As thousands of pupils pick up their GCSE results today, the principal of one of the county's further education providers says the local economy is in need of more skilled employees.

Simon Cook, of MidKent College, which has campuses in Gillingham and Maidstone, says the world of work is crying out for those with technical qualifications.

He said: “More and more young people come to us every year because they’ve realised that traditional academic qualifications are not always the best way to prepare for their chosen career, and that a technical qualification will help them gain the skills they need to secure their dream job.

“Our local businesses tell us they need skilled employees to help them grow and an academic route does not always prepare young people for the world of work as well as technical programmes can.

“I’m a case in point.

“I left school and went to college because I knew that it was the best way to enter a career that I loved, and that ultimately took me around the world.

"Now I’m passionate about providing those opportunities to others, which is why I returned to education and why I’m so proud to lead MidKent College”

Last year over 3,500 16-18-year-olds studied a technical programme at the college.

And the principal had advice for those picking up their results today.

He says: "Whether your results are better than expected, or you don’t get what you were hoping for, there is support available for you and still time to get sorted for September.

“Look at your career aspirations, assess the options that are available to you, and make a decision about the best study route to help you achieve your goals.

“We start enrolling students from results day onwards and will keep enrolling through September."

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