for Work, LEARNING LIFE and Beyond Adult Education
Adult Education Contents
Whether you’re looking to develop new life skills, progress in your current role, are considering a career change, or pursuing a personal interest, Milton Keynes College is here to empower, inspire and support you at every stage.
We provide a wide variety of part-time and full-time qualifications, with flexible options including daytime, evening, and online classes. From vocational training, adult apprenticeships and employability skills training to Higher Education and professional certificates, there’s a pathway to suit your goals and lifestyle.
Your journey to learning for work, life and beyond starts here!
Open Events
Open Events provide the perfect opportunity for you to meet our expert adult course tutors, explore our state-of-the-art facilities, and receive personalised guidance to help you plan your next steps to success.
Scan QR code for dates and details of our events.
Our Campuses
Study with us and you’ll experience some incredible teaching facilities across our two central campuses.
We have made significant investments to create industry standard facilities, which will help ensure your time and experience here with us at the College is the best that it can be.
Dedicated study spaces
Complete your assignments by dropping into our learning centre to study, borrow a tablet or log on to a computer. Each of our campuses have dedicated Study Spaces which provide you with access to a wide range of resources and a study environment with helpful staff.
Getting to campus
Regardless of which campus you are studying at, there are lots of ways to get to college. Both of our campuses are centrally located and easily accessed by public transport. As public transport routes are subject to change, we have created a handy guide for you at mkcollege.ac.uk/travel
LIFE AT MK COLLEGE
Careers, Information, Advice, and Guidance
Throughout your time with us, impartial careers and course guidance is available from our dedicated Careers and Futures Team. If you have any questions or you want to discuss choices you have made please contact our Careers and Futures Team who will support you with your next steps.
You can contact the Careers Team on: 01908 684456 careersteam@mkcollege.ac.uk
Still have questions?
Embracing our vibrant community
Milton Keynes College has a diverse culture that is fully inclusive, we believe in embracing difference, challenging prejudice and in the fair treatment of all. We welcome students from all backgrounds and communities.
If you still have questions about studying at Milton Keynes College please contact us at admissionsandenrolments@mkcollege.ac.uk, 01908 684551 or visit us at one of our upcoming open events. To register visit mkcollege.ac.uk/open-events
COURSE MATRIX
Subject Part-time Full-time University Level
Access to Higher Education
Business & Accounting
Adult English
Adult maths
Creative & Digital Arts
Construction
Digital Technologies, Computing & IT
Education & Childcare
Electrical
Engineering
ESOL (Adults)
COURSE MATRIX
Subject Part-time Full-time University Level
Hair
Health
Leadership & Management
Motor Vehicle
Music
Online Learning
Performing Arts
Professional Courses
Public Services
Sport
LEVELS EXPLAINED ENTRY-2:
Entry Level
Description: Focuses on the essential knowledge and life skills needed for starting your career and/or educational journey.
Equivalent Grades: Below GCSE.
Type of Student: Ideal for those who need to build confidence in their learning abilities, have limited to no prior education and learners with limited English language skills.
Course Examples: ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages), Maths Functional Skills, Living and Working in the UK.
Level 1
Description: Provides a solid introduction to a subject or industry. Level 1 courses cover basic knowledge, practical skills and essential life skills such as communication, numeracy, and problem-solving.
Equivalent Grades: GCSE grades 3, 2, 1 (D, E, F, G),
Type of Student: Suitable for learners who are new to education or returning after a long break. These courses often attract adults looking to improve essential skills like literacy, numeracy and digital, are looking to progress to further study or find entry level employment.
Course Examples: AAT Level 1 in Business Skills, Skills Academy, Level 1 in Painting & Decorating.
Level 2
Description: Designed to help adults build confidence and upskill in key subjects such as English, maths, and vocational areas, laying the groundwork for further study or work-based training.
Equivalent Grades: GCSE grades 9-4 (A*-C), BTEC and NVQs.
