Class of 2026
To all of our Year 13 students, a huge congratulations and well done.
Completing your post 16 examinations is a huge achievement. It marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of an exciting new one. Whether you're moving on to sixth form, college, university, an apprenticeship, new job or something else, you should be incredibly proud of everything you've accomplished.
These stories remind us that success looks different for every young person. For some, it is achieving exceptional grades. For others, it is growing in confidence, overcoming challenges or discovering talents they never knew they had. Every journey matters, and every achievement deserves to be celebrated.
At Co-op Academies Trust, we believe that every student should feel valued, included and supported to be the very best version of themselves. It has been a privilege to watch so many of you embrace opportunities, support one another and show what can be achieved through determination, kindness and hard work. We sincerely hope you have had some wonderful pupil experiences and memories whilst at one of our schools or college.
As you take your next steps, I hope you do so with confidence. Take the lessons you've learned, the friendships you've made and the experiences you've shared with you.
On behalf of everyone at Co-op Academies Trust, thank you for everything you have brought to our academy communities. We wish you every success and happiness for the future.
Dr Chris Tomlinson
Chief Executive Officer
Co-op Academies Trust
Here’s a roundup celebrating some of the most inspiring students from the Class of 2026, showcasing success stories from across our Academies within the Trust.
Diana - Connell Co-op College
Diana joined Connell Co-op College after studying at Wright Robinson College in Gorton. She has excelled on the Triple BTEC Applied Science course and is hoping to achieve an outstanding D*D*D* when she receives her results this summer.
Passionate about helping others, Diana is currently exploring her future career options, with ambitions to pursue either dental therapy or nursing. While she is particularly interested in dental therapy, she is taking time to find the right course that aligns with her goals and hopes to continue her studies at the University of Huddersfield.
Inspired by family members working in healthcare and caring professions, Diana has always been drawn to a career where she can make a positive difference to people's lives. Ultimately, she hopes to work within the NHS and, in the future, would love the opportunity to travel and potentially live and work abroad.
Alongside her academic studies, Diana has made a significant contribution to college life through her role as Vice Leader of the Student Council. In this position, she represented the student voice, attended regular meetings and helped organise key events including Eid celebrations and Culture Day.
Speaking about her involvement, Diana said: "I joined the Student Council because I wanted to support other students by listening to their ideas and concerns and helping to make positive changes within the college. It gave me some amazing opportunities, including meeting the then Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham."
Diana is driven by deep, insightful questions and is defined by the hard work it takes to answer them. She’s also coupled with an unmatched work ethic. Best of luck in your exciting next steps, Diana.
Adriana - Connell Co-op College
Adriana studied the triple BTEC Applied Science course and is hoping to get D*D*D. She has accepted a place at the University of Lancashire to study (BVMS) Veterinary Medicine & Surgery (foundation entry). After completing her six years of study, Adriana is planning to work as a veterinary surgeon in a clinic in the UK for at least two years before travelling to places such as Australia where she could work with more exotic animals.
During her time at Connell Co-op College, Adriana was the Head of the Student Council and also volunteered as an ambassador at open events, interview evenings and supporting the college Eid celebration. Embracing every opportunity during her time at Connell, Adriana also took part in a variety of enrichment classes including driving theory lessons, volleyball and the college’s book club.
Reflecting on her time at Connell, Adriana said: “I have truly cherished every moment during my time at Connell. One of the things that I will miss the most is the strong sense of community and the dedicated teachers who supported me every step of the way, helping me achieve my goals.
“I will also miss the friendships I formed during my time here as when I first joined Connell I didn't know anyone and was quite anxious about making friends. The welcoming environment made it easy to connect with others and create lasting relationships.”
Adriana has made an outstanding contribution to college life, both academically and through her leadership roles. She is driven by curiosity and has been a pleasure to teach. Best of luck for your exciting future, Adriana.