Students across the Trafford and Stockport College Group are celebrating another year of exceptional academic success.
Top performing student was Marple Sixth Form College student Lucinda Lowes, who scored A* across the board in Physics, Biology, Maths and Further Maths and is now bound for the University of Oxford to study Physics: a four-year course with integrated Masters.
89% of students at Marple College have been awarded a place at their first choice university destination, which is well above national UCAS figures showing an average 82%.
In T Levels too, the Group’s 90% completion rate was above the national average and students enjoyed a 100% pass rate. Almost all of those students are now progressing onto work, apprenticeships or further study.
Rossi Bircham is one of those learners. He has secured a Level 3 Rail Technician role at Alstom Transport after impressing them during his work placement.
Many of the Group’s learners have secured places at some of the world’s most prestigious universities, including the University of Oxford, Imperial College London, University of Manchester, University of Plymouth, University of Bristol and many more.
James Scott, Principal and Chief Executive of the Trafford and Stockport College Group, expressed pride in the students’ achievements: “The breadth of study options now available to students is remarkable, and the accomplishments being witnessed today are the results of our students’ passion, hard work, and determination.
“The Trafford and Stockport College Group is committed to providing a holistic learning experience for all students. With expert, industry-experienced tutors, industry-standard facilities, and a strong focus on individualised support, students are given the tools they need to thrive.
“The extensive range of extracurricular activities allows students to explore their passions deeply, enriching their CVs and positioning them strongly for university or their chosen careers. The success stories we are hearing today demonstrate that they are on the path to fulfilling their career dreams, and we wish them all the best.”
Assistant Principal Helen Wood added: “The results this year are a testament to the hard work and resilience of our students, and we celebrate their successes as they embark on their next journeys. It’s important to remember that these learners were in crucial GCSE years during the heart of the pandemic. Our amazing teams go above and beyond to provide outstanding academic and holistic support. They encourage our learners to be the best they can be, ensuring they are well-prepared, confident, and ready to take their next steps into higher education or the professional world.
“Their determination and success today are truly inspirational.”
From College and Crufts to Oxford, Lucinda pursues her passion for Physics
One of the Group’s outstanding academic achievers is Lucinda Lowes, who received four A* grades in Physics, Biology, Maths and Further Maths, at Marple Sixth Form College, securing her place at the University of Oxford to study Physics: a four-year course with integrated Masters.
“I’ve always loved science and maths and I really love reading different books about these topics such as The Cosmic Code by H.R. Pagels. But what interests me most is the thought process behind these facts and this is why I want to go into research”, she said.
Outside of college, Lucinda has competed several times at Crufts with her own family dog and won the 12 to 17 pairs category in 2020 with her nan’s dog Spud.
She also plays the flute and, once she is at the university, hopes to join the Oxford Music Society.
Siblings Mary and Mercy celebrate shared success
Twins Mary and Mercy Adeniran are both celebrating successful results in Psychology, Sociology and Law (BCC and BBB respectively) at Trafford College, enabling them to go on to the University of Manchester to study Adult Nursing together.
The siblings have come a long way since arriving in the UK from Nigeria in 2020 as asylum seekers with their mum and younger sister and joining Trafford College’s FT GCSE programme at the Altrincham campus.
Mary said: “Our tutors have been really supportive, helping us make new friends and encouraging us to take part in college open events and join groups.”
Rossi lands dream job through T Level route
Opting for a T Level route has paid off for Rossi Bircham, having secured a Level 3 Rail Technician role at Alstom Transport after impressing them during his work placement.
With an interest problem solving, Rossi was looking for an engineering course offering a mix of both practical and theory and a T Level in Engineering at Stockport College ticked these boxes.
Rossi said: “The teaching was the best I’ve had. I’ve learned so much throughout the course and I feel I can take these new skills into the workplace.”
Childhood dream to join the police force comes true for Jack
Jack Lloyd has dreamt of joining the police force since his parents bought him a little electric police car when he was five.
Having now successfully completed his Level 3 Uniformed Protected Services BTEC with Merits, at Cheadle College, Jack is delighted to have secured a Level 3 Apprenticeship with the Greater Manchester Police Force.
Jack said: “I’ve loved my BTEC course, particularly adding social value through volunteering, and the ‘Outdoor’ unit which included orienteering at an Army base. It has taught me about citizenship and diversity and has significantly developed my confidence and communication skills.”
Reluctant student Mya to go on to university studies
A few years ago, Mya Malik-Davies was unsure whether college was the right path for her.
Now, having achieved a Level 3 in Hair and Beauty, Mya is set to become one of the first students at Trafford College to take a BA Hons in Aesthetics.
Mya said: “I definitely don’t regret going to college and now I’m about to embark on university! On the days I wasn’t 100% certain or felt a lull, my tutor encouraged me and pushed me a little bit harder. She helped me get to where I am today.”
