For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Visit youtube.com/midkentcollege to post comments and view more from MKC.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Catherine Teague on 01634 823035 or email catherine.teague@cirruselearning.com

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For those wishing to attend the Medway Campus event, extremely limited parking will be available on site. By Bus Alternatively, for visitors traveling by bus, the Arriva 116 service stops directly on campus.Click herefor a route map and schedule *On-site parking is available for blue badge holders

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

And while the team’s fame may have diminished over the decades, Wednesday’s 6-1 thrashing of the Adjutant Generals Corps in the Woolwich Cup final proves they are still a footballing force to be reckoned with.

MidKent College is sponsoring the Royal Engineers for three years to enable the side to pay for kit, travel and other expenses.

RE director of football Captain Glen Lishman said: “We are delighted to continue our partnership with MidKent College, which has proved invaluable this season in helping us achieve our aims.

“The Royal Engineers has a rich footballing history and we look forward to creating more memorable moments with the College by our side.”

MKC Training Services – a subsidiary company of MidKent College – is currently contracted to deliver £690 million worth of training at the Royal School of Military Engineering on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Based at Brompton Barracks, the RSME teaches the unique range of skills that are fundamental to a career in the Royal Engineers.

___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

“Our students carry out a variety of work placements including with nurseries, schools and individual parents,” said programme area leader Karen Felton.

“It’s invaluable to have such hands-on experience and the feedback has been really positive.

“Abigail’s and Jennifer’s mum has been really pleased with the work the students have been doing. Most parents appreciate having a bit of freedom, even if it’s just so they can have 20 minutes in the bath.”

Mrs Weir attended the College’s Medway Campus to have her hair cut by students at The Look commercial salon.

MidKent College offers several different courses in Health & Social Care, Children’s Care and Education, with students often going on to secure employment as nursery supervisors, childcare officers, classroom assistants, nursery nurses and more. ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or emailsteve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

More than 40 from the Animal Management faculty paid a visit to the Nausicaa aquarium in Boulogne, where they came face-to-face with some of the world’s most fascinating sea creatures.

Among the students in attendance was keen nature photographer Jenni Prescott, who captured some amazing shots of the attraction’s various inhabitants.

Lecturer Louise Bowman said: "The annual trip to Nausicaa is the highlight of the aquatics unit I teach.

"Many students start the unit thinking fish are pretty boring, so it’s great to help them change their attitudes and see them get so enthusiastic."

MidKent College offers qualifications in land-based studies, animal care and animal management and is home to a variety of animals including snakes, turtles, lizards and more. ___________________________________________________

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Sarah Phillips, 36, from Nettlestead, near Maidstone, achieved a distinction in every unit of her Access to Healthcare Diploma course last year.

The mother-of-four will now go on to study midwifery at Canterbury Christ Church University later this year.

"I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do after I left school, and I just fell into bookkeeping," said Sarah.

"I later developed a passion for midwifery and realised that was the career for me, but it was very difficult with four children so I waited until they were a bit older before I enrolled at the college.

"The Access to Healthcare course is run superbly well so this award is as much for the lecturers as it is for me."

Access Diplomas are perfect for students who want to develop their careers by gaining a degree but who lack the formal qualifications universities are looking for.

Sarah, who studied at the Maidstone Campus, also scooped the Access Award for Outstanding Achievement at the College’s Annual Student Awards in January.

"I really enjoyed my time at the College and was fortunate to get on the course," she said.

"I had a difficult year when my brother died and didn’t know whether I wanted to continue or not, but the support I received from my tutor Rachel Beardsley was excellent and I’m so glad I stayed on.

"It’s really nice to have that recognition for my efforts and to be able to tell all my friends about it on Facebook."

MidKent College also offers the Access to Teaching, Humanities & Social Sciences Diploma as well as the Youth University Progression scheme for younger students.

___________________________________________________

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

This year’s students want to follow in their predecessors’ footsteps but are on the lookout for sponsorship to help fund the trip.

Businesses willing to help will be invited to attend a post-trip presentation to see how their money was spent, and will also be mentioned in publicity material surrounding the event.

Lecturer Dan Hodges, who is co-ordinating the charity drive, said: “These orphans have nothing and don’t expect to have anything either, so it’s nice to be able to do something for them.

“Whether it’s £50 or £50,000, we really need all the help we can get to support this project.”

Businesses or individuals willing to donate money, unwanted mobile telephones or clothing – particularly football equipment and strips – to the appeal should email dan.hodges@midkent.ac.uk.

Meanwhile, a charity quiz in aid of the Kenya appeal will take place at the Maidstone Campus, at 7.30pm on Friday, March 23.

The cost is £6 per person with a maximum of eight members per team.

Email oakwoodparkreception@midkent.ac.uk to book a table.

___________________________________________________

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The project is an example of MidKent College’s ongoing commitment to help steer its students through an ever more competitive jobs market.

Maidstone Campus site manager Michael Smith said: “It is excellent when students get involved in improving their own facilities because they are getting employment opportunities while the College benefits from their skills.

“Putting them through a full tendering process is great experience for them as it will be crucial for winning jobs in the future.”

MidKent College vice principal Jane Jones is currently working to establish a new organisation called Entrain, which aims to help young people set up their own businesses and bid for work.

She said: “There are plenty of students who possess the ability and work ethic to run a successful business but yet don’t know where to start.

“We believe schools and colleges have a duty to support young people and offer them work when possible, and Lewis and his team repaid our faith with their efforts.

“Once Entrain is up and running we hope to see lots more of this type of project taking place.”

Meanwhile, for two of Lewis’ team – Paul Ford, 31, and Trevor Ford, 43, both from Maidstone – the project was an opportunity for them to gain unpaid work experience with a view to ending their long-term welfare dependency.

Both were steered in the direction of MidKent College by the Tomorrow’s People charity, which aims to help disadvantaged people find and keep a job.

The other members of the team were Aaron Giles, 18, from Chattenden, near Rochester; Alex Robinson, 19, from Snodland; and Tamasin May, 18, from Maidstone.

___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

But perhaps last week’s four productions proved to be too realistic, as the summoning of the devil during one performance eerily coincided with a power cut that plunged the Medway Campus theatre into darkness for more than 30 minutes.

“It was very strange when the lights went out at that exact moment,” said Carole Bowles, programme area leader for Performing Arts.

“But the audience were enjoying the show so much that they were more than happy to wait until the power came back on.

“Doctor Faustus is one of the most ambitious productions the College has put on for a long time because it’s a very difficult classical text and one that’s rarely performed.

“The students and staff discussed how to make the play relevant to a contemporary audience and I think they did a fantastic job.

“I think the teaching staff work really well together to stimulate our students and ensure a creative environment so they can produce excellent work, which they have once again.”

___________________________________________________

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

A number of attractions including a raffle and cake stall will also be held this Thursday (1 March) in an attempt to raise additional cash for the charity.

Business lecturer Claire Garthwaite said: “This type of event management is useful because it brings the group together and enables them to work as a team.

“You have to be organised and able to get on with others if you want to succeed in the business world.”

The students are all working towards the Level 2 Diploma in Business, which teaches a sound knowledge of business concepts and how to apply them to the working environment.

___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The hard-working youngsters got their hands dirty at the Lower Lines Park in Gillingham – next to MidKent College’s Medway Campus – last Wednesday (22 February) morning.

Open to the public since 2010, the former Ministry of Defence land is managed by the Lower Lines Trust in partnership with the local community.

The plants, which were a mix of cherry trees and Field Maple, were donated by local contractors Hortech.

Park manager Kevin Woolford said: “The students did really well and it’s great they’re playing such an active part in this community project.

“This is the biggest classroom the animal management students have available at the end of the day. It’s a fantastic resource.

“Residents are keen to see more trees here at the park, so this project will help rejuvenate the wildlife we already have while also adding to it.”

___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Cllr Kevin Lynes – cabinet member for regeneration and economic development – announced the incentive following a meeting of the Thamesteel Taskforce on Wednesday.

He said: “Key to all of this is the ex-employees who have been dropped off a cliff, and particularly young people like apprentices and HNC students.

“The taskforce had been talking about proposals to get the HNC students back into employment. Now KCC working with MidKent College is able to offer £10,000 towards the cost of doing that, which makes it a more attractive option for local employers.

“We want to keep these talented young workers in the county.”

There is also good news for the nine apprentices who were just months away from completing their training when the Sheerness-based metalwork firm went into administration last month.

With support from staff at the MidKent College JobShop, four have already been placed with new employers with the other five expected to follow in their footsteps by the end of this week.

Assistant principal Peter Webb said: “We’ve had some really good news with our apprentices thanks to the media and various other networks, so our main focus now is on our HNC students.

“They were just six months into a two-year programme when Thamesteel went bust, and they will be a real asset to any local firm.”

___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The two athletes, who were also joined by London 2012 hopeful Jade Johnson, shared the highs and lows of their careers at the Sporting Legacy event.

Students from the Maidstone Campus’ Sport, Fitness & Leisure faculty were also treated to tours of some of the Olympic venues, including the Olympic Stadium and the Velodrome.

Programme area leader Neil Hemstead said: “London won the right to host the 2012 Olympic Games by demonstrating its commitment to creating a sporting legacy for the country.

“Our students were inspired by what they heard from these great Olympians and are in no doubt of the sporting, economic, cultural and environmental legacies the Games will leave behind.”

MidKent College runs Sport, Fitness & Leisure courses at both its Medway and Maidstone campuses.

___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The annual event – held at Plaisterers’ Hall, London – is organised by the Construction Liveries Group in partnership with the Livery Companies Skills Council and City & Guilds.

Stuart Nice, MidKent College’s head of Construction and Building Services, said: “These two students are a credit to themselves, their employers and the College.

“These talented individuals have both demonstrated outstanding aptitude and ability, and have the potential to make a major contribution within the plumbing industry.”

Paul and Richard, who both represented MidKent College at last year’s WorldSkills competition, are currently studying for their Level 3 NVQs in Plumbing and Heating.

Paul has more than five years’ experience as a plumbing and heating engineer while Richard works for Southern Water as a water regulations officer.

MidKent College is approved by the Skills Funding Agency to offer both apprenticeships and advanced apprenticeships.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Students from all departments will be able to access the facility – based at the College’s Medway Campus and led by its Business Development Unit – to learn the 21st century skills many employers are looking for.

Members of staff will also be able to tackle a range of IT courses, with bespoke training available for local companies looking to upskill their own workforce.

The College will be working closely with Microsoft to develop the next generation of qualifications, helping learners find jobs in industries such as video game and mobile app design.

Microsoft’s business manager for further education, Mike Morris, said he was excited at the potential rewards the partnership could bring.

He said: “This is the first stage of an ambitious attempt to deliver really good skills across a wide range of software programs.

“These qualifications will open the door to hundreds of thousands of jobs at companies such as Facebook and Twitter, which require skilled workers behind the scenes making their websites tick.

“Another example is the Xbox 360, which was the highest selling gaming platform last year but which needs more people developing games for it.

“That’s why we’ll be staying with this scheme for the long run, so we can all be successful together.”

Meanwhile, staff and students at MidKent College are also piloting a number of qualifications due to be introduced by Hewlett Packard.

Those enrolled on the courses will provide feedback to the computer firm ahead of a planned national rollout.

Call the MidKent College Business Development Unit on 01634 383132 for more information.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The roadshow, held at MidKent College’s Medway Campus and organised by the Kent Association of Training Organisations (Kato), coincided with National Apprenticeship Week (6-10 February).

Mr Grimes said: “We have a really good story to tell about apprentices in England.

“Last year there were more than 457,000 apprenticeship starts – a 63 per cent increase on the previous year – and for the first time in this country more young people are choosing to take that route instead of university.

“More than one million 16-24-year-olds in England are Neet (Not in Employment, Education or Training) so we need to continue creating opportunities for them.

“Young people get a bad press generally but the ones I’ve met through NAS are ambassadors for their age group. All they want is an opportunity to prove themselves, and that’s where employers come in.”

MidKent College is approved by the Skills Funding Agency to offer both Apprenticeships and Advanced Apprenticeships.

Principal Stephen Grix studied bricklaying at the College as a 15-year-old and was later taken on as an apprentice.

Speaking at the Kato event, Mr Grix said: “When looking at the future employment prospects for their children, it won’t be long before there’s much more interest in apprentices generally from parents – but we’re not there yet.

“Apprentices are fantastic for young people who want to develop their careers.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The charity’s regional appeals executive for the South East, Louise Scott, was presented with a cheque for £1,012 when she visited students on the BTEC Extended Diploma in Business course.

She explained that the money would go towards the cost of the new £3 million teenage cancer unit at the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton, Surrey, which also serves patients in Kent.

Louise said: “If you’re a cancer patient who is under 16 then you’re normally treated in a children’s ward with Winnie the Pooh pictures everywhere, and if you’re over 16 then you’re with mostly old people aged 60-80.

“Neither of these situations are at all suitable for teenagers, which is why we set up the Royal Marsden appeal in the first place.

“The money raised by MidKent College students will make a massive difference to the lives of young cancer patients across the county.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Five will be based at the Medway Campus and four at Maidstone.

Meanwhile, JobShop staff at the College will continue to liaise with local companies in an attempt to secure jobs more in line with the apprentices’ Thamesteel training.

Business development manager Jacqui Brown said: “MidKent College has taken responsibility for the training and education of these young men, which is of paramount importance.

“They’ve completed two-and-a-half years of training and we were not prepared to watch them walk away without their qualifications.

“They’re a real asset to the engineering sector.”

MidKent College is a member of the Thamesteel Taskforce, which also includes Kent County Council, Swale Borough Council and other partners dedicated to supporting those who lost their jobs when Thamesteel went bust.

The College is currently in discussion with a number of local employers interested in taking on those who lost their jobs, which also includes seven Higher National Certificate students.

Multi-skilled apprentice Luke Sawyers, 21, from Sheerness, was delighted to have landed a job with MidKent College.

He said: “We were all gutted when Thamesteel went under and the last few weeks have been really tough. We haven’t had any money so we haven’t been able to do anything other than look for jobs.

“The staff at MidKent College have been brilliant. We didn’t expect to get any help at all so we’re extremely grateful for everything they’ve done for us.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Access to welding equipment for 14-16-year-olds is currently limited due to the high-risk nature of the trade, but the new equipment makes it a far safer learning tool.

Debrah Wilson – head of faculty for Computing & Information Technology at MidKent College’s Medway Campus – said she was excited about the opportunities the trainer will provide.

She added: “The virtual welder will provide an exciting learning environment to inspire future welders and introduce the engineering sector to a younger audience.

“Further virtual training opportunities will be offered to employers, which will address a lack of technical and practical engineering skills. This will further increase the engineering community in the heart of Kent.

“The trainer will also help reduce the College’s carbon footprint by cutting back on waste and saving energy.”

MidKent College runs a number of courses in Engineering, with students learning skills such as bench fitting, sheet metalwork, micro-electronics and lots more.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

But unlike many fellow Jews, he survived concentration camps like Auschwitz and Stutthof and lived to tell the tale.

“People always ask me why I bother visiting schools and colleges to talk about the Holocaust,” he told students. “But how can I stop when there are still terrible things going on in the world today?

“How can I stop when so many people were killed during the Holocaust? I feel every survivor should do what I do.

“I feel it’s my duty, especially to young people because you are our future and you should know what hatred, racism, bigotry and prejudice can lead to.

“People often wonder how I can remember things that happened such a long time ago. But the question should be how could I forget it.”

Mr Shipper’s visit was organised by the Holocaust Educational Trust.

A-level programme area leader Emma Wilkinson said: “It’s always a privilege for us to welcome Zigi to the College. His testimony remains a powerful reminder of the horrors so many experienced.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Winners included John Hendrie, 21, from Rochester, who studied sports development and fitness at the Medway Campus and scooped the coveted Stephen Grix Award.

John joined the College as a Neet (Not in Employment, Education or Training) in 2008 but worked his way through several qualifications to earn a place studying sports coaching at Buckingham New University.

He said: “It was the start of the recession when I joined MidKent College, and at that stage in my life I could never have imagined being where I am today.

“It’s not easy but we can all get to where we want to be if we put our minds to it. I owe a lot to my tutor and lecturers, and most importantly to my mum and dad for giving me a kick up the backside every now and then.

“Thanks to MidKent College for getting me to where I am today.”

The large entrance pavilion of the College’s Medway Campus was transformed for the glitzy night of celebrations, during which award winners and their guests were given VIP treatment.

Awards were handed out in the theatre with entertainment provided by some of the College’s most talented performers.

Chairman of Governors Sheila Potipher said: “If you believe everything you read, you’d think all young people are out wearing hoodies, rioting and looting shops. Tonight we’ve proved that’s not the case.

“I’m immensely proud to be associated with this college, and of every young person who studies here.”

