Welcome to our end-of-year newsletter As another academic year draws to a close, this is an opportunity to reflect on the many achievements, experiences and successes that have taken place across College over the past few months. Every page demonstrates the remarkable commitment of our students and staff, and the exceptional opportunities that continue to make Winstanley College such a special place to study.
This has been another memorable year for our College community From welcoming the BBC's Question Time and hosting the Makerfield byelection hustings, to celebrating national awards, sporting success, outstanding student achievements and an exciting programme of educational visits, our students have embraced every opportunity available to them Whether in the classroom, on the stage, on the sports field or within the wider community, they have continued to demonstrate the ambition, resilience and kindness that define Winstanley College
This year has also seen the successful launch of our 'Inspiring Futures' programme, bringing together careers education, employability and progression opportunities to ensure every student is well prepared for Higher Education, apprenticeships and employment. Alongside academic success, we remain committed to developing confident, thoughtful and compassionate young people who are ready to make a positive contribution to society
As always, none of this would be possible without the hard work of our exceptional staff Their commitment and support continue to make a real difference every single day
To our Upper Sixth students, thank you for everything you have contributed during your time at Winstanley College. I wish you every success for the future and look forward to celebrating your achievements on A-level Results Day. To our new students joining us in September, I am thrilled that you have chosen Winstanley College and look forward to welcoming you to our community
I believe that nothing comes close to the experience of being a student at Winstanley and it is the honour of my life to be Principal of this very special College
Have a lovely summer Best wishes, Simon
A MESSAGE TO OUR UPPER SIXTH STUDENTS
I should like to thank all our Upper Sixth students for the contribution they have made to Winstanley over the last two years
Your year group will always hold a special place in my heart because we started at Winstanley College at the same time. I still remember your first assembly in September 2024, when we spoke about our shared commitment to excellence, support and inspiration, and how together we would build a College community where everyone could flourish
Since then, you have achieved so much. You have challenged yourselves academically, represented the College in competitions and performances, supported each other through both the highs and the inevitable challenges, and helped make Winstanley College a caring, welcoming and inclusive place.
Although your examinations and qualifications are an important milestone, what matters just as much are the friendships you have built, the kindness you have shown and the positive impact you have had on our College community.
Wherever your future takes you, whether to university, an apprenticeship or employment, I wish you every success. Thank you for everything you have given to Winstanley College and for helping to make it such a special place.
Good luck for the future.
UNIVERSITY, APPRENTICESHIP AND JOB OFFERS
As our Upper Sixth students prepare for the next stage of their journey, we are delighted to celebrate the wide range of destinations they will be progressing to this autumn. Students have secured an impressive range of offers from universities, apprenticeship providers and employers across the country, reflecting their hard work, ambition and commitment throughout their time at College.
Over the coming weeks, we look forward to sharing many of these fantastic destinations across our social media channels, as students receive their examination results and confirm their future plans. We are incredibly proud of everything our students have achieved and wish them every success as they begin this exciting new chapter.
Below are just some of the exciting university, apprenticeship and employment offers our students have secured.
‘INSPIRING FUTURES’ PROGRAMME
This year has seen the launch of our new 'Inspiring Futures' programme, bringing together the wide range of careers, employability and progression opportunities available to students in College.
The programme has been designed to ensure that every student develops the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to progress successfully to Higher Education, apprenticeships or employment.
Throughout the year, students have taken part in employer meetings, careers events, university visits, employability workshops, work experience and enrichment activities, enabling them to explore future pathways whilst developing valuable transferable skills.
Students can also work towards Bronze, Silver and Gold 'Inspiring Futures’ awards, recognising their engagement in careers and enrichment opportunities beyond the classroom These awards encourage students to broaden their experiences, build their CVs and prepare for the increasingly competitive world beyond College.
The introduction of the programme reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that every student leaves Winstanley College read
PROGRESSION DAY AND WORLD OF WORK DAY
A key feature of this year's 'Inspiring Futures' programme was the introduction of Progression Day and World of Work Day.
During Progression Day, Lower Sixth students explored the opportunities available after College through a personalised programme of talks, workshops and presentations delivered by staff, alumni, universities and employers. Students gained valuable insight into Higher Education, apprenticeships and employment whilst receiving tailored guidance to help shape their future plans.
