Cheshire College Chronicle 22/23 Celebration Issue

Take a look back at all we’ve achieved In this special edition of the Cheshire College Chronicle, we’ll be taking a look back at some of our most exciting and inspiring stories that came out of the 22/23 academic year.

Thank you to our incredible students, staff and partners for making this year such a memorable one!

Have a story to share?

If you have a story you’d like us to include in future issues over the next academic year, we’d love to hear more!

Send your news to p.release@ccsw.ac.uk and we’ll be in touch.

HOT OFF THE PRESS

SOME OF OUR BEST AND BIGGEST NEWS STORIES OF THE YEAR

CHESHIRE COLLEGE

CHESHIRE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL RECEIVES OBE

Principal and CEO of Cheshire College – South & West, Dhesi, has officially been awarded an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) Honour by His Majesty King Charles III for services to education.

The Investiture ceremony, held on the 29th November at Windsor Castle, took place after Jasbir Dhesi

(known as Dhesi) was named in The Late Queen’s Birthday Honours List during the Platinum Jubilee Celebrations.

The honour was awarded to Dhesi in recognition of his exceptional contribution to the education sector. In his almost three decades of service within the sector, across North Wales and Cheshire, Dhesi has been a champion of Education and skills, working with employers and partners to support economic growth and development within the region and its surrounding areas.

On receiving the honour, Dhesi, said:

“I am truly humbled to receive this honour. I once again would like to thank the colleagues I have worked, and continue to work, alongside of, and the leaders, friends and family that inspired and mentored me in my career. I have been given amazing opportunities and support, in essence a reflection of what Further Education is all about.

“Looking ahead at how much more myself and the team around me can achieve, we have so many exciting plans for the future. I want to look back and be able to say: “Wow we really achieved a lot for our students, communities, employers and the region.””

Joining Yale College, Wrexham in 1992, Dhesi rose to the position of Principal 19 years later. Eventually leaving to become the new Principal/CEO of South Cheshire College, having led Yale College into a merger with Deeside College to create Coleg Cambria. In 2017, he led on a second successful merger of South Cheshire College and West Cheshire College, forming what is now known as Cheshire College – South & West; the largest Further Education provider in the region offering exciting opportunities to 11,000 learners and 11,000 apprentices. With a total investment of £165m to date, Cheshire College continues to invest in the latest technology and bespoke training facilities that provide learners with real work environments and aspirational goals in a range of curriculum areas including A Levels, Full-time courses, Apprenticeships, Part-time courses for adults and Higher Education.

A member of the Employers’ Skills and Education Board of Cheshire & Warrington Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), Dhesi represents all Cheshire and Warrington colleges and training providers, whilst also being an active member on the Crewe Town Investment Board, Chair of North Wales Science Board, a Director of Cheshire Commonwealth Association and Trustee of Shavington Academy.

Former Cheshire College Student Stars In Gripping Documentary Film

talking about my story and my achievements with someone who understood my passion and believed in me.

“That was Rowena. For me, this journey began at Cheshire College, and it will always be at the core of my story.”

Speaking of her involvement in the film, Rowena (pictured left) commented:

A former Higher Education student from Cheshire College – South & West has a starring role in the new documentary “Sidelined.” The emotionally charged film by Ben Marlow and Jack Tompkins gives insight into the individual accounts of football player’s mental health, after being released from academies or clubs due to deselection, injury or retirement.

Richard (Rich) Wilkinson is a former football player who, despite playing for his club for several years, was unexpectedly deselected. “Sidelined” deals with the aftermath of being released from clubs and coaches; and the battles with poor mental health and addiction which some players subsequently face.

After struggling with his own mental health, Rich decided to help others by training to become a counsellor. Realising that he had missed a significant portion of his education due to football training, Rich returned to Cheshire College as an adult in 2016, studying a Bachelor of Science degree in

Person-Centred Counselling, facilitated by Derby University.

Reflecting on his return to education, Rich admitted: “I was always apprehensive about studying in my mid-thirties and returning to college, but the Higher Education department and the facilities are a credit to Cheshire College. The transition was straightforward, the support from staff was outstanding, and the environment was stunning.”

Rich’s degree supervisor was Cheshire College’s Counselling Lecturer, Rowena Clayton, who also has a cameo in “Sidelined.” When the documentary was being created, Rich specifically requested that the team use Cheshire College as one of the filming locations. “I wanted to find a place where I felt comfortable

“I feel very honoured to have been a part of Richard’s journey; from the Person-Centred degree which he successfully completed at Cheshire College, through to the making of this documentary by Ben and Jack. I’ve found that all that glitters in the world of football is not gold and this longawaited documentary shines a light into a dimly lit area of football where mental health is often ignored and side-lined, at great cost to the individual.”

