MK College School Leaver Guide 24-25

Open Events

Dates

Saturday 11th

November 2023 10am—1pm

Saturday 20th

January 2024 10am—1pm

Tuesday 19th

March 2024 5pm—7pm

Tuesday 7th

May 2024

5pm—7pm

''

My son and I came to your open evening today and I just wanted to say how impressed we both were. All the staff and helpers were so welcoming, happy, smiley, friendly and helpful. The campus was so clean and tidy too. I really hope my son gets a place at your college.

— Parent, Open Event 2022

Open Events are your perfect opportunity to get inspired and figure out if college is the right next step for you.

Come and meet our amazing tutors, check out the facilities, and get career advice and student support — all in one place. Plus, you can see real-life demonstrations from our current students.

Discover the wide range of opportunities at Milton Keynes College and ask any questions you may have.

Open Events take place at our Chaffron Way and Bletchley campuses, check out the subject areas you are interested in as you may need to visit both.

Each location provides a variety of courses to learners of all levels and abilities.

Discover all that’s on offer

Meet the expert tutors

Check out the campuses and facilities

Get career advice

Learn about student support available

See demonstrations from our current students

Checklist for your visit

Visit course areas of interest

Pick up relevant course sheets

Speak to the Careers Team

Speak to the Apprenticeships Team

Get refreshments at The Brasserie, Refectory or coffee shops

Speak to student support

Get a good feel for the place, can you see yourself coming here?

Make an application!

For more information about your visit to the College, head to mkcollegelive.co.uk or scan below

If you need help getting to an Open Event, please contact events@mkcollege.ac.uk

Course Options

With so many exciting possibilities after Levels Explained leaving school, it can be difficult to decide We offer different study options with specialisms which path to take. Get a better understanding at different levels. You only need to apply for your of the options ahead of you and make the best chosen subject, and we will discuss which level is choice for you and your future. best for you during the application process.

Scan to learn more about course levels

Intermediate – Level 1 & 2

Advanced – Level 3

Higher – Level 4 & 5

Skills Academy

Our Skills Academy is designed for you if you don’t quite meet the entry requirements for one of our intermediate programmes and aren’t sure about your next step. The academy gives you the opportunity to choose between studying a different subject area each term, or spend all three terms in your preferred specialism. You will also gain essential employability skills and the opportunity to study English and maths.

Duration: 1 Year

Course Structure

100% college based

Entry requirements

Grade 2 in English and maths, or E3 in Functional Skills English and maths. Alongside this you should also have other GCSEs or vocational qualifications that demonstrate you are ready to study at Level 1.

Assessments

English and maths will be assessed by exams. Industry units will be assessed by coursework portfolios and practical assessments. Where they lead to next Level 2 courses across the College Level 2 Apprenticeships

Employment in entry level roles

Level 1

Study Programmes

These will suit people who want to focus on one professional specialism and want to develop skills that will lead to a specific career straight after college.

Duration: 1-2 years

Course Structure

100% college-based

Entry requirements

Advanced courses require four GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and maths. Intermediate courses have lower requirements and include maths and/or English GCSEs if you haven’t got grade 4 in these already.

T Levels

Assessments

Continuous assessment focusing on industry skills and knowledge. Some courses will have exams.

Where they lead to next Career

Apprenticeships

Further study

University

Level 1-3

A great option if you want to go onto university. T Levels are good for those who have a strong interest in a single subject or career and want to get work experience as well as studying at college.

Duration: 2 years

Course Structure

20% work-based and 80% college-based

Entry requirements

Usually require five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including English, maths and science.

A Levels

Assessments

Exams and practical skills tests.

Where they lead to next Career

Apprenticeships

Further study

University

Level 3

If you enjoy academic study and know that you want to go to university, A Levels are a good route. Or if you aren’t sure on your future career yet, A Levels give you more options with a choice of three subjects.

Duration: 2 years

Course Structure

100% college-based

Entry requirements

There are some minimum GCSE level requirements, please see our website for details of these as they vary by A Level.

Assessments

End of course exams and coursework.

