Staff Spotlight: Michelle Landymore, Head of Employability

At EKC Training, we offer a range of courses designed to help adults get back into work, change careers, or gain new skills to support their current roles.

Whether you’ve taken time out due to parenting, life circumstances, or simply want a fresh start, our courses can help you take the next step. Our ‘Get Into’ courses are even free for those on a low income or currently unemployed. If you’re interested in funding eligibility, don’t hesitate to get in touch. 

To give you more insight into EKC Training, we spoke with Michelle, Head of Employability at EKC Training’s Canterbury, Dover, and Folkestone centres. She shared her background, advice for students, and what she loves most about her role. 

Michelle, can you tell us about your background? 

Hello, my name is Michelle, and I’ve been part of EKC Group for 11 years. I started as a Functional Skills English and Maths lecturer and, three years ago, was promoted internally to Head of EKC Training at Dover, Folkestone, and Canterbury. 

Can you tell us about the courses available? 

We offer a variety of courses across our three locations. Our main programmes include Functional Skills in English and Maths, and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages). We also provide Digital Functional Skills, such as Beginners ICT, and sector specific ‘Get Into’ courses in areas like Education and Health and Social Care. 

What advice would you give to students thinking about enrolling? 

You’re never too old to learn. Whether you want to upskill, switch careers, or even just help your children with their homework. We’re here to support you every step of the way. Our staff are incredibly dedicated, and our students become part of a close-knit learning community. 

Many of our learners return year after year or recommend us to friends because of the positive experience they’ve had. Studying with us is about more than just education, it’s about becoming part of an adult learning community, and for most students, it’s completely free. We also work with organisations like the NHS and Shorncliffe Army Barracks, helping soldiers achieve their Level 2 English qualification in just four weeks. We’re flexible, adaptable, and committed to helping every student reach their potential. 

What would you say to someone worried about fitting study into their busy life? 

Our courses are designed to be flexible. If you’re studying English, Maths, or ESOL, it’s usually just one class per week. The courses are short, 12 weeks for English and 19 weeks for Maths, and we ensure that students have time to study during lessons. We also provide online resources, so learners can work around their schedules. Parents, for example, can even practice certain topics, like fractions, alongside their children’s homework. Our goal is to make learning as accessible as possible. 

What’s your favourite thing about teaching? 

Seeing students achieve their goals. There’s nothing more rewarding than witnessing a ‘light bulb’ moment – when a student who once struggled with a topic suddenly understands it. I’ve had students who thought they could never grasp percentages, and then one day, they walk into a shop and work out a discount on their own! 

Many of our learners have faced barriers in traditional education, and our small class sizes allow us to provide the tailored support they need. I love seeing students’ progress, whether it’s reaching Level 2 or moving on to an Apprenticeship, like those training to become nurses. The satisfaction of helping them succeed is why I love what I do. 

How successful are students at EKC Dover Training Centre? 

We are above the national average for success rates. Our courses are structured over just 12 weeks, so our students can progress quickly, sometimes moving from Entry Level to Level 2 within a single academic year. Many other institutions take a full year for this, but our fast-track approach helps students achieve their goals sooner. 

Even if someone doesn’t pass the first time, their journey isn’t over. We offer one-to-one support, revision sessions, and opportunities to retake the course. Our priority is ensuring that every student gets the help they need to succeed. 

What do you love most about the Dover Training Centre? 

Dover Training Centre may be in an older building, but the high ceilings and natural light create a welcoming atmosphere. One of the best things about it is that it’s an adult-only environment so learners don’t have to worry about sharing space with younger students. 

There’s a real sense of community here. Our learners support one another, meet for coffee outside of class, and continue learning together beyond their first course. Many start with English, then move on to Maths or a ‘Get Into’ course. It’s not just about gaining qualifications—it’s about the whole experience of learning and growing together. 

Michelle’s passion for education and her commitment to student success are at the heart of EKC Training. If you’re considering taking a course, remember, there’s no age limit on learning, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Get in touch to find out more about the opportunities available.