Rich maintains that there is a lack of mental health support for professional footballers but hopes that media like “Sidelined” will help players to acknowledge their own mental health needs. “When you see the vulnerability in the ex-players in the documentary, it helps others to understand that it’s okay to share how you feel and sit with vulnerability, and hopefully, it shows that our mental health is just as (if not more) important than our physical health.”

The full “Sidelined” documentary is available to watch at www.sidelinedfilm.org.

It’s well documented that the National Health Service (NHS) and the social care sector are facing the greatest workforce crisis in their history. It’s clear that to tackle the crisis, more needs to be done to attract and retain young people into the profession.

In a recent issue of ‘The Carer’, Assistant Principal of Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement, Karen Roberts, shared how apprenticeships and more hands-on learning could help tackle the crisis.

Cheshire College has over

1,000 apprentices and works with over 500 local, national and international employers and delivers apprenticeships across a wide range of sectors including, Health, Public Services & Care, Engineering & Manufacturing, Construction & Building Services, Information & Communications Technology, Retail & Commercial Enterprise, Education & Training and Business, Administration & Law. Scan the QR code below to read the article in full.

CHESHIRE COLLEGE’S STARTING POINT NURSERY AWARDED ‘OUTSTANDING’ OFSTED RATING

Cheshire College – South & West are celebrating an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating for their on-Campus nursery, ‘Starting Point’. The nursery was inspected in August this year and are overwhelmed to have maintained their Outstanding rating.

Achieving an Outstanding rating in all five areas of the inspection, Ofsted praised the nursery for providing an environment where “children thrive and are incredibly happy in [a] safe, nurturing provision.”

In the report, Ofsted highlighted how the nursery’s environment produces “exemplary” behaviour from the children where they are “extremely imaginative and confident in leading their own learning. For example, during pirate week, children are excited and highly motivated to build boats with their friends and to count treasure. Staff have exceptionally high expectations of children and skilfully extend vocabulary and mathematical knowledge during play. Children eagerly recall their

learning and take pride in their achievements.”

The report continues to state that the nursery provides “an abundance of opportunities to learn from nature in the forest area [and] children have their own kitchen garden, where they grow a variety of vegetables which the cook turns into healthy recipes.”

As well as the interactive settings, children fluently express

their views at nursery ‘council’ meetings and their ideas are quickly followed up by experienced leaders, who plan exciting themed weeks to enhance children’s interests. As a result, all children are deeply engaged in meaningful experiences which help them make rapid progress from their starting points. Inspectors added that

“Parents are delighted with the progress the children make and feel exceptionally valued. The parent communication systems ensure they are very well informed and provided with valuable resources to support learning at home. Links with [Cheshire College] are strong and children [have full] access the Campus field and stage.”

Starting Point Nursery opened in 2010, providing funded early education for children aged 0-5 years. The nursery includes indoor and outdoor play areas, a baby room and a Forest School area. It employs 20 members of childcare staff; all of whom are fully-qualified in Children’s Care, Learning and Development ranging from Level 2 to Level 6. All members of staff are also Paediatric First Aid trained, prevent trained, bias trained, Food Hygiene and Safeguarding Children trained, as well as having additional training in Special Educational Needs, Speech and Language Development.

Located on the Crewe Campus of the largest provider of post-16 education, Cheshire College, the nursery also provides on-site training for students pursuing

qualifications in Early Years and Education.

Julie Jervis, Manager of Starting Point Nursery at Cheshire College, commented:

“We are delighted to achieve yet another Outstanding grade from Ofsted. The report gives us as even more reasons to be extremely proud of both our amazing children and staff.

“I would like to thank my wonderful and dedicated team as well as the parents and careers for their ongoing support and hard work, especially through our most trying times through the pandemic.”

Dhesi, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College, added: “We are thrilled with this result. The staff at Starting Point Nursery work incredibly hard to provide an exceptional environment for the children and the families trusting us to provide key development milestones at such a critical age. I would like to personally thank the staff and stakeholders for the vital role they play in our continued links between the nursery and Cheshire College.”

Families can learn more about Starting Point Nursery, its ethos and values with the QR code below.

Cheshire College – South & West on-campus nursery ‘Starting Point’ celebrating their Outstanding Ofsted rating

Higher Technical Skills

Cheshire and Warrington region has been selected by the Department for Education (DfE) and Institute of Technology (IoT) to lead on a highly prestigious project between employers and colleges that will see £14.2m invested within the region.

The IoT initiative is part of a wider government plan to equip young people with the technical skills they need in priority areas, such as advanced manufacturing, digital and cyber security, health and life sciences, agri-tech, construction, science and maths, which will also benefit local employers.

The project will mean direct investment for employers, local businesses and colleges in the Cheshire area with £14.2m capital investment, giving students within the region access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, providing them an ideal environment for learning and the opportunities to gain higher level technical qualifications.

Cheshire College – South & West is leading this joint venture, which also includes Warrington and Vale Royal College, Macclesfield College, Reaseheath College, University of Chester and Priestley College.

