Alumni Success Stories

Hopwood Hall College is the perfect place to achieve your dreams. In fact, we don’t just tell our students to dream big – we tell them to reach for the stars!

Over the years, this message – combined with hard work and determination – has meant that our learners have gone on to accomplish great things in all walks of life.

There really have been countless success stories from those who joined us when they were just 16. We’ve seen our alumni become CEOs of international companies, secure roles that allow them to travel the world, and even pick up gold medals at the Olympic Games.

When you start your own journey at Hopwood Hall, you’ll be following in their footsteps. We hope this is a fantastic source of inspiration for anyone who wants to turn their passion and talent into a thriving career.

Be sure to have a look at the amazing alumni below. We hope their stories will motivate you to break down barriers, chase your dreams and find your own success in the world.

Adam Shiel
Adam Shiel Commis Prep Chef, The Bull and Bear Studied: Hospitality & Catering

Adam is currently working for one of the most reputable establishments in Greater Manchester after studying Hospitality and Catering at Hopwood. It’s a fast-paced role – but one that he finds very rewarding. 

“I really appreciate the help and guidance from all the tutors at Hopwood. Each one provided me with a sound knowledge of the business”

Amina Naseer
Amina Naseer Studying Computing at Bolton University Studied: ESOL

Amina’s course was perfect for giving her the skills that would allow her to study at university.

“My tutors helped me so much. I never would have achieved what I have done without their support and guidance”

Andrew Joyce
Andrew Joyce Apprentice Software Engineer, MBDA Studied: Computing

Andrew was just 13 when he realised he wanted to be a software engineer. After researching the college and its facilities he was primed to start his journey into the industry.

“My tutors always knew how to make their lessons interactive and fun. It wasn’t your typical lecture. They thoroughly explained each topic in depth and helped each student every step of the way.”

Billy Cooper
Billy Cooper Studying HND Animal Management at Hopwood Hall College and University Centre Studied: Animal Management

Billy made the most of every opportunity on his course – even becoming the chair of the Conservation Society Initiative (CSI). He’s now progressed to our University Centre to gain the most cutting edge skills in Animal Management.

“The facilities are excellent. It’s hard to believe there’s such an extraordinary place like this in Greater Manchester!”

Callum Rigg
Callum Rigg Content Creator on YouTube Studied: Creative Media Production

Callum has managed to master the world’s most popular video sharing site – in the process earning legions of followers who are gripped by his content and eager to see his next move. All in all, he’s got more than 100,000 subscribers!

“I had moments where I almost gave up, but my tutors kept me going. It’s  about how you get back up and try again until you do succeed”

Chloe Cooney
Chloe Cooney Studying Veterinary Nursing at University Centre Myerscough Studied: Animal Management

Chloe was no stranger to working with the college’s 700+ animals during her course and this gave her great footing to enter a highly competitive industry.

“I really couldn’t imagine not being able to get hands on experience working with the animals. Along the way I built up my confidence and gained so many valuable skills”

Chloe Cooper
Chloe Cooper Studying Theatre in Performance at the Arden School of Theatre Studied: Performing Arts

The stage was calling Chloe when she was choosing where to study after school. You’ll now find Chloe studying at the prestigious Arden School of Theatre. The bright lights of showbiz await her!

“This course is about having fun and being creative. As a creative person it gave me the opportunity to not only write my own work but direct and create shows – which as a performer is very exciting”

Chloe Eccles
Chloe Eccles Studying Primary Education with QTS at Edge Hill University Studied: Education & Childcare

Chloe’s got her sights set firmly on a teaching career and – thanks to the skills and knowledge that she obtained at Hopwood Hall – is more confident than ever that this dream will soon become a reality.

“The course helps you gain so many employability skills that are vital when applying for university or jobs. I couldn’t be happier with the progress I made”

Chloe Salter
Chloe Salter Student Police Officer at Greater Manchester Police Studied: Uniformed Public Services

Chloe chose to study Uniformed Public Services with the aim of going into the police. She’d heard good things about the course, but experience still managed to exceed what she as expecting at Hopwood.