Photos from the Student Awards, including information on how to obtain your own copies, will be available from this website next week.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The event was organised by VTCT – the specialist awarding body for the hairdressing and beauty sector – alongside the sector skills council Habia (Hair and Beauty Industry Authority).

Held inside MidKent College’s state-of-the-art performance and lecture theatre, the seminars covered a variety of beauty techniques using both male and female models.

Beverley Noble – head of faculty for Services to People – said: “When VTCT saw the facilities we had to offer they were delighted to hold the event here.

“It was an inspirational day and everyone in attendance was really keen and enthusiastic about the techniques being demonstrated.

“The event also provided a great opportunity to network with other colleges and to discuss ongoing issues in the Further Education sector.”

MidKent College runs a number of hair and beauty courses from its Medway and Maidstone Campuses, as well as a number of part-time courses in areas including nail technology and head massages.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

MidKent College is now asking any local engineering firms willing to support the students through to the end of their qualifications to come forward.

Business development manager Jacqui Brown said: “The apprentices are all studying advanced level engineering and are three-quarters of the way through the programme.

“They are all very highly skilled and committed workers, and will be an asset to any company.”

Contact Carol Carter of MidKent College’s Business Development Unit on 01634 383133 for more information.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

But Shannon – who is studying for a Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing at MidKent College’s Medway Campus – has her mum Eleanor Firman to thank for the opportunity to perform on the world stage.

And that’s because Eleanor, who works on the College’s Advanced Computing and Engineering team, applied on her daughter’s behalf.

Shannon said: “I haven’t danced since I was little and knew nothing about this at all, but my mum applied in secret and I somehow managed to get through.

“The audition was absolute madness but so much fun. I’ve no idea what the organisers were looking for – maybe it was people who looked like they were enjoying themselves.

“I was completely shocked when I found out I’d been selected for the ceremony, especially as it was my 18th birthday the day before the audition and I was so tired the next morning. But I still gave it my best and can’t wait for the Olympics to come round.”

An estimated audience of one billion people – 15% of the world’s population – tuned in to watch the spectacular Beijing Olympics opening ceremony in 2008.

London has a difficult task living up to such a splendid event but Shannon, who has been sworn to secrecy about the exact details, is confident it will be a massive success.

“It will definitely do the country proud,” she said. “We’ve got months of rehearsals to go, including for hours every day for the last few weeks, and when it all comes together it will be absolutely fantastic.

“Unfortunately the demand for tickets was so high that my family and friends will have to watch it at home on the telly with everyone else.

“I’m thrilled and so excited to be taking part but I’ll probably be the one to fall over in front of everyone, although at least then my mum will be able to spot me in the crowd.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The dress code for the event on Wednesday, March 28, is black tie and cocktail wear, with each guest also receiving a Titanic-style boarding pass containing information about some of those who survived or were killed in the tragedy.

There are also plans for light entertainment between courses, including a lounge singer, musicians and ballroom dancers.

Organised by students from the Hospitality & Catering and Travel, Tourism & Frontline Training departments, the meal costs just £20 per head with guests welcome from 6pm for a 6.30pm start.

Please mention at time of booking if you require any children’s meals.

The Apprentice restaurant is open to the public from 12-2pm weekdays and 6.45-9pm on Thursdays, term time only.

Call 01622 625873 or email the.apprentice@midkent.ac.uk to make a reservation.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

They will also offer tailored support to help students with application forms, interview techniques, CV-writing and more.

Henry Nydam – chairman of Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce – officially opened the Medway Campus JobShop at a ceremony on Thursday (19 January).

He said: “With youth unemployment at record levels it has become incumbent on all educational and business organisations to do all we can to address the situation.

“We need to give young people some hope that they will be able to advance their careers, and something like the JobShop will be a fantastic help.

“It’s a one-stop shop for information, advice and guidance, and I urge all local employers looking for skilled staff to make full use of it.”

Government figures released earlier this week show that there are now more than a million young people without a job in the UK.

This means the unemployment rate in the 16-24-year-old age bracket now stands at 22.3 per cent.

MidKent College hopes to help tackle the problem with the launch of its JobShops, which will only match employers with students who have fulfilled set criteria to ensure they are capable.

Principal Stephen Grix said: “Once our students achieve the skills and qualifications they came to College for, we want them to be able to move on and have bright careers.

“The new JobShops will help them do that, while also providing a service to local employers by giving them access to young people who will be an asset to their organisations.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Young chefs from across the region took part in the competition, which required the competitors to cook a three-course meal in just 1hr 45mins.

A team of judges was impressed by the quality and originality of the MidKent College menu, which included a starter of scallop carpacchio, a main course of pan-roasted pheasant, and a Kentish tart for dessert.

Catering lecturer Johannes Keevey said: “It’s a really big deal for the College to be able to host as prestigious an event as this, and everyone has been really positive about the facilities we have to offer.

“The kitchen is a very pressurised environment, especially for chefs so young, so this will stand them in good stead for the future.”

Teams from Thanet College and Sussex Coast College clinched first and second place in the South East heat respectively.

Brakes’ marketing executive Andrew Crawford said: “When we visited MidKent College and viewed the fantastic catering facilities available, it was a no-brainer for us to hold the competition here.

“I can’t see any reason why we won’t come back in the future. It’s been an excellent event and has given these talented students a whole new level of experience.”

MidKent College offers a number of courses in Hospitality & Catering from Entry Level (equivalent to two GCSEs at grades E-G) up to Level 3 (equivalent to three A-levels).

The College also has two fine dining restaurants – The Pavilion at the Medway Campus and The Apprentice at the Maidstone Campus – run by students under the watchful eye of experienced staff.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The visit formed part of the Holocaust Educational Trust’s ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’ project, which encourages participants to pass on their experiences to fellow students.

“It taught me a lot,” said Jason. “In one of the rooms is a glass case containing tens of thousands of shoes that once belonged to Jewish prisoners, and they were collected in the last three weeks before the camp was liberated. It was very emotional.

“You can read about the Holocaust in a book but it’s not the same as being somewhere that was at the heart of it.”

Tom and Jason were two of 230 school and college students who visited Auschwitz, but the only ones not studying either History or Politics.

“It was a moving experience because it made everything real,” said Tom. “Seeing what went on there makes you appreciate the society we live in, and teaches you to not take things for granted.”

Holocaust Memorial Day is on Friday, 27 January, and Tom and Jason plan to deliver a presentation to fellow students as part of a programme of activities at MidKent College.

Also lined up is a talk by Holocaust survivor Zigi Shipper at the Medway Campus on Monday, 30 January, and an art exhibition featuring work by the College’s art students, among other events.

Tom and Jason’s trip to Auschwitz was arranged by personal tutor Kelly Govans, who has also visited the camp in Poland in the past.

She said: “It’s such a moving experience, even now. Just speaking to the boys about what they saw made the hairs on the back of my neck stand up.

“It was like being there all over again.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

But the charismatic youngster returned to the stage on Thursday when he beat 11 other acts from both the Medway and Maidstone campuses to win the College’s very own competition, MidKent’s Got Talent.

Rihards will now compete against winners from other colleges in next month’s grand final, as will singing duo Devon Hobbis (correct) and Verity Thompson, who came second with their rendition of the Two Door Cinema Club hit Undercover Martyn.

Energetic dance troupe Run the World and singer Ben Vinten – who performed the Ed Sheeran hit The A Team – finished joint third and must battle it out again to see who progresses to the grand final.

Louise Molton – head of faculty for Creative and Visual Arts – was one of the judges for the event and said she was very proud of everyone who took part.

She added: “It was a great experience for them all, and what we saw tonight was raw talent getting the opportunity to show everyone what they’re capable of.

“It was a thoroughly entertaining evening and everyone should be congratulated for performing with very little time to rehearse.

“I think our three entrants have an excellent chance in the grand final.”

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

This week Education Secretary Michael Gove announced plans to radically revamp the way young people are taught information and communications technology in schools and colleges, describing the current system as “demotivating and dull”.

His comments followed earlier criticism from business leaders that existing ICT courses were not producing the young talent needed to fill skills gaps in industries such as video game design and engineering.

The proposed shake-up has been welcomed by Debrah Wilson – head of faculty for Computing & Information Technology at MidKent College’s Medway Campus – who agreed it was time for a change.

She said: “Giving schools and colleges more flexibility to decide their own courses is absolutely the way forward, especially in relatively deprived areas like Medway where it’s extremely important to engage with young people.

“They grew up using programs like Word and Excel and need something new. They need to learn things like graphic design and website design and programs for editing and publishing music and video, and we need the freedom to shape our own courses around students’ individual interests.

“I think it’s partly the Government’s fault the curriculum hasn’t changed earlier, but also the sector skills councils because they should be acting as the go-between. They need to listen more to what the employers want because we are very much tied by them as to what we can and can’t do.”

Mrs Wilson said the changes were required for Level 1 and 2 courses (equivalent to four GCSEs each), but defended the success of Level 3 courses (equivalent to three A-levels).

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in IT course available at MidKent College covers a wide range of units relevant for the 21st century – including digital graphics, animation, software design and website production – with about 40% of learners progressing to higher education.

Mrs Wilson added: “Whereas HE establishments are being criticised for not developing employability skills, colleges have been doing that for years. It’s not just academic and vocational training we provide, but also short courses in subjects such as interview skills.”

MidKent College also offers HE courses in IT, such as the Higher National Diploma and foundation degree, which can lead to careers in e-business development, website design and many other industries.

Meanwhile, MidKent College is also a Microsoft and CompTIA Academy, meaning it can offer Microsoft partner apprenticeship programmes, e-learning packages and commercial/bespoke training to employers.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Among the findings listed in a review by the awarding body was that staff felt the range of learning and development opportunities open to them was “excellent”.

Communication was also felt to be excellent in most areas of the College, while most employees interviewed said it was a good place to work.

The review also found that the commitment of staff to student achievement was “widespread and deep-rooted”.

MidKent College Principal and Chief Executive Stephen Grix said: “Helping our students achieve their goals is our highest priority, but in order to do that we need a happy, talented and highly-motivated team of workers.

“I’m very pleased to say that’s exactly what we’ve got, and am delighted the College has been recognised again by Investors in People.”

The Investors in People standard – which also applies to MidKent College Training Services based at the Royal School of Military Engineering – demonstrates that an organisation is committed to the welfare and development of its workforce.

Last November the College was also reaccredited with the Investors in Diversity standard, with inspectors praising the “truly inclusive nature” of the workplace.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Aaron Purcell and Ben Rist, both of whom are members of the organisation’s Young Person’s Forum, had their locks bleached and shaved respectively by Hair Design students at MidKent College’s Medway Campus.

The fundraiser is one of several being run by the Trust – a charity established to improve the life chances of Medway’s young people – to boost its own funds while also raising cash for the Oliver Fisher Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Medway Maritime Hospital, and for the Bontabami orphanage in South Africa.

The Trust’s youth participation specialist adviser Steve Hutson said: “As an organisation that works with young people, it’s important that we listen to them and involve them at all levels.

“That’s why we allowed the youth forum to come up with their own fundraising ideas, and they’ve done fantastically well so far.

“The staff and students at MidKent College have also been absolutely wonderful. We have very close links with the college, and its deputy principal Sue McLeod is a member of our board of trustees.”

MidKent College is currently working with Medway Youth Trust to raise awareness of a limited number of courses starting this January that are now open for application.

A full list of the courses available can be found at www.midkent.ac.uk

Those interested in signing up can visit Medway Youth Trust’s Connexions access point, Chatham, from 10am-3pm on Tuesday, January 10, or Maidstone Connexions from 11am-4pm on Thursday, January 12.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

They may also be eligible for help with public transport costs if they live more than two miles from the campus they attend.

Those eligible for financial help may include people from households with an income under £20,187, and young people in care or living independently.

Students may also be eligible for help if their household financial circumstances have altered due to events such as redundancy or changes in the family home.

Pick up an application form from the Information Zone at the Medway Campus, or the Learning Resource Centre at the Maidstone Campus.

Alternatively click here for more information and to print an application form.

Allfive events will be held at the Medway Campus on Medway Road, Gillingham, from 9.30am-4.30pm at a cost of £150 per person. The price also includes refreshments and a hot lunch.

The dates for the workshops are as follows;

The Business Development Unit at MidKent College offers four core business training services – apprenticeship advice, training courses, a recruitment shop, and business coaching and consultancy advice.

For more information call Claire Bridger on 01634 383581 or email claire.bridger@midkent.ac.uk.

Alternatively call the Business Development Unit on 01634 383132/667.

The following week, a percentage of the proceeds from a meal at the College’s Pavilion Restaurant – which followed a student performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat – was also donated.

Meanwhile, a staff Christmas fair on December 10 added more than £200 to the grand total, which will continue to increase throughout the year as other events are held.

The cash, which will be matched by the College’s board of governors, will be used to fund a return trip to the Melon Education Centre and orphanage in Nakuru, Kenya, in late April/early May.

A team of students first visited the centre in May last year, when they built a security fence, taught English to the children and delivered sacks of clothing.

Lecturer Dan Hodges, who is co-ordinating the charity drive, said: “These kids have nothing and don’t expect to have anything either, so it’s nice to be able to do something for them.

“Over Christmas a local businessman visited the centre and gave each child one bottle of Coca-Cola each, and they were all so excited because of it. When you compare that to what we all get for Christmas, it really puts things into perspective.”

Anyone who would like to donate money, unwanted mobile telephones or clothing – particularly football equipment and strips – to the appeal should email dan.hodges@midkent.ac.uk.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The strength of the projects will go a long way in determining the scientists’ final HND score, which if high enough can be topped up into a full degree with further study at university.

Programme area leader for Applied Science, Eleanor Wood, said: “Most scientific discoveries are the result of years of study by lots of people investigating lots of different things, so you never really know what you’re going to end up with. But fingers crossed we’ll get some interesting results.

“Most of our students who go on to university have sailed through their degrees thanks to having already taken part in projects like this, with some even helping to teach Masters students.”

Among the research projects being undertaken by the young chemists is one looking at the antibacterial properties of honey – in particular how much more effective the New Zealand-produced Manuka honey is compared to cheaper high street brands.

Meanwhile, 19-year-old Chatham resident Miles Balderston is attempting to devise a scientific scale for measuring the temperature of chilli peppers.

He said: “The most common scale used at the moment is the Scoville scale, which is completely unscientific because it relies on different people tasting the chilli peppers.

“The other way to test their temperature is to use a technique known as HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography), but that’s still not an exact science. I want to combine the two methods to find a base unit and then work things out from there.”

In addition to the HND in Applied Chemistry, MidKent College also offers the Foundation Degree in Life Science Laboratory Technology & Bio-Manufacturing as part of its Higher Education course portfolio.

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

He spoke to staff and students about how scientists and archaeologists work together to explore the secrets of the past, using techniques such as carbon dating.

Mr Williams also provided an insight into some of the recent excavations carried out by Wessex Archaeology in Kent, including of a medieval burial ground at Springhead, near Gravesend, and a separate dig at Chatham Dockyard.

He told the students: “We produce stories about what happened in the past. We need to try to get as close to the truth as possible, so it’s all about collecting evidence.”

Wessex Archaeology, which has an office in Rochester, has worked behind the scenes on Time Team since the popular Channel 4 show began in 1994.

Pamla (correct) Walker, Applied Science lecturer at MidKent College, said: “We wanted to introduce students to something other than the lab and show them what other industries scientists can be involved in.

“For example, scientists are needed in archaeology to specialise in areas such as carbon dating and osteoarchaeology. There are so many options out there.”

MidKent College offers several qualifications in the field of Applied Science and houses a number of laboratories equipped to university degree standard.

The College also runs Higher Education courses in Applied Chemistry (Higher National Diploma) and Life Science Laboratory Technology & Bio-Manufacturing (Foundation Degree).

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For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The young snapper captured the impressive shots at various locations around the country, including several from Howletts Wild Animal Park in Bekesbourne, near Canterbury.

Jenny said: “I want to be a wildlife photographer at the end of my studies so this was a really enjoyable project to take part in.

“I love animals and plan to study for a degree in Animal Behaviour and Welfare at university, which will help me to understand why the animals I’m taking pictures of act in a particular way.

“For example, the elephants in one of my photographs may look like they are fighting but they’re actually just playing. When elephants are angry they’re a lot more stiff and rigid.”

The Extended Diploma in Animal Management is equivalent to three A-levels and covers subjects including animal welfare, anatomy, physiology, biology and more. To view the photographs featured in Jenni's calendar, visit www.facebook.com/midkentcollege. ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Mr Taylor-Jones revealed how he got into the industry and what attracted him to the job, and also showed several clips of his work.

He then had the students thinking about how and why such footage was created, highlighting the importance of sound.