The IoT work to ensure world class training and education opportunities in the region and is a unique collaboration between employers, colleges and universities that specialise in offering high-quality higher technical education and training. In Cheshire, this training will be provided by top organisations such as Encirc, Warrington and Halton NHS Trust, Bruntwood SciTech at Alderley Park and JCB, keeping the region at the forefront of industry developments.

Lee Procter-Wright, Head of People Development at Encirc360, commented: “Being involved in the Cheshire and Warrington IOT provides an opportunity for us; as a local employer to engage with our local community and young people.

“The IoT provides a gateway to access and develop world-class technical skills that will feature heavily in the future skills market, enabling genuine employment opportunities. Our commitment to support the IOT through workbased education activities aligns well with our focus on future skills and opportunity in a Net Zero world.”

Dr Kath Mackay, Director of Life Sciences and Managing Director of Alderley Park, Bruntwood SciTech, added: “I’m thrilled that we will be supporting Cheshire and Warrington’s IoT from Alderley Park. Connecting the companies based at our campus with the right skills and talent is imperative to creating and retaining jobs in the region. With over 4,500 people now working at Alderley Park,

I’m excited to be supporting the next generation of innovators and providing a platform into science and technology careers for our learners.”

The collaboration between the Cheshire and Warrington colleges, employers and universities is to ensure young people entering the workforce have the skills needed by employers to keep the region at the forefront of industry.

Mark Ireland, General Manager – Service at JCB, added:

“Our partnership on the Cheshire and Warrington IoT will enable facility and equipment improvements at Reaseheath College that amplifies the delivery of a high-quality education and ultimately releases students into our Dealer businesses that are truly ready for work.”

Lucy Gardner, Director of Strategy and Partnerships, Warrington and Halton Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, also addressed the initiative’s importance in driving recruitment: “There are national challenges to recruitment and retention in healthcare, including roles with technical education and training.

“The Institute of Technology will enable us, in partnership with our local colleges, to train local people for local jobs, supporting recruitment to vital healthcare roles to support us to continue to provide high quality healthcare services, long into the future, to our local populations.”

Cheshire And Warrington set to benefit from £14.2m investment to support

Adult Courses at Cheshire College

Daytime

THANK YOU EMPLOYERS AND PARTNERS

TO ALL OUR FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT

Cheshire West and Chester Council

CHESHIRE COLLEGE

EMPLOYER MONTH

OF THE

It’s always a pleasure working with the team at Acorn Motor Group. They are warm, welcoming, highly professional and committed to investing in and developing their staff, whether they are a new recruit or a valued, existing team member. Cheshire College – South & West is proud to work with them to support their apprentices in customer service.

The Acorn mentors share the high standards expected by the company with them, but they also set themselves a high standard with regard to supporting and nurturing their less experienced apprentice staff. The group’s success is evident by the continual growth of the company.

It’s been fantastic to see, and be part of, their apprentices growing in skill and confidence too.

CHESHIRE

COLLEGE WELCOMES ALL AT FANTASTIC OPEN EVENINGS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT CHESHIRE COLLEGE

SOME OF OUR STUDENT CASE STUDIES AND EXTRA-CURRICULUM ACHIEVEMENTS

I would say to anyone who was thinking about doing an Access to HE course, “don’t be afraid, just do it”. It was a lastminute decision for me, and it has been the best last-minute decision of my life so far!

DANIEL

Current Course: Level 3 Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Professionals)

The College has a very good reputation, and I was attracted by the amount of support on offer. I’m learning what I need in order to have a good career and the College has provided me with new opportunities. I would say to anyone thinking about coming here, just come to Cheshire College!

IZABELA

Current Course: Level 2 T Level Transition Course in Business and Administration

High School: Downham Market High School

Progressing to: Paramedic Science with an Integrated Masters at Keele University

High School: High School in Romania

Progressing to: T Level in Business

CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENT SETS COMEDIC SIGHTS ON EDINBURGH FRINGE PERFORMANCE

A Cheshire College – South & West student is raising money to perform a stand-up comedy set at the Edinburgh Fringe; the celebrated festival which welcomes performers from all over the world, from big names in the entertainment industry to unknown artists looking to build their careers.

Caitlin Jones (who uses they/ them pronouns) is a Level 3 Creative Media Practice student, based at the college’s Chester campus, and they originally worked as a show-writer for comedy charity events, before deciding to try standup: “People kept telling me that my jokes were funny, and I started to

think that there might be a way to make a career out of that.

“The Edinburgh Fringe is the place where most comedians go to make a name for themselves and I know that comedy is something that I want to pursue full-time after university, so I thought if I start now, it will help me to boost my platform.

“I’m from Wrexham, so it’s a bit of a journey to get here every day! But Cheshire College has much better support for media students than other options I was considering, so I decided that it was worth making the journey.”