“Just try your best at Hopwood! Put 100% effort into everything and you will get far. And most importantly, never give up!”

Chloe Topps
Chloe Topps Studying HND Computing at Hopwood Hall College and University Centre. Studied: Computer Science

Chloe felt herself grow as a person on her course and is now pursuing a career in what’s traditionally a male-dominated industry.

 “I’ve come a long way from where I began to where I am now. I’ve always had ambition, but now I really feel like I’m finally on the right track”

Daniel Noble
Daniel Noble Firefighter at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service Studied: Uniformed Public Services

Daniel’s career is as fast-paced as his course – only now he’s bravely running into burning buildings, saving lives and serving his community in the most inspiring way

Listen, learn and get involved. The tutors at the college have a wide range of experience throughout the public services and will help you massively

Dione Whalley
Dione Whalley Studying Medical Science at the University of Chester Studied: Applied Science

Whilst studying at Hopwood, Dione learned a great deal about diseases, medical anatomy and other subjects needed to become a Doctor.

“I hope to one day work as a doctor in A&E. Hopwood provided me wit so much knowledge to make the steps towards this and best prepare me for university and beyond”

Dulcie Turner
Dulcie Turner Studying Engineering at Cambridge University Studied: Engineering

Dulcie was so impressed with the college’s state-of-the-art Technology Centre that she was happy to pass up providers closer to home and travel slightly further just to have the opportunity to study here

“It’s because of my experience in the Technology Centre that I got into engineering. It was my first opportunity to use industry-standard machinery. I had a good relationship with all the staff”

Dylan Shann
Dylan Shann Cabin Crew for easyJet Studied: Travel & Tourism

Dylan was so impressed with the facilities at the college that he just knew he had to study here. It was a fantastic decision – especially since he’s already in his dream job!

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without the wonderful tutors at Hopwood It was a very uplifting environment!”

Ella O’Mahony
Ella O’Mahony Travel Agent Apprentice at Hays Travel Studied: Travel & Tourism

Ella chose to study Travel & Tourism after attending an open event at Hopwood Hall. She found the tutors to be both knowledgeable and passionate – and instantly knew that the course was for her.

“Choosing Travel & Tourism was the best decision I have ever made. It’s so fun, everyday was new and exciting – I never wanted it to end!”

Elle Pickles
Elle Pickles Nursing Assistant, NHS Studied: Health & Social Care

Like many students, Elle’s course also gave her the opportunity to go into Higher Education. She’s now also currently studying Adult Nursing at the University of Salford.

“Studying at the college helped me to develop strong communication, leadership, teamwork and organisational skills. It ultimately enabled me to pursue a career in the job that I love the most”

Elysia-jo Crossley
Elysia-jo Crossley Apprentice at D. Lowe Decorating Studied: Painting and Decorating

Originally starting on Level 1, Elysia-jo proved her stripes on her course and climbed the levels. Once she had more skills and experience, she became the perfect candidate for an apprenticeship.

“The best part for me was how patient the tutors were when showing you different ways of doing things. We could also have a good laugh in lessons!”

Jordan North
Jordan North Student Officer, Greater Manchester Police Studied: Uniformed Public Services

While a position in the police force is now a reality for Jordan, he gained much more than just his dream job by the time he’d finished his qualification.

“I met my best mates in college and I know I’ll stick by them for the rest of my life. The staff at the college still inspire me and are a big part of my motivation even to this day”

Latisha Mawdsley
Latisha Mawdsley Studying Youth and Community Work at University of Huddersfield Studied: Education & Childcare

Latisha had the opportunity to thrive during her time at Hopwood. She’s now making use of the opportunities her course brought by undertaking Higher Education at the University of Huddersfield.

“The best thing about college was the support from my teachers when I struggled or needed any help. They went above and beyond to make sure I had everything I needed”

Lauren McGeary
Lauren McGeary Student Children’s Nurse, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital Studied: Health and Social Care

Lauren knew that she wanted to go to university, but also knew that she didn’t want to do A-Levels. The BTEC route was perfect for her and allowed her to progress to Higher Education.

