Claire Hannah

This week, we caught up with Claire Hannah, a former student from St Peter’s Catholic High School who studied at Winstanley College between 1987 and 1989. Today, Claire is an accomplished independent journalist, presenter and producer. You may also recognise her across social media as the founder of What’s Happening in Wigan, a news platform dedicated to sharing positive stories from across the borough.

During her time at Winstanley, Claire studied A Levels in Fine Art, Art History and English Language.

Reflecting on her time at college, Claire said:

“I can’t believe it’s been almost 40 years since I attended Winstanley. I’d love to go back and do it all again!”

After leaving Winstanley, Claire completed a Higher National Diploma in Fine Art (Painting) at Wigan College of Technology before spending around eight years travelling, exploring countries including Israel, India and across Eastern Europe.

Claire knew from around the age of 10 that she wanted to become a journalist. Her broadcasting career began after she approached Tower FM in Bolton for work experience and, within just two weeks, was offered a job. She went on to work at Juice FM in Liverpool before being headhunted by Radio City. Claire later became Head of News at Rock FM for seven years and then led news teams across Wish FM, Wire FM, Tower FM and Juice FM.

Over a career spanning more than 26 years, Claire spent 22 years working in radio and a further four years in television with Granada Reports and Channel 5 News. Along the way, she trained dozens of journalists and received several industry awards. Today, Claire has stepped away from mainstream broadcasting to focus on journalism in a different way through What’s Happening in Wigan, where she continues to champion the people, places and positive stories that make the borough special.

Looking back, Claire has nothing but happy memories of her time at Winstanley. Although the campus and the courses on offer have changed over the years, she says the college will always hold a special place in her heart.

When asked what advice she would give current students, Claire’s message was simple but inspiring:

“Don’t ever believe that you can’t do something… because YOU CAN!”

Thank you, Claire, for sharing your story. If you are a former student, we’d love to hear from you. Please consider joining the Winstanley College Alumni Network to support and inspire future generations as they explore their own career ambitions.

Alumni - Winstanley College