Our EKC Canterbury College has a possible case of meningitis. We have written to all students, but if you have not seen the letter, you can view a copy by clicking on the 'more information' button below.
Please note, our Colleges and Training Centres remain open, and students should attend as normal.
Every year, hundreds of learners from East Kent Colleges Group (EKC Group), North Kent College and MidKent College go head‑to‑head in KFE4Skills – a vibrant showcase of the very best in vocational talent across the county.
Organised by Kent Further Education, KFE4Skills is officially endorsed by WorldSkills UK, the global skills movement championing excellence in technical education.
Students compete across a wide range of disciplines, including Trades, Creative Industries and Professional Services, putting their training to the test against peers from across Kent.
This year’s three‑day event was hosted across EKC Canterbury College, North Kent College’s Tonbridge Campus, and MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus, with EKC Group ultimately taking home the overall title with an impressive 43 medals.
Victoria Copp‑Crawley, Deputy CEO of EKC Group, said: “Our collaboration with our KFE partners gives great opportunities for our students to work together, and it allows us to really make sure that we’re celebrating skills across Kent.
“Our students benefit massively from skills competitions, it’s not all about winning, but the lead up gives them a chance to compete at a local level, a Group level and then KFE level.
“It really helps them to showcase their skills, showcase their talent, and build their confidence.”
Jim Mawby, Executive Director for Curriculum and Quality at MidKent College, added: “This competition is a great example of how Kent’s colleges are working together in the interests of students.
“By collaborating across the county, we are broadening opportunities, raising standards and giving students the chance to test themselves in realistic, industry-focused environments.
“What’s particularly encouraging is that this collective approach is helping more young people than ever leave education with the skills, knowledge and practical experience that employers are looking for.
“When colleges work in partnership like this, students benefit from the very best of what each organisation has to offer, helping to strengthen the future workforce across Kent.”
Ava Wright, an EKC Canterbury College student who took home gold in Musical Theatre, said: “The experience at KFE4Skills has been amazing. It’s shown me the reality of what it’s going to be like in the industry.
“Everyone would want to win a medal, and I feel so proud of myself that I’ve gone up there and done that today.”
The competition also represents an opportunity for students to get together with those who are studying similar courses from across the county.
Leah Rhodes, who competed in the Public Services category, said taking part made her proud to represent her college.
She added: “KFE4Skills is important because it gets a lot of young people who are interested in the same careers together, and it’s really nice to get the opportunity to talk to them to find out what they’re interested in.
“Competitions like this give you an opportunity to see what it’s going to be like once you go into your chosen industry.”
Stacie Collings, who is an Assistant Principal at North Kent College believes that skills competitions like KFE4Skills provide an excellent platform for learners to demonstrate their technical ability, creativity, and professionalism in an industry style environment.
She said: “Bringing together students from colleges across Kent highlights the exceptional talent within further education and allows learners to challenge themselves while building confidence in their skills.
“It is inspiring to see so many students take pride in their craft and represent their colleges with such professionalism.”
