Sponsored Editorial

The old saying ‘It’s never too late to learn’ has never been truer, thanks to a new government-funded scheme.

EKC Group, which has Colleges in Ashford, Broadstairs, Canterbury, Dover, Folkestone and Sheppey, is inviting anyone aged 19 and over to learn new skills and perfect existing ones.

After a successful bid for the government’s Community Renewal Fund (CRF), adults can now access teaching and facilities at any one of the Group’s sites.

Courses mostly run one day a week for five to six weeks and, depending on their circumstances, learners may be able to receive help with travel costs, childcare, or even a digital device.

Among the vast array of course options are Criminology, Psychology and Politics, as well as Health & Social Care, Early Years and Beauty Treatments.

For fans of DIY, or people just looking to cut down on house maintenance costs, there is also the choice to take Plumbing, Motor Vehicle or Electrical training.

Kirsty McChesney, EKC Group’s Community Renewal Fund Project Director, adds: “If you’ve always wanted to try out a career, or you’re wanting to shop around for a new job or hobby, we’ll also be hosting vocational taster days at our Colleges.

“During these sessions, you’ll get a chance to get hands-on, meet the lecturers and get a glimpse at what you will study during a longer-term course. These are excellent opportunities to get inspired, plus they’re completely free!”

However, travel to the College of your choice is not always necessary as the Group’s EKC DigitalLearn arm is on hand to conduct training programmes virtually.

Due to their online-only nature, these lectures are perfect for anyone who might have accessibility issues, parents of young children or busy work schedules.

With options including Sales Skills, Cyber Security, Introducing GDPR and Coding Design Principles, these fully accredited courses will serve as a great way to boost employability and skills.

Another way EKC Group is benefiting east Kent through the CRF funding is through its EKC IntoWork arm, which is hosting a series of events in communities across the region.

One of the first CRF projects being run by EKC IntoWork is a series of events that will make adult education accessible to more than 300 residents living in Stanhope, Ashford.

Meanwhile EKC WorkHigher is bolstering leadership and management skills such as Presentation Skills, Recruitment, Coaching and Mentoring, and Managing Change. As all CRF programmes are open to everyone over the age of 19, these are also open to employers looking to upskill their staff.

Kirsty noted: “We at EKC Group are excited to invite any and all adults to get involved and try out a course. In our mission to boost our local communities’ Covid-19 recovery, our Community Renewal Fund projects are key to helping people find work or improve their existing skills.

“We hope you’ll join us in working together for a more fulfilling future.”

For more information on the full range of courses on offer click here or email crfenquiries@ekcgroup.ac.uk to get in touch with the Community Renewal Fund team.