One of the highlights of the day was a visit from Mohammed Amin MBE, who spoke to Business and Economics students about inflation, economic growth and the future of the UK economy, providing a fascinating insight into real-world decision making
The following day, students put these ideas into practice during World of Work Day. Many attended external work experience placements across a wide range of industries, whilst others took part in careers workshops and employability activities in College.
Together, these events provided students with valuable practical experience, helping them to build confidence, develop employability skills and make informed decisions about their future
PRIDE CELEBRATIONS
This term we marked Pride Month with activities that celebrated diversity and supported LGBTQ+ students Events included a weekly LGBTQ+ Society lunch, where students could meet and discuss important issues. The group also recorded a podcast for WTV, sharing stories and raising awareness. Additionally a ‘Rainbow Friday’ fundraiser raised money for the charity Just Like Us. We were also pleased to welcome two youth ambassadors, to the
AWARDS AND NATIONAL RECOGNITION
This year has been an exceptional one for Winstanley College in terms of national recognition, reflecting the commitment of our students and staff, and the outstanding opportunities available across the College.
Most recently, we were delighted to be announced as runners up in the Health and Wellbeing category at the Sixth Form Colleges Association Awards. This national recognition celebrates the College's whole-College approach to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of students and staff.
Earlier this term, we were incredibly proud to celebrate Sheila Wilding, our Lead Cleaner, who was named a Silver Winner in the 'Unsung Hero' category of the Pearson National Teaching Awards. Sheila has dedicated more than 30 years to Winstanley College and is known throughout our community for her warmth, kindness and unwavering commitment to students and colleagues alike.
The award recognises the invaluable contribution made by individuals who go above and beyond to support young people, and Sheila is a truly deserving recipient. Whether offering a friendly smile, taking pride in ensuring our campus is a welcoming environment or quietly supporting students and staff each day, Sheila embodies the caring ethos that defines Winstanley College. This national recognition reflects the enormous difference she has made to College life over many years
Building on this success, the College has also been awarded AcSEED accreditation for 2026–2029, in recognition of its continued commitment to promoting positive mental health and wellbeing. The reaccreditation praised the College's strong wellbeing strategy, dedicated Mental Health and Wellbeing leadership, student Mental Health Advocates, extensive staff training and the wide range of support available for students, staff and parents/ carers. It also recognised the College's commitment to continually developing and strengthening its wellbeing provision.
Our wellbeing provision continues to place students at the heart of everything we do Through initiatives such as our Wellbeing Advocates programme, student-led campaigns, our digital Wellbeing Hub and extensive professional support, we strive to create an environment where every student feels supported to achieve their full potential
These achievements demonstrate that success at Winstanley College is measured not only through academic success, but also through the care, dedication and community spirit s
AWARDS EVENING
Winstanley College welcomed students, families, staff and guests to its annual 'Celebrating Excellence' Awards Evening, highlighting the achievements of Lower Sixth students across all subject areas.
The awards celebrated academic success, commitment and dedication, alongside a number of special memorial awards recognising students who have made an exceptional contribution to College life beyond the classroom
Guests enjoyed inspiring speeches, outstanding performances from Tess Raynor and Kou Halpin and the opportunity to celebrate this year's award recipients with their families and friends.
The College extends its thanks to Michelle Grundy of Bloom4Seasons for helping make the evening so special and to Ross Winstanley of Standards of the Wiend, Wigan, for supplying and engraving the College's new award trophies.
Jolene Carter, College Operations Manager and event organiser, said: 'Our 'Celebrating Excellence' Awards Evening is always one of the highlights of the College calendar Thank you to everyone who helped make the evening such a success. Most importantly, I am incredibly proud of every award recipient and it was wonderful to celebrate their achievements with their families and friends '
Congratulations to all of this year's award winners. We are proud of everything they have achieved and look forward to seeing their continued success at College
YEAR 11 TASTER DAY
One of the highlights of the term was our annual Year 11 Taster Day, which was our best attended to date, with over 1250 applicants visiting the College to sample their chosen subjects.
Students enjoyed a full timetable of lessons across their chosen subjects, giving them the opportunity to experience College life first hand before enrolment. Throughout the day, students met teaching staff, explored the campus and began building friendships with classmates who will be joining them in September.