Course tutor Ross Buttery said: “It was great that Richard was able to take time out of his busy schedule to talk to the students.

“Straight after the talk he was driving down to Bristol – where the BBC Natural History Unit is based – to discuss further projects he is going to be working on.”

Second year student Jake Holland added: “I’m interested in becoming a wildlife cameraman so this opportunity provided me with the information I need. I also now have the contact details of the main man in the industry.”

The Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production – equivalent to three A-levels – covers a wide range of subjects including TV and video editing and the history of the mass media industries.

The Creative Media department at Maidstone is now based at the neighbouring University for the Creative Arts campus, which MidKent College is due to take over entirely in late 2012. ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Attractions on offer included a hook-a-duck game, seaside-style photo boards, and even an appearance by Father Christmas himself.

Health and Social Care lecturer Caroline Lee-Abrahams said: “The students were absolutely fantastic in organising this event.

“They’re very passionate about helping children so this type of dedication will serve them well in their future careers.”

Meanwhile, members of MidKent College’s Glee Club also got in the festive spirit by singing Christmas carols at the Medway Campus’ Refectory.

The young talents, who meet up to sing every Tuesday evening, were raising money for Oxfam. ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

MidKent College Students’ Union president James Phillips was among those who discussed ways the county’s student groups could work more closely in future.

They also met with Katie Shaw from the National Union of Students (NUS), who spoke about her role as the organisation’s policy and development adviser for the South.

James said: “It was all about getting the unions from across the county together in one room to work on plans for local action and to explore how we can work together to achieve more.

“For example, we spoke about how we might put our heads together to fight for cheaper local transport for young people.

“It was definitely a worthwhile event and something we hope to repeat on a regular basis. I’m looking to organise the next one at MidKent College.”

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The ambitious youngsters started their new jobs on Monday, 5 December, which they will combine with their studies at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus.

Invicta Grammar School’s assistant head Marelle Giles said: “We are delighted to have the opportunity to support students in a vocational approach to work.

“Our business and enterprise status is all about encouraging our students to be prepared for the world of work. As such, it is really pleasing to think we can raise awareness of the importance of apprenticeships for all.”

Last week Kent County Council revealed the number of apprenticeships in the county during the 2010/11 academic year totalled 8,720 – an increase of 74 per cent on the previous 12 months.

Cllr Mike Whiting – cabinet member for education, learning and skills – said Invicta Grammar was setting a fine example to other schools across the region to help further improve that figure.

He added: “It’s not easy to find a job these days but we have a great opportunity in our schools to offer young people a chance.

“We have 592 schools in Kent, and if every one of them took on at least one apprentice then that’s 592 extra people in employment.

“It’s great news that Invicta Grammar School has recognised the benefits apprentices can bring to an organisation, and it is setting a great example to others.

“The apprentices themselves will also act as fantastic role models to young people.”

MidKent College is approved by the Skills Funding Agency to offer both apprenticeships and advanced apprenticeships, the latter of which prepare young people to become the managers and technicians of tomorrow.

The College currently offers 15 different apprenticeships covering a wide range of subject areas, and during next February’s Apprenticeship Week will launch a new course in Information Technology.

MidKent College’s Head of Business Development, Jacqui Brown, said: “We are delighted to have formed this partnership with Invicta Grammar School and are pleased they are leading the way with their approach to apprenticeships.

“At a time when competition for jobs is fierce, it is important our young people realise there is a vocational way forward and that the academic route is not always the answer for everyone.” ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Yesterday’s event, which will be repeated today (Thursday, 8 December), was a joint effort between students from the Performing Arts and Hospitality and Catering departments.

Main courses on offer at the Pavilion included turkey with all the trimmings, minute steak, roast fillet of trout, and celeriac, with a three-course meal costing just £12.50 per person.

Hospitality and Catering assessor Tracy Kirkpatrick said: “Normally the students manage small tables but for this event there were up to 24 diners per group, so it was a big test for them.

“It’s great experience for them to deal with so many bookings and the pressure that comes with it, and I thought they all did a great job.

“This is the third year we’ve done this and it gets more and more popular every year. Our guests loved the food and thought the theatre production was fantastic too.”

The Pavilion Restaurant is run by staff and students at MidKent College’s Medway Campus, and is open weekdays from noon until 1.45pm and from 6.30-8.30pm on Thursdays (term time only). ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

They also paid a visit to the infamous Muthi Market, where various witchdoctors pedal everything from snakeskins to crocodile teeth.

Animal care technician Eliz Thomas said: “This was a fantastic opportunity for the students to gain a greater insight into animal conservation issues.

“They experienced first-hand some of the positive projects being undertaken in South Africa, as well as the darker side with the illegal trades which are still a big problem.”

The trip began in the coastal city of Durban, where the students witnessed the sharks which circle the area as well as the underwater nets used to snare them.

After visiting the captive dolphins at the nearby uShaka Marine World, the youngsters moved on to the Ishona Langa wildlife sanctuary on the outskirts of the African bush.

It was here that they met passionate conservationist Victor Hugo, who gave various talks and tours of the surrounding area.

Finally the students went on an unforgettable safari in the heart of the African bush, where they came face-to-face with an adult African elephant and a regal cheetah.

Eliz added: “They absolutely loved the experience. It’s one thing to learn about conservation issues from a textbook, but it’s quite another to experience them first-hand.

“Many of our students will go on to university to become the conservationists and charity workers of the future, and hopefully this trip will spur them on to do great things.”

The trip took place from 14-28 October.

Equivalent to three A-levels, the Extended Diploma in Animal Management covers a wide range of subject areas including animal welfare, rehabilitation, biology and more.

Visit www.midkent.ac.uk for more information. More photographs are also available at www.facebook.com/midkentcollege. ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The good news if you do is that MidKent College will soon be launching new short evening courses in Interior Design.

Starting in January, the first 10-week course is aimed at beginners who will study towards a City & Guilds Award in Interior Design (Bedroom and Bathroom).

Those who successfully complete the course have the option to progress to a further 10-week course geared towards the design of lounges and office space.

MidKent College lecturer Ellie Bentley said: “The courses will be fun and very ‘hands-on’.

“They are for anyone interested in interior design, whether you’re a budding professional designer or someone who just wants some creative ideas for your bedroom.”

The courses will be run by the Decorative Occupations team at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus.

Call 01622 624905 or email elaine.bentley@midkent.ac.uk for more information.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Electrical installation trainees Andrew Harland, 24, from Queenborough on the Isle of Sheppey, and Lewis Gray, 21, from Rochester, came in second and third place respectively at the event organised by the training provider JTL.

The apprentices were nominated from 1,500 in the South East and were among just 12 who made the final shortlist for the ceremony at Epsom Downs Racecourse, Surrey, on Tuesday, 22 November.

Andrew received a cheque for £500 for coming second and Lewis a cheque for £300, with both also receiving a commemorative shield and glass plaque.

Stuart Nice, MidKent College’s Head of Construction and Building Services, said: “These two students are a credit to themselves, their employers and the College.

“MidKent College and JTL have identified that these talented individuals have the potential to make a major contribution within the electrical industry.”

Andrew, whose apprenticeship is provided by Sittingbourne-based Chemidose Limited, worked in McDonald’s for three years before gaining new employment through the trainee scheme.

He said: “Working in McDonald’s bought me my car but I wanted to move into a career that I was interested in and that I would enjoy. My granddad was an electrician so it seemed the obvious choice.

“It’s great being an apprentice. Every day you come in you get to learn different systems and think about how you can improve on them.

“Just to make the final 12 at the awards was an achievement for me, let alone finishing second. I didn’t expect it at all.”

MidKent College is approved by the Skills Funding Agency to offer both apprenticeships and advanced apprenticeships, the latter of which prepare workers to become the managers and technicians of tomorrow.

Lewis, whose apprenticeship is provided by Strood-based Lyons Electrical, joined the firm just two days after leaving school.

He said: “My dad works for them so when I was about 14 I used to go there during the holidays to get some work experience. It puts you at a great advantage if you already have some knowledge of how things work.

“I’m being given a great apprenticeship at Lyons and am doing something different every day, from installing automatic number plate recognition systems at supermarkets to carrying out work at the top of power stations.”

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Director of Finance Ian Rule grew a moustache in aid of Movember – the month-long charity event aiming to raise funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and other cancers affecting men.

Vice Principal Sue McLeod had the honour of shaving Ian’s upper lip on Thursday (1 December) in front of colleagues at the Medway Campus.

Ian said: “We all know someone who’s had cancer so anything we can do to help raise funds and awareness is a good thing.

“Us men tend not to visit our doctors when we think there might be something wrong, and that needs to change.

“If growing a moustache helps in any way then I’m happy to do it.”

Ian, who was one of several MidKent College staff to participate in Movember, raised about £500 for charity.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Vice Principal Sue McLeod handed out certificates to the successful learners on Tuesday (29 November) as part of the Bridging the Gap project to provide security staff for London 2012.

The students will now be able to apply for a Security Industry Authority (SIA) licence – a prerequisite for those wishing to become security guards, bouncers or public space surveillance workers.

However, a special exemption of that licence has been applied for to allow students to work at the Olympic and Paralympic Games next summer.

Many of those who completed the Door Supervision course attended an interview day at MidKent College’s Medway Campus on Wednesday, which was organised in partnership with Olympic security provider G4S.

Head of Faculty for Care and Community Services, Tony Truscott, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students to get involved in the Olympics.

“Next year they could very well be working in the Olympic Village or even during some of the medal ceremonies. If recruited it will be an experience they will never forget.

“Completing this course also offers them a great chance of finding future employment in the growing security industry.”

The students interviewed by G4S will not find out if they are to be recruited until March next year. Visit www.facebook.com/midkentcollege to see more photographs, and be sure to 'like' the page!

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Adored by pre-schoolers growing up in the late 1990s, the colourful creatures – really a group of sponsored Business students in disguise – collected donations from staff and fellow learners at the Medway Campus.

The fun days, which were organised by young people studying for their BTEC Extended Diploma in Business, took place on Monday, 28 November and Tuesday, 29 November.

Attractions at the first, which was in aid of the Combat Stress charity for ex-servicemen and women suffering mental trauma, included a chocolate fountain and PlayStation 3 football challenge.

Tuesday’s event raised proceeds for the Teenage Cancer Trust and featured a raffle for a signed Gillingham FC football and replica shirt. The young businessmen and women also sold tasty treats including popcorn and candyfloss to staff and fellow students.

Business lecturer Sukh Gill said: “The charity fun days were linked to coursework the students are currently tackling around event planning and management.

“They put a great deal of effort into ensuring both ran smoothly, and we hope everyone enjoyed the range of attractions on offer.

“Both sets of students did fantastically well and have gained an invaluable insight into what it takes to set up events of this nature.”

Equivalent to three A-levels, the BTEC Extended Diploma in Business covers a broad spectrum of the business environment, economics and marketing.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

While there may be some disruption to classes at both the Medway and Maidstone campuses, every effort will be made to keep this to a minimum and students are advised to attend as normal.

Learners in receipt of Education Maintenance Allowance and other support funds will be affected if they do not attend.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Youngsters studying for their Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering were instructed to move the Tardis – which stands for Time and Relative Dimension in Space – from one part of the College to another as part of their health and safety manual handling assessment.

Engineering apprentice and Doctor Who fan Owen James, 22, built the Time Lord’s favourite mode of transport along with several other loads of various shapes and sizes.

The students then carried out risk assessments on the objects before safely carrying them across the Medway campus.

Course tutor Stephen Row said: “I asked for various simulated loads of different shapes – one being a box about the size of a washing machine.

“I discussed with Owen what he had made, and with both of us being keen on the TV series it just kind of grew into a Tardis.

“They were instructed not to tip it, as there is of course a swimming pool in the library of the real Tardis.”

With almost 800 episodes aired since its first series in 1963, Doctor Who is the longest-running science fiction TV show in the world. It was announced earlier this month that a new feature film is also planned.

After receiving his design brief, Owen wrote on his Facebook page: “I’ve been asked to make a Tardis at work. How good is my job?”

The Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Engineering is equivalent to four GCSEs at grades A-C and helps students qualify for work in PC maintenance, electronic production and the technical services field.

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

The 19-year-old Art and Design student from Maidstone beat scores of fellow entrants with his impressive three-dimensional Christmas tree design, which will be delivered to organisations across the county this festive season.

MidKent College Principal Stephen Grix presented Sachin with his prize of a digital bridge camera at a ceremony on Wednesday.

Mr Grix said: “The standard of entries was once again extremely high this year and it was incredibly tough to pick a winner, but Sachin’s innovative design stood out in particular. He should be very proud of himself.

“The competition represents a great opportunity for our Art and Design students as it gives them invaluable experience in creating something for a client, which in this case was the College itself.”

Sachin’s Art and Design course is run from the University for the Creative Arts’ Maidstone campus, which MidKent College will take over next summer.

The student, who lives in Western Road, Maidstone, said he was surprised yet delighted he had won the Christmas card competition.

He added: “When you think of Christmas, the first thing that springs to mind is a Christmas tree. We’ve been studying 3D engineering recently so that provided the inspiration for me to try something different.

“I wasn’t even thinking about winning the competition. The course I’m on is really good fun and I took part because I enjoy doing it.”

Rachel Thorp from the Medway campus was highly commended for her robin-inspired Christmas card.

MidKent College runs BTEC Diploma (equivalent to four GCSEs) and BTEC Extended Diploma (equivalent to three A-levels) courses in Art and Design from both its Medway and Maidstone campuses.

Also available is the Foundation Learning BTEC Diploma in Vocational Studies (equivalent to two GCSEs at grades E-G) or the Foundation Learning BTEC Diploma (equivalent to four GCSEs at grades D-G). ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Youngsters on courses run by the Services to People faculty set up stands at the popular retail destination on Thursday to promote the wide range of services available to the public.

These include fine dining restaurants, a travel agency and a hair and beauty salon all run by College students at competitive prices.

Hair and Beauty technician Norna Squires, who organised the event, said it was important people were made aware of the young talents at their service.

She said: “A lot of people don’t realise our students run businesses from the College, so we visited Dockside in the hope of drawing more of the public in.

“The stands attracted a lot of attention throughout the day and it was good for our young people to demonstrate what they have to offer.

“We’re also keen for more students to sign up to our courses, so the event had a dual purpose in that respect.”

The Services to People faculty at MidKent College covers courses in hair and beauty, hospitality and catering, and travel and tourism. ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Last month the College underwent a reassessment from the National Centre for Diversity, which has now concluded that it should retain its status as an Investor in Diversity organisation.

The College was also encouraged to apply for the Stage 3 Leaders in Diversity Standard given the improvements made since the previous assessment in July 2009.

MidKent College’s diversity and development advisor Adriana Temali-Smith said: “Unlike an Ofsted visit, which primarily focuses on the outcomes for students, this assessment really inspected the whole College including all of our policies and procedures affecting both staff and students.

“It was great news that the feedback was so positive, and it shows we are making progress in this important area.”

The assessment report spoke highly of the way equality and diversity themes are celebrated at the College, mentioning recent activities related to the London 2012 Olympics and Black History Month.

It also praised the continued use of Diversity Champions, who act as problem-solvers for staff and students while also promoting equality and diversity issues.

National Centre for Diversity assessor Jo Barton wrote: “I found the College environment to be very accessible, welcoming, safe and friendly, with internal and external stakeholders having a real understanding of inclusion and of equality and diversity in terms of it being a key driver for the College.”

She added: “Your organisation is working towards creating or developing a truly inclusive organisational culture in which diversity is genuinely valued.”

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Nick Woods, 18, who is currently studying for a BTEC Diploma in Music at MidKent College’s Medway Campus, hopes the link-up with Soho-based Downtown Artists could lead to a major recording deal with the likes of EMI or Sony.

The youngster said he hoped to follow in the footsteps of his musical idols John Mayer, Jack Johnson and Ed Sheeran by becoming a star.

He said: “I’ve played a lot of gigs locally at pubs and clubs – which I really enjoy – but this is just a fantastic step up for me.

“I was one of about 200 people invited for an interview with Downtown Artists but they only asked five of us back to record some tracks.

“But it’s hard to say if I’ll get signed up to a recording contract or not. It’s a cutthroat industry.”

Nick, whose American grandfather was a bandmaster of the Salvation Army Band in California, has recorded two songs for his new agency.

The first – called ‘Fallen Angel’ – is due to be circulated for possible use in a movie soundtrack. The second he described as a “bubbly feel-good track” ironically called ‘Heartache’.

Nick said his Diploma course at MidKent College had helped him grow as a musician, adding: “It’s been invaluable from a theoretical point of view.

“Before I joined the course I was just learning chords off the internet, but I’ve now been introduced to a host of different methods. Once you learn new chords it opens up lots more paths to writing music, which means you’re not just doing the same things over and over again.”

