From student to staff: Kai turns his passion for music into a career
After joining Barnsley College as a 16-year-old student, Kai Brown has transformed his passion for music into a career and is now helping the next generation of students as a Technician in the College’s Music department.
Kai first joined the College in September 2022, beginning his journey through Learning for Living and Work alongside studying Music and completing his Functional Skills in Maths.
Having found secondary school challenging, Kai was initially unsure about making the move to College. However, the opportunity to learn in a different environment and focus on a subject he was passionate about encouraged him to take the first step.
“Music is my passion. It’s been a massive part of my life since I was young, particularly rock and metal music.
“I’d heard from people that College was different to school and that you had more independence. I was hesitant at first, but I thought it could open doors for me, so I decided to give it a go.”
As his confidence and skills developed, Kai progressed through his studies before moving onto the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Music Production, which he completed in 2026.
Working in the College’s studios gave Kai the opportunity to develop practical production skills and learn how to use professional equipment.
“I really enjoyed working in the studio and the more technical elements of music. Production appealed to me because I could work on individual projects and develop those technical skills.”
Building experience alongside his studies
Kai’s progression was not limited to the classroom. In 2024, while still a student, he began volunteering in the Music department on his days away from his course.
Working alongside the department’s technical staff and using the skills developed on his Music Production course, he gained experience preparing equipment, supporting the studios and helping with the day-to-day running of the department.
“I started volunteering because I wasn’t completely sure what I wanted to do. I thought it would be a good way to get my foot in the door and see where it could lead.
“By the time I applied for the Technician role, I already had the experience and knowledge of what the job involved. When I got the job, it felt like I’d never really left. I’d finished being a student and carried straight on as a member of staff.”
Supporting students who are where he once was
For Kai, one of the most rewarding parts of his role is supporting students facing familiar challenges.
“I get to help people who are in the position I was in. They might be less experienced, still learning how College works or trying to work out what they want to do.
“I got that support when I was 16, so now it’s nice that I can help someone else along the way. I can see things from their perspective because I’ve been there myself.
“As a student, a lot of things just happen for you and you don’t necessarily see everything that goes into it.
“Now I get to see behind the scenes and work as part of the team to help students and create a good environment for them to learn in.”
Being autistic and visually impaired has meant that Kai has sometimes faced additional barriers, but through his studies, volunteering and determination to develop his skills, he has found a role that suits his strengths and interests.
“I’ve been able to land on my feet in a dream job that I love doing. It’s basically exactly what I wanted.
“When I look back at how I’ve come from being a 16-year-old student in September 2022 to actually working here now, it’s nice because I can see that I made it.
“I’m really happy with where I am, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
