Welcome to our end-of-year newsletter There are many remarkable stories of individual and College success in this edition. It's worth pausing to think how these success stories actually happen
Firstly, it’s our students: people with raw talent and a clear work ethic, who are supported by family and friends to aim high, think big and take opportunities.
Secondly, the expertise and support shown by staff; from teachers to personal tutors, learning support mentors, technicians and IT support staff, counsellors to premises staff, and cleaners to catering staff. They have all played a part in helping our students develop into who they are today
Thirdly, the exposure to a culture of care, success and engagement, which we foster at Winstanley. This leads to success; not just academic success but success that produces interested, interesting and engaged people, with a passion for lifelong learning and an interest in the wider world.
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.
I can only echo what the Lead Inspector said at the close of our Ofsted inspection, when we were receiving her feedback. She said that Winstanley students were simply incredible and a real credit to the College. In a dangerous and unpredictable world, it’s crucial that we retain a sense of optimism And the success stories we are going to celebrate in this newsletter are an indication that the world is in safe hands with the next generation of artists, business entrepreneurs, writers, solicitors, scientists, politicians, sports people, and leading thinkers of the future
Best wishes, Simon
SUPPORT
Throughout the term, we have prioritised student wellbeing across a range of areas.
During Mental Health Awareness Week, we delivered workshops on sleep hygiene and stress management, supported by resources from organisations such as YoungMinds and the Charlie Waller Trust. Our Mental Health Support Team produced helpful videos to guide students through the exam season and the Hillvale Animals programme provided calming animal-assisted therapy sessions. We placed further emphasis on digital wellbeing, encouraging safe and healthy online habits.
Support for young carers and their families remained a key focus, with tailored advice and parent workshops to help improve understanding of mental health challenges This partnership between College and home has been invaluable in ensuring students receive consistent care.
In addition, we contributed to the Wigan SEND consultation to help shape local services for students with special educational needs and disabilities.
We were also delighted to welcome back Rocky this year, our much-loved therapy dog, who continues to play an important role in supporting students. This term, he was joined by his new brother, Ace, who visited College as part of his early training. Ace will be gradually introduced to College life as he starts his journey towards becoming another valued member of our wellbeing team
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 issues important to them The group also recorded a podcast for WTV, sharing stories and raising awareness. A ‘Rainbow Friday’ fundraiser raised money for the charity Just Like Us. We were pleased to welcome two youth ambassadors who spoke about their experiences and community work, inspiring students across College These activities helped foster a welcoming and inclusive environment.
AWARDS
This academic year has been one of outstanding achievement and national recognition for Winstanley College
Earlier in the year, we were honoured to be named ‘Most Inspirational Sixth Form College’ in the North West at the prestigious Educate Awards This accolade celebrates colleges that go above and beyond to inspire students through academic success, enrichment opportunities and exceptional support.
We were also recognised for our continued focus on mental health and wellbeing, finishing as runners-up in the Educate North Awards in the ‘Mental Health and Wellbeing’ category. This reflected the dedication of staff and students in creating a supportive, inclusive environment throughout the College.
More recently, we were proud to be announced as runners-up in the ‘Skills and Employability’ category at the Sixth Form Colleges Association (SFCA) Awards. This national recognition highlights the strength of our Careers and Work Experience Programme, as well as our wider commitment to student progression and employability.
In addition, we became the first Sixth Form College in Greater Manchester to achieve the ‘STEM Assured Award’ from the STEM Foundation. This accreditation recognises highquality STEM provision, innovation and industry engagement across science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Our cyber security work has also been recognised with the ‘CyberFirst Gold Award’ from the National Cyber Security Centre, part of GCHQ. This award acknowledges our commitment to promoting digital skills, online safety and cyber careers to students of all backgrounds
Finally, this year also saw the publication of our latest Ofsted report, in which Winstanley College was graded ‘Outstanding’ in all areas, reaffirming our reputation as one of the top Sixth Form Colleges nationally.
These accolades are a testament to the hard work, ambition and collaboration of staff, students and partners throughout our College community.