MidKent College’s music facilities include a state-of-the-art sequencing lab, and digital and analogue recording studios.

Other courses run from the Medway Campus include BTEC Extended Diplomas in Music Technology (Recording and Sequencing), in Music Practice, and in Music Technology Sound Engineering.

Programme area leader Lindsay Bennett said: “Nick is very deserving of the success he’s enjoying.

“He’s worked off his own initiative to gain as much experience as he can, and it’s starting to pay off.”

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Richard Addis has worked as a senior editor on the Evening Standard, Sunday Telegraph, Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday, as well as the editor of the Daily Express and Sunday Express.

He left his last post at the Financial Times in 2006 to set up The Day website – an online news service designed specifically for schools and colleges, linking the daily headlines to different parts of the curriculum.

Earlier this week Mr Addis paid a visit to MidKent College’s Medway Campus to speak with A-level Politics and Biology students who use The Day in their lessons.

He was joined by close friend and fellow former journalist Tim Devlin, who has also written for a string of national newspapers.

Mr Devlin said: “Some young people are afraid to take part in debates if they feel they don’t know the correct terminology or all the different points of view.

“By giving them definitions for words like ‘lobbying’ and ‘cherry-picking’ and providing ideas for further discussion, The Day helps them feel more confident.

“MidKent College is an excellent example of how The Day can be used to help students grow as individuals. We’d love to set up some further links with the College in the future.”

During their visit to the Medway Campus on Tuesday, Mr Addis and Mr Devlin sat in on a 90-minute Politics lesson led by A-level lecturer Emma Wilkinson.

Mrs Wilkinson was keen for the College to subscribe to the service in September as she felt the website would help inspire her students.

She said: “The problem with the internet is that there’s such a wide range of information out there that it’s difficult to determine what is good reliable information and what isn’t.

“The Day is a one-stop shop with easily-accessible articles that stretch and challenge our students and get them to think about things in different ways.”

MidKent College runs A-level courses in a range of subjects including Geography, History, Mathematics and more.

___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277 or email steve.knight@midkent.ac.uk.

Youngsters studying for their BTEC Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care set up a stall at the Medway Campus this morning (Thursday, 17 November) selling sweets and cakes in exchange for donations.

They also ran a ‘guess how many sweets in the jar’ competition and collected staff and students’ spare change in charity collection boxes.

A second group will run their own stall tomorrow (Friday, 18 November) with the aim of raising a combined total of at least £100.

Children in Need provides grants to projects in the UK which focus on children and young people who are disadvantaged. Its annual TV show airs tomorrow, from 7.30pm on BBC One.

Health and Social Care lecturer Caroline Lee-Abraham said: “The course our students are on is related to children, so they’re passionate about helping disadvantaged youngsters.

“They were very creative and stayed up all night baking cakes and making their cardboard Pudsey Bear. They’ve been really enthusiastic and it’s great to see.” ___________________________________________________ For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277.

Garages and other motoring firms from across the county were represented at Wednesday night’s event, which was organised by the west Kent member association of the Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI).

Held in one of the campus’ purpose-built motor vehicle workshops, the event included a demonstration by James Dillon of the diagnostics training body Technical Topics.

He said: “It’s critical that mechanics constantly seek to update their knowledge. The type of technology used in the design of cars is advancing at a rapid pace, so you can’t just rely on the things you learned when you first started out.

“The industry has gone from having no computers in cars in the 1980s to about 70 today. It’s phenomenal.”

Included in Mr Dillon’s demonstration was information on how to get the best from an oscilloscope – a form of diagnostic equipment used to detect engine faults.

West Kent IMI chairman and former MidKent College tutor Fred Holmes said the Maidstone Campus’s workshops were ideal for hosting such events.

He added: “They’re very useful because they have all the equipment we need and are a great place to give practical demonstrations. “We’re always keen to run events like this for our members because it’s vital for their continued professional development.”

MidKent College offers a range of motor vehicle courses including Diplomas in Vehicle Systems and Body and Paint Maintenance, and Vehicle Maintenance.

For further information, visit our Motor Vehicle page or download a course guide. ___________________________________________________

For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277.

The events, which have been organised by students studying for their BTEC Extended Diploma in Business, will take place on Monday, 28 November and Tuesday, 29 November.

Attractions at the first, which is in aid of the Combat Stress charity for ex-servicemen and women suffering mental trauma, include a beat-the-goalie competition and a chocolate fountain.

Tuesday’s event will raise proceeds for the Teenage Cancer Trust and feature a raffle for a signed Gillingham FC football and replica shirt. The young businessmen and women will also be selling tasty treats including popcorn and candyfloss to staff and fellow students.

Business lecturer Hilary Scothorn said: “The charity fun days are linked to coursework the students are currently tackling around event planning and management.

“They’ve put a great deal of effort into ensuring both run smoothly, and we hope staff and students enjoy the range of attractions on offer. It would be great if they could dig deep for two great causes as well.”

Both fun days will be held in The Pavilion, from 9am to 4pm. ___________________________________________________ For all media enquiries, please contact Steve Knight, Marketing and Communications Officer, on 01634 383277.

Gary, head chef at Barbutis restaurant – which opened earlier this year in Gravesend – began his cooking career at The Royal Naval School, HMS Pembroke, Chatham in 1980. He has since worked with top chefs across the country, most notably world-renowned chef Aidan McCormack, at Hartwell House Hotel, Chewton Glen. He has also achieved 2AA Rosette status at Farringford Hotel on the Isle of Wight.

Johannes Keevey, catering lecturer at MidKent College, said: “I worked with Gary Irving for two-and-a-half years, and learned so much about not only cooking, but what it means to be a chef and how important it is to use locally sourced British ingredients where possible. I admired Gary’s passion and eagerness to pass on his knowledge so much that I jumped at the chance to get Gary to come and cook here at the College.”

Head of Business Development at MidKent College, Jacqui Brown, said: ‘This is an incredible achievement for the College, not only in what we offer students but also for the professional development opportunities for College staff.’

The official launch for the new programme will be held in January 2012 with representatives from Microsoft. During the first year of the programme Midkent College will work towards becoming a Microsoft Gold Member.

Tony Truscott Head of Faculty for Care and Community Services said: “Today is a celebration of the Olympics and its values. It is also about how the Medway and Maidstone campuses worked together, sharing ideas to deliver a magnificent event.

“The Olympics is significant for education and should involve all, not just those good at sport. MidKent College is already part of the Bridging the Gap project, which aims to provide employment opportunities for students in the 10,000 vacancies in the security related roles at the 2012 games.There are a myriad volunteering opportunities available to students that will require dedication and determination to pass the selection process. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity that shouldn’t be missed. “

MidKent College students were tasked with installing a range of renewable systems using different heating options, including sustainable appliances, pipework, insulation and underfloor heating.

Stuart Nice, Head of Faculty for Construction & Building Services at MidKent College, said: “Our students benefitted enormously from the experience of being involved in the eco house build project, and it's great that they were also promoting the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability in the construction of tomorrow's buildings.”

The project has given the College a platform on which to continue strengthening its extensive networks with other colleges, as well as industry and professional bodies.

These links have led to the College working with Central Sussex College and Hastings College as part of the National Academy for Renewables Training.

Velux Solar Thermal, Polypipe, Worcester Bosch and Grant Engineering (Medway Bridge Trust) have all supplied the materials – and some of the training – required to enable the College's students to meet their part of the challenge.

The College’s wide range of courses, which include those in electrical installation, plumbing, heating, gas and renewables, have been designed to meet the needs of students and the building services industry, including small and medium sized employers.

Of the 1,000 plus construction and building services students and apprentices on full and part-time courses at MidKent College, over 50% are employed in the industry.

Sophie Lasson and Faith Kumson worked with internationally renowned oral historian, Pamela Glintenkamp, at the museum over the Easter holidays to put the project together, spending four days interviewing local residents and then editing several hours of audio content into useable segments.

Media course tutor, Sue Flipping said: "It was a great opportunity for the College to be invited to participate and the Museum have been delighted with the work the students have produced."

The students attended the official opening which was also attended by senior members of the Royal Engineers as well as local dignitaries.

The event enabled local business owners to explore the opportunities apprenticeships can bring, as well as to receive up-to-date information on the apprenticeship services provided by the college –one of the top apprenticeship training providers in the South East.

Co-directors of Medway-based company Take Care Home Help, Julie Hunter and Anita Willoughby, were among a number of local employers keen to find out more about the benefits apprentices can bring. Ms Willoughby said: “We’re looking for more information on the advantages of taking on an apprentice - perhaps not for now, but for in the near future.

“We are a relatively young company so we’re adapting our infra-structure as we go. We would most certainly benefit from the administrative and IT support an apprentice could offer us.”

Assistant principal at the college, Peter Webb, said: “MidKent College is committed to providing a professional training service that is responsive to the needs of local companies. Central to this is the delivery of high-quality training for apprentices across an increasingly broad range of business sectors.”

MidKent College offers apprenticeships designed around individual business needs, and provides companies with specialist skills training that will enable them to keep pace with the latest technology and working practices in their sector.

Key to the service the college provides is the development of the young people who can enable a business to grow. Head of business development at the college, Jacqui Brown, said: “Apprentices are eager, motivated, flexible and loyal to the company that invests in them. What’s more, apprenticeships offer a sound investment. Many employers report that training apprentices is more cost-effective than hiring skilled staff.”

Employers who would like to find out more about hiring an apprentice should call Carole Carter at the college on 01634 383133. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or atheather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The new park was the first step in a number of planned improvements to Chatham’s historic Lines and the construction of the Great Lines Heritage Park, and is owned and managed by a Charitable Trust.

The top-notch cook, whose brasserie earned a place among just 18 restaurants selected to appear on Gordon Ramsay’s The F Word in 2009, worked alongside students in the college’s student–run restaurant, The Apprentice, in March last year. Now the well-known chef will return to give students a second taste of his world class cooking. On his last visit to the college, Mr Goss said: “I’m keen to give Kent’s most promising young chefs a chance to experience life in a top-quality kitchen and MidKent College was first on my list.” He continued: “The students have been fantastic, really enthusiastic. I’m very, very impressed.” A special evening set for 18 November 2010, will see Scott working alongside learners to prepare a specially designed menu using locally sourced produce. The cost will be £25 per person, inclusive of a complimentary glass of wine. Bookings can be made by calling the restaurant on 01622 625873 or 01622 625839. Early booking is encouraged to avoid disappointment. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or atheather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

A fun-packed morning of activities saw the college’s first year Construction Crafts Diploma students split into class teams before being asked to complete a range of tough challenges. More than 100 trainee carpenters, bricklayers and decorators braved a go at the tasks on offer - including a timed penalty shoot-out, a tug of war, and a netball competition.

College painting and decorating lecturer Ellie Bentley said: “We organise this fun induction event every year to give the students a chance to get to know one another and develop their identity as a class and college faculty. As well as working with one another, the students have also been teamed up with their course tutors and the support staff allocated to their groups.

“This year’s challenge united everyone in the entire department, and has been a great experience – especially for the learners, who are preparing for work in an industry that relies on different types of tradespeople working together.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or atheather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

400m hurdler, Jack Green, will soon begin training full-time under the guidance of coach Malcolm Arnold, who is well-respected for his work with the likes of Olympic Gold medallist Jon Akii-Bua and former World Record holder Colin Jackson.

18 year old Jack, who recently completed a level 3 national diploma in sport and exercise science at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus, has also been accepted onto a full scholarship at the University of Bath.

MidKent College tutor Vickie Sampson is confident of Jack’s athletic capabilities. “His height of 6 feet 4 inches gives him a definite advantage in hurdling. In fact, he managed to prove this whilst writing a research project for his BTEC diploma,” she said.

“He’s determined and competitive, fresh out of the World Junior Championships in Canada, and the British Record holder for the 400m hurdles in two age categories. It’s incredible to think that he’s achieved all this whilst working hard to complete his course at MidKent College,” she added. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Thamesteel Limited based in Sheerness launched a new training scheme funded and delivered by MidKent College’s Business Development Unit in 2009. The scheme, which aimed to reduce waste by developing workers’ knowledge of sustainable processes and procedures, has seen the Al-Tuwairqi Group steel manufacturer make huge business savings across 20 projects in just one year.

In total, seven project teams of nearly 50 workers were trained as part of the MidKent College-funded programme, all of whom also achieved an NVQ in business improvement techniques.

Production manager within the steel manufacturer’s service department, Neil Frostick, estimates that his team is responsible for savings of around £50,000. “The programme was worthwhile in terms of getting the team working together,” he said. “And it was good that the ideas for saving time and improving working practices came from the team themselves, not management,” he added.

Training manager at Thamesteel, Gez Tingley, said: “Whilst we recognise the achievement of a personal qualification for our staff, this programme has enabled Thamesteel to see the training undertaken by its staff put into practice and has brought about a real benefit to the organisation. We are keen to maintain the momentum and hope to continue our relationship with MidKent College.”

The training programme was fully funded and delivered by MidKent College and consisted of a series of trainer-led workshops, group tasks, on the job coaching, and work based projects. Improvements applied to the company’s processes following the training included reducing the amount of dust and pollution produced within the steelworks’ scrap yard, improving steel production processes in order to maximise efficiency levels, and modifying scrap basket shells to prevent the leakage of lime. As well as saving the company money, many of these improvements have also had a positive impact on the environment and health and safety.

Senior production manager at Thamesteel, Garry Flannery said: “The tangible benefits of the programme are obviously outstanding, especially in these challenging economic times, but equally important are the intangible benefits such as cross functional team work and the sharing of knowledge across departments. This developing culture will ensure success today and will allow for continued improvement going forward.”

Senior plant production manager, Sanjeev Manocha, said: “At Thamesteel we believe in investing in our staff. The lean management training programme taken through MidKent College and our work with Six Sigma has yielded tremendous results in terms of tangible and intangible benefits, such as team building, environmental improvements, safety awareness and better housekeeping.”

Manager of MidKent College’s Business Development Unit, Jacqui Brown, said: “We are delighted to see our training have such a huge impact and are looking forward to maintaining our relationship with Thamesteel Limited and other local businesses long into the future.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

An annual sponsorship scheme, first established by the council in partnership with Medway College of Social Care and MidKent College in 2008, offers Level 3 BTEC National Diploma students £250 per month over eight months to enable them to make the most of their course. It is hoped that the scheme will encourage more young people to move into care work within the local community.

A total of seven students were selected for the scheme this year, many of whom have now progressed to university to train as social workers. Student Katherine Phillips used the support offered by the scheme to pay for her travel to college. She also used the additional funds to buy a laptop and driving lessons so she can drive to Canterbury Christchurch University where she will begin a degree in October.

The 19 year old from Gillingham said: “We had to complete a successful panel interview and deliver a presentation to qualify for the scheme. It was hard work, but it was worth it.

“It’s my ambition to be a social worker with a focus on helping people with mental health problems. It’s a job that allows you to give something back to your community. I can’t wait to qualify for it.”

College lecturer in health and social care, Caroline Lee-Abraham said: “These students have come a long way. I am very proud of them and wish them the best of luck at university and within their future careers.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The 14 to 16 year olds, all pupils at the New Line Learning and Cornwallis Academies in Maidstone, were celebrating the end of a School Partnerships programme in motor vehicle technologies. The year-long course run by MidKent College enabled 15 pupils to study at Buckmore Park for one day per week.

College Motor Vehicle lecturer Terry Coombes said: “The award these pupils have been studying for gives them a good basis of knowledge in motor mechanics and prepares them for full-time motor vehicle training if that’s what they choose to do once they have left school.

“They’ve been coming to Buckmore Park once a week since September. In that time they’ve looked at engine stripping and rebuilding, suspension systems, steering systems, braking and cooling. There’s been a lot to cover, so this is only the third time they’ve had a chance to actually drive the karts they’ve been working on. They’ve been really looking forward to it.”

15 year old Michael King couldn’t wait to get on the karting track. He said: “The whole course has been a real laugh. We’ve had a great time, but getting to drive the karts has been the best part.” The year ten Cornwallis Academy pupil added: “It’s been good to get some hands on experience of working with cars. It means I’ve got more options available to me when I leave school next summer.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Community librarian Sophie Butcher visited MidKent College’s Medway Campus earlier this month where she captivated around a dozen local youngsters with tales of bears, forests, jelly and pants.

The free literacy workshop, funded by L&Q Housing, aimed to bring reading to life, explained Strood Library employee, Ms Butcher. “It’s all about getting the children up on their feet and actively involved in the story telling. It helps to capture their imaginations,” she said. She added: “It’s so effective they don’t even realise they’re improving their literacy.”

The free community workshop, which was open to everyone aged eight or below and living in L&Q Housing in the Gillingham area, was organised in partnership with MidKent College and Kent Police.

