Hartlepool College of Further Education showcases the success stories of its students in their former secondary schools

In collaboration with local schools, the college has created a series of profiles that showcase the success stories of ex-students, providing inspiration and aspiration for current pupils.

These profiles, which will be displayed in each of Hartlepool’s secondary schools, detail the journeys of former students, what courses they pursued at Hartlepool College and their current achievements in their chosen fields.

College vice principal Gary Riches said: "This initiative demonstrates the positive impact that education and collaboration can have on young people’s lives.

"By highlighting these success stories, we hope to inspire current students to aim high and see what’s possible with the right support and guidance.

"It’s a proud moment for the college and the community to share these journeys of success."

By sharing these stories, the initiative aims to support schools in building their own alumni networks, while also demonstrating how working closely with Hartlepool College has helped improve the life chances of students throughout the town.

Adam Palmer, executive principal at Northern Education Trust, which includes Hartlepool schools Dyke House Academy and Manor Community Academy, said: "I am delighted to see that many ex-students from Dyke House and Manor have progressed into further and higher education, securing jobs that offer high salaries and great career opportunities.

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"It fills me with pride to know that our current and former students are achieving such successes and I want every child in Hartlepool to thrive, fulfil their potential and go on to do amazing things.

"Working alongside Hartlepool College helps us to ensure these aspirations become reality for so many of our young people."

Former Dyke House student Luke Bell is now a quantity surveyor at Seymour Civil Engineering having progressed through Hartlepool College.

Luke said: "When I left Dyke House, I enrolled onto a construction and the built environment course at Hartlepool College knowing I could pursue a career in civil engineering.

"The beauty of this course is that it covers all professions within the civil engineering sector.

"Following this course, I was able to complete a HNC in Civil Engineering and then a degree in quantity surveying.

"Understanding what each job role does in the civil engineering industry through completing the Level 3 Diploma allowed me to make an educated decision on what role in civil engineering would suit me."

The profiles not only highlight academic success but also emphasise the personal and professional development that students experience during their time at the college.

This partnership between the college and secondary schools reinforces the shared commitment to helping young people across Hartlepool achieve their full potential.

Hartlepool College has a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality education and this initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to foster collaboration with the town’s schools and employers, ensuring students have the support, guidance, and opportunities to succeed in life.