Y11 TASTER DAY
This term we welcomed Year 11 students from local schools for our annual Taster Day. The sessions provided a valuable introduction to College life, allowing prospective students to experience lessons in all our subjects Our current students and staff led interactive workshops and Q&A sessions, helping Year 11 learners make informed choices about their post-GCSE options. The positive feedback received demonstrates the value of these days in easing the transition to Sixth Form and boosting confidence
We wish all of the Year 11 students the best of luck with their GCSE results day and look forward to welcoming them back for enrolment appointments before September
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS
This term saw many outstanding student successes across a wide range of areas. 28 Upper Sixth students secured offers for Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science at prestigious universities including Cambridge, Edinburgh, Manchester and Liverpool Their success followed months of preparation, including UCAT practice, personal statement workshops and mentoring from alumni.
Rory Burke was awarded the ‘Harvard Book Prize’’ for his academic excellence and contribution to College life, while Kit Lawton received a National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) award for youth drama
In sport, Sarah Yates won Gold in the 800 metres and Sami Manir-Jolley took Gold in the 1500 metres at the Greater Manchester Schools Athletics Championships, with Owen Baron winning Silver. All three have now qualified for the English Schools finals. Rugby players Libby Wall, Ruby Hunter and Grace Whittle also signed contracts with leading clubs and secured places on representative squads.
Upper Sixth student Paul Smith also continued his impressive boxing career, competing at national level and balancing his studies alongside his rigorous training schedule. His commitment and determination have been an inspiration to many around College.
Our Ethics team reached the national semi-finals in the Youth Ethics Cup, impressing with their debating and reasoning skills Students also excelled in Biology and Chemistry regional finals and took part in STEM taster days, showing great promise in the sciences.
Three Photography students had their work selected for the national Sixth Form Colleges Association (SFCA) Art Exhibition, demonstrating strong creativity and technical skill.
We also had a team of students attend the Student Voice Conference to hear from other colleges and student leaders, sharing ideas on how to improve student experience and wellbeing. The students returned full of enthusiasm, with plenty of suggestions on how to further strengthen the student voice at Winstanley College.
We are always keen to hear about student successes, so please continue to email us with any further achievements to celebrate.
EDUCATIONAL TRIPS
This term, students have taken part in a broad range of trips, providing treasured experiences both academically and culturally.
STEM students visited Lancaster University, participating in activities designed to deepen their knowledge and gain insight into university study and career pathways. Meanwhile, law students attended a visit to Edge Hill University, exploring higher education opportunities and the legal sector. Media and film students visited Liverpool John Moores University to develop their creative skills and learn more about careers in the media industry.
Art students enjoyed a trip to Manchester Metropolitan University, experiencing universitylevel art and design work and gathering inspiration for their own studies Students also took part in the ‘My Voice Matters’ event at Manchester Metropolitan University, focusing on student voice and empowerment.
A group travelled to Queen’s University Belfast for a combined History, Philosophy & Religion, and Politics trip, experiencing academic study alongside university life abroad. Students visited the University of Liverpool to explore study options, including law, while biology students took part in a competition at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).
OXBRIDGE
Our Lower Sixth students have made the most of this year’s Oxbridge opportunities. In April, a group visited Cambridge University through the HE+ programme. The trip included oracy workshops, personal statement masterclasses and a full tour of the university. Students stayed overnight at Sidney Sussex College and enjoyed time exploring the city.