Caitlin is continuing to raise money to fund their performance at the festival, and welcomes donations from college staff, students and members of the public. To donate please scan the QR code below.

Cheshire College Student Aces

Academic Programme By University Of Oxford

Cheshire College – South & West is delighted to see one of its A Level students, Bethany

Wallace, successfully complete the 12-month Oxnet Intensive Academic programme in

Philosophy and World Religions. Led by Pembroke College, Oxford, Oxnet is an established initiative run collaboratively between participating colleges at the University of Oxford, Durham University, the University of Manchester, and Hub secondary schools and colleges in London, the North West and North East of England.

Speaking of her experience, Bethany (pictured below) said:

“It was intense, but it was great to prove that I could do it. I really liked the seminar series, as it was good to talk to experts in their field. We also had a small tutor group so that we could get personal feedback and that really made me think differently about tutorials at Oxford.”

3–12 months Virtual and faceto-face options are available

Health and Wellbeing

Online Short Courses

Just scan the QR code to express your interest and we’ll be in touch!

There’s still time to take advantage of our online FULLY FUNDED short courses on Health and Wellbeing! Create a more inclusive working environment by enhancing your knowledge through the following areas...

Level 1 Award in Stress Awareness

Level 1 Award in Wellbeing

Level 2

Certificate Awareness of Mental Health Problems

Level 2 Certificate Principles of Dementia Care

Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism

Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Behaviour that Challenges Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Children and Young People’s Mental Health

Level 2

Certificate in Understanding Nutrition and Health

Cheshire College has supported me a lot, especially with access to my lessons and my general wellbeing. Just come and study here, it really is a great place and I’ve enjoyed it so much!

EMILY

Current Course: A Level Classical Civilisation, English Literature and Philosophy

I love working with children, so this course felt like a natural choice. It’s a really nice place to study. I’ve made lots of new friends and the tutors are very supportive and understanding.

HELENE

Current Course: T Level in Education and Childcare (Assisting Teaching)

If you are thinking about doing an apprenticeship and there is something you are interested in, have a go!

We only have one life so make the most of it.

Current Course: HNC in Engineering

High School: Sandbach High School

Progressing to: University of Warwick to study Classical Civilisation

High School: Ellesmere Port Catholic High Schoo

Progressing to: Edge Hill University to study Primary Education

High School: Neston High School

Progressing to: HND in Engineering at the College

Cheshire College’s Turing Scheme Grant takes students to Italy

As part of the College’s Turing Scheme Grant, the International department arranged a trip to Manerba (Brescia) in Italy for 16 students during the Easter Half Term.

During their visit, the students had the opportunity to undertake a two-week work placement in local companies around Lake Garda in restaurants, supermarkets, a nursery, a care home and other small businesses.

Outside of their work placements, the students also developed strong friendships with those they weren't familiar with at the beginning of the trip.

International Relations &

EARN AN ADDITIONAL INCOME

Earn from £140 to £560 per week

Student Recruitment Manager, Stelios Yalarakis, said: "This was a great experience for the students. For some of them, it was their first time abroad and away from their families, but they took it completely in their stride and supported each other every day.

"The trip allowed each student

to build their confidence in independent living, problem solve and develop work-related skills."

The Turing Scheme is a highly competitive UK government programme that provides funding for international opportunities in education and training across the world. Following Cheshire College's grant for the current academic year, they've applied once again for funding for the 2023-24 academic year, where they hope they can offer similar opportunities for more students.

Earn an additional income as a

host family

Are you interested in other cultures and can provide a homely environment for international students?

We’re looking for accommodation for international students studying at Cheshire College.

ccsw.ac.uk

CHESHIRE COLLEGE

COMPETITIONS AWARDS AND

READ A ROUND-UP OF ALL OUR COMPETITIONS AND AWARDS...

CHESHIRE COLLEGE

FREEMEN AND GUILDS AWARDS

Cheshire College – South & West celebrated the academic and personal achievements of 17 exceptional students this evening at their annual Freemen and Guilds awards ceremony.

The ceremony was held at Cheshire College’s Ellesmere Port Campus and highlights the historic bond between the Guilds and education, and as symbols of encouragement and esteem for young people working in industry and commerce in the Chester and Ellesmere Port area.

