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.