Type of Student: Ideal for those who have completed Level 1 and are ready to progress to Level 2. Suitable for adults looking to return to education, improve job prospects or considering a career change.
Course Examples: AAT Level 2 in Accounting, Level 2 in Barbering, Level 2 in Nail Treatments.
LEVELS EXPLAINED
3-5
Level 3
Description: Ideal for adults looking to build advanced skills and knowledge. Level 3 courses can provide practical and theoretical learning to support career development, further study, or personal growth.
Equivalent Grades: Access to HE, A Levels and NVQs.
Type of Student: Great for adults returning to education after a break, career changers seeking new opportunities, and individuals aiming to gain vocational or academic knowledge in a specific field.
Course Examples: Access to HE Diploma in Engineering, Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills, CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice, NCFE Level 3 Award in Education and Training.
Level 4
Description: Offer adults an opportunity to deepen their understanding and practical abilities, acting as a stepping stone to senior roles or further university study.
Equivalent Grades: First year of university (foundation degree), Higher Apprenticeship.
Type of Student: Ideal for a wide range of learners, including career changers looking to enter a new field, mature students returning to education, and those progressing from Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels, BTECs, or Access to HE Diplomas. Level 4 courses also suit working professionals seeking to advance their careers with higher-level skills, as well as vocational learners aiming to develop practical, job-ready expertise.
Course Examples: HNC in Construction Management, AAT Level 4 Diploma in Professional Accounting, HNC in Games Development.
Level 5
Description: Designed for adults seeking to strengthen their expertise, develop leadership skills, or gain specialised knowledge to progress in their careers or continue to higher qualifications.
Equivalent Grades: Second year of university.
Type of Student: Suited for a diverse range of adult learners including experienced professionals looking to specialise or advance, career changers and part-time student balancing work, life and study, as well as those preparing to move on to degree-level study or other professional qualifications.
Course Examples: HND in Digital Technologies - Cyber & Networking, CIPD Level 5 Diploma in Management and Leadership, HND in Public Services, NCFE Level 5 Diploma in Teaching (Further Education and Skills).
“My English teacher has been very helpful. The way she teaches, she adapts to people’s unique ways of learning. She takes the fear off you – she helps and guides you, it’s very encouraging.”
Stella Asante
To find out more about Stella’s story scan the QR code.
Our Community Courses are designed to be inclusive, easy to access, catering to people aged 19+ and from all backgrounds to help develop new life skills and open doors to new opportunities in education or employment.
Our ESOL courses are particularly popular among individuals with limited English proficiency, providing essential skills for daily life, such as booking medical appointments, supporting children with homework, job searching, and improving confidence in English communication. Additionally, our basic maths and English courses are tailored for those without formal qualifications, offering practical skills for everyday tasks like shopping, paying bills and home improvement projects.
We also offer Essential Digital Skills, “Tea and Tech” sessions, which have been well-received within the community, helping people to navigate online banking, book medical appointments, shop online, and manage other basic digital tasks.
Course Areas:
• ESOL
• Essential Digital Skills
• Literacy Skills/English
Why study with us;
COMMUNITY COURSES
• Numeracy Skills/maths
• Tea and Tech
• Fitness and Exercise for Healthy Ageing
Accessible courses: Our courses are conveniently taught within the local community.
Friendly learning environment: Enjoy learning in small, welcoming groups. Free of charge: There is no cost to enrol*.
Connect with others: Meet and engage with like-minded individuals. Enhance career prospects: Improve your employment opportunities.
Almost all of our community based short courses are free* of charge and are aimed at people who:
Are not currently in work and/or on benefits, and looking to develop new skills, ideas and advice.
Are looking to gain skills and confidence to progress to higher level college courses.
Want to gain skills that will help with volunteering and working within their home and community.
*Eligibility criteria applies
ONLINE LEARNING
Our online learning courses offer the perfect opportunity to up-skill, re-skill, or simply explore new interests, all from the comfort of your own home. With a wide range of Level 2 and some Level 3 courses available, there’s something for everyone.
