Catherine Cooper studied Performing Arts at Ashton and after leaving in 2012, moved onto gaining a Musical Theatre degree!

Catherine began her career after university as a freelance performer, where she has worked as a singer, dancer and actress for various companies up and down the country. 

In 2016, Catherine opened up her own non-profit stage school in Dukinfield. The school is open to all who are seeking access to the arts despite their background or struggles. In addition to the school, Catherine has also set up a competition team, Evolve, which is a fully funded free programme for young people who want to upskill and participate in performances and competitions around the UK. 

Catherine also teaches in schools and colleges in Manchester from time to time, including at the LGBT Foundation women's programme and is also a singing teacher at Next Generation Mossley!

Through her many achievements and success since leaving ASFC, Catherine is honoured to be an Ashton Sixth Form College alumni:

"I don't know what I would have done without the encouragement and support from the teaching staff at ASFC. Performing Arts was the perfect course and opened so many different opportunities for me to expand my craft and develop my knowledge in the area. They pushed me to be the best I could possibly be (even when I couldn't see myself!)"