The enthusiasm and positivity shown throughout the day was brilliant to see, and we are thrilled that so many students chose to spend the day with us. We look forward to welcoming them back very soon as members of the Winstanley College community.
YEAR 10 MASTERCLASSES AND YEAR 9 INSPIRING MINDS EVENTS
Alongside welcoming our new applicants, we were also pleased to host Year 10 Masterclasses and Year 9 Inspiring Minds days for students from our partner schools These events provided younger students with an opportunity to experience a range of exciting subject sessions, explore life at a Sixth Form College and begin thinking about their future aspirations
It has been fantastic to welcome so many students from across the region onto campus and we hope to see many of them return to Winstanley College over the coming years If you have any ques please do not hesitate to contact our Admi
STUDENT UNION
Congratulations to everyone who has been elected to serve on next year's Student Union.
Our Student Union plays a vital role in College life, representing the views of students, organising events, leading fundraising initiatives and helping to create a welcoming, inclusive and supportive community. Throughout the year, Student Union members have worked closely with staff to champion student voice, promote wellbeing and organise activities that have enhanced the College experience for everyone
As one group of student leaders prepares to leave College, I should like to thank them for their commitment, enthusiasm and the positive contribution they have made over the past year.
We look forward to seeing what the new team will achieve over the coming academic year If you are joining Winstanley College in September and would like to become involved in student leadership, please speak to a member of the Student Union. They would be delighted to tell you more about the opportunities available and how you can play an active role in College life.
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
This has been another outstanding year of student achievement, with learners excelling across academic study, enrichment and national competitions We are particularly proud of the 19 students who have secured offers to study Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science this September. Alongside these successes, many more Upper Sixth students have secured offers from leading universities, apprenticeship providers and employers, demonstrating the breadth of opportunities available to Winstanley students.
Our Lower Sixth students have also continued to distinguish themselves. Congratulations to Isabelle Douglas, who was awarded this year's Harvard Book Prize in recognition of her academic excellence, thoughtful contribution to College life and commitment to social justice.
Students have also enjoyed success across a range of academic competitions More than 25 entries were submitted for this year's 'Wild Writing' competition, showcasing outstanding creativity from students studying English and Earth Science. In Mathematics, four students achieved the prestigious 'Elite' award in the International Maths Challenge, placing them amongst the highest-performing competitors worldwide.
Across our STEM subjects, more than 300 students took part in the annual STEM Academic Research Poster Competition, producing an impressive range of research projects that reflected their curiosity and innovation Congratulations also go to this year's Maths Premiership champions, whose teamwork and problem-solving skills earned them a well-deserved victory.
SPORTS ROUNDUP
It has been a remarkable season for our Men’s Football 1st Team and the Winstanley Lionesses, with both squads crowned league champions after unbeaten campaigns
The Lionesses enjoyed a memorable season built on determination, resilience and outstanding teamwork From the outset, a talented group of Lower Sixth students joined experienced Upper Sixth players to create a formidable squad. One of the standout moments of the season came at an away match at Ashton Sixth Form College, when the team produced a remarkable comeback from 4-1 down at half-time to secure a dramatic 54 victory. The league title was secured in the final game of the season with a victory over Cardinal Newman College at Winstanley, confirming the Lionesses as champions.
Coach Stephen Brockley commented: “I’m looking forward to next season already. We will miss our Upper Sixth players and wish them well in their A-levels I have spoken to lots of Year 11 applicants who are excited to join our team and hopefully we can build on our league success and win the Nationals.”
Our Men’s Football 1st Team have also celebrated an outstanding season following success across regional and national competitions. Earlier this term, the team travelled to Nottingham to compete in the AoC Sport National Championships, securing an excellent third-place finish, the highest by a North West football team in recent years. Tyler Cook scored 10 goals during the weekend competition. The team also secured the league title following a superb 6-2 victory over Ashton Sixth Form College in the final game of the season, completing an unbeaten campaign.
Coach Ben Rutherford said: “It has been an outstanding year for our Men’s Football 1st Team. They have worked tirelessly throughout the season, and it is fantastic to see them rewarded for their hard work and commitment ”
ART EXHIBITION
Our annual Art and Design Exhibition took place on Wednesday, 18 June, offering an outstanding celebration of work from students across all visual arts subjects
The exhibition brought together final pieces from A-level Art and Design, Graphic Communication, Photography, Textiles and our Foundation Art course. The creative spaces of the College were transformed into vibrant galleries, with each display showcasing the technical skill and individuality of our students
Visitors were treated to a wide range of thought-provoking and ambitious work. It was a genuine pleasure to explore the exhibition and to see the originality and depth in every piece. The standard of work on show was a clear reflection of both the talent of our students and the strength of the Art provision at College. Well done to everyone involved!