Where they lead to next Apprenticeships

Further study

University

Level 3

Apprenticeships

A good choice if you are ready to start work and be a valuable employee. You can earn a wage and develop professional skills at college and get hands-on work experience with an employer.

Duration: 1 4 years

Course Structure

80% work based and 20% college based

Entry requirements

You are likely to need certain grades to apply and will be interviewed by the employer to get an apprenticeship with them.

Higher Education

Assessments

End Point Assessment which varies by apprenticeship.

Where they lead to next Career Higher

This could be an option if you want to combine industry relevant skills with a University level qualification, giving you a head start on your career development.

Duration: 1 3 years

Course Structure

College based and/or online

Entry requirements

You will usually need a Level 3 qualification (such as A Levels, Level 3 BTEC, or Access to HE Diploma) and GCSEs at grade 4 in English & maths. See website for details.

Assessments

Exams and coursework. Where they lead to next Career

Further Study University

Biology

Business

Catering & Hospitality

Childcare

Construction

Creative

English

English for Speakers of Other

Languages (ESOL)

Hairdressing

Inclusive Learning

Law

Performing Arts

Public Services

Psychology

Science

Sociology

Sports

Chaffron Way

Located in Leadenhall, Chaffron Way is just a short distance from Central Milton Keynes. With industry-standard facilities, Chaffron Way provides a variety of state-of-the-art amenities, including the Innovation & Technology Centre with engineering and construction workshops, a multi-million-pound television studio and production gallery, Black Box Theatre, specialist healthcare and childcare options, and so much more!

Getting here

Woughton Campus West, Leadenhall, Milton Keynes, MK6 5LP

Whether you live in Milton Keynes or further afield, there are plenty of ways to get to campus. You could travel by bus, be dropped off by car or arrive by bike and use our secure bike racks. To find out more information about the different travel routes as well as which route is best for you, visit our Travel to College page at mkcollege.ac.uk/travel

Courses at Chaffron Way Campus

Care Professions

Childcare

Construction

Engineering

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

Games, Animation & Visual Effects

More than just classrooms

Higher Education

Inclusive Learning

Media Production

Music Performance

Performing Arts

College gives you the chance to gain invaluable hands-on training with the latest tech and equipment, to get you ready for the workplace. You’ll also be offered work experience and personal development mentoring during your course. And don't forget the incredible experiences that you can get involved with from social groups, student societies, sports clubs, student of the year awards, subject showcases, and end of year celebrations. Get ready to make the most of your college journey!

Bletchley

At Bletchley Campus, you can unlock the door to success! Our industry-standard facilities include Motor Vehicle workshops, Photography and Graphic Design Studios, a commercial hair and beauty salon, The Graduate, a commercial training restaurant, The Brasserie, and well-equipped gym, at Courtside.

Getting here

Bletchley Campus, Sherwood Drive, Milton Keynes, MK3 6DR

Whether you live in Milton Keynes or further afield, there are plenty of ways to get to campus. You could travel by bus, be dropped off by car or arrive by bike and use our secure bike racks. The campus is also a short walk from Bletchley train station. To find out more information about the different travel routes as well as which route is best for you, visit our Travel to College page at mkcollege.ac.uk/travel

Courses at Bletchley Campus

A Levels

Art & Design

Business

Catering & Hospitality

Digital Technologies

Fashion & Textiles Photography

Graphic Design

Public Services

Hair & Beauty Science

Higher Education

Motor Vehicle

More than just classrooms

Sports

Being at Bletchley means you’ll get to use industry standard tech and equipment to get hands on experience for when you start your career. This could be in our science labs, motor vehicle workshop, photography studio, hair and beauty salons and computer suites — to name just a few. You’ll also be offered work experience and personal development during your course. Plus, you’ll have plenty of extra curricula activities to get involved with — from social groups, student societies, sports clubs, student of the year awards, subject showcases, and end of year celebrations.

A L eve l Pathways

A Levels at MK College give you the best of both worlds. You ’ll combine academic study with the college experience.

