College Times - Winter 2026

EDITION 17 WINTER 2026

COLLEGE AWARDED CTEC

Wigan & Leigh College to Lead North-West Construction Skills Drive.

College named one of just ten UK Technical Excellence

Centres

We were delighted to have been chosen to spearhead a major new construction skills initiative after being named the Department for Education’s Construction Technical Excellence College (CTEC) for the North-West - one of only ten across the country.

The prestigious status puts the college at the heart of plans to boost skills, jobs, and innovation in a sector critical to the Government’s ambition to build 1.5 million homes and deliver major infrastructure projects.

Principal, Anna Dawe hailed the

for Construction.

announcement as “a landmark moment” for both the college and the region.

“We’re immensely proud to take on this role. It’s a testament to the dedication of our construction staff and students - and it echoes our roots as a technical mining college more than a century ago,” she said.

Working alongside Blackpool & The Fylde College and Nelson & Colne College Group, we will lead a network of specialist training hubs across the North-West, from Greater Manchester to Cumbria, ensuring that every community has access to high-

01942 761111

quality, industry-led training.

The partnership will focus on green construction, modern building methods, and tackling the shortage of qualified trainers, while strengthening ties with employers and sharing best practice across regional college networks.

“This is a genuine collaboration built on shared goals,” added Anna Dawe.

“Together, we’ll open up new opportunities for learners, help businesses grow, and keep the NorthWest at the forefront of construction excellence.”

HIGHER EDUCATION COURSES THAT WORK WHAT CAN I STUDY?

• Animal Management

• Business

• Computing

• Construction

• Counselling

• Creative Studies

- Graphic Design

• Childcare & Early Years Education

• Engineering

• Esport

• Public Services

• Sport

• Teacher Education

• Travel & Tourism

89.8% of our graduates are in employment 8.8% above the National average

WHAT CAN I BE?

PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS EXPLORE CAREERS

Year 6 pupils from Orrell Newfold Community Primary School enjoyed a dynamic day of career exploration as they participated in a ‘WHAT CAN I BE?’ event across our Pagefield and Parsons Walk campuses.

The visiting pupils enthusiastically tackled a wide range of hands-on taster sessions, designed to introduce them to diverse career paths. Activities included practical introductions to roles such as electrician, construction manager, zookeeper, innovator, engineer, and nurse.

The event was highly successful in engaging the young children and getting them to find out more about careers they may not have known about before.

Some pupils even got to experience the International Space Station thanks to the

Innovator session where they used our CAVE immersive space with VR headsets.

Course Lead and Teacher Education Lecturer, Lee Royle commented: “The pupils were fully absorbed in the experience floating through the ISS, exploring the technology behind it, and chatting about the wide range of careers linked to space.

“It was amazing to see how quickly they connected with the tech and how confident they were asking questions and imagining future pathways.”

A FLYING VISIT

Level 2 Cabin Crew and Aviation students were inspired about their future careers after an exciting educational visit to Manchester Airport, where they explored the passenger experience, both within the airport and during a flight.

Expert tour guides shared insights into the history and operations of the airport and showed the group the iconic Concorde - a highlight of the day.

AWARD WINNERS

We were delighted to win the Skills Investment Excellence Award at the recent Wigan Business Awards. This is great recognition for the work we do to upskill, train and invest in people.

Deputy Head of Employer Engagement, Tim Nutter said:

“We were delighted to receive the award as it reflects our commitment to developing talent and equipping learners with the skills needed to thrive

in a changing world. This recognition highlights the dedication of our staff and partners in creating opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen our community.”

A CUT ABOVE EXPERIENCE FOR HAIRDRESSING STUDENTS

Concept Hair’s Education Roadshow descended on Leigh Campus to provide a hands-on aesthetic learning experience with leading brands such as L’Oréal Professionnel, L’Oréal Future Talent, Alan Howard Hair & Beauty Supplies, Osmo Ikon and Crazy Color CASA.

