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.
- 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.