Our courses are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to study at your own pace and around your existing commitments. Whether you’re balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, this is learning that can fit into your lifestyle.
And the best part? These courses are completely free* for eligible learners and are assessed through a variety of written assessments, making it easier than ever to achieve your educational goals.
Course areas include:
Business
Childcare
Education
Health & Social Care
English & maths
Microsoft Office
You can start any of our online courses at a time that suits you, any time of the year.
Scan the QR for more information
Are you ready to embark on a new educational journey while balancing life’s other commitments?
Our part-time campus-based adult college courses are designed to support you every step of the way. With flexible learning options, including evening and weekend classes, you can pursue your passions in a way that works for you.
Join a vibrant and diverse community of learners in a welcoming and supportive environment. Our dedicated staff and resources are here to help you thrive, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.
We offer part-time courses in a wide range of areas, including:
Business and Accounting
Construction
Creative and Digital Arts
Digital Technologies,
Computing & IT
Education & Childcare
Did you know...
Engineering
English and maths
Health & Social Care
Leadership & Management
Sport
We have a variety of funding options available, making it easier for you to invest in your future.
PARTTIME Campus Based Courses
“The course has benefitted me by increasing my confidence, and making me realise that you can take on new challenges and complete or start studying at any age.”
Fay
To find out more about Fay’s story scan the QR code.
Typical careers
Chartered and Certified Accountants
£30,450 - £65,590
Bookkeepers, Payroll Managers and Wages Clerk
£18,200 - £39,200
Cyber Security Professionals
£29,440 - £63,410
Civil Engineers
£29,590 - £63,730
Enhance your career prospects with a free qualification designed to build on your existing strengths. Whether you’re looking to advance in your current industry, secure better job opportunities, or pivot to a new career path, the Government-funded ‘Free Courses for Jobs’ programme offers courses in sectors with identified skills needs.
The qualifications could help you:
• Gain skills that employers value.
• Improve your job prospects.
• Earn a higher wage.
Courses available: :
• AAT Level 3 Advanced Diploma in Accounting
FREE COURSES for Jobs
• Level 3 Certificate in Cyber Security Practices
• Level 3 Certificate in AI Programming Using Python
• Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Autism
• Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health
• Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of Dementia Care
• Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills
• Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement
• Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry for the Early Years Workforce
• Level 3 Technical Occupational Entry for Teaching Assistants
• Level 3 Technical Specialist in Electric/Hybrid Vehicle System Repair and Replacement
• Level 3 Technical Specialist in Automotive Refrigerant Handling
You can apply to enrol on one of our free Level 3 qualifications if you:
• Are 19 or over and do not already have a Level 3 qualification
• Already have a level 3 qualification or higher, but earn a salary of below of £25,000pa
• Already have a level 3 qualification or higher but are unemployed
• Meet funding residency requirements and course entry level requirements
Our higher-level apprenticeships offer an excellent alternative to studying a degree-level course at university and are suitable for people of all ages looking to advance their knowledge and skills.
What is an Apprenticeship?
If you’re keen to get into the world of work and learn key skills on the job, then an adult apprenticeship could be the perfect route to kickstart your career. It can take from one to four years to complete, depending on the qualification, and involves part-time study at the South Central Institute of Technology, alongside working with an employer. There’s no upper age limit to study an apprenticeship, so it’s perfect if you’re leaving school, looking to make a career change, or to upskill in your current role.
ADULT APRENTICESHIPS
Benefits of Studying an Adult Apprenticeship
Earn as you learn: Apprentices are employees too, which means you’ll get a salary while gaining work experience.
Nationally recognised training: You’ll get training that’s recognised and valued by employers.
No student debt: You won’t pay tuition fees, so there’s no student debt to worry about. You’re entitled to student discounts too!
Career prospects: You can improve your career prospects by gaining a recognised credential and a network of contacts in your chosen industry.
“At first, I considered just getting a job and learning as I go. But then I
realised that with an apprenticeship, I could work, learn and earn a qualification at the end.”
