Milton Keynes College Group has launched a new education centre designed to support young people at risk of becoming Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), helping them build confidence, gain qualifications and move towards brighter futures.

Known as The Key, the new centre at the College Group’s Chaffron Way campus provides a supportive and innovative learning environment where young people can rediscover a sense of belonging, develop essential life skills, achieve meaningful qualifications and progress into further education, apprenticeships or employment.

The centre was opened at a launch event on Tuesday 8 September 2026, attended by a range of stakeholders including Milton Keynes City Council, Thames Valley Police and YMCA South Midlands.

Speaking at the event, Milton Keynes College Group’s Chair of Governors, Ruby Parmar, said: “Across the country, we’re seeing increasing numbers of young people who are not in education, employment or training. Alan Milburn’s recent review described this as one of the most significant challenges facing young people today, with too many becoming disconnected from opportunities and support.

“Here at Milton Keynes College Group, we believe everyone deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their starting point, and we see it as our responsibility to help unlock that potential.”

The Key’s exciting and dynamic curriculum will help develop essential skills and support with achieving real qualifications as well as opening clear pathways to further study, apprenticeships, and meaningful employment opportunities. The curriculum will focus on developing:

• Teamwork
• Confidence and self-esteem
• Self-awareness
• Making choices
• Communication skills
• Valuing equality and diversity
• Healthy lifestyles

All students will also have an opportunity to engage with English and maths qualifications at the appropriate level.

Up to 45 students will attend at a time, supported by a team of staff with specialist skills and experience in their field. The Key will welcome a total number of 90 students.

 The new initiative is being welcomed by Milton Keynes City Council, local schools and alternative education providers, employers, Arthur Ellis Mental Health Support, and Action for Youth charity – all of whom attended the launch event.

Michael Bracey, Chief Executive of Milton Keynes City Council, said: “It’s really critical that everyone in Milton Keynes is involved in making the city grow and be successful. Places like The Key will help us ensure that no one gets left behind and that all young people get to make a contribution to make Milton Keynes brilliant.”

Jon Manning from the Arthur Ellis Mental Health Foundation commented: “The local community is going to benefit from The Key. Young people who are going to pass through are going to be able to succeed more in life. That’s going to the add to the community and businesses are going to be able to benefit from young people getting into the workplace as a result.”

Places at The Key are offered through a referral process, ensuring each learner receives the right level of support in an environment best suited to their needs.

The College Group’s Director of Inclusion, Amy Langford, says: “The Key will provide opportunities for young people who may have experienced barriers to education and need additional support to realise their potential. By creating a purpose-built environment where students feel safe, valued and empowered, we can help them build confidence, achieve meaningful qualifications and take positive next steps towards education, employment and independence.

“This exciting new development reflects Milton Keynes College Group’s commitment to Fairer Futures for All and ensuring every young person has the opportunity to succeed.”

To find out more about The Key, visit The Key – MK College