Later in the term, students visited Oxford for the summer open days. They stayed in Keble College, Corpus Christi College and Christ Church, giving them a taste of student life. Over two days, they attended subject talks, toured various colleges and explored the city Students returned from both visits feeling inspired and well prepared to begin their Oxbridge applications
French students visited the University of Manchester to enhance their language skills and explore French culture at degree level. Forensic Science students undertook a practical trip to gain hands-on experience beyond the classroom
These visits have offered important opportunities for students across many subjects to extend their learning, explore university life and prepare for future education and careers
CAREERS EVENTS
This term, the College has delivered a wide range of careers events and programmes to support students’ progression. On 25 April, the HE+ Careers Fair brought together higher education providers and employers, giving students the opportunity to explore university courses, apprenticeships and work options. The Digital, Tech and Cyber Fair featured organisations such as Siemens, GCHQ and Barclays, who led panels and workshops on artificial intelligence and the future of work This event offered important networking opportunities and insights for students interested in technology and cyber security careers. Work Taster Day provided hands-on sessions with local employers including AJ Bell, Atkins, Bentley, the Department for Work and Pensions, Eurofins, HMRC, Julie Twist Property and Spencer Churchill Law. These experiences allowed students to gain an understanding of real-world workplaces and develop their employability skills
The College’s Careers Award has continued to recognise students who engage in employability activities, helping them build strong personal profiles The Inspiring Futures Programme has supported students through workshops and mentoring, encouraging them to consider a wide range of career paths. Progression Day gave students dedicated time to focus on their next steps, including university applications and apprenticeships Meanwhile, the Medic Hub has provided targeted support for students applying for medicine, offering UCAT preparation, personal statement advice and mock interviews. Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science interview practice has further prepared applicants for competitive courses. Collectively, these events and programmes have ensured that students receive practical guidance and experience to prepare for the future
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.
ORRELL TRAIN STATION
WTV NETWORK ROUNDUP MUSIC
This year, the Winstanley TV Network has produced a wide range of engaging weekly episodes showcasing the talents, activities and events across College. The Network is student-led and broadcasts every Tuesday, featuring a mix of music, sport, interviews, podcasts, quizzes and reports from College life.
Highlights include the regular segments ‘Beat the Brain’, where students and staff take on quiz challenges; ‘Spotlight’, which features interviews with students, staff and special guests; ‘Tom’s Top 5', a popular music countdown; and ‘Winstanley Unplugged’, showcasing musical performances by College students
Over the course of 25 episodes, the Network has covered diverse topics such as College sports fixtures, theatrical productions, art shows, fashion events, charity fundraising, and visits to external venues like theatres and universities.
Special themed episodes have marked important occasions including Christmas, ‘Movember’ and ‘Pride Month’, as well as unique podcasts such as the Fifth Wall and Roll Film Podcast The Network also introduced new segments this year such as Walking the Mile, which explores different cultures and subcultures within College.
The most recent and final episode of the academic year, Episode 25, provided a bumper show featuring two ‘Beat the Brain’ quizzes, a women’s football special on ‘Kit Clash’, round-ups of the College art and dance shows, and reports on English and music trips to London and Wigan. It also included vox pops, personal stories such as Bev’s London Marathon journey, and various other regular features.
Across all episodes, the Network has consistently highlighted student achievement, College events and community spirit, providing an informative and entertaining weekly platform that celebrates life at Winstanley College
Our Music students have enjoyed a busy and successful term with a range of live performances and industry engagement. The term saw cabaret shows and end-of-year performances take place at notable venues such as The Old Courts Student bands including Montello, Calaveras and Wildflowers showcased their original compositions, supported by dedicated sound and lighting design teams, providing a professionalstandard experience for both performers and audiences
In addition to live events, students benefited from valuable industry visits. Sessions at the Royal Northern College of Music and the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance offered great insights into current professional practice. The opportunity to learn from BAFTA-winning writers further enriched their understanding of the creative industries
Our alumni continued to contribute to the student experience by returning to College to share their journeys and advice Former students Paul Whalley, Pixey, Alexandra Lowe, Olivia Kate Holding and Ryan Latimer each provided inspiration and guidance, demonstrating the range of pathways available beyond College.
These experiences combined to offer students a comprehensive and practical education in music and performing arts, preparing them well for future progression.
PERFORMING ARTS
This term has been particularly busy and rewarding for our Performing Arts students, who have taken part in a wide range of performances, workshops and industry visits. Our College musical production, ‘Our House’, provided a key highlight, featuring strong performances from students in acting, singing and dancing, supported by the technical teams managing lighting and sound. The production was well received and demonstrated the considerable talent and dedication of all involved
Alongside the musical, the Dance department delivered several showcases and performances, including the ‘Dance Explosion’ event at The Lowry in Manchester Our dance teams displayed a variety of styles and techniques to enthusiastic audiences, while workshops with visiting choreographers gave students valuable insight into professional practice.
