EKC Folkestone College Builds on Success of Innovative Employer Advisory Boards

Real Workforce Needs

Local employers are continuing to play a key role in shaping the curriculum at EKC Folkestone College as the College continues its innovative Employer Advisory Boards. After a successful first round earlier this year, the Employer Advisory Boards are an opportunity for industry experts to collaborate with the College so that learners have the latest tools and knowledge to thrive.

The initiative, introduced by the Principal of EKC Folkestone College, Clare Brown, also aims ensure the curriculum reflects real workforce needs. Each Employer Advisory Board brings together sector-specific employers for courses offered at EKC Folkestone College. These include catering, construction, hair and beauty, sports, health and social care, early years, multimedia and virtual gaming design.



The College has now set a regular schedule for the meetings after their success, and has expanded to all curriculum areas within the College. Kat Desjardins, Head of Marketing and Communications at the Leas Cliff Hall, attended one of the sessions, and said: “I think the boards are really important because in an ever-changing world, it’s crucial for both the learning environment and the professional environment to see how each sector is working.

“The students obviously learn a huge amount on their course, but then businesses have to help apply that information to what they will be doing in industry. “It’s really valuable, and it helps employers as well to understand what students are going through, and the differences in experiences compared to when they were in education.”

The Employer Advisory Board’s are an inspiring opportunity for educators to connect learning to real world practice. “When we’re teaching students in the classroom, when you’ve got a real life local employer that has set you active briefs that they want to help.with, it adds so much more purpose into what you’re already teaching the students,” said Jennifer Manoli, a T Level Business lecturer at EKC Folkestone College. “You get so much more from the learners that way.” For employers, the boards give them a chance to play an active part in the skills needed locally. Leon Foissy is the General Manager at Rocksalt, a popular restaurant in Folkestone. He says that employers have a responsibility to bridge the gap between education, and the realities of work.

“For me, taking part in the Colleges’ Employer Advisory Board is about helping shape the future of hospitality in our local area,” Leon said. “By sharing our experience, we can help ensure students leave college with not only the technical skills they need, but also the confidence, professionalism and work ethic that make them truly industry-ready. “At Rocksalt, we're passionate about championing local talent and creating opportunities for young people to build rewarding careers in hospitality. Being involved with the Advisory Board allows us to contribute to the curriculum, offer meaningful work placements and ensure the next generation understands the standards and values expected in a modern, high-quality restaurant.” Beyond giving back, the benefits to employers and their businesses are also immense. Leon added: “It also creates a valuable pipeline of local talent.

Through work placements and industry engagement, we can identify enthusiastic individuals early, support their development and build relationships long before they're looking for full-time roles. “Taking part also strengthens our team. Our chefs and managers gain valuable mentoring experience, while our involvement demonstrates that Rocksalt is committed to investing in people and the wider community, something that's increasingly important to both employees and guests. “Ultimately, it's a partnership that benefits everyone. The college develops students with relevant, real-world skills, young people gain valuable  opportunities and businesses like Rocksalt help secure a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future."

EKC Group is continuing to encourage more employers across Ashford, Broadstairs, Canterbury, Dover, Folkestone and Sheppey to collaborate with their local college. Any businesses interested in supporting curriculum development, offering placements, or engaging with local students are invited to contact their nearest EKC Group college or visit ekcgroup.ac.uk/employers to find out more.