MK Digest – College Success, NHS Screening & Summer Events

Here’s what’s worth knowing in Milton Keynes this week.

Milton Keynes College has been recognised as one of the country’s leading further education colleges for GCSE progress, after being ranked second nationally in the latest government performance figures.

The college achieved the ranking for student progress in GCSE English and maths resits, placing it among the strongest-performing colleges in England for helping students improve their grades after secondary school.

The results were published as part of national Department for Education performance data covering further education providers across the country.

College leaders said the achievement reflects the dedication of staff and the support provided to students studying English and maths alongside vocational and technical courses.

Milton Keynes College offers a wide range of courses for school leavers, apprentices and adult learners, with many students retaking GCSE English or maths as part of their studies before progressing into higher education, employment or specialist training.

The college says strong GCSE outcomes can play an important role in helping students improve future career opportunities and access further qualifications.

The latest ranking also highlights the growing role further education colleges play in supporting students beyond traditional school settings, particularly in core subjects that remain essential for many careers and university pathways.

📍 Milton Keynes College

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A free NHS lung cancer screening programme is returning to Milton Keynes this summer, helping identify potential signs of lung cancer earlier and improve access to treatment for people considered most at risk.

The targeted screening programme is designed for people aged between 55 and 74 who currently smoke or have smoked in the past, with eligible residents invited for quick lung health checks and, where appropriate, low-dose CT scans.

Health leaders say early detection is one of the most important factors in improving survival rates for lung cancer, which is often more difficult to treat once symptoms become advanced.

The programme previously operated in Milton Keynes and is now returning as part of wider NHS efforts to improve early cancer diagnosis across England.

Residents who qualify for screening will usually receive invitations directly through their GP records, with appointments designed to be simple and accessible.

The NHS says many people with early-stage lung cancer may not notice symptoms initially, making screening programmes particularly important for identifying potential problems earlier.

Local health teams hope the return of the service will encourage more eligible residents to attend appointments and seek support if they have concerns about lung health, smoking history or persistent respiratory symptoms.

The programme forms part of broader national efforts to improve cancer outcomes and reduce pressure on hospitals through earlier diagnosis and treatment.

📍 Milton Keynes

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The Parks Trust is encouraging residents to get involved in a series of hands-on volunteering events across Milton Keynes as part of Volunteers’ Week 2026.

One of the most unusual activities is “Himalayan Balsam Bashing”, where volunteers help remove the fast-spreading invasive plant from riversides and green spaces in Loughton Valley Park. Sessions take place on Wednesday 3 June, Saturday 6 June and Wednesday 10 June.

Other opportunities this summer include community litter picks, wildlife habitat building projects and meadow conservation sessions designed to support pollinators and native species across the city.

The Parks Trust says the events are open to people of all ages and abilities, with volunteers helping to protect local wildlife, improve green spaces and support the long-term care of Milton Keynes’ parks.

🕒 Wed 3 Jun & Sat 6 Jun (Loughton), Wed 10 Jun (Bancroft)
📍 Loughton Valley Park & Bancroft

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A women’s running club that started less than a year ago has grown to more than 500 members across Milton Keynes and Northampton, as increasing numbers of women look for social and supportive ways to stay active.

Caffeine & Kilometres Run Club was launched to create a welcoming environment for women of all running abilities, combining fitness with community, friendship and wellbeing.

Organisers say the club has expanded far faster than expected, with regular group runs, social meet-ups and beginner-friendly sessions helping attract members ranging from complete beginners to experienced runners.

The club’s growth reflects a wider rise in community-based fitness groups and social running clubs across the UK, particularly among women looking for alternatives to traditional gyms or competitive sports environments.

Sessions are designed to be inclusive and supportive, with members encouraged to run at their own pace while meeting new people and building confidence.

The club has also developed a strong social-media following, with many participants sharing their progress, group achievements and experiences online.

Organisers say the emphasis has always been on creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere rather than focusing purely on performance, helping many women feel more comfortable trying running for the first time.

The milestone comes as Milton Keynes continues to see growing interest in outdoor fitness, community wellbeing and social exercise groups across the city.

📍 Milton Keynes & Northampton

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The months ahead are shaping up to be a busy period for theatre-goers, with Milton Keynes Theatre welcoming a series of major touring productions, family favourites and award-winning shows to the city.

Among the highlights is Operation Mincemeat, the Olivier Award-winning musical comedy based on a remarkable Second World War deception mission, alongside The Karate Kid – The Musical and the much-loved family production The Tiger Who Came To Tea.