Our students, from both Wigan and Leigh campuses, observed skills demonstrations and took part too with the guidance of industry professionals.

They also had the chance to receive plenty of discounts and special offers thanks to Capital Hair & Beauty Student Club.

Concept Hair Marketing Manager, Samantha Cole said: “The roadshow aims to enhance the opportunities for learners in hairdressing and to get them into the industry, highlighting that jobs are available in areas such as cruise ships, freelance artists, brand ambassadors or as an educator.”

ANNA DAWE AWARDED OBE

We are proud to announce that our Principal, Anna Dawe, has been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King’s New Year Honours, in recognition of her outstanding services to further education, skills and the communities the college serves.

Anna Dawe

Since her appointment as Principal, Anna Dawe has led us through a period of significant transformation and growth. Under her leadership, the college has strengthened its reputation for highquality teaching and learning, expanded technical and professional pathways, and deepened partnerships with employers to ensure students develop the skills needed to succeed in the local and regional economy. Anna has been instrumental in driving major investment in the college’s estates and facilities, including ambitious redevelopment

projects that create modern, inclusive and sustainable learning environments. Her strategic focus on skills for growth has supported key sectors such as engineering, construction, health and digital, aligning provision closely with employer need and regional priorities.

A passionate advocate for opportunity and social mobility, Anna has championed widening participation and student support, ensuring students of all backgrounds can access education, progress and thrive. Her commitment to inclusion, student experience and staff development has helped foster a strong, values-led culture across the college.

The award also recognises Anna’s wider contribution to the further education sector, where she is respected as a collaborative leader, working with partners, stakeholders and policymakers to champion the vital role of colleges in economic

regeneration and community wellbeing.

Commenting on the honour, Andrea Ferguson, Chair of the Governing Board, said “This is a richly deserved recognition of Anna’s exceptional leadership and her tireless commitment to students, staff and the wider community. The Governing Board is immensely proud of what Anna has achieved at Wigan & Leigh College and the positive impact of her work locally and beyond.”

Anna Dawe said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. It reflects the collective effort of an incredible team of staff, governors, students and partners who share a belief in the power of education to change lives. I am proud to lead Wigan & Leigh College and to serve the communities we work with every day.”

We extend our warmest congratulations to Anna Dawe on this prestigious national honour.

FE COMMISSIONER

IMPRESSED BY PAGEFIELD

VISIT

After admitting it was her first visit to Wigan, FE Commissioner, Shelagh Legrave CBE DL mentioned she’d heard of the great reputation of our college, and it was the perfect way for her to find out first-hand with a tour of our Centre of Excellence in Construction & Engineering. Principal, Anna Dawe talked through our vision and the recent and continued developments to our estate, highlighting the need to meet an ever growing number of students. The tour was a great chance to

highlight the recent CTEC announcement in which we became the North-West Construction Technical Excellence College.

Shelagh also got to meet some of our apprentices

to find out their inspiring stories of why they chose this pathway and how enthused they all were by their future prospects within the construction and engineering industries.

NEW YEAR IN NEW YORK

Our A Level students enhanced their student experience after starting the New Year in New York City. The group took in many of the main attractions and landmarks that the Big Apple has to offer, including the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Grand Central Station, Central Park and Broadway - where they watched Hamilton.

HOLOCAUST EDUCATION TRUST AMBASSADORS

Two of our A Level students travelled to Auschwitz-Birkenau as part of the Holocaust Education Trust’s Lessons from Auschwitz programme.

Prior to the trip, they attended a seminar where they heard testimony from a Holocaust survivor and discussed life pre-war for Jews in Europe.

While in Poland, the pair toured both Auschwitz and Birkenau camps to gain a deeper understanding and insight into the atrocities which took place there

during World War 2, and they can now take part in further seminars to become HET Ambassadors.

CELEBRATING A LEVEL ALUMNI SUCCESS

We’re delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of two of our A Level alumni, who continue to make us proud.