WINNERS

Kyle Day 14-16 Award for Outstanding Achievement

Jack Willson Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award

Kai Rogers Bakers Award

Jacqui Jones

Barber Surgeons, Wax and Tallow Chandlers Co. Award

Finn Kinsella Butchers Award

Andel Samuel Cappers, Pinners, Wiredrawers and Linendrapers Award

Jedrzej Cieminski

Clothworkers, Walkers and Masons Company Award

Patrick Powell Coopers Company Award

Sam Winward Early Years Award

Nathan Price

Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award

Gerard Mooney Joiners and Carvers Company Award

Claire Davies

Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries – Pharmacy Award

Evan Mosson

Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries Award

Alisha Morgan Davies Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award

Jakub Stefanowicz Saddlers and Curriers Award

Jordan Ratcliffe Smiths, Cutlers and Plumbers Award

Holly Leonard Weavers Award

CHESHIRE COLLEGE

APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS

WINNERS

Joshua Hallam

Business Administration

Apprentice of the Year

Rhys Hodges

Construction Apprentice of the Year

Helen Husa

Health, Care, Dental and Pharmacy Award

Natalie King

Education and Training

Apprentice of the Year

Tyler Penman

Engineering and Manufacturing

Apprentice of the Year

Lillie George

Retail and Commerce

Apprentice of the Year

Mickey Rischmiller

National Grid

Apprentice of the Year

Zachary Carnall

BAE Systems

Apprentice of the Year

Matthew Ward

Cheshire Fire

Apprentice of the Year

James Millington

Bentley

Apprentice of the Year

Greif

New Apprentice

Employer of the Year

Trac Precision Solutions Ltd

Employer of the Year

Jessica Taylor

Cheshire College

Apprentice of the Year

Michael Johnson

Award for Outstanding Contribution

Several apprentices and employers were commended at Cheshire College – South & West’s Apprenticeship Awards Ceremony. The annual event celebrates the outstanding contributions of apprentices, as well as the positive impact of their employers. Cheshire College hosted the Apprenticeship Awards at their Crewe Campus for the first time in the event’s eighteen-year history. Coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week, the ceremony saw more than one hundred guests in attendance, and twelve awards presented to the winners.

STUDENT AWARDS

THE STUDENT AWARDS ARE AN ANNUAL TRADITION AT CHESHIRE COLLEGE, PROVIDING AN OPPORTUNITY TO CELEBRATE THE HARD WORK, DETERMINATION AND SUCCESSES OF STUDENTS ACROSS A BROAD RANGE OF QUALIFICATION TYPES AND SUBJECT AREAS.