Eight year old Tilly Willway of Kelly Drive said she had enjoyed the day. “Pants and More Pants was my favourite book,” she said. “It was really funny,” she added.

The children and their parents also enjoyed a teddy bears’ picnic and craft activities as part of the captivating workshop For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

21 year old Chris Ward joined prize winning students from across the region for the annual Skilled Up (Best in Kent) competition. Learners from MidKent College, Canterbury College, Thanet College, South and West Kent College and North West Kent College all participated in the hands-on challenge, which sought to find Kent’s best trainee bricklayers, carpenters, joiners and decorators.

Mr Ward, who works as an apprentice at Denne Joinery and attends MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus one day a week, nabbed first place in the joinery element of the competition. He was accompanied by fellow MidKent students Matt Stringer, Dave Mercer and Liam Riley, all of whom also nabbed prizes.

The talented joiner was thrilled with his achievement: “I think I may have found my vocation,” he said. “I won another joinery competition earlier this year, so this is the icing on the cake. It feels great to know that your skills are appreciated,” he added.

College head of faculty for Design and Construction Crafts, Teresa Murray, said: “Our students have shown what excellent craftspeople they have become. All of the prizes they have won throughout the year are a tribute to their talent and dedication to learning new skills.

“I am hugely proud of them and their teachers, who have taught them so well and encouraged them to believe in themselves.”

The annual inter-college Skilled Up challenge aims to prepare students for the international World Skills competition in 2012 and is sponsored by Wates Construction Group and power tools manufacturer Makita UK.

The exhibition, held in Chatham Dockyard’s grade 1 listed number 3 slip, had been organised by art and creative media students studying at the college’s Medway Campus. Acting programme area leader for art and design courses at the college, Stacey McCormack, said: “The exhibition provided our final year national diploma students with an opportunity to showcase their handiwork. This included an eclectic range of 2D and 3D pieces they had produced for course units in textiles, fashion and sculpture. The work of a select number of first diploma students was also included in the show.

“They all did incredibly well to put together the final exhibition - particularly our first diploma students, who had produced work of an exceptionally high standard.”

16 year old Joanne Young, who has just completed a first diploma in art and design at the college said: “I’m really excited to have been given the chance to exhibit my work as part of this show, but it does feel a bit weird. I never would have thought my artwork was good enough to sit alongside some of the pieces produced by these other students.”

Joanne, a former pupil at Fulston Manor School in Sittingbourne, received a distinction for her piece – an abstract sculpture inspired by the emotional and physical changes brought about in women through relationships and pregnancy. “It’s a conceptual piece constructed using mod roc, plaster and wire,” she said. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Working in conjunction with Kent Fire & Rescue Service, Kent Police and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution, the college’s students talked to hundreds of 10 and 11 year olds at this year’s popular Safety in Action event run by Maidstone Borough Council. The busy annual fair, which is held on Invicta Barracks grounds and attended by primary school pupils from across the Maidstone area, aims to promote personal safety for children.

Level three students from MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus attended each day of the week-long event - working alongside instructors on half of the fair’s most popular stands.

“This is the third year the college has been involved in Safety in Action,” said programme area leader for public services courses at the college’s Maidstone Campus, James Egan. “It provides a great opportunity for our students to work directly with some of the services they want to progress into, from the army, to the police and the fire brigade.

“It’s also great general work experience for them, which goes a long way to developing their communication skills, as well as their knowledge of some of the UK’s main public services.”

19 year old college student Sammy Burrows was operational commander for the MidKent team. “It’s been a fun and rewarding challenge for us,” she said.

“We’ve really enjoyed having the opportunity to teach the children and work alongside the main event team.

“Some of us want to move into the army, while others want to join the police or the fire service. Each and every one of these services is here. It’s been absolutely brilliant.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The busy sporting event, which formed part of a special week of health and wellbeing at the college, featured a wide range of old fashioned sports day challenges, including a four by 100 metre relay, a three-legged race and a frenzied tug of war.

More than half of the college’s Medway faculties opted to take part in the voluntary event, with teams made up of students and staff from health and childcare, public services, hair and beauty, construction, sport, business and A-levels. Programme area leader for sports courses at the college’s Medway Campus, Graham Heath, said: “Today has been an overwhelming success thanks to all the students and staff who helped organise it and make it so enjoyable. The whole purpose of the event has been to unite a wide range of departments and get our students and staff joining together to have some fun. “This is the first sports day the college has held, but thanks to the popularity of this event, and the Sport Relief mile that more than 1,000 of our staff and students took part in earlier this year, we’ve decided to make it an annual occurrence.” The college’s sports day was one of a number of activities undertaken during a week dedicated to health and wellbeing and focused on spiritual, emotional and mental health, fitness and nutrition, tobacco, alcohol and drugs awareness, and relationships and sexual health advice. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

A beach-themed bash was organised by national diploma travel and tourism students to mark the close of their first year at college. The charity party - which featured a barbecue, swing ball, Wii games and a tug of war – was also attended by students from the college’s air cabin crew diploma.

“Today’s party forms part of a course unit on events, conferences and exhibitions” explained MidKent College student Amie Roberts. “We had to organise the whole get-together from scratch. First of all we had to decide on a charity and a theme, and then we had to budget for food and activities.”

Tickets were sold at £5 each to enable costs to be covered and to help the students raise an equal amount for Cancer Research UK at the same time. “It’s been fun as well as a great learning experience for us,” continued 17 year old Amy, who lives Kings Hill and led her class in organising the beach-themed blow-out. “I want to work in events management in the future. This experience has shown me just how rewarding and stressful events management can be,” she said. “All I can say is: it’s a good job I like a challenge.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The team had been asked to complete a general tidy-up of the Lower Lines Park, which opened on Gillingham’s Medway Road in January this year. The small team of offenders was accompanied by community payback officer Brian Forster. “This work has been organised by police community support officers in conjunction with the college,” said Mr Forster. “This isn’t the first time we have delivered community payback at MidKent College as we visited the Horsted site in Chatham a number of times. However, this is our first visit to this new campus and the park that recently opened here.

“Community payback is all about servicing the community and doing something positive for local people. We are keen to work in partnership with the police, the fire service and educational institutions like the college so that we can offer our support to projects that will make a real difference in the local community.” Formerly known as community service, community payback is unpaid work aimed at giving something to local communities and enabling offenders to ‘payback’ for the wrong they have done. Police community support officer for the college and the surrounding area Rowan Cornwall said: “The Lower Lines Park is part of the community as well as the college, so inviting the payback team here is great for our staff and students as well as local residents and park visitors. “At the end of the day, these offenders are human beings who know their crimes and are here to help us out. They’ve only been here for half an hour, and already the difference is phenomenal. They’re doing a great job.” Designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, the Lower Lines comprise a series of fortifications and brick trenches constructed from 1803 onwards to help defend Chatham Dockyard from attack during the Napoleonic Wars. Construction of the Lower Lines Park has seen 5.5 hectares of the open land linked to the Lines - and next to MidKent College’s Medway Campus - revitalised thanks to £7 million of college funding. The picturesque community space now features a view of the historic Lines, as well as woodlands and a wildlife trail for local residents and visitors of the park to enjoy. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The trip gave the students a perfect opportunity to explore the reservoir and gain some enrichment at the same time, with all given a chance to take the helm of the boat while the others acted as crew.

Plumbing lecturer at the college Jeff Sayward said: “We try to bring the students here every year. They get to see how water is sourced and find out more about reservoirs and their function. As plumbers, it’s good for them to know where the water we drink and use each day actually comes from.”

Bewl, the largest lake in the South East and one of the top tourist attractions in Kent, supplies many areas with water, including the Medway Towns, north Maidstone, the Hastings area and a number of local villages. It offers a range of activities, including water sports, cycling, and trout fishing. Plumbing students from MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus go on a number of educational visits throughout the year, including trips to a Talon pipe clips factory, Hunter Plastics, and Chatham Dockyard. They also receive talks from a number of external visitors. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The students, who are all studying acting at MidKent College’s Medway Campus, had been asked to write one monologue and one duologue each. Lecturer Carole Bowles explained: “Having generated a lot of work individually, the students then edited a final script according to which of their characters complemented and contrasted with one another.”

A number of different characters were brought to life within the piece, including a kind vicar, a prejudiced pub landlord, a passionate teacher and an insecure teenager.

Students read their script in front of an invited audience of family and friends. The collaborative final piece, a hard-hitting exploration of youth culture, prejudice and unemployment, focused on various parts of the Medway Towns.

The project provided first-hand experience of script editing processes, said student Andrew Day. “Conducting a rehearsed reading is sort of like testing a script,” he explained. “It allows you to find out which jokes work and which lines aren’t really needed.

“It’s been fun and has provided a nice ending to our course. Now we’re all set to begin performing of our end of year production of My Fair Lady, which starts in our Medway Campus theatre at the end of this week.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

21 year old apprentice with Denne Joinery, Chris Ward, was one of around 30 student hopefuls who took part in the prestigious Joiners and Ceilers competition, run by the Worshipful Company of Joiners and Ceilers of the City of London. He will collect his first place prize - an inscribed silver and rosewood presentation square, and a cheque for £1,000 - at a special prize giving to be held in London at the end of July.

The tough competition, held last month in Essex, challenged entrants to create an English oak chest using drawings and timber provided on the day. Carpentry lecturer at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus, Dave Garrett, was delighted with the result. “Chris has a natural ability and his employer tells us his work is refined,” he said.

Despite having come third in the same competition last year, Chris was surprised to have won. “It was hard work,” he said, “and there was lots to do in the time, but I’m really pleased I came first. Now I just need to decide how I’m going to spend the money.”

Chris, who works four days a week with Denne Joinery in Canterbury, attends the college campus at Oakwood Park one day per week for his apprenticeship training. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Stephen is busy celebrating the publication of Medieval History For Dummies, a comprehensive guide to political, religious and cultural life in the Middle Ages. It is the second book authored by the former history lecturer for the popular For Dummies series, published by John Wiley and Sons Ltd.

“It was a big thinking job because of the extent of the period,” explained the college department head. “It took time to decide what to include and what not to include, and of course, where to start; history doesn’t just begin.

“I decided to open the book with an overview of what is commonly known at the Dark Ages, as this period, which came after the collapse of the Roman Empire, was probably the most difficult to tackle.”

The 35 year old author, who lectured at Richmond Adult Community College and Birkbeck College in London before moving into his current position at MidKent College, believes an examination of medieval history is key to understanding how modern-day Europe was established. “It’s a fascinating period to look at – a time that was incredibly violent and gory, but filled with immense creativity,” he said.

Medieval History For Dummies is available to buy in all good bookstores now along with The Ancient Greeks For Dummies, also written by expert historian Steve and published in 2008. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The students spent an entire week in t-shirts bearing the slogan: ‘Some people are Gay. Get over it’. They also manned an information stand in the college’s student social zone. The stand, which aimed to raise awareness of LGBT issues, as well as the college’s LGBT group, had been organised by travel and tourism student Kim Still. “I think it’s important that as students we get involved in events like this,” said the 19 year old from Maidstone. “When we ran celebrations for this year’s LGBT History Month in February, one student told me he hadn’t realised there were gay people at the college. I couldn’t believe it. There are thousands of students at this site alone; we must have dozens of gay, bisexual and transgender students.

“I think that making the LGBT group visible in this way will do a lot to raise awareness and promote tolerance among other students - and we’ve managed to get our straight, as well as our gay and bisexual friends involved. It’s been a great success.”

The popular group, which aims to support LGBT students across the entire campus, also hopes to attend this year’s Pride festival in Brighton. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The college’s Battle of the Chefs challenge saw three teams competing to impress diners with the high standard of their dishes. Having already battled it out in the opening heats of the challenge, the students had everything to play for in the competition final, held last week at the college’s new campus on Medway Road in Gillingham.

The final tested each team’s ability to reproduce a number of classic dishes. College chef instructor Sean Stratton said: “They had to show an understanding of a range of techniques and demonstrate their own flair when garnishing the final dishes. On top of all this, they were asked to cook live in front of their customers on three huge barbeques. It was an exciting night.”

The grand final saw the college’s students serving up a range of dishes, including smoked salmon and baby leek tart, ham hock terrine, char-grilled rump steak, and tuna niçoise salad. With over 100 guests to cater for, it was a pressured evening for the trainees – who are all studying courses in Hospitality and Catering at the college.

19 year old Sean Armstrong said: “We’ve spent around a month preparing for this evening and although it’s definitely been stressful, it has been a totally worthwhile experience for us.”

Once the guests had selected and eaten their chosen dishes, each course was scored according to the students’ quality of service as well as the food’s flavour. The highest scoring team – the blue team – was awarded the competition trophy at the evening’s close.

Leader of the winning team, 22 year old Louise Heffernan from Rochester, said: “I’m in shock that we’ve won. It probably won’t sink in until we start clearing up later this evening.

“We run a number of big functions across the year and each time we do, we all jump at the chance to get involved. It’s such great experience for us and we thoroughly enjoy it.”

Programme Area Leader for Hospitality and Catering courses at the college, Pauline Harrison said: “Boy it has been a hard day and night for these students, but they have been outstanding - as have the staff who have worked so hard to support them.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The event, which had originally been planned for January but was postponed due to heavy snow, saw chairman of the Dockyard Trust, Admiral Sir Ian Garnett KCB, inaugurate the new community space located at the Lower Lines on Gillingham’s Medway Road.

Undeterred by wet weather, more than 100 special guests and residents from the local community gathered to watch the Sir Ian Garnett cut a ribbon to mark the park’s official opening. “At least it’s not snowing,” he joked, before continuing, “I’m delighted to officially open the Lower Lines Park here today. May it give you many years of pleasure.”

Designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, the Lower Lines comprise a series of fortifications and brick trenches constructed from 1803 onwards to help defend Chatham Dockyard from attack during the Napoleonic wars. Construction of the Lower Lines Park has seen 5.5 hectares of the open land linked to the Lines - and next to MidKent College’s Medway Campus - revitalised thanks to college funding. The picturesque community space now features a view of the historic Lines, as well as woodlands and a wildlife trail for local residents and visitors of the park to enjoy.

The new park is the first step in many planned improvements to Chatham’s historic Lines and the construction of the Great Lines Heritage Park, and is owned and managed by a Charitable Trust chaired by John Spence. Mr. Spence said, “I would like to thank the Friends of the Admirals Gardens group and all those within the local community who continue to support this project.

“The Lower Lines Park is not just a park; it signifies the historical importance of the Lower Lines, and forms an important part of the regeneration taking place across Medway.”

The ceremony was attended by local sea cadets who performed a guard of honour, as well as the Mayor of Medway, Cllr David Brake, and senior staff from MidKent College. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

11 hairdressers attended the Chatham barracks charged with one mission: to deliver short-back-and-sides in exchange for charity donations. “This is the second time we have visited the barracks to offer our services, with all profits going to Help for Heroes,” explained college lecturer Natasha Smith. “It’s a good opportunity for the students to learn some barbering skills, and it’s an experience they really seem to enjoy,” she added.

Student Amy Collins agreed. “We don’t get that many men coming in to the college for cutting or colouring, so this is really good experience for us. It’s also been great to learn a bit more about the soldiers we’ve met. One told me how he was shot in the leg in Afghanistan.

“We’re here raising money for a charity that is there to support service men and women across the UK - which is great - but it’s been just as rewarding to give something back to the soldiers right next door to us here in Medway.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Visitors included local secondary school pupils and members of the public, as well as a wide range of students from across the college campus on Gillingham’s Medway Road. All guests were invited to sample professional-standard studio equipment and view a host of instrument demonstrations, while students on the college’s courses in music technology and practice were awarded priority access to a number of workshops - including an exclusive studio master class from Funkagenda, co-producer of Black Eyed Peas' hit Rock that Body.

Grammy-nominated Funkagenda, who is signed to Kent-based international label Toolroom Records, took students through how to get the best out of a final dance track, from recording to compression. “If there’s one thing I’m hoping the students will have taken from today, it’s a desire to keep learning,” he said, before adding, “It’s important to make sure you are constantly developing; I still learn new things every day.”

Alongside Toolroom Records, other exhibitors included Bose, Audient, Steinberg, JHS Guitars, the University of Kent, IK Multimedia and Roland.

International V-drum demonstrator for Roland products, Craig Blundell, took visitors through how to create breakbeats using the very latest in professional hand-percussion controllers. He said: “This equipment is the kind you might see used in a top studio, as well as in an enthusiast’s living room. It contains literally thousands of parameters of sound, so the best way to learn what it’s capable of is to hear it actually being used.”

