Here are just a few of our amazing alumni, including our own staff – if you want to join our network and tell us about your story, please complete this short form.
- Helen Henderson - Director of Curriculum
My story begins back in 1984 when I started as a Level 2 Hairdressing student at the City Way campus. At that time, it was a full-on commitment - five days a week, 9 to 5. After completing the two-year course, I left college ready to work as a qualified hairdresser and spent nearly two decades gaining experience in the industry.
In 2003, I decided to return to City Way to complete my Level 3 Hairdressing. While I was studying, the manager approached me to see if I’d be interested in doing some sessional teaching hours once I finished the course. It sounded like a great opportunity, so I gave it a go.
In 2004, I started as a sessional tutor in hairdressing. After about two years, I was lucky enough to get a permanent part-time role within the department. I worked hard and, with great support around me, I applied for a full-time position. Within a week, I was offered the Program Area Leader (PAL) role for Hairdressing - my first management position.
Over the years, my role evolved through different titles like Teaching and Learning Manager (TLM), which included Hair and Beauty Therapy, and then Curriculum Manager (CM). Later, I became Head of Department, overseeing Hair and Beauty Therapy alongside Public Services, Sports, and Travel.
Within 18 months of becoming Head of Department, I was appointed Director of Curriculum for Hair, Beauty Therapy, Business, and Travel. Since then, my responsibilities have grown to include Performing Arts, Music, and Media.
Looking back, it’s been an incredible journey, from student to senior leader, and it all started right here at MidKent College. The support, opportunities, and experiences I had shaped my career in ways I never imagined.
- Ellie Gilby – Safeguarding Administrator
What did you study, and when did you leave us?
I studied Level 2 Sport in 2016, then moved onto Level 3 in 2017, and left a year early in 2018 to pursue full-time work. I was based at the Gillingham Campus.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience that has stuck with you?
One memorable moment was when my college tutors offered immense support during a tough time in my life at 16, helping me push through and pass despite the challenges I faced.
What advice would you give current students?
It’s easy to feel like your GCSE results define your future, but that’s not true. With hard work and commitment, you can succeed in ways beyond just exams. Don’t give up on your dreams.
How has MidKent College helped shape your personal and professional life?
MidKent College played a key role in shaping my personal and professional life. I struggled in school and didn’t know what I wanted to do, but through a discovery of customer service, I found my passion. After leaving college, I returned in 2019 as an apprentice in Customer Service Level 2 at the reception. It was here that I truly found my career path. I’ve now been working at MidKent College for nearly five years, with a brief break in between, and continue to thrive in something I love.
- Paige Collins - Student Welfare Officer
My MidKent College journey
When I was 15/16, I studied Beauty Therapy, and at 16/17, I studied Cabin Crew, both at the Maidstone Campus. I struggled in school and honestly hated it. But when I started college, everything changed. I finally felt a sense of belonging and started to discover who I really was.One unforgettable moment was completing work experience as a receptionist at a small hotel in Seville. That opportunity really built my confidence and helped shape who I am today. Another special memory is from studying Cabin Crew - I’ll never forget a conversation with my tutor where I cried and told her I didn’t want to leave college because I loved it so much. She reassured me there’s a big world out there and that I’d be fine. And she was right.
Now, I’ve come full circle - I'm back at MidKent College, but this time as a staff member, supporting our current students.
My advice to students
Enjoy every moment. College gives you so much independence. Take every opportunity, every bit of training, and give 100%. That’s all anyone can ask of you.MidKent College has shaped me both personally and professionally. It truly changed my life. That’s why I came back, to be the person who supports students like me, and to help give them the amazing experience I had.
- Andrea Bowman - Deputy Director of People
My MidKent College Story
I studied the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Human Resources Management from September 2014 to June 2016. During my first year, I was based at the main Maidstone Campus, and in the second year, we moved into the newly opened UCM.I remember walking onto campus and looking up at the tower block in Maidstone thinking, “We’re gonna ruuuuuuuuuuule the schooooooooool!” I was so excited to get started, feeling confident about the career opportunities ahead.