POLITICS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
This term, Winstanley College found itself at the heart of local and national politics as the Makerfield by-election brought a series of high-profile events to our campus Over two remarkable weeks, students had an unrivalled opportunity to engage directly with democracy, welcoming politicians, journalists and national broadcasters to College. From hosting the BBC's Question Time and the official Manchester Evening News Makerfield byelection hustings, to meeting parliamentary candidates and sharing their views with national media, students experienced politics beyond the classroom in a truly meaningful way.
The by-election also created exciting opportunities beyond the headline events Students interested in journalism met local and national reporters, Media students worked alongside professionals to help film and record the hustings, and many of our students shared their views with organisations including BBC News, the Manchester Evening News and The Guardian. Their confidence, maturity and insight ensured that the voices of young people were well-represented throughout the campaign
Alongside these experiences, students continued to develop their debating, public speaking and critical thinking skills through activities including our own mock Makerfield Hustings, a workshop led by the English-Speaking Union and a peace education workshop delivered by Solutions Not Sides.
Collectively, these experiences gave students a unique insight into politics, journalism and civic engagement. More importantly, they demonstrated that life at Winstanley College extends far beyond the classroom, giving students opportunities to develop the confidence, skills and understanding needed to become active and informed citizens.
EDUCATIONAL TRIPS
Educational visits continue to play an important role in enriching the student experience at Winstanley College, giving learners the opportunity to deepen their understanding beyond the classroom.
This term, students visited universities, historical sites and specialist facilities across the country, gaining crucial first-hand experience of their subjects Politics, Law and History students travelled to Queen's University Belfast for masterclasses and an exploration of the city's political and social history, whilst STEM students visited Lancaster University and the Lancaster University Environment Centre to take part in environmental science workshops and hear a keynote lecture from Jim Wild.
MUSIC
Music students have enjoyed another successful term, taking part in performances and collaborative projects that have developed both their musical talents and industry skills.
The annual March Music Show brought together around 50 BTEC Lower and Upper Sixth students who were responsible for every aspect of the production, from performance and technical support to lighting, sound, marketing and backstage management. Working together, students delivered a professional showcase that reflected the collaborative nature of the music industry
Lower Sixth students also visited Alliance Manchester Business School to compete in an Investment Challenge against colleges from across the North West, applying their maths and business skills in a real-world financial setting. Working in teams, students developed investment strategies, analysed financial data and explored the Business School, gaining a terrific insight into higher education and careers in the financial sector.
Meanwhile, Criminology, History and social science enjoyed visits to Lancaster Castle, the Lancashire Police Museum, University of Central Lancashire and Wigan Archives, bringing classroom learning to life through practical experiences and historical research At Lancaster Castle, Criminology students explored historic courtrooms, prison cells and the Lancashire Police Museum, helping them understand the development of the criminal justice system through the centuries They also explored information about a future in forensic science and what it may look like.
These visits continue to broaden students' horizons, develop their curiosity and bring learning to life beyond the classroom.
Students also welcomed Year 6 pupils from Orrell Holgate Primary School into our recording studios to record a song BTEC and A-level Music students supported the sessions, whilst T-level Media students filmed and produced a professional video of the experience, providing useful practical experience for everyone involved. These opportunities helped students develop their confidence, creativity and teamwork, whilst preparing them for future study and careers.
CULTURE DAY
One of the highlights of the term was Culture Day, which brought students together to celebrate the rich diversity of our College community. Students organised a wide variety of cultural stalls, food, crafts, music and activities, with many choosing to wear traditional cultural dress throughout the day Guests from Greater Manchester's Interfaith Network also joined us, giving students the opportunity to speak with faith leaders from different religions and broaden their understanding of different beliefs and traditions.
Alongside celebrating diversity, the event also raised more than £450 for charity, supporting both the British Skin Foundation and Forgotten Women. Culture Day once again showcased the welcoming, inclusive and vibrant community that makes Winstanley College such a distinctive place to study.
