Students ask principal their burning questions

Principals Question Time

Pupils from Hopwood Hall College have been given the opportunity to question their principle regarding issues they face during their time at the college - in ‘Principals Question Time.’

The questions mostly centre on the key themes of security, catering, parking, enrichment and course-related issues.

Principal Derek O’Toole and senior staff welcomed the opportunity to engage with the students as they answer their questions honestly and give detailed plans of how to resolve issues.

‘Principal’s Question Time’ was the brain child of the Learner Participation Team at the college.

The team wanted to provide a forum where students could question the principal and explain issues affecting them.

The event has proved to be very successful with a high turnout from students at both the Middleton and Rochdale campuses.

It is now held 6 times a year -3 times live and 3 times online.

The feedback on the first live ‘Principal’s Question Time’ was 100% positive. One student commented: “My questions were answered fully; I didn’t expect that, the panel were very honest.”

The Class Reps are also pleased with ‘Principal’s Question Time’; they enjoyed the informality of the session, which allowed them to speak with Senior Managers about day to day issues and most importantly the students felt their opinions were heard and respected.

The Principal Derek O’Toole gave his judgment on the first ever ‘Principal’s Question Time Live’: “I thought the whole process was fantastic – great atmosphere, much humour, open questioning. I’m really looking forward to the next set of meetings. Some very pertinent and challenging issues to address but nothing that cannot be solved.”