My advice to students
Make the most of your time with us. Access every resource and support available - your time here will fly by!Studying at MidKent College gave me the confidence in my knowledge of the profession and helped me progress in my Human Resources (People) career. I’ve since moved into more senior roles and am proud to have returned to the College - this time as Deputy Director of People.
- Chris Plumb - Curriculum Administrator
My MidKent College journey
Many years ago, I studied a one-year Private Secretarial Duties course at the City Way Campus in 1977/78, straight after leaving school. It helped me land a great first job in London. I recently came across my original offer letter from the college - perfectly typed on a typewriter!More recently, though still quite some time ago, I returned to MidKent College to study GCSE Maths in an evening class at the Horsted Campus around 1993, shortly after having my first child. I had failed Maths at school, but it became clear that having a GCSE in the subject was essential for getting back into the workplace.
I am now working at MidKent College as a Curriculum Adminstrator, still using the skills from my original course in 1977!
- Jacqueline Swan - Learning Support Assistant
Course studied: Access Pathway to Teaching/Humanities
Year left: 2003
Campus: HorstedJacqueline's story:
Studying at MidKent College was a truly formative time in my life. One of my most memorable moments was during a scientific investigation into woodlice habitats. I vividly remember exploring the campus grounds, collecting specimens and observing which environments they preferred, it was hands-on learning at its best!My advice to students:
Never give up. Always put in your best effort, and don’t be afraid to ask for help - asking early can make all the difference.Where I am now:
MidKent College gave me the confidence and foundation I needed to pursue a career in education, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful, and I am back here working now.
- Eleanor Firman - Curriculum Administrator
Returning to work after starting a family
I attended the City Way Campus from 1998 to 1999, enrolling in a one-year administration course. The program was designed for individuals looking to re-enter the workforce after time away, primarily stay-at-home mums, like myself. After leaving full-time employment to raise my children, I chose to focus on being a stay-at-home mum. Looking back, it was a big decision, but I wouldn't change it for the world.
A life-changing course
The course started with around 30 students, but only about 10 of us made it to the end. However, three of us remained close friends for life. The course included an NVQ in Office Administration and Finance, but for me, the real highlight was learning to use a computer - Word, Excel, and Access. This skill proved invaluable and set me on the path to my career.
Work experience and a new career path
One of the course requirements was a month of work experience, which, at the time, I was a bit anxious about due to juggling three young children. I was placed at Horsted in a department I think was called Partnerships (though I can’t quite recall the exact name). During my time there, I was encouraged to apply for a full-time position as Secretary to the Head of Department (HoD) for Building & Civil Engineering. I took the leap, and the rest, as they say, is history. I’ve been with the college ever since, and though the job has evolved over the years, MidKent College has always been a supportive and rewarding employer.
A full-circle experience: my family's journey
It’s been a full-circle experience, too, as all three of my children attended the college as well. My eldest pursued Engineering, followed by an HNC and then a First-Class Honours degree in Quantity Surveying from Greenwich University. My second child, also an Engineering student, left to join the Navy and now works as a Senior Engineer with London Underground. My youngest pursued Hairdressing and Barbering, securing a trainee position at a salon in Chatham. She’s now their Senior Stylist/Colourist and also practices Holistic Therapy.
Grateful for the College’s support
MidKent College has not only shaped my career but has been a significant part of my family’s journey, and I am proud to be a part of this wonderful alumni community.
- Daniel Hatfull - Airline Pilot
I attended MidKent College from 1991 to 1993 at Oakwood Park, where I studied for a BTEC National in Travel and Tourism.
The pictures you see here show me on Mount Teide in Tenerife during our compulsory residential visit in December 1991.
Next, there’s a photo of me on the flight deck of a B757, taken when I completed two weeks of work experience at Monarch Airlines in 1992 - part of the BTEC course requirement.
From 1993 to 1995, I continued my studies at MidKent College’s Horsted campus, completing a BTEC HND. Here, I’m pictured with a lecturer from my course.