College sound engineering student Alex Brown said the day had been highly beneficial. “This is something our tutors should organise every year,” said the 16 year old from Gravesend. “The workshops have been brilliant. We’ve learned even more about music production software and have had a chance to talk to Funkagenda about his industry experience.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Up-and-coming fashion designers from nearby University for the Creative Arts called on the college’s hairdressers to help style a number of models for the glamorous catwalk event. The final show, held at the Casino Rooms in Rochester, saw the arts university students showcasing an eclectic range of outstanding collections.

University fashion design lecturer, Johannes Reponen said: “This show offers our students an opportunity to show the work they’ve done to their parents and friends, as well as representatives from the fashion industry. It’s the absolute pinnacle of their three-year degree, so it’s wonderful to see students from the college being there to support them.

“In the fashion industry it is incredibly important to find great people to collaborate with, and the college’s students are young and fresh, and their work is energetic. We’re very keen to take this opportunity to work alongside them.”

Mr Reponen, who has styled for Muse magazine and has also worked with Emporio Armani, helped the level three hair designers create a range of looks that would suit the final show – this year inspired by 1920s French minimalism. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

19 learners took part in the Kent Football Association funded course, run by guest tutor Geoff Stanborough and designed for those who wish to referee or coach children’s football within the community.

Mr Stanborough said: “The course examines why it is important for the sporting industry to take responsibility for safeguarding young people. The students identify best practice in community football groups and look at what child and parent behaviours might provide cause for concern.

“There are four million children and young people involved in youth football. We have a moral and legal responsibility - as outlined in the Every Child Matters agenda - to keep them safe.”

College sports development student Scott Andrews said: “We discussed a number of things to consider when working with children, such as whether they can be photographed and how best to deal with injuries.

“It was very interesting. I might consider working with children in the future and this course will help me to do that.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

More than 20 students from MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus at Oakwood Park journeyed over 100 miles be part of the prestigious horsing event. The festival, held each year in the centre of Gloucestershire, sees the nation’s top jockeys gathering at Prestbury Park to take part in 26 races over four days. Students from MidKent College spent four days helping the event’s organisers deliver 42,000 hospitality covers for race spectators. Together they served 18,000 bottles of Champagne, 8,000 gallons of tea and coffee, 125,000 pints of Guinness and three tonnes of smoked salmon.

Catering lecturer James Crank said: “The students got up at 6am to start work by 8am each day and worked solidly in the hospitality boxes until 7pm every evening. They worked tirelessly throughout the entire festival, and did their College - and themselves - proud.

“This year they were joined by students from North West Kent College in Gravesend, who they worked together with to run a number of marquees for customers paying at least £100 per head.

“Each student gained some invaluable experience to take forward into their future career, and they all returned to Kent exhausted and exhilarated by the whole thing.”

Organisers of the internationally renowned event were impressed with the standard of the students’ work and described both teams as a credit to themselves and the colleges they attend. This is the second time students from MidKent College have been asked to help out at the event. Last year, students from the college’s level two NVQ courses in hospitality and catering made such an impression on the organisers of the event, the same learners received requests to work at the Henley Regatta, Silverstone, Goodwood and Aintree. This was the second year teenager Carrie Caldecourt had attended the festival. “It’s always hard work from start to finish, but it’s great fun and a brilliant experience,” said the 18 year old from West Malling. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Representatives from across the Kent Association of Further Education Colleges (KAFEC) group - including a number from Canterbury College, Thanet College, South & West Kent College and North West Kent College - were keen to find out how MidKent College’s Females in Technology (FIT) scheme supports girls studying within the male-dominated fields of technology and engineering.

Head of the college’s faculty for advanced construction and engineering, Ray Fielder, said: “The idea has been to introduce the FIT model to other Kent colleges with a view to rolling it out countywide.”

The group has the potential to encourage more girls to move into traditionally male-dominated areas says 18 year old Thanet College student Hayley Elkins. “I think the group is a really good idea,” she said on her visit to MidKent College’s Medway Campus in Gillingham. “It offers girls some support and helps to build their confidence.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Based on Gordon Ramsay’s hit show of the same name, the student cook-off sees three teams competing to impress guest diners with the high standard of their dishes. Students have already battled it out in the opening heats of the competition - which marks the climax of the 09/10 academic year - and are now looking forward to the grand final, set to take place at the Medway Campus on Thursday May 27, between 7.30 and 9.30pm.

Each team prepares its own three course menu for 50 people, says trainee-chef James Paolillo. “We invite the diners – including family, friends and teachers – to order from any menu and mark each dish out of ten,” said the 17 year old from Sheerness. “The team with the most points then wins.”

College chef instructor Sean Stratton said: “The final will test the winning team’s ability to reproduce classic dishes. They will have to show an understanding of a range of techniques and show their own flair when garnishing the final dishes. On top of all this, the final will see them cooking live in front of their customers on three huge barbeques.

“The restaurant will be split into three different areas, each colour coded to represent a different team. The customers will not know who is in which team or who is cooking their food. It’s going to be an exciting night.” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The new agency is run by the College’s Business Development Unit and takes on the dual role of training and recruiting suitable apprenticeship candidates for employers. College recruitment officer Siobhan Clark said: “The agency simplifies the apprentice recruitment process for employers by providing them with apprentices that are already partially-trained for the job they’ll be doing.

“Traditionally, an employer will advertise an apprenticeship position and then approach the college to train the lucky candidate. This new agency sees us recruiting the candidates. This means they will have already completed a relevant Level 2 technical certificate at the college before they actually start their employment.”

With a focus on Maidstone and Medway and the surrounding areas, the new agency aims to support employers within the fields of construction, plumbing, electrical installation, engineering and motor mechanics.

Local employers who would like to find more about the scheme should call the college Business Development Unit on 01634 383177. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The courses, which are delivered through the college’s Business Development Unit, form part of an agreement with the Job Centre to provide valuable training for local people who are looking to get back into work.

The college - which has already successfully trained more than 380 people through a similar contract - will now run courses for hundreds more who are looking for work in the Medway area. The programme, called the Work Focused Training Scheme, is targeted at adults aged over 19 who have been unemployed for six to 12 months. It is only open to those who have been referred to the college by their local Job Centre.

College training consultant Carole Carter said: “Work Focused Training is a ten-day programme which helps clients gain skills in various areas, including warehousing, construction and advanced security operations.

“We delivered our first Work Focused Training contract so well, we now have a further contract to train yet more clients with the aim of finding them work.

“Clients attend their chosen course either here at MidKent College or with our partners at Mainstream Training in Sittingbourne, and leave at the end of ten days with qualifications that will have a positive impact on their employability. For example, if someone goes through our course in warehousing, they can come out with a fork-lift truck qualification, and certificates in manual handling and stock control. With these certificates they can go forward to look for work straight away.”

As well as training clients aged over 19, the college has also begun delivering the Young Person’s Guarantee - an all-new initiative offering a choice of two courses for those aged between 18 and 24 and not in education, employment or training. Another new contract will also see them offering the Young Person’s Guarantee (Routes into Work), through which industry looks to the college for specific training to meet company requirements. This new initiative is also aimed at those aged under 24 and over 18.

Students on courses in Engish for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus spent an entire week exploring how individuals of different ages, abilities, genders, nationalities, races and faiths can demonstrate respect for one another and the things that make them unique. The initiative also looked at respect for animals.

"The Respect Week has given our students an opportunity to discuss and embrace their differences,” explained programme area leader for ESOL courses at the college’s Maidstone site, Peter Rice. “It’s something I would love to see rolled out across all college departments. The students have been making posters to express why respect is important and have welcomed visiting speakers from the Students’ Union, our diversity champions, and the college team employed to support students with disabilities and additional learning needs. It’s been a great success.”

Student Maria Alves, who is originally from Portugal agreed, “I think everyone deserves respect regardless of disability, race, religion, gender or anything else. Not everyone from our course comes from the same country or culture - we all have our different ways - so this has been really good for us.”

Following the success of the programme, it is hoped that a similar scheme may be adopted across a number of other college departments. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Tasked with the challenge of arranging a trip, the BTEC level 1 Introduction to Business students chose to raise money for Cancer Research UK instead. “The original task formed part of a progression award the students were asked to complete for their course,” explained course tutor Claire Garthwaite. “The aim of the unit is for students to develop their teamwork and communication skills by organising a trip or event. Most groups opt for a theme park visit, but when this group decided they wanted organise an event to raise money for charity instead, I was happy to agree.”

After visiting a range of local businesses to ask for raffle prize donations, the students spent a day selling tickets far-and-wide, eventually managing to smash their fundraising target of £300 by raising an impressive £344 in just one day.

Area Volunteer Manager for Cancer Research UK Natasha Etienne visited the campus on Medway Road in Gillingham to collect the total funds raised. She said: “Thank you so, so much. I know how hard it can be to raise money for charity and you’ve done an absolutely fantastic job.”

As chair of the fundraising team, student Danielle Burden got to decide which charity would receive the group’s support. “I chose Cancer Research because cancer is a disease that affects so many of us,” said the 19 year old from Gillingham. “Nearly every student in our class has been touched by cancer in some way. In my family alone, my aunt and my granddad have both battled with it.”

Businesses that donated raffle prizes included, The Body Shop, Boots, Batley’s Cash & Carry, Gillingham Ice Bowl, Nando’s, Odeon and Sainsbury’s. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The eight young boys from Kelly Drive in Gillingham were happy to help tidy a new park recently opened within yards of their road. Gathering any dead and fallen wood they could find in the park’s grounds, the eager group of six to 11 year olds helped visiting landscapers create a waterhouse pile – an all natural habitat ideal for supporting wildlife.

“The clear-up forms part of a woodland management scheme," explained Tim Barnes of Oakley's Landscapes Limited. "The aim is to make the natural environment safer for children to play in without throwing away any dead wood or chopping anything down. Instead, all the natural debris we gather is either chipped to make a soft and safe floor for the park's playground or rearranged and tied together to create a natural bench that can double as a waterhouse pile.

"It's been absolutely brilliant to get the help of these lads. The park is here for all the children in this area to enjoy so it's great to see these guys putting a special effort in to take care of it."

As well as helping landscapers with their woodland project, the young boys also took the time to replace some protective tubing removed by vandals from the saplings they had been set in place to protect.

"We want to help the park stay open," said 11 year old Ryan Bocking, one of the young lads who had been working so hard during the school break. "We play hide and seek here every day because we love it. There are loads of toys to play on and we get to see lots of foxes and other animals."

Construction of the Lower Lines Park has seen 5.5 hectares of the open land linked to the historic Lower Lines - and next to Kelly Drive - revitalised thanks to funding from neighbouring MidKent College. The picturesque community space now features a moat, woodlands and a large grassy plateau for local residents and visitors of the park to enjoy.

Designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, the Lower Lines comprise a series of fortifications and brick trenches constructed from 1803 onwards to help defend Chatham Dockyard from attack during the Napoleonic wars. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

MidKent College principal and chief executive Stephen Grix had his head shaved for charity just hours after The Princess Royal had officially inaugurated the college’s new Medway Campus in Gillingham.

“On what has been a particularly great day for us, it seems fitting to remember those less fortunate than ourselves,” said college enrichment coordinator Michelle Bigg. “In January, our students began a long-term campaign to raise money for earthquake victims in Haiti. At this time Stephen vowed to part with his hair to boost donations. When he made this promise he had only one request - that he be allowed to wait until after The Princess Royal’s visit - so we thought we might as well do it on the same day!”

True to his word, Mr Grix had his head shaved in front of an audience of gathering students less than four hours after Her Royal Highness had departed the campus on Gillingham’s Medway Road.

Hair design student Natalie Hunt was drafted in to operate the clippers, “It has been an honour. It’s not every day you get to shave the head of your college principal and help raise money for charity at the same time,” said the 23 year old from Gillingham.

Students across the college’s sites in Medway and Maidstone continue to raise money for the people of Haiti through their joint Students’ Union. Mr Grix’s hair-raising act added more than £200 to over £1,150 raised to date. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Having created a number of designs with hyacinths, ivy, irises and primrose, the students returned them to their natural surroundings before photographing them alongside the trees and moss used to create them. Programme area leader for floristry courses at the college Carolyne Pilcher said, “Today people commonly opt to plant a tree in memory of a loved one as it offers a more natural alternative to erecting a gravestone or obtaining a plaque in a crematorium. The tributes being photographed here today are all natural and reflect this current trend towards more eco-friendly options.”

Park supervisor Kev Woolford was pleased to see the park inspiring students’ work. “It’s been lovely to witness learners making use of this great new space,” he said. “I’m amazed at what they’ve done with what started off as nothing more than fallen wood. It’s incredible really.” he added.

The Lower Lines Park, located along Gillingham’s Medway Road, is a picturesque wooded space set against the historic backdrop of the Lower Lines, a series of fortifications and brick trenches constructed from 1803 onwards to help defend Chatham Dockyard from attack during the Napoleonic wars. The park, which has been revitalised thanks to some £7 million worth of college funding, includes a children’s adventure playground, a moat, and a large grassy plateau for local residents and visitors of the park to enjoy. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

“The events had two aims, firstly to get everyone enjoying themselves, and secondly to raise lots of money to help poor and vulnerable people across the UK and overseas. Now I just can’t wait to see how much we’ve collectively raised.”

The Medway event was kicked-off by Gillingham Football Club centre-back Josh Gowling, while the college’s eLearning manager Rosie Douglas saw runners off from the start line at Maidstone. “It’s truly great to see our students and staff working together, and doing something wonderful for charity at the same time,” said Rosie. “Well done to all of you!” For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

More than 50 level 3 hair design students from the college’s sites in Medway and Maidstone took part in the hair-raising show, exhibiting their handiwork on over 100 models. The students’ work followed four broad themes as laid out within the latest International Trend Vision set by hair product giant Wella.

Lecturer in hair design at the college’s Medway Campus Teresa Daly, said: “Students were asked to consider Wella’s themes of Intersexion, Virtual Life, Utopia and De-lush, each of which is distinct in terms of style, texture and colour. It provided an exciting challenge for them.

“Most students worked with two models to produce a hair-up style and a cut-and-colour for display. They coped very well with the pressure and produced some highly creative designs,” she continued.

“The standard of work produced for this year’s event has been stunning, and we are thrilled to have been given an opportunity to showcase our students’ incredible talents.”

Student stylist Amy Allen of Walderslade was proud of the work she had produced: “I worked on two themes, Utopia, which focused on pale whites, blondes and silvers, and Virtual Life, which provided me with a great opportunity to go wild with colour,” said the 19 year old who already works as a part-time stylist at Shumi salon in West Malling. “Preparing for the show was stressful at times, but all the hard work was worth it in the end and I’m really proud of the looks I’ve achieved.”

As well as offering the students an opportunity to show off their talents, the 2010 event also raised money for Help for Heroes and Cancer Research UK. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Enjoyable aerobics classes are now held weekly for the class, which comprises mainly girls. “It’s all about getting the students to understand what benefits fitness can bring,” said aerobics instructor Julie Patching, who is running the college-based classes. “For many young women, sport is just not that trendy,” she continued. “However, a lot of them simply don’t realise just how important exercise is in preventing future health issues.”

16 year-old Katie Macinnis is pleased to be involved in the scheme. “Most of the girls in my class don’t do any exercise at all,” she said. “These classes have provided them with a great opportunity to get up and get active. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Mr Goss, who heads the kitchen at Michelin-listed The Swan in West Malling, wanted to give students a taste of world-class cooking. “We’re re-doing the dishes I created for Gordon Ramsay on The F Word,” said Mr Goss, whose brasserie earned a place among 18 restaurants selected from 10,000 nominations to appear on the programme. “I’m contacting a range of local colleges because I’m keen to give Kent’s most promising young chefs a chance to experience life in a top-quality kitchen,” he continued.

"MidKent College was first on my list, as one of my own chefs was on a course here just last year. The students have been fantastic, really enthusiastic,” he said. “I’m very, very impressed.”

Mr Goss helped the students serve up a gourmet feast of blue stilton dumpling, loin of venison and Christmas pudding soufflé to more than 30 guests at the college’s high-quality, restaurant, The Apprentice. “I hope tonight’s diners will see just how gifted these youngsters are,” said Scott, “They’ve done brilliantly with some very technical dishes.”

The Apprentice restaurant is open to diners for weekday lunches and until 9pm every Thursday evening during college term times. Guests can enjoy high-quality cuisine at affordable prices in intimate surroundings. Call 01622 625873 for bookings and enquiries. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Nearly thirty students who are receiving air cabin crew and customer service training at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus departed Kent in the early hours of a cold and snowy February morning to take part in the JARE Training programme.

An action-packed day then saw the students completing an exciting range of activities. Tasks covered how to use a plane’s evacuation slide, what to do during a galley fire, how to cope in a smoke-filled cabin and how to conduct an over-wing exit. The training event also provided students with a chance to develop and improve their in-flight service skills.

