We spoke to Shaun McDonagh, Head of EKC Plumbing and Electrical Training Centre, located in Ashford, about his role and the exciting new developments at the Centre.
What is your background in the Plumbing and Electrical trade?
Before teaching I was ‘on the tools’ since 1994! I have industry experience and understand what is expected of a Plumber or Electrician, which is helpful for when learners are applying for jobs or need advice. We are lucky to have Lectures with years of experience in the industry and running their own businesses teaching our learners.
Can you tell us about your teaching experience?
I started teaching Plumbing and Multi Skills at EKC Broadstairs College in 2018. After a couple of years, I became the Programme Director of Plumbing and Electrical Services. I was focused on ensuring the learners developing the skills they need to succeed in their trades after College. In 2022, I saw the job role for Head of Centre in Ashford and thought it would be a great opportunity. A year and a half later, here I am!
Being able to equip our students with skills ready for the future of renewable energy is crucial. Due to this, we recently built the Green Skills provision which provides learners with the opportunity to practice with the latest technologies.
What is your advice for an Adult Learner who feels nervous about coming back to education?
If you’re interested in joining us watch out for taster sessions which are run at different points throughout the year. You’ll find that once you get into the College, you’ll realise it’s a supportive environment, which is very different to what you remember about School. These sessions are always in small groups and really enjoyed by the attendees.
We are very flexible with learners; we understand that as an adult you’ll have external commitments, so if you need to pick up children from school or have any other caring responsibilities, we help you fit your learning around your life.
We also offer a range of evening classes, so you can gain new qualifications whilst you are still working.
One of our students had been out of education for 40 years before joining us, and he told me recently that he has learnt more in the five weeks here than he ever did at school!
What do you enjoy most about your job role?
Seeing the students excel in the industry is really rewarding. Last year, we had nine adults successfully move into the industry. Four of these learners were previously not employed, and most of them come to see us in their company vans!
Seeing the learners develop both personally and professionally over the course is my favourite thing about the job.
What are your plans for the Green Skills Provision at EKC Plumbing and Electrical Training Centre?
Renewable energy is the future – and that’s why we’ve developed this initiative.
Our goal is to equip learners with the skills to work with cutting-edge technologies, including Air Source, Ground Source, Solar Thermal, and Infrared Systems. Our current students are progressing through the programme and will complete their end-point assessments specialising in one of these renewable energy heating solutions.
Did you know?
We offer evening classes to help you achieve a range of qualifications.
Learn more about the EKC Plumbing and Electrical Training Centre.
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