Cassia Pedro, a former Dean Trust Rose Bridge pupil, graduated from the University of St Andrews with a 2:1 in Psychology. Cassia left college after achieving exceptional A Level results - an A* in Psychology, an A in Sociology and an A in English Combined and has continued to excel in her chosen field.

Maria Babu, a former Albany Academy pupil, graduated from the University of Central Lancashire with a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS). Maria is now a Foundation Year 1 doctor working within the NHS at Royal Preston Hospital, where she is undertaking rotations in Renal Medicine, Cardiology and Urology.

Reflecting on her journey, Maria said: “It’s a mix of pride, relief, and excitement. Graduating as the eldest daughter in an immigrant family and now working as a doctor feels incredibly rewarding. It’s a real privilege to be in a position to help people and contribute to the community.” She also credited her time at college, saying it gave her a strong foundation and invaluable encouragement toward her dream career in medicine.

Congratulations Cassia and Maria - both inspiring examples of where hard work and dedication can lead to.

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Our Performing Arts students wowed student and visitor audiences as well as pupils from local high schools in a stunning and highly entertaining Beauty and the Beast pantomime. Vice Principal, Anne-Marie Francis was certainly impressed saying, “Our students lit up the stage with a remarkable blend of professionalism, energy, humour, and sheer talent. From start to finish, the production showcased everything that makes our college community so special.”

CREATIVITY FLOWING

Second Year Art and Design students launched their first specialist project of the year, based on the theme of ‘Machines’.

Working across pathways including Fine Art, Textiles, Concept Game Art, Graphic Design, and Interior Design, they’ve been busy creating a diverse range of work that explores different techniques, concepts, and forms of creativity. The project equips students with the practical and creative skills needed for their chosen career paths.

NEW CREATIVE PARTNERSHIP WITH SHAKESPEARE NORTH PLAYHOUSE

Performing arts students are set to benefit from a unique educational experience following the announcement of an exciting new creative partnership with the renowned Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot.

The collaboration will provide students with exclusive access to one of the Northwest’s most inspiring creative hubs, while enhancing their professional development and practical skills.

Mark Irwin, Deputy Head of Performing Arts said:

“We’re proud to see our students stepping into the professional world of theatre through this partnership. It’s a fantastic platform to showcase their talent and passion while strengthening links between education and the arts.”

TAKING CENTRE STAGE

Students will get a rare insight into professional theatre, offering a combination of practical and performance opportunities which will include workshops, audition days, live Shakespeare performances,

and to top it offthey’ll take to the stage themselves, performing their very own production in the stunning 420seat venue in the round theatre later this year.

“This collaboration is a wonderful opportunity for our students to develop their craft within a truly authentic theatre environment. Working alongside professionals at Shakespeare North Playhouse will give our students even more opportunities on top of the work we do here at college,”

added Jade Sargent, Artistic Director & Dance Tutor.

STUDENT SNAPS TOP PRIZE WITH PERFECT SHOT

Year 2 Level 3 Photography student Daytona Scott has earned top marks in the L&CPU Novice Cup, scoring a perfect 15/15 for her image Mud In Motion and receiving a Judge’s Choice Award.

Daytona, who also trains with the Beacon Photographic Club in Skelmersdale, has been steadily developing her skills and entering local and regional competitions.

College Photography Technician and club founder Danny Jackson presented her award, praising her rapid progress and natural eye for images.

Course Leader Noman Lomax added that Daytona’s hard work has made her an accomplished photographer whose talent is now being recognised beyond the college.

LOCAL MP CREDITS COLLEGE IN SUPPORTING CAREER JOURNEY

Jess Eastoe, Labour MP for Tyldesley and Mosley Common credits the college in supporting her career journey.

Joining the college as an A Level student at 16, Jess returned to study as an adult on our access to social science course before progressing to gain her PGCE. She completed her teaching placement here at college in both the A Level and Health and Social Care departments.