Students also took part in a range of enriching experiences, such as visits from industry professionals and alumni who returned to inspire current cohorts. These included masterclasses, creative sessions and discussions around the performing arts sector, helping students to build confidence and understand pathways beyond College These activities have supported students’ development in creativity, collaboration and performance skills, helping them prepare for Higher Education or employment within the creative industries.
ALUMNI
Our alumni continue to excel in their careers. Pixey made her debut on BBC Radio 1 and secured chart success. Alexandra Lowe performed to critical acclaim at the Longborough Festival Opera Olivia Kate Holding took a swing role in the West End production of ‘Hamilton’. Ryan Latimer premiered his orchestral composition with the London Symphony Orchestra. Holly Chapman released debut singles and toured with Inspiral Carpets. Their achievements are a testament to the quality of education and support they received at Winstanley.
We also had some alumni visit for the Mock Interviews during Progression Day, and present workshops throughout the year. If you would like to join our Alumni Community please visit the link below or look on the Alumni Section of our website:
Winstanley College Alumni Community
We also feature former students each week on our social media as part of our ‘Throwback Thursday’ series. If you are a former student and would like to be included, please email the Marketing Team
SPORT ROUNDUP
College sport at Winstanley has continued to thrive with steady team numbers and new activities introduced this year, including a Darts competition and a 3x3 Basketball tournament. Volleyball sessions saw record participation, reflecting growing enthusiasm
Ben Rutherford, Sports, Wellbeing and Events Officer, said: “It was a productive year of College sport Seeing so many students engage across different sports was always a joy Sport played a vital role in helping students settle into college and offered a valuable break from their studies ”
Men’s Football
Our First Team finished second in the league with 10 wins and two losses. Coach Ben Rutherford described this as one of the most talented squads he haS worked with, producing some of the best football the College haS seen The team were runners-up in the Regional 7-a-side tournament, conceding no goals in open play and scoring 14 in total. The Second Team finished third in the league under new coach Aaron Lowe, who had built strong team spirit. A standout moment was a 5-0 win over Cardinal Newman featuring an overhead kick by Lucas Wood. First year goalkeeper Jacob Lewarne said: “I met lots of new friends and it was a good footballing environment ”
Netball
The Netball Team won six and lost five league games, finishing fifth. A highlight was a narrow two-point victory over Aquinas College, coming from behind in the final quarter Coach Claire Clarke said: “The girls were a delight to work with and I look forward to building on this next year” Captain Katie Philbin added: “I loved playing with the girls over the last two years and making connections on and off court.”
Women’s Football
The Women’s Football Team won three, drew one and lost two league matches, finishing fifth The season’s highlight was a 5-0 victory over rivals Priestley College, with Ruby Coleman scoring a hat-trick
Volleyball
Volleyball attracted record numbers, prompting additional after-college sessions. The Mixed Team travelled to Bolton to compete in a festival in April First year student Thomas Stokes said: “Volleyball was a highlight this year. I made lots of friends and enjoyed playing games and tournaments ”
Rugby League
The Rugby League team played numerous fixtures, including 7’s and 9’s tournaments and a Varsity win against St John Rigby (16-6) Ben Rutherford said: “It was great to provide a range of fixtures; we hope to build on this next year” First year player Imrich Milicky said: “Rugby League was a fun way to make friends and enjoy myself away from studies.”
Rugby League
The Rugby League team played numerous fixtures, including 7’s and 9’s tournaments and a Varsity win against St John Rigby (16-6)
Mixed Hockey
Our Mixed Hockey team played several friendlies against local colleges Despite mixed results, student effort and attitude were exemplary. Coach Gill Dillon worked hard to create a positive environment. First year player Lexi Sweeney said: “Hockey was a sociable way to take a break from studies, with regular training and fixtures.”
National Championships
From Friday 4 to Sunday 6 April, 12 students represented the North West at the AoC Sport National Championships at the University of Nottingham Indoor cricket players included Logan Pallett, Josh Davies, Jacob Davies, Andrew Gordon, Rory Burke, James Edgington, Ben Connor, Rebecca Pickavance and Tom Wilkinson. Ethan Dwyer and Cameron Seggie competed in the endurance run, and Jethro Seng in badminton Ben Rutherford said: “Having 12 qualifiers was a massive achievement I was confident they would do us proud.”
