Learning from the experts: Employer and guest speakers talk to students throughout the year

Throughout the past year, students across our College have been learning from employers, alumni, and industry professionals who have shared their expertise, experiences, and advice for success.

From award-winning chefs and celebrity stylists to engineering professionals and sustainability specialists, these experiences have helped students connect their studies to the world of work while building valuable industry insight.

Here are just some of the professionals who have inspired our students.

Hospitality expertise from GALLO Winery 

Professional Cookery students welcomed Jason Morrison from Riso Gallo UK, who delivered an engaging session exploring one of Italy’s most iconic ingredients – risotto rice. 

Drawing on his industry expertise, Jason introduced students to the history and versatility of risotto, sharing practical tips and techniques for achieving consistently high-quality results. The session gave learners a deeper understanding of ingredient selection, preparation methods and how quality produce can elevate a dish. 

Sporting success stories 

Sport and Leisure students heard from a range of guest speakers who each brought a different perspective on careers within sport.

Former student Jasmine Wood returned to share her journey from EKC Broadstairs College to earning a sports scholarship at university, to now coaching football. She is proving anything is possible with hard work and determination.

Students also welcomed Joe Taylor, Scott Tift, Charlotte Richardson and Amanda Roberts from Sports Connect UK, who shared their own career experiences, industry knowledge, and practical advice, helping students better understand the many opportunities available within the sport and leisure sector. 

Engineering experience

Engineering students welcomed Kevin and Donald from the Canterbury and District Model Engineering Society, who shared their passion and expertise in engineering. 

Drawing on decades of experience, they demonstrated engineering principles in action while discussing precision, problem-solving, and the practical application of engineering skills, giving students another perspective on where their studies could take them.

Hair and Beauty professionals share industry tips

Hair and Beauty students enjoyed an exciting programme of guest speakers and practical demonstrations throughout the year. 

The team from Cuts Inc Salon visited the College to share their industry expertise. Salon owner Chris Cole, who has worked closely with the College for many years, brought along stylists Ethan and Zak to speak about their careers, including opportunities to work at London Fashion Week and with luxury fashion brand Burberry. They also demonstrated techniques including creating the perfect ponytail and a vintage glamour wave. 

Students also welcomed former EKC Broadstairs College student Laura Gosman, who delivered an inspiring bridal hair masterclass. After demonstrating her techniques, Laura reflected on her own career, which has included working with Chanel and at London Fashion Week, giving learners a first-hand insight into the exciting opportunities available within the industry. 

Adding to an already impressive line-up, celebrity hair stylist Vicki Lord visited Level 2 Hair students to discuss her career, including styling artists such as Macy Gray! 

Creative industry insight

Creative and Media students at our Margate Digital Campus had the opportunity to hear from some of the biggest names in the creative industries, gaining valuable insight into careers in broadcasting, digital media and design. 

Representatives from Channel 4 and 4Creative shared their experiences of working in the television industry, giving students an inside look at careers in broadcasting, content creation and the many opportunities available behind the scenes.

Margate Digital Campus also welcomed the Adobe Education Team, who explored how industry-leading creative software is shaping careers across design, photography, film and digital media. During their visit, the team met with students, discussed how they use Adobe’s creative tools and praised the state-of-the-art facilities at the Campus.  

Putting sustainability into practice

It hasn’t just been specific curriculum areas who have benefited from guest speakers. This year, our College has continued to honour its commitment to sustainability with a range of sessions to raise awareness of green energies. 

Representatives from Countrystyle Recycling visited campus to discuss recycling, waste management and the role the industry plays in helping the UK work towards net zero emissions. Students heard how carbon reduction, green energy and responsible waste management all contribute to creating a more sustainable future, while discovering how small everyday actions can make a significant difference. 

The College also took part in an Earth Day Green Jobs cross-college live link-up, where students connected with industry experts to explore the growing number of careers helping to tackle climate change and support the transition to a greener economy. 

These are just some of the many employers, alumni, and industry professionals who have supported our students throughout the academic year. 

Whether through guest talks, live demonstrations, practical workshops or employer collaborations, these experiences give our students valuable insight into their chosen industries, strengthen their professional networks and help prepare them for their next steps. 

Thank you to every guest speaker who has generously given their time to inspire our learners throughout the year. Their knowledge and experience continue to play an important role in helping our students build the confidence, skills and ambition to succeed in their future careers. 

If you’re an employer, alumni or industry professional and interested in collaborating with us to support the next generation, click here.