After working in a few schools, she said, “I realised that I cared more about the young person’s welfare rather than the subject.”

This led her to pivot and retrain in youth work.

“The tutors were just really supportive especially with me not knowing what I actually wanted to do. I think sociology was a good marker for me because it’s such an open-ended qualification, from there you can go out and work with different people doing different jobs.”

Jess also found she had a lot of transferable skills from her PGCE in her political career, saying, “Going into a volatile situation with young people is probably scarier than going into a room full of opposition politicians. So, there’s a there’s a lot to be

ADULTS FIND NEW LANE ON MOTOR VEHICLE COURSE

learned, I think, from the PGCE.

“In my main job, I’m the Young Person’s Equalities Lead for GM Moving. They fit quite well, being a youth worker and politician. It’s all about democracy and youth voice.”

Jess’ advice for other adults thinking of getting back into education is, “Be brave. I think the fear of failure is worse than actually getting on and having hurdles. Because there’s no hurdle that the college won’t support you to get over. Whether that be academically or if you’ve got something going on in your life.”

Returning to education as an adult can feel daunting, but for many of our learners, it becomes a turning point. Jon, 49, and Laura, 31, both joined our Light Vehicle Maintenance & Repair Principles Level 3 Diploma from completely different backgrounds, and each found renewed confidence, skills, and direction.

Jon spent twenty years as a telephone engineer before redundancy pushed him to rethink his future. Always passionate about cars, he saw the adult learning prospectus, attended an open day, and instantly felt at home.

“I spoke to the head of department, and he told me I’d be a perfect candidate,” he says.

Since joining, Jon has thrived with the hands-on learning style, even achieving 100% on a recent exam. “When I was last studying it wasn’t for me but now, I’ve come

back and it’s a bit more vocational, I’m achieving great results.”

Now nearing 50, he’s excited to further his trade and take on personal projects, including campervan refurbishments. His advice to others is simple: “Take the plunge - you won’t look back.”

For Laura, the course was a chance to pursue a passion she wasn’t encouraged to follow when she was younger. “I’ve always been passionate about vehicles in general and racing, but my culture didn’t really allow it”

After working in business development and raising her children, she finally had the

space to retrain. She praises the supportive start: “They don’t throw you in at the deep end. Even if you don’t know anything, you won’t feel lost.”

Already working part-time at a local garage, she hopes to move into fulltime work and one day open her own workshop. Balancing study and family has been easier than expected, and her message to other adults is: “Go for it - it’s not as hard as it seems. I have children to take care of and and it doesn’t clash at all.”

NOW

ADULT

IS SHOUKATHALI’S TIME

SHOUKATHALI ENGLAMPURATH

ESOL Entry Level 2

Shoukathali moved to Wigan from Kerala, India in 2021 when his wife got a job as an A&E Nurse at Royal Albert Edward Infirmary.

The ex-service man found employment at Walkers, PepsiCo in Skelmersdale. He joined our ESOL course, saying:

“I wanted to learn English because it’s hard to speak to colleagues in the factory because we wear face masks.”

“English is not a subject, it’s a skill. I find ESOL classes very helpful. The way of talking and pronunciation, we learn from the tutors.”

Shoukathali hopes to work in the technical field in the future by continuing to improve his communication skills.

“I recommend the ESOL course because you interact with so many people, so many languages and cultures.”

LEARNERS

NEW OPPORTUNITIES

GITA PROHOROVA

Level 3 Beauty Therapy

Gita studied at a cosmetology college in her home country of Lativia back in 2009; however, as time went on, she drifted away from the industry.

“I always wanted to work in beauty, I’m more mature now and have a different mindset. Now my son is in high school, I’m more flexible and able to return to study.”

Gita joined us as a Level 2 Beauty student and has since progressed to the Level 3 course.

“I have a lot of questions about the world of work, and my tutor has a salon. She’s always sharing her opinion and experience. It’s real life, not just book learning.”

