A pioneering move by Trafford & Stockport College Group saw 3,800 students take their first step into democracy by registering to vote during college enrolment week.
This trailblazing initiative, which is now being incorporated into colleges across the UK, will ensure that young people have the tools, confidence, and knowledge to exercise their democratic rights now and in the future. And they can opt in with just a simple click.
The rollout follows a successful pilot campaign within the Stockport postcode area last year, in which 1000 signed up to vote.
Fast forward 12 months and the scheme has not only been rolled out across all five colleges within the group as well as being replicated by other colleges across Greater Manchester and beyond.
Leading from the front on this campaign is Michelle McLaughlin, who is overwhelmed by the response from their own colleges and peers.
She said: ‘This is proof that young people are eager to have their say on the issues shaping their futures. But we mustn’t stop now. Securing a right to vote is a great start, but the onus is now on us as educators to ensure that our students are prepared in readiness to vote when the time comes.
“That means educating them in citizenship, democracy so that they can then go on to confidently have opinions on and make decisions about their futures.”
Alongside automatic registration, the College Group is delivering a bold programme of democratic education, including:
- Student Constituency Clinics with local MPs – the first, at Cheadle College with MP Tom Morrison, drew more than 50 students.
- UK Parliament Workshops on political literacy and how laws are made.
- Young Leaders Programme promoting peer-to-peer democratic leadership.
- Student Question Time and Mood Box Mondays giving students regular platforms to debate, challenge, and share views.
“We’re also working closely with Elections Teams across Greater Manchester to dismantle obstacles that often prevent young people from registering – such as ensuring students without a fixed address can sign up via their local town hall. It’s important that we break down any barriers and ensure accessibility for all.
Student Arwa Haj, who attended the first Constituency Clinic, said: “It was quite a privilege to meet the MP. I was able to get my questions out there and I’m grateful to college for giving me that experience.”
Group Principal Carmen Gonzalez-Eslava added: “The future is in students’ hands. Never underestimate how powerful your voice is. Every big change started with one person who refused to believe things had to stay the same.”
Michelle McLaughlin MBE, Head of Personal and Professional Development at TSCG, said: “This is about more than registration – it’s about preparing young people for adulthood, advocacy, and citizenship. We’re proud to be leading the way to ensure they’re ready not just to vote in 2029, but to shape the future they’ll inherit.”
