education and Early Years.

“Now that I have finished College I am going to continue with my part- time job and volunteering with young students.

“In future I would like to progress into a career in teaching and education amongst young students.

“My experience at College has changed me as I have learnt about the industry and gained practical skills whilst in the classroom, as well as my work placement.

“My advice if you are thinking about studying at College is to absolutely go for it and take the next step.

“You will receive the experience and support you need for the future at College.”

Jazmine
T Level Education and Early Years

“The course has been so rewarding and I am excited to continue my learning at Canterbury Christ Church University studying Primary Teaching and Education.

“The course has given me skills and practical experience in early years settings such as my work placement.

“This will be useful in my future career as I would like to become a Primary school teacher.

“For anyone that is considering studying at college I recommend the T Level in Education and Early Years. It will help you prepare for your next steps by receiving great support, hands-on learning and real-life work experience.”

Thalia
T Level Education and Early Years

The course has given me the opportunity to gain real experience in education. I’ve had the chance to ‘try before I buy’ and learn the role of a TA without the pressures of full-time employment which has been really helpful.

Zara Walton
Supporting Teaching and Learning

I was quite apprehensive about coming back into education as an adult. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but our tutor was really welcoming, and the workload has been very manageable. It’s not as scary as you think.

Shelley Godden
Supporting Teaching and Learning

I’ve really enjoyed the course, especially learning more about Special Educational Needs and how we can support SEN students. The course has helped me realise I want to continue studying to become a Forest School Leader.

Ruby Maxwell
Supporting Teaching and Learning

We’re part of six community-based colleges

Our mission is to play a leading role for East Kent in developing the economic and social prosperity of the diverse communities we serve.