Graduate and former Mayoress making her mark in education

A history graduate from the University of Wolverhampton, also a former Mayoress of Walsall, is making a difference in the education sector in her community.  

Louisa Hughes, 41, from Walsall, who graduated from the University in 2005, is now working in Post 16 education at Newcastle and Stafford College Group as a Learning Support Assistant, having previously worked as a Teaching Assistant and Early Years Practitioner.  

She was also Deputy Mayoress of Walsall for 2022/23 and became Mayoress for 2023/24. During her time in both roles, Louisa supported the Mayor by attending local events and engaging with members of the public as well as fundraising for a number of charities.  

Whilst acknowledging that she never expected to be a Mayoress and was interested in politics and local government, Louisa admits she also had an interest in education. She said: “I’ve always had an interest in wanting to work with children and working as an Early Years Practitioner and now in Post 16 education has allowed me to fulfil that passion and make a difference.  

“My career journey has been varied. After graduating, I did various administration roles, most notably for the Probation Service and a local Housing Association as a Personal Assistant.  

“When I had my family, I re-trained to become a Level 3 Teaching Assistant and Early Years Practitioner and I’m now at Newcastle and Stafford College Group, who have just achieved another Outstanding rating from Ofsted. I’m very much looking forward to the new/future challenges this role will bring.”  

Louisa studied at the University of Wolverhampton for several years and reflected on her time with fond memories.  

She said: “Getting my degree from the University of Wolverhampton is one of my proudest achievements. Academic study didn’t come naturally easily to me and I must admit I found it difficult. However, the support I got from my Personal Tutor, Head of History and also Student Services was invaluable.  

“The University of Wolverhampton is a fantastic place to study, and it’s amazing that we have our own wonderful University here in the heart of the Black Country.  

“Student life was a great experience for me and one that I look back on with fond memories. I studied History, with some Politics and War Studies, and found the course extremely interesting and rewarding.  

“The course helped with so many aspects of my role, both as Mayoress and in my day job. Having the confidence to do public speaking and skills such as problem solving and thinking analytically. I made friends for life, many of whom I am still in contact with today.  

“The skills you learn while studying in higher education are second-to-none and will help you in all aspects of life, whether it be career specific, or simply learning new skills socially and developing as a person. I’m a strong believer that all education or learning, however small, is always positive and of value. Those skills learnt will help you as you progress through life and your career.”  

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To find out more about graduate success, check out the Every Story Has a Start web page which showcases our exceptional alumni across the globe doing incredible things. High achievers from the worlds of literature, business, sport, film and the arts feature, sharing how their lives and careers have developed since their days studying with us.    

*Image caption - Councillor Chris Towe, former Mayor of Walsall and Mrs Louisa Hughes, former Mayoress of Walsall.