Participating students were accompanied by college head of faculty Karen Mandeville and lecturers Jo Morrin, Debbie Siminson and Diane Payne. Ms Payne said: “The group thoroughly enjoyed the day - so much so, the college hopes to offer similar trips in the future.”

JARE Training supplied the college’s dummy aircraft, which is housed at its Maidstone Campus and used to train students studying for a cabin crew diploma. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The novel neighbourhood programme sees foundation learning students from MidKent College’s Medway Campus conducting litter-picks, clearing leaves and checking for vandalism at the recently-opened Lower Lines Park in Gillingham.

“We’re extremely grateful to the students for helping us to keep the park looking its very best,” said the college’s maintenance team leader who also doubles as park warden, Kev Woolford. “They’ve been conducting weekly clear-ups since the start of February,” he continued. “The benefits are two-fold – the park stays looking great and the students get some brilliant experience to fit in with the horticultural unit they complete as part of their college programme.” As well as offering students at the college an opportunity to get involved in the up-keep of the 5.5 hectare public park, the freshly-launched, keep-clean initiative looks set to engage those within the local community. “Soon we’ll also be receiving support from High Hopes, the Sunlight Centre’s community gardening group, as well as other groups working in and around Gillingham,” explained Mr Woolford.

The Lower Lines Park is a picturesque wooded space set against the historic backdrop of the Lower Lines which includes a children’s adventure playground.

Designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument, the Lower Lines comprise a series of fortifications and brick trenches constructed from 1803 onwards to help defend Chatham Dockyard from attack during the Napoleonic wars. Construction of the Lower Lines Park has seen 5.5 hectares of the open land linked to the Lines - and next to MidKent College’s Medway Campus - revitalised thanks to college funding. The picturesque community space now features a moat, woodlands and a large grassy plateau for local residents and visitors of the park to enjoy. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

"Regina was great," said holistic therapies lecturer and college equality and diversity champion, Mandie Lal. "She put the students at ease and ensured that each got to try out their new skills on staff and student volunteers."

A second workshop saw students getting to grips with the ancient art of henna tattooing. "Although bridal henna originates from the Mediterranean," said Mandie, "today it is commonly used throughout many regions of northern Africa and eastern Asia and can form an important part of Hindu, Christian, Jewish, Arab and Muslim weddings.”

The day-long workshop provided students with some hands-on experience of using natural henna and was organised with the help of level one beauty student Afshan Bashir. “Afshan does weekend work as a bridal henna artist,” said lecturer Mandie. “She helped to run the workshop and provided the students with some handy hints and ideas. I was amazed with the quality of the designs some of the students produced. They were just incredible."

Henna tattoos are applied to the skin using a delicate cone that acts much like a pen. If cared for correctly, they can last a number of weeks. "The students had such a great time creating their designs, we've now arranged for them to run a henna tattoo stall at the college in the run-up to International Women's Day," continued Mandie. "As well as raising money for the college’s Haiti Relief Fund, the stall will provide yet more students and staff with access to this great creative tradition. Henna is often linked with Indian culture, but there’s absolutely no reason why it can’t be enjoyed by those of all backgrounds and religions."

It is hoped that both workshops will shortly be made available to students at the college's Maidstone Campus. "This is definitely something we will be repeating on a regular basis!" said Mandie. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Two student groups training at MidKent College's Medway Campus attended a special class run by college personal tutor and self-defence expert, Brent Lewis. "I knew that Brent had some prior experience of delivering self-defence classes in local schools," said fellow personal tutor Damien Tree. "So I asked if he would run this special class for students on our legal secretarial programmes. The benefits have been threefold: The students have received some worthwhile enrichment, everyone has had fun, and both groups have gained some valuable knowledge of basic self-defence." Teenager Romany Restall said she believed the session had taught her some worthwhile skills. "We're all girls so it's important that we know at least some simple self-defence techniques," said the 16 year old from Gillingham. "It's also been brilliant to be given the chance to take a break from the classroom and get involved in some extra-curricular enrichment," she added. "As well as taking part in this session, this year we will be planning a number of charity events as a class. I'm really looking forward to it."

An inter-college competition will see construction students from MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus competing alongside those from South Kent College, Canterbury College, North West Kent College, Thanet College and West Kent College.

This week, construction lecturers from each competing college will swap sites to judge how students have performed. For many learners it will be the first time they have been judged by anyone outside of their own workshop.

MidKent College will host its own part of the SkilledUp competition today, Thursday February 25, when a selection of construction students will complete a day-long challenge before having their work judged by tutors from nearby North West Kent College.

Competitive assessments will be undertaken in bricklaying, carpentry, joinery and painting and decorating, with first place winners invited to compete at the grand final on 23 June 2010.

This will be the second time Kent’s colleges have staged this cross-county event, and this year, for the first time, prizes will include power tools from sponsor, Makita UK, the UK’s number one professional power tool manufacturer. Further sponsorship is being offered by Wates Construction, one of the UK’s largest building and construction companies.

It is hoped that the popular inter-college event will help to prepare Kent’s youngsters for the international SkillBuild competition. Set to be hosted by London in 2011, the international event will see plasterers, builders, decorators and carpenters going head-to-head to show off their skills.

SkilledUp project director, Mike Stanley said: ‘The SkilledUp event is an exciting opportunity for students to showcase their talents, which will ultimately boost their confidence and motivation to succeed and be recognised as the best in their craft.’

Carpenter and founder of Miss Workwear UK, Craig Kelly, paid the campus a flying visit to introduce the students to an exciting new line of pint-sized hard hats, boots and overalls.

"Up until now it has been simply impossible for females working in the construction industry to buy work clothing designed with them in mind" said college painting and decorating lecturer, Ellie Bentley. "Over the years we've had to pinch in huge waistbands, roll up our trouser legs and pad our boots. It is always disappointing to see girls enrolling on our courses having to adopt the same techniques."

One of only two girls in her class, 16-year-old painter and decorator Simone Cantlon, was relieved to try on some outfits designed to fit her 5ft 2in, size 8 frame. "I'm really happy that the college has organised this visit," she said. "Normally I can't find anything even close to my size. In fact the protective kneecaps sewn into my current overalls are actually nearly at my ankles."

Students from a range of local schools were given an opportunity to sample some of the college’s most popular courses, whilst its centre for higher education courses in construction and civil engineering - located at the Rochester Riverside complex - played host to an open event for those considering a move into university level training.

Director of the college’s foundation degrees in construction and civil engineering, David Brooks, said. "Progression weeks are held at regular intervals throughout the college year with the primary focus of highlighting the learning paths and progression routes open to students after they have completed compulsory education at school, or further education at college or in the sixth form.

“The open event hosted by my own department aimed to provide visitors with an opportunity to meet university representatives, careers advisers, and students already enrolled on the college’s higher education programmes."

The Rochester Riverside-based event was open to existing MidKent College students, local sixth formers and anyone else interested in completing a degree in construction. As well as university representatives and college careers advisers, also represented at the event was professional body responsible for representing construction workers worldwide, the Chartered Institute of Builders (CIOB).

For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The MidKent College student from Rainham signed up for a five-week scheme run through gap year agency KenyanAdventure.com when she attended a volunteering fair held at the college's Medway Campus last term. The overseas programme will see the former Rainham School for Girls pupil travelling to Africa to complete five weeks' voluntary work, starting in August 2010.

"It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," said the 17-year-old Media student. "I'll stay with a Kenyan family who I'll be helping with household errands during the evenings and my days will be spent teaching Maths and English to children studying at the local school. I'll also offer additional support to the community by coaching the local football team," she added. "It'll be a challenging and scary experience, but one that will hopefully be rewarding, both for me and the people I'm being given an opportunity to help."

Cheryl, who studies full-time at the college’s Medway Campus, had initially planned to complete some voluntary work a bit closer to home. “I was looking to get involved in local charity work, but something about the KenyanAdventure.com stand at the fair caught my eye. After chatting to a representative of the scheme I was sure it was the right thing for me to do, so I signed up as soon as I got home. “One of the things that appealed to me most about the programme is that a significant proportion of the cost is fed directly into providing school meals for kids as well as funding building projects that will improve living standards and quality of life for people in the region.” Cheryl has already raised £300 for the project with the help of her family and friends. “Now I’m looking to raise a further £2,000 through a mixture of sponsorship and donations,” said Cheryl. “I’m confident I can raise enough to get out there and make real contribution.”

If you would like to help support Cheryl in her venture, please email cheryl.wilkie@student.midkent.ac.uk . All donations and sponsorship offers will be appreciated, however small.

For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Hundreds of students volunteered themselves for carbon monoxide and lung age testing as par t of the day-long event, which resulted in more than 55 youngsters signing up for support with giving up.

One student who hadn’t imagined she would be convinced to quit was animal management student Rachel Weir. “I initially came along for the tests because I was curious to see what the results would be. I never imagined that they would be as bad as they were or that they would be enough to make me want to give up,” she said.

Tests conducted in the college campus’s entrance pavilion revealed that two years of smoking have aged 16-year-old Rachel’s lungs by an incredible three decades. With a lung age of 48 and carbon monoxide levels registering well outside of the ‘safe’ zone, she is adamant in her decision to give up. “I just can’t believe that two years of smoking can do so much damage,” she said.

The event formed part of a new college push to promote healthy living amongst its students and staff. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Students' Union representatives, personal tutors and Medway Campus principal Sue McLeod joined 160 others as they spent a night sleeping in MHS Homes Chatham Maritime headquarters car park. The mammoth sponsored sleep-out, organised by MHS Homes Group, raised a staggering £19,000 for local charity for the homeless, Caring Hands in the Community.

"The event aimed to raise awareness of Poverty & Homelessness Action Week, which this year started on Saturday 30 January and ended on Sunday 7 February 2010,” said college enrichment coordinator Michelle Bigg, who was one of those to take part in the charity event. "I found the whole experience to be a real eye-opener and extremely humbling. I'm sure it made all of us take the time to think about how lucky we are.

"I'm pleased to say that thanks to the generous donations of our colleagues, families and friends, the college managed to raise nearly £1,000, which is excellent news. Well done to everyone who took part.”

Caring Hands in the Community offers food, shelter and support to homeless people in Medway. Its outreach team also takes soup and sandwiches to those sleeping rough in Rochester and Chatham each Monday. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

Animal management staff at MidKent College first grew concerned about the health of college ferret Hobbs when his weight dropped dramatically in May 2008. With vets baffled by his condition, and a series of blood tests providing no suitable answer, his carers were warned that it was likely to be lymphoma – a form of cancer. However, surgery identified an overactive adrenal gland and pancreas as the cause of the problem and he was given an implant to regulate his hormone levels. Things started to look up. However, much to the team’s dismay, just before Christmas the same year, Hobbs’ health plummeted once again.

Desperate to save him, the college’s animal management staff took him to Trinity Vet Centre on Heritage Lane, Maidstone where vet Mark Rowlands removed his by now diseased adrenal gland and identified Cushings Disease as the root problem. “He was given an innovative new implant and prescribed a course of antibiotics and steroids,” explained Animal Collection Technician Eliz Thomas. “He was so weak, he needed round-the-clock care and we had to take it in turns to spoon-feed him at home. However, after a number of agonising months he finally started to get better and he’s now back to his old self,” she added.

Hobbs’ remarkable recovery was made possible by state-of-the-art technologies housed within his new implant – which is so rare he is currently one of only a handful ferrets in the UK to have one.

“We’re very grateful to Mark Rowlands and his team,” said Animal Collection Technician Stephanie Lovejoy. “Without their help, Hobbs would certainly not have made it. I was a student at the college when he first became ill and he was still extremely unwell when I later returned as a member of staff. The students would let his sister run around and play, but little Hobbs wouldn’t even move. It was really quite distressing to watch.

“His recovery has been remarkable and a real inspiration to the staff and students here. He really is everything to the department - the friendliest ferret you will ever meet.”

The darkly humorous rock musical written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman tells the tale of luckless orphan Seymore Krelborn. Secretly in love with co-worker Audrey Fulquard and rebuked daily by bad-tempered boss Mr. Mushnik, Seymore thinks his luck might have changed upon discovering an unusual Venus Flytrap he affectionately names Audrey II. However, things take a turn for the worse when Audrey II develops a taste for human blood.

18 year old singer and actress Emily Brown of Chatham’s Chalk Pit Hill was thrilled to be cast in the lead role of Audrey. “This production offers the perfect antidote to the traditional Christmas pantomime,” she said.

“It gives audiences something to get their teeth into and is much more of a challenge for us to perform. I’ve certainly learned a lot from the experience as Audrey is quite a shy, timid character and I tend to be cast in more ballsy roles.”

17 year old Aaron Simmons of Maidstone Road in Rochester played ill-fated floristry assistant Seymore. “It was a real privilege to get a lead and I’m particularly happy to have been given the opportunity to play Seymore,” said Aaron. “He’s the kind of character you can have fun with.”

Youngsters enrolled on animal management courses at MidKent College’s Medway Campus visited South Africa at the end of last year. They began their action-packed field trip with three nights’ stay at Riverside Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre near Tzaneen, where they looked after a collection of monkeys and baboons.

Then, after a spectacular expedition along the Drakensberg escarpment in Mpumalanga, the students spent two nights in Swaziland’s Hlane Royal National Park, where they encountered elephants, lions and a selection of other equally impressive big game.

Next on the agenda was beautiful Kosi Bay where the group enjoyed some salt-water snorkelling and an international ‘friendly’ with the local school football team.

“This year’s trip was a great success,” said Alastair Down, programme area leader for animal management courses at the college. “The students learnt a great deal about wildlife and conservation, and gained some experiences they will never forget.

“It was great to see the learners maintaining a ‘have a go’ attitude throughout the trip,” he added. “Everyone was keen to get involved in the action, from assisting with veterinary care duties to carrying out an autopsy on an African rock python.”

Teenagers studying horse management at the college accompanied the group on its once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Kicking off their two-week adventure at an equine veterinary practice and top racing yard, these students went on to work the cattle on a real-life ranch and take part in an endurance ride through the Drakensburg Mountains.

“The trip gave our students an opportunity to complete both safari and endurance rides in incredible surroundings” said college equine studies lecturer Julie Lukehurst. “It really was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for them, and one they loved every minute of,” she added.

Michael Ellis, Christopher Davies and Chantelle Goodearl - all of whom currently study Hospitality and Catering at MidKent College's Medway Campus - were selected by judges from 65 teams entered across 38 colleges nationwide.

Competition judges included Martin Bates CEO, The Craft Guild of Chefs, and Mark Irish, Head of Brakes Development Chef department. The judging panel officially revealed its list of regional finalists in late December, stating that it had been "incredibly impressed" with the standard of this year's entries. The MidKent College team will now battle it out for a place in the national finals at the regional heats to be held on 24 January 2010. For all media enquiries, please contact Heather Collingwood, Marketing and Communications Officer on 01634 383037 or at heather.collingwood@midkent.ac.uk

The winter themed event saw learners paying to ride on a rodeo bull machine, battle it out on a twin bungee run and go head-to-head in a sumo suit wrestling ring.

“In addition to the hired-in activities on offer, students from a wide range of departments organised their own fundraising stalls,” explains college Students’ Union president Candy Worf. “All the money raised from each stall will be divided equally between a charity of the students’ choice and Demelza House Children’s Hospice.”

Fundraising activities included a treasure hunt and languages of the world test, hoopla, face and nail painting and a gut-busting rowing and cycling challenge.

“Winter Wonderland is an important event in the college calendar, so it was lovely to see the day proving such a phenomenal success,” added 21 year old Candy. “The charity fundraiser aims to unite students across all departments and provides learners with a great opportunity to get involved in some fun activities.”

Beauty student Vikki Baldock was eager to try her hand at every activity on offer - including the rodeo bull. “It’s harder than it looks,” said the 18 year old from Bearsted, before adding, “The key to today’s event is to let your hair down, have a go at every activity, and most important of all, have fun!”

The prestigious competition saw 11 winning electrical and plumbing apprentices assessed on their practical site-based work and the achievement of their apprenticeship framework. Maidstone-based MidKent College electrician Ross Mills was named Best Apprentice, with Medway-based Phillip Hadaway awarded a close second.

“These awards honour the top electrical and plumbing apprentices in the region,” said the college’s faculty head for construction and building services, Stuart Nice. “It was fantastic to see three of our students nominated and even better to witness two being awarded winning trophies.”

23 year old Best Apprentice, Ross Mills of Paddock Wood is tipped to do well in the national competition, which will see him up against nine other regional winners from across the UK.

16 year old Jonathan Stamp said he thought the restaurant’s new-look was certain to attract a wide variety of customers. “The whole atmosphere in here has changed,” said the Hospitality and Catering student from Shepway. “We’ve got new furniture, new flooring, a new colour scheme and modern table decorations. It looks and feels a lot fresher and better reflects the quality of the food that we serve. I’m sure we’ll be getting plenty more bookings from hungry customers wanting to sample our dishes now.”