After college, Gita would like to work with advanced treatment machines such as microdermabrasion and galvanic facial therapy, saying, “it’s such a fast-growing sector, every day is something new.”

CENTRE OF ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION EXCELLENCE

DEWALT DEAL NAILS IT

EXPLORING THE FRONTIERS OF SCIENCE WITH CERN

We were thrilled to welcome Freddie and Giovani from CERN to speak with our Electrical and Mechanical Engineering students.

CERN is home to Europe’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator, the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), and stands as a global hub for cuttingedge particle physics research.

During their visit, Freddie and Giovani shared fascinating insights into the vital role CERN

Students and staff at the college are already benefiting from an exciting new partnership with the DeWALT Academy, after becoming one of just ten colleges in the UK selected to join the newly formed programme.

As an official DeWALT Academy Partner, the college is reinforcing its commitment to industry-led training, giving learners access to the latest tools, technology and professional expertise. The partnership launched with a staff training day, where carpentry

and plumbing tutors worked with DeWALT Academy representatives to explore cuttingedge equipment ahead of the new term.

Students are now seeing the direct benefits of the collaboration.

Plumbing and Carpentry & Joinery learners have been provided with DeWALT toolboxes

and steel toecap safety boots, ensuring access to professional-grade equipment from the start of their training.

Plumbing and joinery students also took part in an engaging workshop delivered by the DeWALT Academy team, gaining practical insight into the latest tools

and how they are used in real working environments.

The partnership offers a clear advantage for learners, helping them develop the skills and confidence needed for future careers in the construction industry through hands-on training that reflects the modern workplace.

technicians play - using handson expertise to assemble, install, maintain, and operate the complex scientific equipment that powers groundbreaking discoveries.

Students also got a glimpse into life in Geneva, learned about the exciting

opportunities CERN offers, and received practical tips on how to kickstart a career in this worldleading research environment after college.

An inspiring session, sparking curiosity and excitement for the possibilities in science and engineering!

GRACE HIGHLY COMMENDED AT GM SKILLS AWARDS

Level 5 Nuclear Technician apprentice, Grace Ormesher-Southall was recognised as Highly Commended in the Apprentice Level 4-7 of the Year at the GM Skills Awards 2025.

Grace, a degree apprentice with Sellafield Ltd, is a shining example of ambition, technical capability, and leadership in the engineering sector. Balancing a demanding Civil and

Structural Degree Apprenticeship with real-world engineering responsibilities, Grace has made significant contributions both on-site and within her community.

CENTRE OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE EXCELLENCE

NURSING ALUMNI RETURN

Two former T Level Health students, Lily-Mae and Lucy returned to college to share their university experience with our current learners.

Former Rainford High School pupil

Lily-Mae is now in her final year of an MSci in Mental Health and Child Nursing at Edge Hill University. Her placements have taken her from Alder Hey’s specialist wards to Young Advisers Services in Liverpool, a nursing home, and even Tanzania — experiences that confirmed her passion for children’s mental health and her dream of returning to Alder Hey.

“The T Level placements showed me what working in a hospital is really like and made me sure it was the right career for me,” she said.

Meanwhile, Lucy Atkinson, a former Up Holland High School student, is nearing the end of her BSc (Hons) in Adult Nursing at Edge Hill University.

From district nursing in Skelmersdale to

surgical and frailty wards in Wigan and Southport, Lucy has built on the handson experience she first gained during her T Level.

“Those placements gave me my first real experience of patient care and an advantage at university,” she reflected.

Now preparing for her final placement, Lucy hopes to step into a Band 5 role and one day become a ward manager and practice educator.

STUDENTS SET FOR THE FRONTLINE

Level 3 Health & Social Care students Ellie, Aisha and Callum have all been accepted onto the North West Ambulance Service Cadet Programme.