SUPPORT
Student wellbeing remains central to life at Winstanley College, with a wide range of initiatives taking place throughout the year to support both mental and physical wellbeing. Students and staff came together to mark Mental Health Awareness Week, with this year's theme encouraging everyone to 'Take Action' for their wellbeing. Throughout the week, students took part in activities including wellbeing trails, sessions in the Nurture Room, a nature photography competition and a student-led social media campaign exploring 'What Makes You Happy?'. Students also supported Wear It Green Day, raising money for the Mental Health Foundation
Looking after our environment has also remained an important part of College life. Students from the Eco-Committee and Nurture Group worked together to create bee and seed bombs in support of World Bee Day, raising £150 for the Lancashire Wildlife Trust whilst encouraging conversations around environmental wellbeing. We are grateful to Brighter Better Orrell for supporting the project through the donation of native wildflower seeds and materials.
A-LEVEL RESULTS DAY
To our Upper Sixth students, we wish you every success as you receive your examination results this summer Results Day is one of the highlights of the College year and we look forward to celebrating alongside you as you begin the next stage of your journey.
Whether you are heading to university, starting an apprenticeship or beginning employment, we would love to hear your news. If you are collecting your results in College, please take the time to speak to staff and celebrate your achievements with us If you are away on holiday or celebrating elsewhere, we would still love to share your success.
Please send your photographs, destinations and celebrations to marketing@winstanley.ac.uk, so that we may recognise your achievements across our social media channels and inspire future generations of Winstanley students. Thank you once again for everything you have contributed to College life We are incredibly proud of y best for the future
ENROLMENT 2026
We are looking forward to welcoming our new Lower Sixth students to College for enrolment on Thursday, 20 August and Friday, 21 August.
Applicants should already have received an email inviting them to book an enrolment appointment If you have not yet arranged your appointment, please do so as soon as possible.
On the day of your appointment, please bring your GCSE results with you, as we will need to see your original results before confirming your programme of study.
If your results are different from those you were expecting, please do not worry! We encourage all applicants to attend their appointment as planned. Our Admissions Team will discuss your results with you and, wherever possible, help identify the most appropriate pathway to support your future ambitions.
Our staff will be on hand throughout the day to guide you through the enrolment process and answer any questions you may have. We are excited to welcome you to Winstanley College and help you begin the next stage of your educational journey.
If you have any questions before enrolment, please contact admissions@winstanley.ac.uk.
STAY CONNECTED WITH COLLEGE NEWS
We have continued to post regularly on Instagram and Facebook throughout the year, sharing updates, achievements and highlights about College life We will also be posting during the summer, particularly with important information for our Upper Sixth leavers and incoming Lower Sixth students.
Earlier this year, we launched our TikTok account where we have been sharing a range of content, from staff introductions to student activities and behind-the-scenes insights We would love to see more people following us across our platforms to stay connected with College life and hear the latest news.
Instagram and Facebook: @WinstanleyCollege TikTok: @winstanleycollege
WORLD CHALLENGE 2026
We should like to wish the very best of luck to all students and staff taking part in World Challenge 2026 Over the summer, they will spend two weeks in Vietnam, working on a range of community initiatives and development projects whilst experiencing a new culture and developing valuable life skills.
We hope everyone has an enjoyable, rewarding and memorable experience. We look forward to hearing all about the trip and seeing plenty of photographs when they return.
OVER THE SUMMER
Although this academic year has come to an end, College life continues throughout the summer. We will be sharing important updates, student successes, enrolment information and A-level Results Day celebrations across our social media channels, so be sure to follow us to keep up to date with everything happening at Winstanley.
If you have any questions over the summer, members of staff will be available to help. Whilst most College staff work term time and may not be able to respond during the holiday period, a number of departments will continue to provide support If you are trying to contact a specific member of staff and have not received a reply, please email enquiries@winstanley.ac.uk, where a member of the team will do their best to assist you or direct your enquiry to the appropriate department
For any questions relating to applications or enrolment, please contact the Admissions Team directly
We especially look forward to celebrating the achievements of our Upper Sixth students as they receive their examination results and welcoming our new Lower Sixth students to College in September.
Finally, we hope you have enjoyed reading this year's Summer Review. Have a wonderful summer and we look forward to seeing you in the new academic year.