Our A Level pathways are designed with your future in mind. You ’ll learn the skills and knowledge you need for universit y or your chosen career. You ’ll also get the added benefits which coming to college brings

You can choose from our three pathways, made up of two A Level subjects plus your choice of a third A Level from the following list:

Subject options:

• M aths A Level

• English A Level

• Business A Level

• Psychology A Level

• Law A Level

Social Sciences Pathway

Social Science is the study of people; as individuals, communities, and the relationships within society. A career in this sector will allow you to research the complex systems between people and the built, technological and natural environments.

Subjects:

Psychology A Level

Sociology A Level

+ your choice from one of the subject options

Where it can take you

Social Sciences cover many industries and career pathways, from business studies and economics, to geography, politics, psychology, and sociology. If you are interested in the link between human behaviour and society, this pathway is for you.

Digital Pathway

The digital sector is continually evolving, offering a variety of exciting jobs: from web design and development, marketing and coding to artificial intelligence and machine learning. There are great opportunities to work with big companies in the digital world. Many of the tech giants are UK-based, including Google, Apple and Facebook.

Subjects:

Computer Science A Level

Business A Level

+ your choice from one of the subject options

Where it can take you

Digital skills are essential to most job roles and are transferable across many sectors. Many IT professionals also choose to work outside the sector, such as in the IT departments of retail, finance, manufacturing and public sector organisations.

Creative Pathway

The creative sector is a thriving industry which boasts a range of exciting and innovative careers that all have creativity at their heart. Many people find job satisfaction and fulfilment in having a job that gives them the opportunity to express their creativity.

Subjects:

Media Studies A Level

English A Level

+ your choice from one of the subject options

Where it can take you

Many careers overlap with the creative sector, from practical roles such as artists, actors or museum curators, to media and digital roles, marketing and PR. Creativity is a key component of many jobs giving you the chance to work for a major company or work for yourself by freelancing.

Why choose A Levels at MK College?

Career Pathways – our pathways are designed to lead you onto a specific career

Independence – your study time is your responsibility; at college you are treated as an adult

Meet like minded people – work with people with similar interests and aspirations

Student support – get help with your UCAS application and CV, plus personalised mentoring

Great employer links – get work experience with local businesses to boost your personal statement

Beyond the classroom – go further with extra curricular activities and student societies

T Levels

T Levels are an amazing opportunity to kick start your career! With two year courses designed collaboratively with leading employers, you’ll receive the perfect mix of knowledge and experience you need to secure highly skilled jobs or further education in your chosen career path.

You’ll spend 80% of your time in the classroom and 20% on a work placement. Bringing classroom learning and an extended industry placement together — giving you a perfect mix of classroom and real-life training.

Get ahead in your career

T Levels give you the chance to learn what a real career is like while you continue your studies with an industry placement lasting at least 45 days. The placement will focus on developing your technical and practical skills, and looks impressive on your CV.

UCAS Points Awarded

T Levels are an alternative to courses such as A Levels, BTECs and Apprenticeships, allowing you to gain the equivalent amount of UCAS points.

For example, a T Level Distinction* is worth the same as three A Levels at A* and is a nationally recognised qualification accepted by universities and other education providers. So you can continue studying if you wish.

We offer T Levels in the following subjects*

Business

Childcare

Construction

Digital Technologies

Engineering

Health and

Social Care

Motor Vehicle

Science

*Please note these are subject to change. Please check online for the latest course information.

T Level Foundation Year

Students who would benefit from more study time and preparation can take the T Level foundation year before their full T Level programme. This provides them with an additional year to get ready for their course.

Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships offer a unique and rewarding opportunity to gain new knowledge, skills, behaviours and experience, all while earning a wage. You’ll work alongside experienced staff, acquire job-specific skills, get time for study, and earn an apprenticeship standard relevant to the job you’re doing. With options ranging from one to four years, you have the chance to get relevant work experience with a great sense of achievement and a wage!