They’ll be getting future ready and work ready when they start in January by gaining a real insight into the frontline service giving them valuable experience ahead of pursuing careers as paramedics.

Callum, who works as a support worker at a supported living facility said: “I found out about this at a careers event we attended with college. It will be good to see what it’s like on the frontline, getting that

insight into doing the job first-hand.”

Ellie is looking forward to the opportunity adding, “If I want to be a paramedic when I’m older it will be good to see the reality of it first-hand and gain some experience.”

The three will all experience 12 hour shifts each week, and providing they complete the programme, will get a guaranteed interview for a Paramedic apprenticeship at the end.

MADDIE PAVES WAY FOR CONSTRUCTION CAREER

During Green Careers Week we visited the worksite of our new Powerhouse Future Energy Zone - Sustainable Technologies Space to see one of the workers.

Maddie Leonard is at the beginning of her career journey towards site manager. She is currently plying her trade as a telehandler having discovered a passion for working outdoors

EDUCATION THAT WORKS HIGHER

ALICE FOSTER

HND Mechanical Engineering

HE Nuclear Technician Apprentice of the Year 2025, Alice was able to progress to a Level 5 apprenticeship at Cavendish Nuclear through gaining her HNC qualification. She’s since progressed to achieve her HND and is now working at the company as a Mechanical Designer.

“Learning a certain quality of work, writing reports, referencing and structuring in a certain way has helped me. I feel I was massively improving with every assignment.”

“These qualifications massively expand what you’re able to do, there’s limitless transferrable skills you learn along the way that mean you can basically go into anything that excites you.”

and operating heavy duty vehicles on the worksite.

“I have struggled staying in other jobs in the past,” she said, but now she has found something she really enjoys.

“The job requires a lot of skill and following instruction, especially when lifting large pieces of timber. I

enjoy overcoming challenges and it makes you feel good about completing task - I enjoy the praise from my coworkers too.”

Maddie is excited to develop her career in the construction industry and is set to start a HNC Construction and the Built Environment at our University Centre in the new year and not only that, but she was recently promoted to trainee site manager with Greenmount Projects.

KAITLIN HIGHER TAKING

KAITLIN CLARKE

HND Sport & Exercise Science

After gaining her HND qualification, sport student, Kaitlin has progressed to the University of Lancashire to gain her Top-up degree in Sport & Exercise Science. She aspires to be a physiotherapist in the future.

“There’s a good level of support from the tutors; it was a close-knit group and community.”

“We gained a Level 3 Sports Massage qualification on the course. I’ve started a massage business through my qualification; I do this part time alongside university.”

GRADUATION CELEBRATIONS

Students from the University Centre Wigan & Leigh College gathered to celebrate their achievements at this year’s Higher Education Graduation Ceremony. The event was held at The Edge in Wigan, which provided the perfect backdrop for proud families and friends to watch on in admiration.

Graduands collected their caps and gowns before processing into the ceremony, accompanied by the Liverpool Scottish Regimental Association Pipes and Drums, along with college staff and governors

This year’s ceremony recognised graduates across a wide range of disciplines. Awards were conferred in STEM subjects including degree apprenticeships as well as sport, teacher education, and business and professional qualifications such as accounting and human resources.

Presenting the awards were Wigan Council Executive Leader, Cllr David Molyneux MBE and Josh Simons, MP for Makerfield and newly appointed minister for digital government.

Among the graduates was Chloe Page, who used the HNC Civil Engineering course as a springboard to further her career progression.

“The HNC was amazing. The tutors always offered guidance and support.

I also found that everything I learned from industry was transferrable to the course and vice versa,” said Chloe.

Having worked for St Helens Council for several years, Chloe has worked her way up to project manager for the town’s regeneration scheme. She is also a passionate advocate for women in construction.

“Being a female in the construction industry has always been good and I have always been

treated with respect. I feel empowered when I go onto a construction site wearing a hard hat and get listened to. I love what I do, and I can see myself going far in the industry.”