“Definitely do the course if it’s what you want to do. Just remember that you don’t have to do A-Levels to get into university”

Madison Freeman
Madison Freeman Studying Theatre and Performance at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) Studied: Performing Arts

Madison joined us from St Cuthbert’s RC High School with a dream of becoming a professional actress. She’s now on her way to making this a reality!

“The course is a fantastic way to make connections and this is key to building yourself a name in this industry. Think big and be creative in chaos”

Maria Kouser
Maria Kouser Nursery Practitioner at 1st Safari Daycare Nursery Studied: Education & Childcare

Maria will proudly tell people that her time at Hopwood Hall really boosted her confidence, increased her independence and made her the person that she is today!

“Manage your time appropriately, enjoy your work experience and always take part in different opportunities which will help improve your progress”

Mark Doma
Mark Doma Accounts Administrator, Clarity Business Travel Studied: Travel & Tourism

Mark’s got the world at his feet after attending Hopwood. It’s a journey that began when he enrolled to study Travel and Tourism after deciding that he’d love to work in the travel industry.

“Lots of jobs are linked to Travel & Tourism, which makes it a great industry to get into. My course was a fantastic way to gain the skills and qualifications required to get into the industry”

Matthew Burdaky
Matthew Burdaky Electrical Installation Instructor at Hopwood Hall College Studied: Electrical Engineering & Level 4 Education & Training

Hopwood stood out to Matthew because of its class-leading Technology Centre. He now has the pleasure of working in this state of the art building as he trains the next generation.

”My best advice to students is to just enjoy the college experience. Your tutors will certainly make it an enjoyable time and ensure you can succeed”

Matthew Jackson
Matthew Jackson Store Manager at Costa Coffee Studied: Hospitality & Catering

Matthew found that the course was full of opportunities – both in and of the kitchen. He was able to gain extra qualifications, speak at college events, attend conferences and sit on various panels.

“My favourite thing about Hopwood was the opportunities that opened up. I went from a shy young boy to a strong independent man with skills, experiences and a qualification I never thought I’d have!”

Matty Ashton
Matty Ashton Fullback for Warrington Wolves Studied: Sport

Matty chose to study at Hopwood after his school recommended the famously successful rugby programme and its facilities. You’ll now find him playing professionally for Warrington Wolves!

“At college I learned not to panic, because the amount of help the tutors give you is very good and they will push you to be your best”

Megan Charlesworth
Megan Charlesworth Staff Nurse, Royal Oldham Hospital A&E Studied: Health & Social Care

Megan was first attracted to studying at the college because of the placement opportunities available. These were vital in helping her to understand just where she fit into within the care sector

“I couldn’t have done it without the Hopwood staff and the people I met along the way. I’m so thankful I get to follow my passion for helping people”

Mia McDougall
Mia McDougall Animal Care Assistant, Vets Now Studied: Animal Management

Mia knew that she needed to pursue her dream of working with animals after seeing the facilities at Hopwood. It meant she had the great opportunity of care for rare and wonderful wildlife as she strived towards her goals.

“My advice would be to make sure you always get involved in practicals as you may never get to do it again outside of college”

Michaela Corder
Michaela Corder Owner of The Bamford Hair Company Studied: Hairdressing

Michaela’s time at the college didn’t just land her a job, but also set her up for a thrilling journey in life – one that’s taken her across the seven seas and then into the role of business owner.

 “Hopwood Hall was a perfect supportive start to my career. They have also continued to support me and that’s why I continue to support them”

Muhammad Qasim Al
Muhammad Qasim Al Studying Electronic Engineering at the University of Manchester Studied: Electrical and Electronic

Thanks to his hard work and can-do attitude at the college, Muhammad is now attending one of the best universities in the country! 

“The best part of the whole experience was the tutors and the learning environment. If you need support, you’ll always get it from your tutors”

Middleton Campus
Rochdale Road, Middleton
Manchester, M24 6XH
0161 643 7560
Rochdale Campus
St. Mary’s Gate
Rochdale, OL12 6RY
01706 345 346