When Hammad Jabeen first joined Trafford College’s Altrincham campus to complete his GCSEs, he had no idea which course he would pursue next or that his journey would take him from an ordinary student to a standout Student Leader, representing his peers before college governors, and eventually becoming a staff member within the very same college group.

“It all started at Level 2,” said Hammad. “At first, everything was new, and I was nervous. But my parents and my teachers, really encouraged me to keep going and not give up.”

That support proved to be the turning point. Hammad worked hard to improve his grades and began to see his confidence grow. “I went from being a quiet student to being involved in everything, and from letters saying, ‘improvements required’ to letters celebrating success stories,” he explained. “I became a Student Leader, got to represent my peers, and understood that I could make a difference.”

After successfully completing their GCSEs, Hammad and his brother Moaz decided to continue their studies in IT and applied for a Level 3 course. “Choosing to study IT at Stockport College was honestly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made,” Hammad said.

During his Level 3 studies, Hammad threw himself into college life. He represented Stockport College in the Greater Manchester Skills Competition, took part in the WorldSkills UK Cybersecurity Competition, and wrote articles for the college magazine, one of which won Article of the Year award.

“Being part of those activities built my confidence and helped me develop skills I didn’t even know I had,” he said. “It taught me how to work under pressure and how to support others.”

His efforts paid off when he achieved D*D*D in Level 3 IT and his brother Moaz earned the same outstanding grades, an achievement that was featured on Strawberry Radio and in Marketing Stockport news. “That moment really made me realise how far I’d come,” he said.

Hammad has since progressed to a HND in Cybersecurity at the University Centre and he is determined to match or even better the grades he got at Level 3 and get his First-honours bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity. Alongside his studies, he has worked as an Enrolment Assistant and Learning Facilitator for the college group, helping other students settle in and find their feet.

“Working while studying has taught me so much,” he said. “It’s built my communication skills and shown me how rewarding it is to help others succeed.”

Now well known around campus for his calm and friendly nature, Hammad is keen to keep representing his peers as a Student Representative. “I know what it’s like to start out unsure and find your way,” he said. “I want to make sure every student feels supported and heard, just like I was.”

For Hammad, studying at Trafford & Stockport College Group has been more than just about qualifications, it’s been about growing in confidence, finding direction, and discovering what he’s capable of.