Contents:
- Editor's welcome
- Interview with John Holder
- Steve Brown: Rally driver turns to rallycross
- Dippy in Rochdale
- Rochdale Borough Youth Cabinet member goes international
- A warm welcome from WHAG
- Five reasons why you should spring clean for charity
- Julia Heap - Hopwood Hall Principal »
- Bombay Brew: Masala Chicken Legs Recipe
- Bees
- Fairies Chapel & Witches at Healey Dell
- Hairdressing Trend - Precision Haircut
- Take part in the challenge of a lifetime for Springhill Hospice
- Joanne Timperley pens debut children’s book
- Spring clean your medicine cupboard
- A beginners’ guide to running with Andy O’Sullivan
- Cookies recipe
- Reside Estate Agency celebrates five years in business
- Successful year for PDS
- Take a walk in Ashworth Valley
- Still running Windows 7?
Spring 2020Julia Heap - Hopwood Hall Principal
March 2020 marks a year since Julia Heap became Principal and CEO of Hopwood Hall College. Real Rochdale finds out more about her first year in the post.
After a busy first year what are the things you are proudest of so far?
“I feel proud every day, but our end of year Further Education awards, results days and our Higher Education graduation ceremony all stand out for me. They are each about the culmination of all of that hard work and having been part of that journey is extremely rewarding. The times when we have enabled students to feel empowered are always the best.”
What is your vision for the college?
“Fundamentally, the college should be a safe environment where students and staff thrive. I want students of all ages to come and feel happy about themselves and their progress. I want to see students discover a sense of empowerment – to learn new skills in our nurturing environment, to develop and be the very best they can be. Hopefully, they can go on to help Rochdale thrive too.
“Education is about more than what you learn in the classroom and that is why I am delighted to see our enrichment offer growing. Enrichment is important as it helps grow confidence and I believe that it is confidence that drives success. We aim to have something for every type of learner to delve into, from ‘sing your heart out’ sessions to ‘woodland experiences’ and lots more.”
What are your plans for the college?
“It is important that we provide an environment that is a bridge between school and university or employment for school leavers but, equally important, is growing our offer for adults. Our courses are perfect for anyone looking to return to study to boost their chances or change their career path, as well as for those who simply want to try something different. We offer access and university level courses, including a new HND in business and a HNC in policing. Opting to stay local for higher education makes great sense as our successful alumni continually prove, not least because of our affordable tuition fees.”
What does Hopwood Hall mean to you?
“It means a great deal to me. It is a wonderful place to work, where student individuality is valued and everything is geared towards maximising both student and staff potential. I am proud to be establishing initiatives that are creating a legacy and developing student and staff capabilities. The future for Hopwood Hall really excites me.”
What advice would you offer to anyone thinking about college?
“Come and explore your future. Our next open events are: 10am – 1pm Saturday 28 March and 4pm – 7pm on 23 April. Hope to see you there.”