Dan Burton, Level 2 Carpentry Apprenticeship
What is the South Central Institute of Technology?
We provide university level education in Milton Keynes for a new generation of digital visionaries. In a time where the world and careers are shifting, keeping up has never been more important.
As a project led by Milton Keynes College Group, working with a consortium of world-leading brands including Microsoft, KPMG, Activate Learning, and Cranfield University and part of the national Institutes of Technology – we’re always one step ahead of the game.
Why choose us?
Our tutors have a range of industry experience and expertise to enhance your learning and our new state of the art buildings are designed to meet your needs.
Our courses are more cost-efficient than studying a standard honours degree programme and offer work-based practical skills and theory to develop your knowledge in Digital Technologies and the IT Industry.
Not only will you have technical expertise, but you’ll also graduate with a host of employability skills such as communication, teamwork, and resilience – to name a few.
South Central Institute of Technology
Our Partners:
Although studying as an adult may seem expensive, there is lots of financial support available.
If you’ve not already worked out how you’re going to pay for your studies, now is the perfect time to start as you will need to have this finalised by the time you enrol onto your chosen course.
Are you eligible for a fee waiver?
Level 1 Entitlement
Students who do not hold a full Level 2 qualification but intend to progress to one in the future may be eligible for free tuition to achieve a Level 1 qualification. You may be eligible for this entitlement if you match all the following criteria: you are aged 19-23, you are a home fee payer, you intend to commit to a full Level 2 qualification in the future, you do not currently hold a full Level 2 qualification.
Level 2 Entitlement
Applicants aged 19-23 who do not already have a full Level 2 qualification or equivalent, may be entitled to free tuition to achieve a full Level 2 qualification.
FUNDING FOR ADULTS
Level 3 Entitlement
Applicants aged 19-23 who do not already have a full Level 3 qualification, may be entitled to free tuition for a full Level 3 qualification.
If you think you may be eligible, please contact the Admissions and Enrolments Team on 01908 684551.
Please note that all funding is subject to change as per the ESFA funding rules.
Paying in Instalments
You may have the option to spread the cost into regular instalments. Please contact our Admissions and Enrolments Team on 01908 684551 to discuss.
Employer Sponsorship
Some programmes which are not eligible for government funding may be able to be paid for through your employer. If this is the case you can get the details of how this works through the Admissions Team on 01908 684551
ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION
Perhaps you’ve spent some time away from education – working, raising a family or simply deciding what to do next. Whether you’re considering a career change, revisiting a subject you found challenging in the past or want to explore learning for personal growth and leisure, our Access to Higher Education courses could be perfect for you,
These nationally recognised Level 3 Access courses combine subject knowledge with study techniques, preparing adults for Higher Education and provide a solid foundation in academic knowledge and essential study skills to help you progress with confidence.
Delivered part-time, the courses offer flexibility to fit around work, family and life’s commitments and our friendly, experienced staff support adult learners in changing direction and achieving their goals.
Access to HE Course areas include:
• Access to HE – Business
• Access to HE – Counselling
• Access to HE – Criminology
• Access to HE – Engineering
• Access to HE - Healthcare Professions
• Access to HE - Psychology
• Access to HE – Social Sciences
• Access to HE – Teaching and Education
Typical careers
Youth and Community Workers
£18,860 - £40,620
Finance and Investment Analysts
£26,410 - £56,880
Clinical Psychologist
£23,600 - £50,840
Mechanical Engineers
£27,600 - £59,450
Scan the QR code for more information
“I chose Milton Keynes College because it offered me a good work life balance. I was able to study, work, and be a mother at the same time.” Afua Berko, Former Access to Healthcare Professions Student
Pursuing Higher Education at college offers a distinctive route for professional adults aiming to progress their careers through practical, industry-relevant learning.
