College ushers in new era as it unveils bold vision for the future

Hopwood Hall College unveiled an ambitious new strategy for the future during an event held in the splendour of Rochdale Town Hall.

Principal and CEO, Julia Heap OBE, set out a bold five-year vision to help drive growth, transform lives and create new opportunities across the borough and beyond.

The launch brought together students, staff, governors, employer partners and community stakeholders to look ahead to an exciting new chapter as the college begins its journey towards 2031.

Hosted by the Executive Editor of Business Cloud, Chris Maguire, the event showcased the college’s ambition to be at the forefront of education, skills, innovation and economic growth.

A series of panel discussions brought the voices of students, alumni and employer partners to the forefront as they shared the impact the college has had on them.

This includes former Health & Social Care student Glory Frank, who is now an ICU nurse.

The 22-year-old told those in attendance how grateful she was for her time at the college and how the experience had ‘helped her grow’ into the professional she is today.

Member of Parliament for Heywood and Middleton North, Elsie Blundell, also took to the stage to reflect on the importance of Hopwood Hall for Rochdale.

In addition to changing people’s lives through education and training, the college also has a significant economic impact across the North West and beyond.

According to a report by London Economics, the college generated £388 million of economic impact during 2024-25, creating around £10 of economic value for every £1 spent.

The event, however, was firmly focused on what comes next.

Guests were given a glimpse of the technologies and innovations that are helping to shape the future of learning at the college, with VR headsets in use, 3D printing in action and robotic arms demonstrating the possibilities ahead.

From immersive technologies to advanced engineering and digital innovation, the demonstrations offered just a taste of the future-facing education and training that will help prepare students for emerging industries and the changing needs of employers.

The launch highlighted the college’s ambition to play a significant role in driving economic and social growth, developing the talent that businesses need while opening doors to new careers.

Julia Heap OBE, Principal and CEO at Hopwood Hall College, said:

“Our journey to 2031 is about being ambitious for our students, our communities and our region.

We want to help people fulfil their potential, give businesses access to the skills and talent they need to grow, and play our part in creating a stronger, more prosperous future for the borough and beyond.

“The launch at Rochdale Town Hall was a fantastic opportunity to bring that vision to life and hear from our current and former students and employer partners.

This strategy is ultimately about people – changing lives through education, opening up opportunities and helping individuals, businesses and communities to thrive.”

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