AWARDS EVENING
Students, proud parents and carers, staff, governors and special guests came to College on Monday, 30 June, to celebrate their outstanding achievements at Winstanley College’s annual Awards Evening The ceremony, began with bucks fizz, canapés and top-quality musical entertainment performed by talented students: acoustic trio Poppy Smullen, Adam Vallely and Brayden Slatter, along with pianist, Arran Poulson. Dr Nayyar Naqvi OBE, College governor, opened the ceremony by presenting subject awards to students chosen by their teachers for their outstanding knowledge, effort and perseverance.
A number of other prestigious awards were presented throughout the evening including the ‘Charities and Community Champion Award’, presented by Brighter Better Orrell members Kathryn Johnston and Natalie Gore to students Hollie Burrows (formerly Byrchall High School) and Rebecca Gallagher (St John Fisher Catholic High School). ‘The Mulroy Award’, for effective debating skills was presented by Paul Mulroy to Remy Naylor and Ryan Cain (De le Salle High School and Little Lever High School)
Alfredo Casilli, formerly of Lowton High School, took home ‘The Governors’ Award for Academic Achievement’, which recognises academic ability and an effective balance of enrichment and other interests. ‘The Principal’s Award for Contribution to the College and Community’ went to Rosaline Wiillams, formerly of St Peter’s Catholic High School, Callum Smith (Hawkley High School) and Ella Haseldine (Golborne High School), whilst ‘The Pride of Winstanley Awards’ were presented to Luisa Hughes (Kings Leadership Academy), Alissya Mann (Hope Academy) and Kyle Dixon (Outwood Grange High School, Haydock)
Other cross-College award winners included: James Deacon (Standish High School) for The ‘Sports Team Performer of the Year’ and Nick Ademola (Golborne High School) for ‘Sports Contributor if the Year’. The evening was rounded off with a speech from James Pearson, Chair of Governors.
Operations Manager, Jolene Carter said: “Organising this year’s Celebrating Excellence Awards Evening for the first time has been a real privilege. It was a joy to celebrate the achievements of our outstanding Lower Sixth students and to bring together families, staff and some very special guests who kindly presented our Sponsored Awards. The support from local businesses together with my colleagues has been invaluable throughout, and I’m so grateful for their help in making the evening a success. It was a real pleasure to be part of an event that recognises such talent, hard work and promise in our students – the future is bright ”
Principal, Simon Lett commented: “The annual awards is the perfect opportunity to recognise the hard work and commitment of our students at the end of their first year. It is also a chance to thank parents, carers, teachers and support staff for their role in supporting these young people, which is so important to their success. I am in awe of some of the achievements we have heard about and look forward to seeing what the future holds. Thank you also to our special guests who presented awards and to the businesses who kindly provided the decorations free of charge; it has been a real team effort to bring everyone together for such a wonderful celebration ’
FUNDRAISING
This year, we donated £1,829.36 to a variety of charities through cross-College fundraising events. These contributions helped support important causes including men’s health through ‘Movember’, mental health awareness with the Mental Health Foundation and YoungMinds, and vital local services such as DIAS (Wigan Borough Domestic Abuse Service) and Springfield Care Home. Other charities benefiting from our efforts included the National AIDS Trust, Children in Need, The Brick, Age UK, Zoe’s Place, the 3 Wishes Children and Babies Fund, Oxfam and The Survivors’ Trust We are proud that our students and staff came together to make a positive difference in the wider community.
SUPPORT RESOURCES
Here are some helpful resources from Wigan MHST to support you over the summer They cover a range of topics, including the transition from College, summer self-care, online safety and parent workshops We hope you find them useful during the break.
STAY CONNECTED WITH COLLEGE NEWS
We have continued to post regularly on Instagram and Facebook throughout the year, sharing updates, student achievements and highlights from College life. We will also be posting during the summer, particularly with any 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 to hear the latest news.
Instagram and Facebook: @WinstanleyCollege TikTok: @winstanleycollege
NEXT STEPS
If you have any questions over the summer, there will be members of staff available to respond.
For any queries about applications or enrolment, please contact the Admissions Team directly. Finally, we hope you have enjoyed this ‘Summer Review’. Here’s to the next academic year!