And finally, a photo of me as an Airline Captain at easyJet.
My time at Mid Kent was invaluable. It helped me build important contacts within the airline industry that have supported me in reaching where I am today.
Whenever I fly into Tenerife, I often glance up towards Mount Teide and remember being there as a 16-year-old on that college course.
- Lucy Mason - Work Based Learning Manager for the NHS
At 17 years old in 1997: Hairdressing and photographic make-up Level 2 (For 2 years)
At 21 years old in 2001 Apprenticeship: Hairdressing and barbering level 3 (for 1 year)
What’s quite amusing is that the college photo shows me supporting careers events for hairdressing at MKC, which I loved to do — inspiring the next generation. I know this is why I went into teaching at the college from the age of 21. I had an amazing career there for about 15 years and now work in the NHS, inspiring the next generation in health.
In the photo, I’m with my tutor Bob Hodges, who actually gave me a job a few years later! This was my first year studying Level 2, and I remember how the uniform “got better” each year (not really) - we had matching blue court shoes! Thankfully, the uniform is much better now.”
“I’ve never looked back. The college gave me a foundation of training and development that has sculpted me today. Thank you MidKent College.”
- Andrew Boozer - Quality Assurance Manager
I Studied History, Economics, and Government & Politics at A Level at the Maidstone campus between 1981 and 1984.
I now live in Northumberland and work for NatWest as a Quality Assurance Manager.
College was a much more relaxed and adult environment compared to the strict grammar school. I was active in the Student Union as Sports Secretary for two years, which really helped me build confidence. This experience gave me the skills to present to senior managers and host events - something that was made easier by speaking in front of large groups at college. Beyond academics, the whole college experience taught me responsibility and the importance of being a positive role model.
- Sophie Cawsey - Communications and Engagement Officer
After graduating in 2012, I built a successful career in communications and am now a valued member of the Communications Team at Medway NHS Foundation Trust.
My time at MidKent College played a crucial role in shaping my future, providing essential skills, especially in video editing, that I continue to use in my professional work today.
Thanks to the strong foundation gained at college, I was able to progress to university and beyond, making a real impact in the healthcare communications field.
- Daniel Maimbo - studying at university
During my Creative Media course, I developed valuable skills like directing, teamwork, and editing, which I was able to build on at university. So far, I’ve successfully created a PSA commercial as part of a collaborative project.
I’m currently studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree in Media and Communications at Portsmouth University. Thanks MidKent College!
- Daryll Holland - Head of Technology and Information Security
Daryll Holland, Head of Technology and Information Security at Alii Technology Group in Perth, Australia, studied IT at MidKent College from 1994 to 1997.Reflecting on his journey, Daryll credits the real-world experience and insight of his lecturers as a key influence in shaping his career path.
"The college set me up for success by focusing on the practical and commercial realities of technology application, beyond just learning about bits and bytes. The lecturers all had real world experience and we're super helpful in preparing me for industry."He’s now sharing his expertise with the world through his new book: Practical Information Security for Schools: Establishing an Information Security Program in the Education Industry. Read it here: https://amzn.eu/d/h4C7Ahp
- Lee Stanley - Foundation Education Lecturer
Hi, I’m Lee, and I’d love to share a bit about my journey with MidKent College, it started way back in 1982 and continues to this day.
When I first arrived at the Maidstone Campus, I didn’t have much confidence and had only a couple of O-Levels to my name. I studied Commerce and General Studies at O-Level, and English and History at A-Level. Looking back, I wish I’d put in a bit more work, as my results weren’t exactly amazing, but honestly, my time at MidKent gave me so much more than grades ever could.
I remember my tutors so fondly. Things were a bit more formal back then, we still called them “Mr” or “Miss”, but they truly cared about us, and that hasn’t changed. Their support helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect. I made amazing friends, had a brilliant social life, and most importantly, I found my confidence.