Fellow graduate, Abigail Barnes completed the HND International Travel and Tourism Management course and is now on an International Business Management Topup at Manchester Metropolitan University.

She said: “I didn’t want to go to a traditional university. I chose the University Centre Wigan & Leigh College because there was more support. I absolutely love the tutors, I felt so at home, and they got me through. I owe everything to them.”

Abigail is currently in a mentoring scheme with the general manager of Treehouse Hotel in

Manchester and aims to work in the hotel business after her degree.

College Principal Anna Dawe praised the dedication and determination of the graduating class.

“Our graduates have shown outstanding commitment throughout their studies, and we’re incredibly proud of everything they’ve achieved,” she said. “They’re leaving us equipped with the advanced technical skills that are in such high demand across our local, regional and national economy. Many are stepping into new roles or progressing in their current careers, while others are choosing to continue their educational journey with higher-level qualifications.”

Level 6 Nuclear Scientist and Nuclear Engineer, Jack Ring rounded off a wonderful ceremony with a moving Student Vote of Thanks ending with,

“we’ve come a long way together but here we are. Let us make a positive contribution to the world.”

CENTRE OF SPORT EXCELLENCE ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Saf Middleton-Patel

Saffie Yates

Saffie completed her Level 3 Sport Science gaining Distinction*, Distinction, Distinction grades. Originally, she was planning to pursue a degree in sports rehab but saw an opportunity to go into an apprenticeship with BBC Sport. Now, Saffie has become a Researcher/ Assistant Producer in their team. What a great achievement!

Our former Level 3 Sport Science student, Saf Middleton-Patel played a blinder in her debut Champions League game as Manchester United Women beat Paris Saint Germain 2-1 at Old Trafford.

Martha Allington

Level 3 Sport Science student, Martha is a striker for Manchester United Women’s Academy and has represented England at Under 17s level. In 2024, she became the youngest woman in Europe to be sponsored by Nike. The goal scorer, who hails from Millom, Cumbria chose to study at our Leigh Campus due to the proximity to her training base at Leigh Sports Village, and follows in the footsteps of notable alumni including, Ella Toone and Saf Middleton-Patel.

“It made sense to come to the Leigh Campus to study as it is close and the college helps me by working around my schedule. I like the course and it’s good to learn more about sport injury prevention and the physiology side of things.”

INSPIRING COMMUNITY PROGRAMME FOR PARKINSON‘S

Our Sports Leadership Academy students joined Steve Rowe from PingPongParkinson™ for the launch of an amazing programme. They joined members of our local community who’re living with Parkinson’s for a welcome and introduction from Steve on how the sport of table tennis can benefit people living with the condition.

Hearing the inspiring story of

the founder, Nenad Bach and how the sport improved both his physical and cognitive abilities after being diagnosed with the disease, it was great to see everyone come together in the sports hall to pick up the bat and get going.

Over the coming

COLLEGE COMMUNITY CELEBRATES HARLEY’S LIFE

Students and staff from our Pagefield and Leigh campuses came together to celebrate Harley Edwards-Andrews’ life. A football tournament was organised, with everyone wearing a blue armband as a nod to Harley’s favourite colour.

Harley wasn’t only a popular student, but also a passionate football and rugby player, having played for several local clubs over the years. All funds raised will be donated to Royal

weeks and months our students will be developing their skills in leading the activities while serving the community and seeing first-hand the improvements of fine motor skills and movement as well as the social rewards that the game can offer to the clients.

“Working closely with Wigan & Leigh College has been invaluable in connecting us with talented students.

Last year, we attended the Festival of Engineering and Construction and met a young man seeking an apprenticeship in Bricklaying. With the help from the college and our Senior Contracts Manager, we were able to hire him as an apprentice at JJH.

This year, we were excited to return to the Festival of Engineering and Construction and deliver an employer insight session for students and parents, sharing what construction employers look for in apprentices.”