CREWE WINNERS

Emily Miles

Humanities and Social Sciences

A Level Student of the Year

Egan Grover

Creative and Enterprise A Level Student of the Year

Elizabeth Lea

English and Languages A Level Student of the Year

Emily Taylor

STEM A Level Student of the Year

Bethany Wallace Futures Award

Matthew Huang

Business and Computing Student of the Year

Szymon Pawlowski

Health and Social Care Student of the Year

Daniel Adams

Access to Higher Education Student of the Year

Lewis Reeves

Construction Student of the Year

Jess Cope

Childcare and Education Student of the Year

Reuben Sammut

Arts and Media Student of the Year

Thomas Marshall

Engineering Student of the Year

Alex Kovac

Hair, Beauty and Barbering Student of the Year

Simona Kristof

Hospitality and Catering Student of the Year

Cai Armstrong

Motor Vehicle Student of the Year

Millie Edwards

Science Student of the Year

Alexis Bennett Travel and Tourism Student of the Year

Caitlin Astles Public Services and Sport Student of the Year

Tegan Jones

Performing and Production Arts Student of the Year

Serhii Pedosenko

Outstanding Achievement Foundation Level Award

Rebekah Harthern

Outstanding Achievement

Intermediate Level Award

Steeven Hie

Learning for Life and Work Student of the Year

Award

Michael Aylward

Outstanding Achievement Foundation Level Award

Adam Crooks

Petty Pool Student of the Year

Abdulrasoul Ishag

ESOL Student of the Year

Arwen MacSween T Level Student of the Year

Joel Tonks

English Student of the Year

Edden El-Hashahar

Rising Star Award

Amir Narimanuly

International Student of the Year

Joshua Horuz

Maths Student of the Year

Neve Pointon

Higher Education Student of the Year

Nathan Leese

Sports Achiever of the Year

Amir Narimanuly, winner of the International Student of the Year

ELLESMERE

PORT AND CHESTER

WINNERS

Aimee Clynch

Arts and Media Student of the Year

Finley Hormbrey

Construction Student of the Year

Sam Bugden

Access to Higher Education Student of the Year

Hannah Davies

Business and Computing Student of the Year

Finley Hormbrey

Construction Student of the Year

Erin Fitzsimmons

Engineering Student of the Year

Leah Bowskill

Health and Social Care Student of the Year

Paige Williams-MacKay

Hospitality and Catering Student of the Year

Charlie Bellis-Pedlow

Motor Vehicle Student of the Year

Katie Clay

Childcare and Education Student of the Year

Gemma Conery

Science Student of the Year

Ashleigh Brocklehurst

Travel and Tourism Student of the Year

Rhian Barlow

Hair, Beauty and Barbering Student of the Year

Daniel Cooper

Public Services and Sport Student of the Year

Megan Parry

Performing and Production Arts Student of the Year

Aleks Kozlova

Outstanding Achievement

Foundation Level Award

Nahily Getu

Outstanding Achievement

Intermediate Level Award

Olivia Mitchison

Outstanding Achievement

Intermediate Level Award

Jake Holbrook

Learning for Life and Work Student of the Year

Kawinthida Saenseemon

English Student of the Year

Doe Benti

Rising Star Award

Daniel Joyce

Maths Student of the Year

Ben Ashfield

Higher Education Student of the Year

Joanna Bankosz

ESOL Student of the Year

Helene Ngindu-Spoor

T Level Student of the Year

Sophie Crimes, Ruby

Beaumont and Ruby Kendrick

Cheshire College – South & West Ambassadors of the Year

Connor Backstrom

Award for Outstanding Progress

Skyler Davies

Well-Being Ambassador of the Year

Emiley Scott

Award for Exceptional Enterprise and Initiative

Levels Levels Results Day!

17 Save the date T A

LOOK OUT FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ABOUT WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE DAY IF YOU'RE DUE TO RECEIVE YOUR A LEVEL, T LEVEL OR BTEC RESULTS THIS YEAR.

A LEVELS

AT CHESHIRE COLLEGE

Our wide range of A Level subjects are designed to provide students with combined skills and knowledge that will fully prepare them for the next exciting stage of their life. Demonstrating outstanding results year on year, many of our students go on to secure places at the country’s top Universities or progress into full-time employment in a diverse range of sectors.

Scan the QR code to hear what some of Cheshire College's A Level students had to say!

Ever wondered what life at Cheshire College is like?

We asked this question to our students and you can hear their answers for yourself in our latest video.

Scan the QR code to find out more!

HIGHER EDUCATION GRADUATION HELD AT CHESTER CATHEDRAL

The accomplishments of Higher Education students from Cheshire College – South & West were celebrated today at the College’s Graduation Ceremony. Held at The Chester Cathedral, the ceremony welcomed graduates, their friends

and family, along with the College’s staff and stakeholders to celebrate this academic milestone. The graduates in attendance all studied a Higher Education course at one of the College’s three Campuses in Crewe, Ellesmere Port and Chester,

achieving a range of qualifications from full Degrees, Foundation Degrees and PGCEs to Higher National Diplomas (HNDs) and Higher National Certificates (HNCs).

WORLDSKILLS ROUND-UP

CHESHIRE COLLEGE UNVEILS

LARGEST NORTH WEST COHORT OF WORLDSKILLS UK FINALISTS

CHESHIRE COLLEGE – SOUTH & WEST 2023 WORLDSKILLS

FINALISTS

Simona Kristof Restaurant Services

Esther James Restaurant Services (Foundation skills)

Emiley Scott

3D Digital Game Art

Leila Sorensen

3D Digital Game Art

Megan King

Graphic Design

Heidi Rowntree

Graphic Design

Katie-Mae Clutton

Nail Technician

7 Cheshire College – South & West students have successfully qualified for the WorldSkills UK finals; the largest cohort of finalists from a single college in the North West. The finalists were drawn from a cohort of 6,000 young people who registered to showcase their skills across 51 technical skills subjects such as digital construction, health and social care, and additive manufacturing.

The 442 remaining contenders will now enter the final stage of the national skills competition in November 2023.

WorldSkills UK competitions are designed by industry experts and develop participants’ technical and employability skills, including building resilience, self-confidence and communications skills. OFSTED has also recognised the value of these programmes in their

education inspection framework. Each year WorldSkills has a real impact on those taking part, with 90% of previous entrants saying their career progression improved after competing and 86% stating their personal and employability skills had improved.

Ruth Szolkowska, Cheshire College’s Vice Principal of Innovation, Curriculum and Quality, commented:

“The quality of competitors this year has been outstanding. We’re extremely proud that our students have taken advantage of the opportunity to showcase their talent on a national stage.

“What they have achieved so far reflects their commitment and dedication to their respective career paths and I, on behalf of everyone at the College, wish them every success.”

Paul Browne, WorldSkills representative and Cheshire College Assistant Principal, added: “Cheshire College is committed to teaching world-class skills, and events like WorldSkills are a fantastic opportunity for students to show their talents on an international stage. It’s fantastic to see our students’ talent be acknowledged in this way. I can’t wait to see them shine in the finals later this year.”

The national finals will take place from the 14th – 17th November 2023 at colleges, independent training providers and universities across Greater Manchester.

We wish all of the finalists the best of luck!

