At TSCG, we pride ourselves on being a true “anchor institution” at the heart of our local communities. We’re passionate about making sure our work reflects that. For over five years, we have pioneered the Trafford and Stockport Community Partnerships to ensure we just don’t talk about being an anchor institution – we actually deliver.
Originally established with support from the Local Authority, police and health service – the Community Partnerships of Trafford and Stockport now have support from over 50 organisations across the private, public and VCSE sectors. Our community partnerships bring together local organisations to enhance what we offer to students while staying deeply connected to the people and places we serve.
We’re proud that this partnership shows our commitment to bringing people together, supporting everyone, and staying connected to the needs of our local communities. By working together, we’re able to create opportunities that go beyond the classroom, helping students thrive in their education while supporting their personal growth and connection to the wider community. Our passionate belief is we win together!
As well as supporting our wider student experience, the community partnerships provide opportunities for organisational knowledge exchange, sharing good practice and ultimately supporting our students to become active citizens, “giving back” and making a difference for their local community.
This isn’t just about addressing challenges. It’s about giving students the chance to take on meaningful experiences, lead positive social action, and gain hands-on opportunities that prepare them for the future.
Through our partnerships, we aim to:
Help students access a wide range of education and support services tailored to their needs.
Work on exciting community projects that link to different subjects, giving students the chance to develop their skills and knowledge in practical ways.
Offer volunteering opportunities that encourage students to play an active role in their communities and feel a real sense of civic pride.
Develop future skills, create opportunities, and ensure education drives economic growth and social impact.
Share knowledge and best practices with our partners to better understand the challenges and opportunities in our local area.
The impact of working with our community and the benefits cannot be overstated. Here are just a few examples of our commitment to partnership working:
We support valuable intergenerational projects that shore up that sense of civic responsibility and pride. Our students deliver valuable skills to the membership of Age UK, supporting digital literacy, addressing heat poverty with heat saving recommendations and supporting “live well” experiences like beauty treatments and relaxation remedies.
In partnership with the local residents’ association at Broadheath in Trafford, our students have developed safe walking routes and maps – highlighting local community assets and points of interest.
Our students take an active role in recognising what creates a thriving economic environment and work with Altrincham Business Improvement District, including operating a “shadow board”.
Supporting Timeout Group, a community partner working with adults, our carpentry and joinery students made and donated bird boxes to sell as part of their social enterprise.
Our Community Partnerships are complemented by our Community Learning offer. This includes basic maths, English and digital courses; ESOL; family learning; support for progression into work and leisure courses to support mental health and wellbeing. Visit our individual college websites for more information on the full range of courses available.
For more information contact Michelle McLaughlin, Head of Student Personal & Professional Development on 0161 296 5622 or michelle.mclaughlin@tscg.ac.uk
