As the end of the academic year approaches, we caught up with the College’s Careers Lead, Joanna Brown, to learn more about how MK College supports students to progress from one course to the next. There are many opportunities available for those who want to stay on at college, including moving into Higher Education (HE).

What options are available for students who want to stay at college after completing their course?

“Progression is really important to us. We hope that our Level 1 students will have made good progress and be ready to move on to a Level 2 course. For Level 2s, the next step is usually a Level 3 programme, ideally once they’ve secured the grades they need in English and maths. Then, from Level 3, students may go into higher education, an apprenticeship or employment.”

Sometimes that progression stays within the same subject area, but not always. “It’s often the simplest route to move vertically through the levels within the same subject, but diagonal moves are also possible. For example, a student might move from Level 2 IT to Level 3 Business. It really depends on the individual and what’s right for them.”

She adds, “We regularly see students progress through the levels here and then move on to higher education, either at university or by staying on to study an HE course here at college.”

What kind of support do students receive when deciding whether to stay at college or move on elsewhere?

“It depends on the student, but those who are doing well generally move straight up to the next level. For others, we might set targets or hold progress reviews with course staff. Some students are still interviewing for their next course now. These conversations usually start in the spring.”

How do you and your team help students explore these progression routes?

“There’s lots going on. We invite universities to speak to students and take them on visits to different campuses. For example, we recently took a group to the University of Hertfordshire. We also encourage students to attend open days and use platforms like UniFrog to explore their options.

“We’ve held several careers fairs recently where students met employers and apprenticeship providers. We also have events coming up in September to highlight our internal progression pathways, especially for students starting a Level 3 course.”

What are some of the benefits of staying at college to study a HE course?

“There are lots of benefits. Students already know the environment and the staff, so if we offer the course they want, it can make sense to stay. Our HE course fees are typically lower than university, and living at home helps keep costs down.

“We offer courses up to Level 5 in areas like engineering, public services and computing. All of these are listed on our website.”

What would you say to parents who are unsure about HE at college as an option for their child?

“Keep an open mind. It’s important to explore all options, but don’t let the cost of university put you off entirely. Sometimes university is the right next step, and sometimes it’s HE at college or an apprenticeship. It really depends on the course and what’s best for your child.

“And remember, they don’t have to go into HE at 18. We have plenty of students who come back after a few years of working.”

How can parents support their child in making decisions about what’s next?

“Encourage them to think ahead. The next step comes around faster than you think! The long summer break is a great opportunity to build skills through work experience, volunteering or summer clubs. Support them to be ambitious and to step outside their comfort zone a little.”

To find out more about internal progression options at the College, email the Careers Team at careers@mkcollege.ac.uk – they’ll be happy to help.