Meet the Team

Wendy Mackie MBE : Managing Director & Deputy (DSL) Designated Safeguarding Lead

Managing Director of Norman Mackie Associates t/a Works4U. Wendy has over 35 years’ experience working with vulnerable people and opened Works4U in 2002. Wendy oversees the overall experience for young people and works alongside other education establishments in the community to ensure that the needs of these young people are prioritised.

Mark Hyde: Centre Manager & DSL Designated Safeguarding Lead

Mark has worked at the centre for over 19 years and is responsible for the day-to-day running of Works4U, which includes ensuring young people arrive and depart the centre at the correct times while receiving sufficient care and tutoring during their time with us.

Kirsty McDonough: HR & Finance Manager

Kirsty is responsible for all of the financial business at Works4U. She has worked at the centre for thirteen years after training at Tameside College, and is responsible for ensuring accurate costing is agreed and adhered to.

James Mackie: Business Operation Manager

James is Operations Manager. He assists Mark with the daily running of the centre. He is responsible for our referral process and is often the first point of contact for new learners and their parents/carers.

Molly Mackie: Lead IQA and Animal Care lead

Molly is the Lead IQA and Animal Care Leader at Works4U, dedicated to supporting learners in achieving their Level 1 Animal Care qualifications. She delivers engaging, hands-on sessions in Animal Therapy, Dog Grooming, and Horse Care, helping students develop practical skills and confidence when working with animals. Molly’s passion for animal welfare and education ensures every learner gains valuable experience in a supportive and inspiring environment.

Jade Mulholland: Administration Manager

Jade has over 15 years experience in Administration & plans and coordinates administrative procedures and systems within Works4U. Jade also assists with HR - recruiting and training the team.

Lisa Buckley: Community Liaison Manager

Lisa is our link for community projects and works closely with the staff to orchestrate setting up projects for our students. Lisa will also be our link for supported internships - assisting the students with their progression goals.

Lisa has a wealth of experience in working with young adults, gained through my involvement in recruiting volunteers for various positions in her previous professional roles, as well as her dedicated work in
voluntary positions

Emma Giddings: Functional Skills Area Lead

Emma is our very busy Functional Skills Teacher, delivering Maths & English to learners across all sites. Emma incorporates Functional skills within activities to help eliminate the "classroom" environment, making the sessions fun and interesting.

Shane Tomlinson: Digital Skills & Media tutor

Shane is an experienced Digital Skills and Media Tutor with a passion for creativity and technology. He helps learners develop practical skills in digital media, design, and online communication, preparing them for success in today’s digital world. With a hands-on approach and industry insight, Shane inspires students to express their ideas through multimedia projects and build confidence using modern digital tools.

Rebecca Cocks: Functional Skills Teaching Assistant

Becky is a support worker and Level 4 HLTA here at Works4u, Becky can often be found assisting with Functional skills
and helping learners with their confidence, personal care and to Employability Certificates.

Melissa Chapman - Animal Care Deputy Manager

Melissa is our Deputy Farm manager and works closely with Molly. With her array of skills, from Animal Care to Performing Arts, Mel keeps our learners busy, whether it be clearing out out stables to holding auditions for our next stage production.

Emma Lewis: Centre Team Leader

Emma is our Centre Team Leader, supporting the centre staff with planning as well as assisting our learners with Personal & Social skills, Independent Living skills & Construction.

Kate Cunningham: Farm Team Leader/ Dog Grooming Tutor

Kate is our Farm Team Leader and a Keyworker here at Works4u, she joined us in 2018 from a background in Complementary Therapies. Kate has recently qualified in Dog Grooming and is now assisting to deliver a Level 2 qualification to our students at our newly opened in house training salon!

Kate says "I feel very privileged to be working at the farm as it's allowed me to fulfil my passion for animals as well as working with some exceptional young people. It really is rewarding to see the young people connect with the animals to learn and grow becoming strong independent people and it is a pleasure to share their experiences at Works4U."

Louise Grace: Craft & Construction Team Leader

Louise is the Construction Team Leader and a Keyworker here at Works4U. She previously volunteered with us in construction before moving on to paid employment in September 2019 and quickly moving up to team leader.

Sarah Lewis: PSHE Area Lead

Sarah is our PSHE support worker and a Keyworker here at Works4u. She Joined us in June 2019, after being a Nursery Nurse and a Carer in the Community.

Sarah says - "It was a big challenge for me joining Works4u but I honestly love it, the job is so rewarding seeing the young people grow and achieve things they never thought they could. Its a pleasure to be a part of their journey and experiences at Works4u".

Conor Jakeman: Construction Support Tutor

Conor is a skilled Construction and Woodwork Tutor with expertise in bench joinery and practical building techniques. He is dedicated to helping learners develop hands-on skills, craftsmanship, and attention to detail in a workshop environment. With a passion for construction and a focus on safety, precision, and teamwork, Conor supports students in building confidence and progressing toward a career in the trade industry.

Darren Buckley: Art Therapy support Tutor

Darren is a creative and compassionate Art Therapy Tutor who uses art as a tool for expression, reflection, and personal growth. He supports learners in exploring their emotions and developing confidence through a range of creative techniques and materials. With a calm and supportive approach, Darren helps students build self-awareness, improve wellbeing, and discover the therapeutic power of art.

Lisa Trotter: Farm & Horse Care Support Tutor

Lisa is a dedicated Farm and Horse Care Support Tutor who provides hands-on guidance to learners working with animals in real farm and stable environments. With a passion for animal welfare and outdoor learning, she helps students build confidence, develop practical skills, and gain valuable experience in farm management and horse care.

Megan Taylor: Farm & Music Support tutor

Megan is a versatile Farm and Music Support Tutor who combines creativity with practical learning to engage and inspire students. She supports learners in developing skills across animal care, farming, and music, creating a balanced and inclusive learning environment. Megan also assists with the delivery of PSHE, helping students build confidence, communication, and personal development skills.

Jade Carr: Job Coach

Jade is a dedicated Job Coach with a strong background in Hospitality and Catering. She supports learners in developing employability skills, gaining industry experience, and building confidence in the workplace. Drawing on her practical catering experience, Jade helps students prepare for real-world employment opportunities within the hospitality sector and beyond.

Rachael Tucker: Job Coach

Rachael is a supportive Job Coach who works predominantly with farm-based learners. She helps students develop practical skills in animal care, land management, and teamwork, while also building their confidence and employability. Rachael is passionate about creating a positive, hands-on learning environment where every learner can thrive and progress toward their future goals.

Gail Knowles: Receptionist

Gail is our friendly receptionist. By telephone or by face, Gail is always available to take your enquiries.
Gail is responsible for attendance and the general day to day admin at Works4U.

Janice Waddock: Cafe Support Tutor

Janice is a friendly Café Support Tutor who guides students on their internal café work placements. She supports learners in developing practical skills in food preparation, customer service, and teamwork. Janice also prepares meals for staff and students, creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone.

Karen McDonough: College wellbeing Support Team

Karen has extensive experience in various nursing roles within the NHS.

Her main role recently in supporting our COVID19 monitoring policy and advising updates to policies to ensure the continued safety of students and staff

Kyle Holt: Facilities Support

Kyle has recently joined the Works4u team after 4 years as a student. Kyle helps to provides essential support across Works4U, assisting with facilities management and maintaining ICT equipment. He ensures that learning spaces and digital resources run smoothly, helping staff and students make the most of their working environment and technology.