Young leaders

3,800+

students signed up to vote 2025/26

First

FE college in the UK to introduce automatic student voter registration

3,000+

students engaged in enrichment activities in 2024/25

At Trafford & Stockport College Group, our sector-leading programme of political literacy, enrichment activities and civic engagement goes beyond the classroom, reflecting our commitment to civic leadership and an exceptional student experience.

We were the first UK FE college to introduce automatic voter registration, with 3,800 students signed up. In 2024/25, over 3,000 students took part in enrichment activities, including Student Question Time, Mood Box Mondays, student-led conferences, and MP clinics.

"This initiative is a game-changer for the sector. By integrating voter registration into the enrolment process, we are actively encouraging civic engagement among our students and supporting their transition to adulthood. We are incredibly proud to be leading the charge, and we hope that other colleges will soon adopt similar models."

James Scott

Principal and CEO of Trafford and Stockport College Group

How students get involved

Student Question Time during Parliament Week

Mood Box Mondays – students vote on local and national issues every week

Student-led conferences, chaired by student governors

MP student clinics – face-to-face with their Parliamentary representative

3,000+ students engaged in enrichment, workshops and community projects

Student Question Time

At our annual Trafford & Stockport College Group Question Time event, students from across Greater Manchester had the chance to put real questions to local leaders, discuss community issues and develop their confidence in public speaking. Events like this help our learners build critical thinking and communication skills as well as an understanding of local democracy.

Held at The Light Cinema in Stockport and arranged by our very own Student Enrichment Team, it was filled with great conversations, great questions and great energy!

At Trafford & Stockport College Group, we are proud to go above and beyond traditional teaching, shaping not only excellent students but young leaders. In doing so, we help realise our vision – to lead the way for a city region where everyone has the education and skills to succeed in life and work.

"I registered to vote whilst enrolling for my A Levels. I think it's amazing that we're given the opportunity to do this. I think it's really important for young people to vote – the government needs and wants young people's opinions. I'd say to other young people to get involved – we're going to be the ones to drive change."

Leela Alam

A Level student

Hajira Qaiser – Student Leader, Stockport College

Hajira is a second-year BTEC Level 3 IT student at Stockport College – and one of the most passionate and driven student voices in the college.

In 2025, she was personally selected by Sir Martyn Oliver, Head of Ofsted, to introduce him at the National AoC Conference. She addressed an audience of over 100 people — and left with an encouragement to apply for a Civil Service internship.

But this is just one achievement among many. Hajira leads the college debate team, sits on the Equalities Council, presents regularly to the Children & Families Scrutiny Committee, and helps organise the Muslim Arts & Culture Festival across the college group.

“Hajira’s passion shines through in everything she does. She throws her whole heart into all her activities.” Charlotte Brocklehurst, Student Enrichment Lead