The campus looked very different in those days! There was no UCM building - just the tower, some porta cabins, a big refectory, and a sports hall where the central car park is now. We had a football pitch, and I remember us girls would go and cheer the boys on. Rag Week was always a laugh - I even went busking in town dressed as a fairy tale character with two friends! We sang “The Streets of London” and “Blowin’ in the Wind” like no one ever has before or since! I think I still have the newspaper clipping at home to prove it!
Those years at college were genuinely some of the best of my life, and I’m still in touch with several friends I made back then. In fact, I met my husband through the very first friend I made at college in 1982!
Since leaving MidKent, I’ve had a really varied career, banking, nursing, childcare, fostering, and primary school teaching. But without a doubt, my favourite job has been returning to work here at the Maidstone Campus, in the Foundation Department. From the moment I came back, I felt like I was home. The students and my team are just amazing, and I’m so proud to be part of it.
Even better, my son is also a MidKent College alumni. He had a fantastic experience on the art course at Maidstone and is now training to be an art teacher, thanks to the inspiration and encouragement of his own MidKent tutor.
MidKent College played such an important part in my life. It gave me confidence, lifelong friendships, and a career I love. I couldn’t be more grateful.
- Callum Luke Norris - Sporting Director
From starting with Engineering and Mechanics Level 1 courses at MidKent College in 2015 to earning a motorsport degree at Silverstone Motorsport College, my journey has been incredible.
I kicked off with work experience at Team HARD Racing, then moved on to Jamun Racing and WDE Motorsport - climbing the ladder to become a number 2 engineer and working alongside legends like Martin Brundle and John Surties and more🏎️🔥
After stepping back from racing, I shifted into engineering sales and stores before pursuing my driving career.
Since then I have been apart of E sports competition Running and racing in leading teams for Forza Motorsport, Asseto corsa, RaceRoom, call of duty and Rainbow six siege/
- Corine Burkin - Clerk to Governing Body
I started at MidKent College studying A-Levels and C&G Video Techniques, and I left in 1990. I was based at the Oakwood Park Maidstone campus, and one of the things that really stuck with me was being treated as an adult for the first time after years of school, which, honestly, I hated! College gave me the chance to express myself and really find who I was, all in a friendly and safe environment. Plus, back then you could actually smoke in the refectory!
The campus looked quite different in those days - the photo I’ve shared was taken in 1988 when I was 16, sitting in what was then the refectory at Oakwood Park, now a car park.
If I could give any advice to current students, it would be to really enjoy your time at college. It’s a more adult environment, and it’s a great place to make friends that you might keep for life.
MidKent College has played such an important role in my life. Since I was 16, I’ve only spent two years away from the College, first as a student from 1988 to 1990, then as an employee from 1992 right up to now. You could say MidKent College truly has been my life!
- Sean Cameron - Content Designer at Meta
Meet Sean, a Content Designer at Meta, now living in California, but his creative journey started right here at MidKent College.
Sean studied Creative Media at our Horsted Campus, completing his studies in 2001, and credits his time at the College for laying the foundation of his global career
“My course taught me how to be a self-starter, juggle multiple projects at once, and quickly get up to speed with the tools needed across different media roles. It gave me the mindset and versatility to adapt, problem-solve, and take initiative in fast-paced creative environments.”
Sean’s story is a brilliant example of how the right environment, guidance, and skillset can lead to exciting opportunities around the world. From Kent to California, he continues to thrive in one of the world’s most innovative companies.
- Colin Harsant - Managing Director of Social Enterprise at Royal British Legion Industries (RBLI)
Colin Harsant began his journey with MidKent College in 1994, studying Business at A-Level. For Colin, choosing MidKent was a turning point.
“MidKent College gave me the opportunity to study what I really wanted, Business, rather than the more restricted subject choices offered by my grammar school. That freedom helped cement my ambition to pursue Business Studies and Management at university.”
That decision set the stage for a successful and varied career. Colin has spent over 25 years leading and managing manufacturing companies across multiple industries - including Packaging, Automotive, Aerospace, Defence, and most recently, the Charity sector.
His story reflects how the right course at the right time can shape not only a career path, but a lifelong passion for leadership and innovation.