Cheshire College takes home

gold and National Chef Of Wales Award at Culinary Championships

Cheshire College – South & West’s Hospitality and Catering students saw huge success at the Welsh International Culinary Championships, with several

WINNERS

Matthew Smith (supported by Amy Philips)

National Chef of Wales

Simona Kristof Restaurant Challenge (Gold)

Luke Smith

Restaurant Challenge (Gold) (Best in Class)

Lani Cohen

Main Course Flambé (Gold) (Best in Class)

Cameron Yearn

Main Course Flambé (Silver)

Beth Scott

Main Course Flambé (Bronze)

Poppy Edwards

Fruit Cuts (Gold)

Sophie Birkett

Fruit Cuts (Gold)

Sharna Fraser

Major Challenge (Silver) (Best in Class)

Ashleigh Firth

Fruit Cuts (Silver)

Olivia James

Risotto Challenge (Bronze)

Olivia James

Major Challenge (Bronze)

Simona Kristof

Best Restaurant Class Award

Amanda Salters

Fish & Sea Food Challenge (Silver)

Nathan Price

Cold Desserts (Bronze)

Kai Rogers

Fruit Cuts (Silver)

competitors winning gold awards in their respective categories, and one of the College lecturers winning the National Chef of Wales prize.

Brick by brick, Cheshire College students amaze judges at skills competition

Cheshire College – South & West performed exceptionally well in the bricklaying category at the Cheshire & Warrington Skills Competition, hosted by Warrington & Vale Royal College.

Apprentice Chris Haseler (pictured right) from Cheshire College’s Crewe Campus was entered for the senior category, and Ellesmere Port’s Trent Dauda was entered in the beginner’s category.

Chris won first place at the end of the competition and Trent was highly commended for his bricklaying abilities.

CHESHIRE COLLEGE COMMENDED AT EDUCATE NORTH AWARDS

“We are honoured that Cheshire College was commended for our community engagement at the Educate North Awards. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of Cheshire College’s supporters, who helped to make this possible. We are fortunate to be part of such incredible communities, who share a deep understanding of and commitment to the work we do for our students.”

Principal and CEO of Cheshire College, Jasbir Dhesi OBE

CHESHIRE COLLEGE CELEBRATES OUTSTANDING STAFF ACROSS ALL CAMPUSES

The outstanding achievements of Cheshire College – South & West staff were recognised at their annual Staff Awards Ceremony in Crewe and Ellesmere Port.

The awards were presented during the College’s Staff Wellbeing Day, an event that takes place at the end of the academic year together to provide staff members with an opportunity to reflect on and celebrate the year’s achievements and focus on personal development

and wellbeing before the Summer break.

The staff awards are a muchloved part of the day as it’s a way to honour those who have been an exceptional example of the College values for their students, the wider community and their fellow staff members.

Held at Crewe and Ellesmere Port, the awards highlight teaching and non-teaching staff across all three Campuses.

Nominations are welcomed from all members of staff and the final winners are selected by Cheshire College’s Executive Leadership Team.

From outstanding contribution awards to the awards for the unsung heroes of the team, the awards shone a light on those who have truly gone above and beyond.

HR Director at Cheshire College – South & West, Lisa Woodman, says: “The annual staff awards are

a fantastic way to shine a light on the incredible talent we have at the College. The volume and quality of nominations we receive each year is a true testament to the great community we’ve built across our Campuses.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to reflect and celebrate on the positive contributions our staff make to College life.”

Take a look at our amazing career opportunities.

WINNERS

Award for the Excellent Commitment to Honesty and Integrity

Lisa Ford (Personal Development Tutor)

Carol Bennett (Personal Development Tutor)

Award for Outstanding Support for Others

Sarah Iggo (Inclusive Learning Advisor)

Sue Bona (Admissions Assistant)

Award for Exceptional Empowering of Others and Nurturing of Talent

Anne Pickering (Hairdressing Lecturer)

Iain McCluskey (Game Development Lecturer)

Award for Outstanding Contribution to Success

Natalie Short (Health and Social Care Lecturer)

Chris Holland (Brickwork Lecturer)

The ‘Extra Mile’ Award (for Outstanding Aspiration and Achievement)

John Holden (Hospitality and Catering Lecturer)

Lee Bevan (Network Engineer)

Award for Demonstrating Exceptional Accountability and Initiative

Szymon Skozen (Estates Supervisor)

Angel Ralchev (Hospitality and Catering Lecturer)

Most Exceptional Team Award

Work Based Learning

Outstanding Contribution to Community Award

Emma Sinclair (Behaviour Coordinator)

Simonetta Pearce (CEIAG Supervisor)

Unsung Hero Award

Mark Jones (Bursary and Transport Supervisor)

Sue Williams (Assistant Management Accountant)

Rising Star Award

Nikki Barnett (Learning Resource Centre Assistant)

Jennifer Spencer (Preparation for Life and Work Lecturer)

Long Service Awards (25 years)

Martin Smith

Jonathan White

Christine Eardley

John Fuller

Carol Bennett

Samantha Oldfield

TECHNICAL THEATRE STUDENTS LIGHT UP THE EUROVISION SONG CONTEST

Cheshire College – South & West’s Megan Parry and Ben Whitaker helped to light up Eurovision, after being chosen to work as Followspot operators for the celebrated song competition.