As an apprentice you’ll:

Work alongside experienced staff

Gain job-specific skills

Earn a wage and get holiday pay

Get time for study (usually one day per week)

To start an apprenticeship, you need to be:

16 or over

Living in England

Not in full-time education

We offer Apprenticeships in the following subjects*

Accounting

Business Administration

Construction

Customer Service

Digital Technologies

Electrical Installation

Engineering

Hairdressing & Barbering

Human Resources

Leadership & Management

Professional Cookery

*Please note these are subject to change. Please check online for the latest apprenticeship vacancies.

Start your journey now, visit mkcollege.ac.uk/apprenticeships

Student Support

Learning Support

Our dedicated Learning Support Team is here to offer you a variety of resources and support to help you make the most of your studies. If you have a learning difficulty or disability or questions about what support you might be entitled to, we can work with you to understand how best to support you. If you have an Education, Health and Care Plan we will use this to create a support plan with you to ensure we are meeting your needs.

We work closely with teaching teams across the College to ensure that special educational needs are recognised and that support is provided. We have a range of specialist staff, including our mainstream Special Educational Needs Coordinator, and a large team of Teaching Support Assistants to help you to access your curriculum and get the most from your college experience.

Reach out to us today to discover how we can support you.

01908 684119

ineedsupport@mkcollege.ac.uk mkcollege.ac.uk/learning-support

Financial Support

Did you know that you could be entitled to receive bursaries and financial support throughout your time with us?

For more information get in contact with our Student Funds & Bursary Team

01908 684364

bursary@mkcollege.ac.uk mkcollege.ac.uk/funding

Career Advice

With so many options available, talking to a professional can help you explore your interests and the different paths open to you. Our independent and impartial Careers & Futures Team can advise you from choosing a course through to making university applications, writing CVs, and finding and applying for apprenticeships or jobs. Confidential one-to-one appointments are available face-to-face at Chaffron Way and Bletchley/ South Central Institute of Technology, or via MS Teams or telephone. careersteam@mkcollege.ac.uk mkcollege.ac.uk/careers-advice

Discover more about the support available to you mkcollege.ac.uk/student-support

Wellbeing & Resilience

The Wellbeing & Resilience Team provide structured support to students who are experiencing a range of social, emotional, or mental health difficulties. From initial assessment, we can provide one to one sessional support with a Wellbeing Advisor, to explore useful resources together and discover tools to support you in moving forward, helping you to face any barriers you may have. We work alongside a number of other support agencies to ensure you get the right support at the right time. We are committed to providing you with the highest standard of information, advice and guidance during your time at Milton Keynes College.

For more information please get in touch 01908 637358

wellbeingteam@mkcollege.ac.uk

Work Experience

As part of your study programme, you are required to find a work placement with a relevant employer. Not only will this allow you to demonstrate your skills to potential employers, it will also help you develop the right attitudes and behaviours needed in a work environment. Plus, it can really help you with your future career choices.

Employers we work with:

Anglian Water

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service

Champneys

Holiday Inn

Ingram Micro

Marshall Amplification

Mercedes Benz

Microsoft

Milton Keynes City Council

Milton Keynes Theatre

Milton Keynes Dons

Milton Keynes University Hospital

Silverstone Circuits

SMC Pneumatics

Thames Valley Police

Volkswagen Financial Services

Willen Hospice

Check the different study programme course sheets to discover more of the key employers we work with.

I was very lucky to have a lot of support from all the lecturers who helped push me forward for my competitions, supporting me with all

the stages of the entries and aiding me with

extra time, space and resources to practise.

Scan to find out more about Chloe’s story

From MK College to Pastry Chef at Silverstone Circuits

Chloe studied Level 2 & 3 Pastry and Level 2 & 3 Cookery at Milton Keynes College over four years, graduating in 2021, and is now a Pastry Chef at Silverstone.

During her time at MK College, she completed work experience in a hotel, a bakery, a Michelin star restaurant, as well as working in the College’s Brasserie restaurant. In her final year, Chloe did a week’s work experience at Silverstone Circuits during the 2020 Formula 1 Grand Prix, which helped her to land her current job running the pastry section.

