The Key
What is The Key?
The Key is due to open in September 2026. It is a supportive space designed to help young people who are currently Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) take positive steps towards their future. Based within the Chaffron Way campus at Milton Keynes College, the centre provides a welcoming environment where individuals can access tailored guidance, skills development, and practical support to build confidence and achieve their personal, educational, and career goals.
In line with MK College’s mission to ‘Build Fairer Futures’, The Key will work towards becoming a centre of excellence, where young people will experience innovation in adaptive education, rediscover belonging, build confidence, achieve meaningful qualifications, and progress into positive futures.
What will students learn?
Learners will engage with a dynamic and enriching Entry Level (E3) and Level 1 curriculum, designed to develop essential skills and secure qualifications. They will also upskill in English and maths and take qualifications at the appropriate level. This programme will support them in shaping ambitious career aspirations, while opening clear pathways to further education, apprenticeships, and meaningful employment opportunities.
Areas of study include development of the following skills:
- Teamwork
- Developing Confidence and Self Esteem
- Self-Awareness
- Making Choices
- Communication Skills
- Valuing Equality and Diversity
- Healthy Lifestyles
Learners will be supported by a team of staff with specialist skills and experience in their field. The heart of the provision is trauma informed practice with all classes being supported by Teaching Support Assistants and a Wellbeing and Behaviour Coach.
How do students access The Key?
The Key is based at our Chaffron Way Campus and will provide places for up to 90 learners. The centre will offer a discrete, supportive environment, designed to re-engage young people. The centre will provide opportunities for young people with and without EHCPs.
The Key will not take direct applications. A place at The Key will be offered via direct referral from either the MK College EHCP Team, Milton Keynes Council 16-19 team or through direct work with local secondary schools via MK College’s School Outreach Lead. This will ensure the best fit for every young person that attends.
For general enquiries please email thekeymk@mkcollege.ac.uk
Partnership Opportunities
The Key will work with a number of stakeholders across the city, to ensure we offer positive and supportive experiences including; MK City Council, local schools and alternative provision, employers, Arthur Ellis and Action for Youth.
We welcome enquiries from individuals and businesses that would like to explore opportunities to be part of The Key and support our students. If you would like to have a conversation with us about what support we need and what you can offer, please get in touch.