Hopwood Hall College Principal among North West recipients in King's Honours List

Monday, 29 December 2025 23:09

By David Murphy

The Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Hopwood Hall College has been named in the King’s New Year Honours List, recognising her long-standing contribution to education in Rochdale and across Greater Manchester.

Julia Heap, the Principal and Chief Executive Officer of Hopwood Hall College, has been awarded for services to Further Education. She is one of 97 individuals in the North West to receive an honour in the 2026 list.

Ms Heap, who has led the college since 2019, is credited with transforming Hopwood Hall into a leading institution for technical education, supporting thousands of young people and adult learners into employment and higher education. Under her leadership, the college has expanded its vocational programmes, built partnerships with local employers, and championed skills development in digital, construction, and health care sectors.

Nationally, 1,157 people were recognised in the New Year Honours List for their dedication to public service, community work, education, healthcare, sport and the arts. The list places particular focus on individuals who have strengthened their communities or worked to improve the lives of others.

Other North West recipients include 101-year-old Bernard Morgan, honoured for services to volunteering and history, and Tara Jones, recognised for her contribution to Rugby League.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer praised this year’s recipients, saying:

This year’s Honours list celebrates the very best of Britain, people who put the common good ahead of themselves to strengthen communities and change lives.
Their quiet dedication speaks to the decent, compassionate country we are proud to be. On behalf of the whole nation, thank you, and congratulations to everyone recognised today.