Students on courses in Hospitality and Catering at the college run the modern restaurant, which is open to the public and offers a three-course dining experience at minimal cost.

For bookings, contact The Apprentice Restaurant on 01622 625873.

Students on courses at MidKent College invited elderly guests to take part in a day’s worth of activities at the college’s Maidstone Campus at Oakwood Park. Hair and beauty students treated visitors to a range of pampering sessions including manicures and hair treatments. Flower arranging sessions were then provided by floristry students before guests were shown light mobility exercises by learners studying courses in sport.

Once the activities were completed, guests were treated to a roast dinner fully prepared and served by the college’s hospitality and catering students - the ingredients for which had been kindly donated by catering company Caterlink.

The day’s activities gave students from across the college’s Maidstone and Medway sites a unique opportunity to engage with the elderly and learn about their experiences. Following lunch, performing arts students used all they had learned about their guests to help them devise a short piece of drama. This was then performed for the visitors’ entertainment.

“We’ve thoroughly enjoyed mixing with the older generation and sharing our skills with them” said 46 year old floristry student Annie Rust. “And it has been lovely to chat to the guests and teach them some of the things we have learned as part of our course”.

One visitor thrilled to have been invited was 90 year old Joyce Wickwar. “I came to the same event held here last year,” said the permanent resident of Mont Calm Residential Home in Bower Mount Road. “It’s not often I get the chance to be pampered these days; it’s a lovely treat for me and something I really look forward to.”

Senior activities coordinator at the Prince George Duke of Kent Court home in Chiselhurst, Sally Williams said: “This is a wonderful, positive opportunity, both for our residents and the students. There is so much bad press about young people these days. Unfortunately for some of our elderly residents, this is the only picture of young people they are ever presented with, so it has been brilliant to see the different generations mixing and getting along so well.”

Beverly Noble, head of faculty for the college’s hair and beauty courses, said: “Colleges Week is all about getting students to engage with their local communities through voluntary work and events of this kind. Today has been a great success, and demonstrates the kind of work we would like to see repeated at the college throughout the academic year.”

The part-time programme offers learners the chance to obtain a range of skills, including those in bookkeeping, typing and IT, and is specially designed for those who have taken time out of employment to bring up children or are looking to return to work after a period of unemployment. “We are committed to doing all we can to provide learners with the support they need to make a success of their time with us and get back into the world of work,” said college lecturer Susan Swabey. “Lessons start at 9.15 and finish at 2.30, enabling those who need to collect children from school to do so, and students are encouraged to learn from each other as well as their course tutors,” she continued.

“For many of our adult learners, the hardest challenge can come when they are expected to get to grips with some of the computer skills absolutely essential to the modern office environment,” she continued. “For this reason, we often combine this adult group with the younger students on our full-time Administration courses. Computer skills are second nature to many of our 16-19 year old learners, and they are always more than happy to provide their adult colleagues with some additional guidance and support.”

Former catering unit manager Kim Phipps said the course has helped to increase her confidence. “It’s been lovely to be able to work alongside the younger students,” she said. “They bring a sense of fun and liveliness to the classroom and are often a great help – especially when we are asked to complete computer assignments. I’d never so much as touched a computer before I started this course. Now I’ve developed so much confidence using them, I’ve actually bought one for my family to use at home.” Ms Phipps hopes the programme will enable her to make a total career change. “Before now I’d been employed within the catering industry for my entire working life,” said the 43 year old mother of one. “It’s definitely time for me to get out of the hot and sweaty kitchen and into nine-to-five employment,” she continued. “I’ve had to hold down two or three jobs at a time to make ends meet in the past. Now I’m looking forward to finding one that will support me and my family and help to fund my daughter’s university education.”

Further information on this course can be obtained by calling the college’s course information line on 01634 402020.

A one-day workshop saw learners at MidKent College’s Maidstone Campus, designing, making and manipulating ‘baracu’ – a form of large-scale, multi-person-operated puppet.

The workshop, which was organised by lecturers at the college, was run by visiting puppeteer Jo Munton of Vagabondi puppets in Wales. “The brief for the projects we run is always left wide open, giving student teams the scope to decide exactly what they want to make and how,” she explained. “This particular workshop is all about gaining an understanding of what puppetry involves while working together as a design and performance team,” she continued. “Puppetry encompasses much more than most people think. It’s its own highly respected art form and can provide a great route into theatre and stage design.”

17 year old Anjela Chhantyal said the workshop had made her reassess her career options. “I’ve really enjoyed working in a team to create some imaginative puppet characters and the workshop’s certainly given us plenty of practical work to get stuck into,” she said. “But I’ve also learned a bit more about alternative routes in to a career in art and design. I certainly never would have thought about moving into puppetry before today; who knows how many more career options are available to me that I’ve never even thought about,” she added.

The advisory evening, held last month at MidKent College’s Medway Campus in Gillingham, offered visitors guidance on the Government’s newly introduced Diploma courses.

In September 2009, school and college pupils across the UK were able to choose from up to ten Diplomas to study as an alternative to GCSEs and A-levels. There are now 14 subjects on offer, with a further three set to become available by 2011.

“The Diploma gives students a wider experience of learning than that offered by traditional qualifications such as GCSEs and A-levels,” said Medway Council Diploma Development Manager Tracey Gray. “Learners benefit from a blend of theory and practical work and local students can gain access to the specialist facilities and industry experts available here at MidKent College,” she added.

“Tonight is about informing visitors of what support is available within three specific lines of the new Diploma –Travel & Tourism, Hospitality & Catering, and Hair & Beauty,” she continued. “We’re hoping to encourage schools in Medway to find out more about what Diplomas are all about, and perhaps consider delivering them, either independently or in partnership with the college.

“This is just one of a series of events we have planned that will offer local schools additional support of this kind. We want to help head teachers fully understand what Diplomas involve and give them the support and guidance they need to progress their school’s own delivery of these important new qualifications.”

Diplomas currently on offer include those in Business Administration & Finance, Construction & The Built Environment, Creative & Media, Engineering, Environmental & Land-based Studies, Hair & Beauty Studies, Hospitality, Information Technology, Manufacturing & Product Design, Public Services, Retail Business, Society Health & Development, Sport & Active Leisure, and Travel & Tourism.

Visiting youngsters used the opportunity to get friendly with a wide range of the cuddly (and not-so-cuddly) critters housed in the Animal Management department at the college’s new Medway Campus on Medway Road. “We’ve stroked loads of soft animals and touched some scaly ones too,” said eight year old Jadon Johnstone. “I’ve loved it,” she added.

College Animal Collection Technician Sophie Marriott was pleased to see the children having such a great time. “This provides our students with an ideal insight into what it’s like to work with animals and the public,” she said. “No matter how much preparation you put in, you can guarantee to be asked some questions you would never have considered. It certainly keeps you on your toes,” she laughed.

“Of course it also provides a great opportunity for our guests to meet a diverse range of species – helping them to realise that there can be more to working with animals than walking the dog or brushing the cat,” she added.

“This has been my first experience of working with children,” said 18 year old MidKent College student Amy Wells. “The whole experience has been really exciting. They ask so many questions, it really puts your learning – and your memory - to the test, but it’s satisfying to realise how much you actually do know and great to be able to pass that knowledge on.”

Designs for the new community space, soon to be opened at the Lower Lines Park on Gillingham’s Medway Road, are being led by Art lecturers working at MidKent College’s Medway Campus. “We’re keen to ensure our ideas reflect the history of the Lower Lines Park – of which the garden is set to become a key feature,” said Art, Design & Creative Media lecturer Claire Griffiths at an open ideas workshop held at the college last month.

“The Park, which is right next door to our new Campus, will soon boast a lovely range of open spaces and wooded areas. It’s an amazing project to be able to get creative with. We’ve held talks with students, fundraisers, local artists, environmental groups and the University for the Creative Arts to help us gather possible sculpture ideas,” she continued.

“Now we’re keen to get local people involved – so that we can use their personal stories and memories of the area to inspire us.”

The Lower Lines are designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and comprise a series of fortifications and brick trenches that were constructed from 1803 onwards to help defend Chatham Dockyard from attack during the Napoleonic wars. Now 5.5 hectares of the open land linked to the Lines - and next to MidKent College’s Medway Campus - is being revitalised thanks to college funding. Once complete the picturesque community space will feature a moat, woodlands, sculpture park and wildlife trail.

The Park is set to open to the public in January 2010.

Anyone wishing to contribute to the sculpture garden project should email claire.griffiths@midkent.ac.uk

Lecturers from Koning Wilem I (King William I) College in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, Holland paid a flying visit to MidKent College’s Medway Campus in Gillingham last month. During their visit they met with tutors from the faculty of advanced construction and engineering to finalise plans for the innovative scheme - set to launch later on this academic year.

“The exchange programme will see students exploring comparative construction methods and ways of working,” said MidKent College lecturer John Gent. “With a focus on sustainability, this collaborative project is all about building with the environment in mind while learning from our European counterparts at the same time.

“Our involvement will provide students with a great opportunity to broaden their experience as well as learn about alternative construction methods,” he added.

Dutch lecturer Gertrude Kolthoff said she was delighted her own construction students would get to visit the state-of-the-art new MidKent College campus. “This building is like heaven on earth in comparison to the College’s previous site at Horsted. It’s bright, clean and quiet and will be a wonderful place for our Dutch students to train while on their visit to the UK.”

Competition judges were so impressed with the body-popping skills 17 year old Charlie Dono demonstrated at the South East Street Dance Challenge, they named him best solo performer at the event.

“It was such an adrenaline rush to hear my name announced,” said the MidKent College student from Chatham. “I’ve won competitions before, but this is my first south eastern title. It was great to know that I had been judged the best solo dancer in the whole competition. Some of my opponents were really talented.”

The annual UK Street Dance competition sees breakdancers, body poppers, body lockers, and krumpers demonstrating a range of cutting edge dance moves, as they battle it out for the title of best soloist, duo or quad in Kent.

This year’s competition, held at White Oaks Leisure Centre in Swanley, saw Charlie competing on behalf of Sugar Free Streetdance, the UK’s leading street dance group (as featured on Britain’s Got Talent). “Sugar Free competitors are some of the best in Europe” explains Charlie. “It’s an honour to represent them and even better to have won a title under their name” he adds. “UK Street Dance competitions are always a buzz” says the talented youngster. “Anyone over the age of 16 with a flair for the right moves can get involved. It’s not about your age, gender or preferred style – it’s just about showing up and having a good time.”

So what exactly is body popping for those of us not in the know? “Poppers use their muscles to jerk or jolt isolated parts of the body into different positions,” says Charlie. “The technique evolved from oldskool moves like the robot in the 70s. It’s all about illusion; it’s about moving your body in ways that appear impossible or strange in some way.”

Years of dedication have seen Charlie perfecting the skill. “I’ve been dancing for near-enough my whole life and popping for the past six years,” says the 17 year old trophy winner. “I really took to the style from the word go; it just seems to come naturally to me.”

The organised demonstration, performed at MidKent College's Maidstone Campus, marked the end of a day dedicated to promoting Aim Two of the government’s Every Child Matters agenda - which outlines that all children and young people have the right to stay safe. Attended by all students from the college’s faculties of construction & engineering and public services, the day's worth of activities aimed to get students thinking about the dangers of everyday life.

"Although I'm not old enough to drive, I'm hoping to start learning as soon as I turn 17," said 16 year old Motor Vehicle student Nathan Pitt of Maidstone. "This demonstration has been a real eye-opener. Seeing Fire Officers actually cut someone from a car has made me realise just how dangerous driving can be,” he added.

“This is the first time MidKent College has run a Stay Safe day of this sort and on this scale,” said college lecturer and event organiser Ellie Bentley. "We wanted the day's activities to focus on issues related to staying safe in everyday circumstances - from driving or being a passenger in a car to keeping safe on a night out with friends.”

The students benefited from talks on drug and alcohol awareness and crime investigation as part of the day-long scheme. They also got to watch and take part in a range of first aid demonstrations. Following the success of the event, it is hoped that it may be repeated in the next academic year.

Jo Morrin flew with First Choice Airways for four years after completing her MidKent College course in Travel & Tourism. Now the student-come-lecturer will lead training on the College’s brand new Cabin Crew Diploma – delivered with the aid of a newly installed ‘dummy’ aircraft.

Constructed using the inner panels, seats and overhead lockers of a recycled aeroplane, the new facility provides students with an unrivalled and unique environment in which to gain hands-on experience of in-flight services.

“The installation of this brilliant new facility has enabled the college to offer this level 2 diploma for the first time,” said Miss Morrin. “The course, which relies heavily on role play, will teach students the full range of skills needed to enter the air cabin crew industry. Students will study crew room duties, health and safety at work, in-flight services and working with customers as part of the course.

“They will also learn about onboard safety procedures and how to guide the public in an emergency situation. This will culminate in a January trip to Birmingham, on which they’ll jump down a plane’s emergency slide while wearing a smoke filled helmet.

“These experiences, and others, are ideal for preparing students for work in what is an extremely competitive industry,” she added.

“I wanted to be an air steward before I knew this course existed,” said 16 year old former Cornwallis Academy student Louis Delaney. “When I heard that the College offered the Cabin Crew Diploma I thought: What better way to prepare for the career I’ve always dreamed of.

“I’m really pleased I made the decision to apply. It’s a competitive industry and finding work on the more prestigious airlines is really hard. I want to do everything I can to improve my chances of success.”

The college will shortly be interviewing for 2010/2011 entry to this popular course. If you would like to apply, call the college’s Course Information Line on 01634 402020.

In conjunction with the college, 22 Army Education Centre – as part of the Army’s Basic Skills provision - is now offering non-native English speakers working within the Military Provost Guard Service the opportunity to complete a fast-track level one course in ESOL. The speaking & listening qualification - which is delivered in just 30 hours - covers a wide range of everyday situations, from engaging in polite conversation to being at work and attending a job interview. 43 year old Arun Rai was one of the first to benefit from the scheme. “Even though I’ve been speaking English for a number of years, this course has been very beneficial to me as it’s the first civilian qualification I’ve had the chance to complete,” he said. “Not only will the course help me to perform better within my current role, but it will also provide me with a qualification that is recognised outside of the Army.”

Programme Area Leader for ESOL courses at the college, Renu Sharma, was delighted to have been invited to offer the in-house training. “Fellow lecturer Alan Smith and I have really enjoyed this experience,” she said. “And we’ve discovered that ex-Gurkha soldiers make model students - committed, highly motivated and extremely punctual.”

“The celebratory event was the last of a range of activities that took place in Medway throughout October,” said MidKent College’s Director of Human Resources, Andrea Ashman. “Other activities included the Karva Chauth Festival for Indian Arts, Diwali, and a large selection of seminars and workshops.

“Black History Month has been celebrated in Britain for over 20 years. It provides us with an important opportunity to highlight and celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black people and Black communities, as well as to understand the histories that shape them,” she added.

The event, held at the college’s Medway Campus in Gillingham, marked the first birthday of Nubia magazine, a publication for Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities living in and around the Medway area. Launched during last year’s Black History Month celebrations, the magazine aims to inspire BME communities by celebrating their successes and achievements, and promoting community cohesion.

The magazine’s founder Angela Asieba said: “Our aim this evening has been to engage, inspire and entertain by celebrating Black history and creating a forum for learning about and appreciating difference.”

Guest speakers at the event included the Mayor of Medway, Cllr David Royale, Paul Reid of the Black Cultural Archives and Sabirul Islam, who at 19, has already launched his own successful website development company, worked as a London stockbroker and published two books on entrepreneurialism.

Performers included singer Ebonie G. The former Rainham School for Girls pupil has recently completed a degree in Popular Music at the University of Southampton. “I’m extremely proud to have been invited to perform at this event,” she said. “These celebrations are about inspiring more young people to achieve their dreams and be proud of who they are, whatever their ethnic origin.”

MidKent College principal Stephen Grix said: “We know that the recession is having an impact on the local area and that these are tough times for people living in Medway. For that reason we want to aim our summer courses at those who need a helping hand to boost their skills and increase their employability.”

43-year-old Donna Aris has already started up-skilling at the new training site. “I volunteered to get enrolled on a number of courses here while on a recent visit to the Job Centre,” said the mother-of-four from Strood. “I had to leave work six years ago due to personal circumstances so I’m really keen to back into employment. I know I can do it. I just have to make the most of the courses on offer here and look for further opportunities wherever I can find them. I know there’s an open door waiting somewhere for me.”

Courses currently on offer at the centre include confidence building, letter writing, CV writing, action planning, ICT skills, and health & safety. Anyone interested should contact their local Job Centre.