Mia came to Connell from Co-op Academy Failsworth. She is studying the triple BTEC Sport and Exercise Science course. 

Mia has accepted a place at Manchester Metropolitan University to study BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science.

When she graduates, Mia wants to become a PE Teacher - something she’s wanted to be since a child. Alongside her course, Mia has participated in volleyball enrichment classes and she currently coaches primary school aged children in a range of different sports. Becoming a teacher is the next natural step and this experience has cemented her love for the profession even more.

On her time at college, Mia said: “The teachers here make us feel so welcome and we have such a good relationship with them. The course is great too, it allows you to have an insight into different career areas in Sport and different units for the future. I would recommend Connell because there are loads of good opportunities and lots of trips to universities to help you make a decision about your future.”

Nick Power, Curriculum Lead for Sport, said: “Mia was always driven by a clear ambition to succeed in the sports industry and consistently aimed for the highest possible grade. Her work ethic never wavered over her two years at college. She embraced every opportunity to grow, volunteering to gain valuable experience in both sports coaching and rehabilitation. Mia then applied these skills in real-world settings, coaching in primary schools, before taking the next step towards university.”

Wahab joined Connell from MEA Central and is currently studying A Levels in Maths, Physics, and Chemistry. He’s applied to The University of Manchester to study Aerospace Engineering, the course combines aerospace and mechanical engineering with hands-on projects like designing and testing small aircraft. Wahab also plans to pursue a Master’s degree and a career in sustainable aviation.

At Connell, Wahab has been a Student Ambassador and an active member of the Student Council, driven by a desire to improve the college experience for everyone.

Wahab’s Physics teacher also recommended he join the Flight Crowd engineering project - an educational not-for-profit air mobility community that engages and inspires the public on the future of flight in order to increase employability within the sustainable aviation sector. Wahab enjoyed this experience to communicate and present, learn about sustainability in helicopter aid and saving lives. 

Aimee is an outstanding young woman who is determined to achieve her goal of joining the NHS and becoming a midwife following study at the University of Chester.

She embodies all of our Co-op Academy Bebington Sixth Form values and has become a strong role model to the lower school, she was appointed to the position of Head Girl following an extensive selection process.

Aimee participates in our Dance Club and performs in our annual dance show, as well as receiving numerous awards in dance competitions outside of school. She has also regularly participated in whole school events such as open mornings and evenings, guiding and speaking to prospective parents. Additionally, Aimee is an ambassador for the Meningitis Trust and she has helped to raise more than £9500 for the charity. 

To further her application to university, Aimee completed work experience at Church Drive Primary School, Wirral, helping to set up lessons and assisting students in the transition to high school. An additional placement at Rock Ferry Children's Centre allowed her to take an active part in breast feeding training courses. She has also accompanied midwives on health visit appointments which has made her more determined to become a midwife and appreciate the rewards such an important vocation can present.

At Co-op Academy Priesthorpe, our Sixth Form is proud to foster ambition, resilience, and personal growth. One student who has truly embodied these values is Dua, whose journey over the past two years has been nothing short of remarkable.

Since joining in September 2022, Dua fully immersed herself in academy life. Alongside her academic studies, she took part in enrichment activities including Sign Language and Makaton, First Aid training, bake sales and mentoring younger students.

One of her standout achievements was leading her team in the LEAP Business Enterprise project, where they competed against 20 schools across Leeds and won multiple awards for innovation and teamwork. Her natural leadership shone through, and she initially set her sights on a career in Medicine.

However, during a university open day in October 2023, Dua suffered a serious knee dislocation that required hospitalisation and further surgery. The injury disrupted her studies and caused her to miss crucial university interviews. Despite the pain and setbacks, she showed extraordinary determination, continuing with her A Levels and achieving C grades in summer 2024.

Knowing she could achieve more, Dua made the bold decision to retake Year 13. She returned in September 2024 to study Biology, Religious Studies and the Extended Project Qualification, while privately funding Chemistry tuition due to timetable changes.

Dua is now preparing to study Pharmacy at university, and her journey stands as a powerful example of resilience, courage, and ambition. She is one of the most inspiring students to have passed through our academy, and we are incredibly proud of all she has achieved and all she is yet to accomplish.