Westminster Kingsway College

Westminster Kingsway College

Age: 117

History: Westminster Kingsway College was formed from a merger in 2000 of the former Westminster College, which has been running since 1894, and Kingsway College, which first opened its doors in the 1920s.

Address: The four centres are located across London in Camden and Westminster; the higher education provision is located in the Victoria Centre.

Ambience: Central and urban. One of the largest colleges in London. Each centre has a distinct atmosphere. The Victoria Centre is located in the attractive Vincent Square, Pimlico.

Vital statistics: The college has about 14,000 students on more than 2,000 courses up to honours degree level. It is particularly proud of its reputation in business, hospitality, and travel and tourism.

Added value: Jamie Oliver, TV chef and former student called it "the best catering college in England". The Victoria Centre's student facilities were completely updated in 2004, particularly in the areas of business, hospitality, travel and tourism.

Easy to get into? Entry requirements and interviews vary for each course so it is best to contact the college direct regarding courses.

Glittering alumni: Celebrity chefs Jamie Oliver, Ainsley Harriott and Anthony Worral Thompson all trained here in hospitality and catering. Other famous students include actress Michelle Collins, actor Steve McFadden and comedienne Kathy Burke.

Transport links: The college is a five-minute walk from Victoria bus, tube and rail station, with connections to the rest of London, national and international rail services.

Who's the boss? The principal is Andy Wilson, a former community worker previously employed by Ealing, Hammersmith and West London College

Teaching: Good overall in all areas inspected by Ofsted in 2011, except for hospitality and catering which was rated as outstanding.

Foundation degrees: Culinary arts; accounting; business; hospitality management; public administration; tourism management. A new HND in creative media production will be launched in September 2011.

Nightlife: With sites scattered around central London, students are guaranteed the best choice of clubbing and pubbing venues in the country. In addition, the students’ union is frequently dreaming up imaginative events like world cuisine days, balls and sporting events.

Any accommodation? None provided by the college – but most students are able to find somewhere in London.

Cheap to live there? No – living in London is not cheap, with rents hovering around £100 or £110 per week.

Fees: Vary for FE courses, with most under-19s being eligible for fee exemption. HE fees for 2011/2012 range from £1,100 to £3,000 per year for home students. Fee plans for 2012 are yet to be confirmed.

Bursaries: No specific bursaries or scholarships offered by the college, but it does have a learning support fund which students can apply to if in financial need.

Prospectus: 0870 060 9800; www.westking.ac.uk

UCAS code: W52