Choosing Higher Education at college empowers you to realise your potential, achieve recognised qualifications, and confidently pursue leadership and career advancement. Unlike traditional university study, colleges provide a supportive, cost-effective and flexible environment, enabling you to balance your studies with work and personal commitments. With smaller class sizes and personalised support, your learning experience is tailored to be engaging, relevant, and aligned with your professional goals.
University level course areas include:
• Engineering
• Construction
UNIVERSITY LEVEL COURSES
• Digital Technologies
• Public Services
• Early Years
• Sports
Typical careers
Mechanical Engineers
£27,910 - £60,120
Content Developer
£26,840 - £57,800
IT Manager
£33,070 - £70,230
Sports Manager
£21,540 - £46,390
Student Loans
When studying a university level qualification there are two main associated costs; tuition fees and living costs. Although Higher Education may seem expensive, there are lots of funding options available to help you while you are studying. Plus, attending college is often more affordable than enrolling in a typical university.
If you are applying for student finance to cover your tuition fees, it is important that you have applied for this and have received your entitlement letter prior to attending enrolment. We recommend that you apply for your student finance as early as possible.
To find out more visit www.gov.uk/apply-for-student-finance
Tuition Fee Loan
You may be eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan from Student Finance England which is repayable after you graduate and earn over £25,000 a year. This loan is paid directly to the college or university in instalments throughout the year to cover your course fees.
Maintenance Loan
A Maintenance Loan is available from Student Finance England to help with living costs such as rent, food, books, travel and other expenses while you’re studying. The amount available depends on where you live, where you study and your annual household income. You don’t pay it back until after you graduate and earn over £25,000 a year. An extra Maintenance Loan may also be available to individuals that meet certain criteria.
Whether you are funding your course yourself, or if your course fees are being funded by your employer, you may also benefit from these extra initiatives:
FUNDING FOR UNIVERSITY LEVEL COURSES
Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs)
If you require support for an additional need, such as dyslexia you could apply for Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs).
If you would like to discuss any additional support needs further, contact the Student Development & Support Team on 01908 684155 or by emailing ineedsupport@mkcollege.ac.uk
You can find out more and apply for the DSAs online at www.yourdsa.com
Additional Financial Support
If you are joining a Higher Education course having completed a Level 3 programme at Milton Keynes College, you may be eligible for the continuing students grant of £500 to be paid in two instalments over the course of the year.
In addition, we understand that life can be unpredictable and on occasion, our learners may find themselves in need of a little extra help. Dependent upon your circumstances, you can apply for aid through our discretionary support fund should you find yourself in need of assistance in meeting the costs associated with attending college.
For more information on how to access financial support, contact our Bursary Team on 01908 684364 or by emailing bursary@mkcollege.ac.uk
STUDENTS of theYEAR
ACCESS TO HIGHER EDUCATION AWARD JAY
SPARKS
Jay’s journey at the College has been marked by resilience and a commitment to making a difference in the field of mental health. With a strong interest in understanding mental health conditions, driven by his personal experiences and a strong desire to help those suffering, he is determined to pursue a career in the NHS. Inspired by his daughter, he is pursuing an Access to Higher Education Health Professions course, where he has achieved distinctions in all his assignments so far. He is committed to promoting awareness and helping others with their mental health. His tutors find his dedication and passion for mental health nursing truly inspiring.
Over the past decade, Jay has faced his own mental health challenges and supported his two daughters after the loss of his wife. His personal experiences, as well as his daughters’ struggles have given him a unique insight and empathy for those suffering from mental health illnesses. Jay believes that the role of a Mental Health Professional is to understand and promote awareness in a diverse setting, where mental health is often misunderstood or ignored. With exceptional communication skills, Jay has shown exceptional support to his peers. He has enjoyed group work at the College, enjoys leadership roles and consistently encourages and uplifts others, fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. As a class representative, he is involved with meetings with students and College management to discuss successes and improvements related to the course. His commitment to these discussions demonstrates his dedication to creating a supportive educational experience for everyone. Jay has successfully secured a place to study Mental Health Nursing at university.
Sherwood Drive, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK3 6DR