The programme also includes comedy performances, live entertainment and a variety of touring productions arriving from London's West End and theatres across the UK.

As one of the country's busiest regional theatres, Milton Keynes Theatre regularly attracts productions that might otherwise require audiences to travel to London, helping establish the city as an increasingly important destination on the national touring circuit.

With something aimed at families, comedy fans and dedicated theatre enthusiasts alike, the summer programme offers plenty of opportunities for local residents looking for a night out over the coming months.

Many performances are already on sale, with further details available through the theatre's website.

📍 Milton Keynes Theatre

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Creative professionals, artists and content creators are invited to a networking evening at The Hub.

Pink Mondo Meets is hosting Creatives Party MK 2.0 on Thursday 4 June at the Blossom Room, bringing together photographers, musicians, designers, models, actors, dancers, content creators and local brands for an informal evening of networking and collaboration.

Organisers describe the event as a chance for creatives to connect in a relaxed setting, with no formal business agenda and plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded people from across Milton Keynes and beyond.

The evening will also feature open-mic style creative showcases, while photographer Jason Duggan will be offering free professional headshots to attendees, with additional photography packages available. The event runs from 7:30pm to 11pm at The Hub MK.

🕒 Thu 4 Jun, 7:30pm–11pm
📍 Blossom Room, The Hub MK, Mortimer Square
🎟 From £6.95

More information →

Looking for something to do locally? Here are a few ideas for the week ahead:

🕒 Tue 2 Jun:

Labyrinth 40th Anniversary screening at MK Gallery
The fantasy cult classic starring David Bowie returns to the big screen as part of its 40th anniversary celebrations.
📍 MK Gallery
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🕒 Fri 5 Jun:

Sunset Music Sessions at Unity Sky Lounge
A relaxed rooftop evening of live acoustic music, cocktails and city views returns to Unity Place with Groove Continuum performing feel-good covers.
📍 Unity Sky Lounge, Unity Place
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Adam Kay & Friends at The Stables
The bestselling author and former NHS doctor brings a live evening of comedy, stories and special guests to The Stables.
📍 The Stables, Wavendon
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🕒 Sat 6 – Sun 7 Jun:

MK Handmade & Vintage summer market
Independent makers, artists and vintage traders return to centre:mk with handmade gifts, crafts, artwork and unique local products.
📍 centre:mk
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🕒 Throughout the week:

Aqua Parcs sessions continue at Willen Lake
The inflatable water park continues its summer season at Willen Lake, with obstacle courses, slides and family-friendly sessions running throughout the week.
📍 Willen Lake
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🕒 Tue 2 Jun:

Hormone Health Accelerator workshop
A free educational workshop exploring perimenopause, hormone health and wellbeing support for women in Milton Keynes.
📍 NatWest Accelerator Hub, Central Milton Keynes
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🕒 Sat 6 Jun:

Art in the Park festival at Campbell Park
A free family-friendly festival celebrating international arts, culture and creativity with performances, workshops, food and activities throughout the day.
📍 Campbell Park
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🕒 Sat 6 – Sun 7 Jun:

Race for Life and Pretty Muddy return to Willen Lake
Thousands of participants are expected at Willen Lake as Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life and Pretty Muddy events return to Milton Keynes for a weekend of fundraising runs, obstacle courses and community activities.
📍 Willen Lake
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🕒 Throughout the week:

Love Your Parks campaign continues across MK
The Parks Trust is encouraging residents to enjoy Milton Keynes parks responsibly as warmer weather brings more visitors outdoors across the city’s green spaces and lakes.
📍 Various parks across Milton Keynes
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Linford Wood sculptures remain hidden among the trees
Visitors can still spot surviving woodland sculptures hidden among the trees at Linford Wood while plans continue for a revived trail.
📍 Linford Wood
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🕒 Throughout the week:

Free Lego & Duplo clubs at MK libraries
Drop-in Lego and Duplo sessions continue across Milton Keynes libraries, giving children a free creative activity during the week.
📍 Various libraries
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Stories & Songs sessions for young children
Free storytime and rhyme sessions continue across MK libraries this week for under-5s and families.
📍 Various libraries
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🕒 Mon 1 Jun, Mon 8 Jun:

Code Club at Central Library
Free coding sessions for children continue at Central Library, helping young people learn programming and digital skills in a relaxed environment.
📍 Central Library
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Explore more local events on Eventbrite and Destination Milton Keynes.

What kinds of local events would you like to see more of in MK Digest?

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See you next issue.

Toby
MK Digest
[email protected]