Medway Adult Education


Medway Adult Education is the principal provider of adult and community learning services in the Medway unitary authority area of Kent, England. Operated as a department of Medway Council, it delivers a comprehensive range of adult learning opportunities and nationally accredited qualifications across Medway, primarily funded by the Education and Skills Funding Agency. MAE operates two main permanent centres: the historic Rochester Centre, housed in the Grade II listed former Rochester Technical Institute, and the Medway Learning & Skills Hub in Gillingham.

History and governance

Medway Adult Education was established in 1998, coinciding with the creation of Medway as a unitary authority. Its formation continued a tradition of local authority-provided adult education in the area dating to the early 20th century. MAE is an integral department within the Skills & Employment Programme of Medway Council, shaping and responding to local skills needs. The service is principally funded through annual grants from the Education and Skills Funding Agency, which in 2020–21 amounted to £1.8 million. Additional revenues are generated through learner fees and targeted project funding, including from national apprenticeship programmes. MAE's mission aligns with Medway Council's strategic aims: supporting adults to lead successful lives, achieve economic participation, and develop creative potential. MAE works to widen participation by enabling access for residents from deprived areas, minority groups, and those with learning difficulties or disabilities: in 2023–24, 25% of learners declared no qualifications at entry, and 22% declared a learning difficulty or health condition.

Main Centres and architecture

MAE's provision is focused on two main permanent centres, in addition to a range of community outreach venues.

Rochester Centre (Corporation Street)

The Rochester Centre, situated on Corporation Street, Rochester, occupies the historic former Rochester Technical Institute, constructed in 1905–06. The building is listed at Grade II and is a significant example of early 20th-century educational architecture. It was designed by architect S. B. Russell in partnership with Edwin Cooper—later Sir Edwin Cooper RA, a noted figure in English public architecture. This imposing, red-brick building is described in the official listing as being in the 'Neo-English Baroque' style, with pronounced classical features, giant pilasters, pedimented projection, and a steep hipped slate roof. The design reflects early ambitions for technical education in Medway, forming an architectural landmark adjacent to Rochester's historic core. The Centre retains much of its original fabric and internal layout, demonstrating the ethos of civic improvement of the Edwardian era. Today, alongside classrooms and workshops, the Centre serves as a community hub incorporating facilities such as Jaspers Community Cafe, and hosting exhibitions for local creative practitioners.

Medway Learning & Skills Hub (Gillingham)

The Medway Learning & Skills Hub, based at Unit 2, Britton Farm Street, Gillingham, serves as the principal site for learners in Gillingham, Rainham and surrounding areas. This modern facility provides fully accessible accommodation with dedicated digital suites, vocational classrooms, and spaces for careers guidance and social learning. Both permanent centres are easily accessible via public transport and offer facilities for learners with disabilities.

Curriculum and provision

MAE delivers an extensive curriculum designed to support community learning, vocational skills, and the acquisition of accredited qualifications. Core offers include: Accredited qualifications: Maths and English from entry level to GCSE, ESOL, employability and vocational courses, and supported learning for people with special educational needs.Creative arts: Pottery, ceramics, sculpture, jewellery making, visual arts, languages, and cultural programmes, reflecting Medway's creative sector.Digital and work skills: Digital inclusion, IT for beginners, digital skills for work, and career planning.Health and wellbeing: Fitness, yoga, mindfulness, and wellbeing courses designed to support physical and mental health.Family and community learning: Literacy, numeracy, and digital skills delivered in community venues, supporting families to engage in their children's education. The curriculum is developed collaboratively in response to local skills needs, with targeted provision for underrepresented and disadvantaged groups. Around 36% of learner enrolments in 2023–24 were for ESOL, reflecting Medway's diverse population. Courses are available in flexible formats.

Partnerships and outreach

Partnerships form a core component of MAE's approach. MAE works closely with:
MAE also hosts exhibitions and creative events as part of the wider Medway cultural community.