Since being selected for their roles, following an expert training session at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus, Production Arts students Ben and Megan have

subsequently worked alongside industry professionals, met King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and been interviewed by BBC Radio Merseyside.

Speaking to the BBC about her experiences in the run-up to the event, Level 3 student Megan said: “It’s been absolutely insane. Everyone’s been so nice and welcoming, and this industry is

one of the best in terms of being friendly to other people. It’s been amazing!”

Discussing the atmosphere of the event, 19-year-old Higher Education student Ben commented:

“During the big grand final there were so many people coming into the arena hours before the actual show was starting. The atmosphere was incredible, and it was packed to the brim even on dress rehearsals. Everyone was just having a great time and it’s amazing that I was there and that you can see the light I operate in tons of the fan’s pictures.”

Head of Theatre Operations, Angie Berwick, commented:

“As a department we have a fantastic partnership with ROBE NRG, which means that we are able to offer unique, industryspecific opportunities to our students.

“We are incredibly proud of all that Ben and Megan have achieved. They have been nothing but professional, hardworking and dedicated throughout this whole experience, and I know they’ve both impressed a lot of people along the way.”

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HAIR & BEAUTY FOR YOU

Away from the hustle and bustle of our busy College, you’ll find our hidden gems – hair salons, beauty salons and our complementary therapies spa which includes a sauna, steam room, Jacuzzi and floatation tank.

Our facilities are well-equipped training establishments which enable our students to develop their skills to the highest levels by providing a real service to real customers.

Find out more about our Hair & Beauty Facilities!

Our Path To Net Zero

Sustainability is a main priority at Cheshire College.

We’re committed to helping improve the environment so that we can provide a better environment for future generations and maintain and develop businesses in a sustainable manner.

Investing in state-of-theart sustainable facilities/ equipment

Improving environmental awareness with training

Working with employers to provide access to the latest technology

Delivering innovative courses centred around sustainability

Introduce energy consumption and waste management practices

Provide space for partners to showcase their path to Net Zero

Electrical vehicle (EV) charging stations located on Campus

Light sensors on Campus

Reducing energy and CO2 emissions

Reducing waste sent to landfill

Reducing our effect on local ecology and biodiversity

Reducing environmental effects with free transport initiatives

CHESHIRE COLLEGE OPENS

CONSTRUCTION AND ENGINEERING FACILITY AS PART OF £10M+ INVESTMENT

A construction and engineering facility has been opened by Cheshire College – South & West, as part of a £10m+ investment.

The facility at the Ellesmere Port campus features technologies such as 3D printers, CAD equipment, robotics and the new motor vehicle workshop, including a plug-in hybrid EV area for electric and hybrid vehicles, in addition to sector-specific equipment for carpentry, plumbing, joinery and brickwork.

The investment involved a large chunk of T Level funding, aiming to enhance students’ technical training opportunities and equip them with the tools they need for industry. Students studying T Levels and BTECs, and adult students enrolled on a variety of technical-based courses will use the construction and engineering facility each year for bespoke practical workshops.

The launch event was a chance to showcase the new facilities to

various partners, including local employers and stakeholders, that will directly benefit from the new facilities.

The likes of Trac Precision Solutions, along with organisations such as the Cheshire and Warrington Growth Hub, were given an exclusive tour of the facility and shown all aspects of where the investment has gone, as well as the ways in which students and the wider community are benefiting.

Cheshire College has been involved in this year...

Digital Hub

A project set to benefit over 50,000 students, inspiring more young people than ever to progress onto higher-level courses and skilled employment.

Digital Doorstep

From virtual reality headsets to 3D printers, this project delivers skills and career pathways in additive manufacturing and VAR.

Project 4.0

Working in collaboration with Warrington Vale Royal College and UTC Warrington, the project provides community organisations with access to technology.

Stream

Helping to improve Advanced Manufacturing Skills to expand digital infrastructures, upskill and reskill existing workforces.

ACT

Working in collaboration with local colleges and UTC Warrington, this project helps colleges and employers to develop, commercialise and promote digital technologies and skills training for construction, nuclear and allied industries.

Here are just some of the sustainable projects

Have a story to share?

If you have a story you’d like us to include in future issues over the next academic year, we’d love to hear more!

Send your news to p.release@ccsw.ac.uk and we’ll be in touch.

HAVE A STORY TO SHARE? GET IN TOUCH!

p.release@ccsw.ac.uk

OUR LOCATIONS

CREWE CAMPUS

Dane Bank Avenue

Crewe, Cheshire

CW2 8AB

ELLESMERE PORT CAMPUS

Off Sutton Way

Ellesmere Port

CH65 7BF

CHESTER CAMPUS

Eaton Road

Handbridge, Chester

CH4 7ER