Since studying at Trafford College, Akeim Mundell, 28, has been appointed assistant principal at William Hulme’s Grammar School, becoming one of the UK’s youngest assistant headteachers.
After Akeim left high school, he started working as a teaching assistant (TA) at St Mary’s C of E, his previous primary school in Moss Side.
During his time working as a TA, Akeim joined Trafford College to study for a Level 2 and 3 Childcare and Education Diploma. Akeim then went on to study at the University of Bolton where he graduated with a Foundation Degree in Education, Bachelor of Arts with Honours Professional Development in Education & a PGCE.
“The course at Trafford College enabled me to gain employment in Primary Education for 8 years, and then Secondary Education for 4 years (to date), along with studying at University (on the job) for 6 years.”
Akeim then went into teaching as a pastoral leader and transition lead, and then Lead Pastoral Manager, Head of Year & Staff Governor at CHS South, and then left to become assistant headteacher at William Hulme Grammar School in 2022.
We spoke to Akeim to find out more about his time here at Trafford College, how studying influenced his journey and current career, and advice for any students who are looking to follow in his footsteps in inspiring the next generation of students in Greater Manchester.
“I studied Childcare & Education at Trafford College (Altrincham) at the age of 16, in 2010. My original plan was to study Health & Social Care, due to wanting to pursue a career in medicine, however, due to not having a high enough grade in Maths, I was encouraged by an amazing tutor called Pat Norris, to consider studying Childcare, and to then resit my Maths to then be able to transition on to the Health & Social Care course.
Once I began studying Childcare & Education, I absolutely loved the course and became to realise that I wanted to pursue a career in the Education sector. Traveling a one and a half journey each day to get to college, and attending as an individual with no other from my friendship group was a choice I made, simply due to wanting to focus and keep my head on the right path.”
We asked Akeim why he decided to choose Trafford College to study, rather than other FE institutions within the Greater Manchester area.
“Throughout my younger years, I had heard great things about Trafford College, Altrincham. My mother, also attending this college in her teens, she often shared how amazing the establishment was.
Once I had attended the open day, I knew it was my chosen place of study – simply down to how kind and helpful the staff were, the resources and the support that was available.”
Throughout his career, Akeim has achieved many awards and honours including award-winning campaigner for young people in Moss Side, a British Empire Medal, Unsung Hero’ award at the Manchester Be Proud Awards, Young Community Leader of the Year in the Groundwork Community Awards, and Alumni Fellow of the University of Bolton.
Akeim is now a trustee of Rekindle Supplementary School in Hulme, which provides free nutritious meals, educational life skills, and empowerment programs.
Akeim strives to empower the future generation of students throughout his career and beyond. We asked him what advice he would give to any young persons who might be thinking about their future career journey.
“Grab each positive opportunity with open arms. Try your best, focus, and do not be afraid to ask for help and support. Education is key – use the time wisely and take every single chance to expand your knowledge, experience and to add to your CV.”
Akeim still has regular contact with his tutors from Trafford College, he says they still all support his events and projects, and have helped him to build close relationships with inspirational figures and helped build a support network to date.
“I highly recommend Trafford College to ALL. The staff members work tirelessly and they go above and beyond to ensure that every single student is supported and has the best experience.
I would like to say a huge thank you to Pat Norris who inducted me into the course, was my tutor throughout, and supported me up until today, 12 years on.
I would also like to say a huge thank you to the whole Childcare & Education department, for making my college years so special and memorable.”