Student of the Year 2023

Student of the Year is the highlight of the college calendar where we celebrate and are inspired by the achievements of our students over the last 12 months. Jacob Vale, a student from the South Central Institute of Technology (SCIoT) was last year’s winner:

Scan to find out more about Jacob’s story

I have reached heights I never could have imagined thanks to this College. The one thing that stands out for me the most from my time at MK College and the SCIoT is that I feel prepared for the real world. Given all the knowledge I’ve obtained from these different courses, I certainly think I could pursue my own career in freelance graphic design and I’m looking forward to continuing to work towards this ambition.

Your application journey

Research your options

Check out the website to learn about all our course and study options. Or pop into an Open Event to talk to tutors and get a real feel for the College environment. Register online at mkcollege.ac.uk/events

College interview (from November onwards)

You will have the opportunity to discuss your application in more detail with our friendly tutors. You’ll chat through your interest in the subject and learn more to make the right decision. After your interview you will receive an offer from the College.

GCSE Results Day

(in August)

Once you’ve got your results, let us know and confirm your place! If you don’t get the grades or do better than expected, you can come and discuss your options with our tutors on our Advisory Days, taking place at the end of August.

Your first day! (in September 2024)

Your first few weeks will involve induction day, getting to grips with your course, finding your way around campus and meeting lots of new people. But don’t worry! Everyone will be in the same boat and you’ll have plenty of support.

Apply online (from September onwards)

You don’t need to wait for your results to make an application. Once you have decided, simply search for your course online and ‘Apply now’ to complete the form. We’ll then be in contact with further information.

Discovery Days

Once you have received your college offer, you’ll be invited to spend some time in the College for the day. You’ll meet your tutors, make new friends, and get a proper taste of your chosen course(s).

Enrolment

time (in August – September)

Once you have received your GCSE results, you will be invited to enrol at College. Some courses will enrol online, others will be at the College in person. Keep an eye on your inbox for your enrolment invitation.

Join our Taster Sessions

Find out for yourself what life is like as a student by registering for a Taster Session. You’ll be able to join a timetabled session with our current students. This will give you an excellent idea of what to expect if you decide to study with us.

In a Taster Session, you can:

Spend some time on a course that interests you

Check out our facilities and meet course tutors

Speak with our current students to get their honest feedback and advice

Taster Sessions are available from October until March

As soon as taster sessions are available to book, they will be added to the website. This is updated regularly so if the course you’re interested in isn’t showing yet, just keep checking.

mkcollege.ac.uk/events

Scan to find out more

Disclaimer:

Why choose college?

There’s so much more to coming to college than just your study programme.

Make new friends and meet like-minded people

More free time and independence

Financial support

Live working environments

Less formal than school

Work experience with local and national businesses

Join student communities

Apply online today

Find your course on the website and apply now! mkcollege.ac.uk

This guide is for general guidance and information only and does not form any part of any contract. This guide was prepared prior to the academic year. It represents and reflects the courses, facilities, and services on offer at the time of production. Statistics used are from a range of verified sources at the time of publication. The College reserves the right to withdraw or amend any courses, services, or facilities.

Undergraduate courses

JOIN THE TECH REVOLUTION

We work in partnership with companies who champion digital innovation and training. You can expect to take on live projects, workshops and industry specialist delivery led by Microsoft, KPMG, Cranfield University and Activate Learning.

Vital input from these organisations ensures you get a qualification that is backed by top employers and relevant to current demands.

Pathways Available:

Apprenticeships

CONNECTING PEOPLE WITH AMBITION TO BUSINESSES WITH VISION

+ Level 3 Information & Communication Technician

+ Level 3 Digital Marketing

+ Level 4 Data Analyst

+ Level 4 Software Developer

If you’re keen to get into the world of work and learn key skills on the job, then an apprenticeship could be the perfect route to kick start your digital career. Our higher-level apprenticeships offer an excellent alternative to studying a degree-level course at university and are suitable for people of all ages.

Access to Higher Education:Computing

This course will provide you with an extensive introduction into key areas within computer science, in preparation for joining the IT profession. You will have the right knowledge and tools to start your journey into a number of career paths within the diverse and ever-evolving industry.

Find out more and apply to Be Anything Ready: