APPRENTICES TAKE CENTRE STAGE AT THE APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS
FEBRUARY 2024 P. 13
FEBRUARY 2024
READ ALL ABOUT IT.
In here you’ll find an abundance of good news stories, features and updates from students and staff across Cheshire College’s three Campuses.
HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?
We’d love to hear more! Send your news to p.release@ccsw.ac.uk so we can include it in our next issue.
JUST SOME OF WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO …
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CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENT SET TO STAR IN DOCUMENTARY CHAMPIONING THE DISABLED COMMUNITY
APPRENTICES TAKE CENTRE STAGE AT THE APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS
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“ We’re absolutely delighted to have won this award; we passionately believe in the benefits of apprenticeships, not just for the individuals but for the wider business too.”
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HUNDREDS OF CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENTS PASS GCSE RESULTS
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A LEVEL STUDENT HOLLIE SHARES HER JOURNEY FROM ‘DRAINED’ HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT TO INSPIRING SCHOLAR AND OXFORD APPLICANT!
“YOU’RE HIRED!” CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENTS ASSESSED FOR NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK
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As part of the National Apprenticeship Week campaign, twelve of Cheshire College – South & West’s Business students took part in a Mock Assessment Centre, overseen by two members of staff and the College’s special guest Allie Swindlehurst from the Department for Work and Pensions.
CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENT SET TO STAR IN DOCUMENTARY CHAMPIONING THE DISABLED COMMUNITY
4 FEBRUARY 2024
A twenty-two-year-old Music (Production) student at Cheshire College – South & West has been invited to participate in a documentary which aims to change the public’s perceptions of disability and encourage the music industry to make itself more accessible to
disabled people.
Jake Smith, who has Cerebral Palsy and uses a wheelchair, is one of three disabled young people who will be featured in the documentary. The project’s message of inclusivity resonated with Jake, a talented DJ and producer who has performed his
own music in front of thousands of people at the Creamfields and Ibiza Rocks music festivals, even going back-to-back with famed actor and rapper Idris Elba.
Despite Jake’s impressive achievements and ambitions, he remains mindful of the barriers
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which many disabled people can face when trying to access big events and careers within the music industry: “ We’re just asking people to have more forethought when it comes to the disabled community. There’s so much more which industry professionals could be doing to make sure they’re really accommodating everyone.”
When asked how he felt to be appearing in the documentary, Jake commented:
“ Amazing! I hope I can inspire people; I want to share my story with other people with disabilities and let them know that they can achieve anything.”
This is a philosophy which Jake has also brought to his studies at Cheshire College. He is frequently involved with Crewe Campus’s theatrical productions behind-thescenes, and he credits the College with helping him to develop as a musician and producer.
Jake is set to commence filming with the documentary crew in February, with the final release date yet to be announced.
6 FEBRUARY 2024
HIGHER TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS
AT CHESHIRE COLLEGE
Cheshire College are providing the technical and practical training to help you develop the core skills and knowledge required to progress in your chosen career.
If you are looking to progress in your current role or retrain in a completely different sector, our HTQs can provide you with the transferable skills to succeed.
ENROL FOR SEPTEMBER 2024...
Construction Management for England
Level 5 Diploma for the Early Years Senior Practitioner
Computing for England Engineering for England
Leadership and Management
Healthcare Professionals' Support for England
ENROL TODAY AND BE ONE STEP CLOSER TO YOUR DREAM CAREER DESTINATION.
Choosing Higher Education at Cheshire College – South & West will provide you with the opportunity to study locally at one of our three state-of-the-art Campuses based in Cheshire.
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Find out how you could Stay Near, Go Far…
IT’S “BABY’S” DAY OUT FOR CHESHIRE COLLEGE COMPUTING STUDENTS
Cheshire College – South & West’s Level 2 Computing students took their studies off-site earlier this month, as they visited the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester to see the Small-Scale Experimental Machine (nicknamed ‘Baby’), which is the world’s first stored-programme computer.
The original Baby computer was built at the University of Manchester with World War II radar and communications equipment. Level 2 student Camilly said:
“ I really liked the Baby exhibition, and I did not expect it to be the size that it was. I expected it to be a lot smaller because its name made me think it looked like a little computer.”
Students also enjoyed a fascinating talk about Manchester’s engineering heritage and got to see one of the world’s first Rolls-Royce motorcars. Student Tomiwa shared: “ The elegance and innovation of the vehicle were truly captivating. Learning about the craftsmanship and engineering behind it gave me a deeper appreciation for the brand and its legacy.”
The experience counts as evidence towards various units in the students’ BTEC Level 2 Computing course. Assistant Director Ben Bennett-Stanley commented: “ It was great that the Level 2 group had a wonderful time. The museum is home to a fascinating
collection of exhibits, including the original Baby computer, the first Rolls-Royce motorcars, and the Textiles Gallery.
“The students were amazed to learn that this early computer was only a prototype, but it led to the development of the world's first stored-programme computer.”
Students had glowing feedback about the event, with Computing enthusiast John-Paul commenting: “ The exhibition put into perspective the complexity of technology and how advanced the devices we have now are when compared to the first device to be assembled, both in terms of size and functionality.”
8 FEBRUARY 2024
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10 FEBRUARY 2024 Ellesmere Port Campus Off Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 7BF 01244 656555 Chester Campus Eaton Road, Handbridge CH4 7ER 01244 656555 Crewe Campus Dane Bank Avenue, Crewe CW2 8AB 01270 654654 Our Locations Contact Us! www.ccsw.ac.uk info@ccsw.ac.uk Book a spot on to our Open Evenings
APPLICATIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 2024 ARE NOW OPEN! One best things about studying Cheshire College the freedom we to be ourselves. We are encouraged to study independently and develop as individuals and this prepares us for education university, which great! The College helped me terms of university applications and academic excellence.The Scholars Programme truly amazing.The programme has helped many of us to what we thought was impossible. extracurricular activities are for discovering new talents hobbies, and wonderful the College provides activities outside of your studies where focus on fun! Wiktoria, Student Governor Studying Level Psychology, Biology and Chemistry College Life www.ccsw.ac.uk at Cheshire can really give advantage when the next life. Many of our students to exciting such as employment, higher-level courses, apprenticeships, traineeships scholarships. The ChapterNext Where do you want to be in 5 years? planning to go you our tailored designed you support advice you first start application through to accepting your offer. attend visits from Our students gone on to places at top universities, including the Cambridge, University of University of Bristol The University Manchester. Apprenticeships are highly- regarded employers and available to degree apprenticeships If you considering an apprenticeship your next step, we You can join our Talent will support you your CV, applying for vacancies with techniques. You your time College students able straight into local reputable employers following successful completion course. As course, you undertake placement which those wishing to improve with on-the- job experience help you your journey employment. University Further Study Employment Apprenticeships www.ccsw.ac.uk 19 “I originally this course back-up plan as wanted pilot, but it’s to be five better goal is now to aircraft for the Cheshire College brothers came enjoyed it.The nice and The College social and has on.” Returning College to study in Engineering Nottingham University for BA (Hons) Whatever your future plans are, we are the experts who can support you in getting there. Next Chapter Cheyenne Max Level National Extended Diploma in Engineering Chemistry, Computer Science and Maths Design & the course different didn’t think you’d get into; found fashion knew that what wanted am going to Fashion Design Communication John Moores University and be a Fashion the future.” Alisha Level National Extended Diploma in Art Design Practice Employment industry chose to study because came College Year 9 with and fell in kitchens! wanted to harder to make creative and mouth-watering dishes for people Finn Level Diploma in Professional Cookery Edge Hill University study Primary Education “I love with children, course felt like choice. really nice place I’ve made friends lecturers are supportive.” Helene T Level in Education and Childcare Teaching) info@ccsw.ac.uk 25 Wewant improvetheenvironment areworking towardsnetzero that canprogressfromyourtime with into better,greenerand sustainableworld. Investinginstate-ofthe-artsustainable facilities/equipment Deliveringinnovative coursescentredaround sustainability Introduceenergy consumptionandwaste managementpractices Providespaceforpartners toshowcasetheirpathto NetZero Electricalvehicle(EV) chargingstationslocated Campus LightsensorsonCampus ReducingenergyandCO2 emissions Reducingwastesentto landfill Reducingoureffectonlocal ecologyandbiodiversity Reducingenvironmental effectswithfreetransport initiatives Sustainability Improvingenvironmental awarenesswithtraining Workingwithemployers toprovideaccesstothe latesttechnology www.ccsw.ac.uk It ’s just the beginning... Take a look at our Career Guide Join a College where there are NO LIMITS…
info@ccsw.ac.uk www.ccsw.ac.uk Crewe Campus Dane Bank Avenue, Crewe CW2 8AB 01270 654654 Chester Campus Eaton Road, Handbridge, Chester CW4 7ER 01244 656555 Ellesmere Port Campus Off Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 7BF 01244 656555 High quality tuition without the high university fees Timetabling to suit you Smaller class sizes Dedicated support and facilities Work skills and employability training Business Chester/Crewe Childcare Crewe Construction Crewe Engineering Crewe/Ellesmere Port Health and Social Care Crewe/Ellesmere Port IT Crewe/Chester Media Chester Performing Arts – Drama Ellesmere Port Sport Ellesmere Port Visual Arts Crewe There’s never been a better time to Stay Near, Go Far. Higher Education at Cheshire College How to Apply!
APPRENTICES TAKE CENTRE STAGE AT THE APPRENTICESHIP AWARDS
Some of Cheshire College – South & West’s most diligent and hard-working apprentices got the star treatment during National Apprenticeship Week, as they attended the annual Apprenticeship Awards.
Hosted in the spacious rotunda at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus and coinciding with National Apprenticeship Week, the event is a College tradition which rewards
apprentices, and educates guests about the continued importance which apprenticeships play across multiple sectors and industries.
Accepting her award for Retail and Commercial Enterprise Apprentice of the Year, 22-yearold Hairdressing apprentice Leah (pictured below) said:
“ I’m so happy! I’ve always wanted to work in the Hairdressing
industry and an apprenticeship has allowed me to do that. I’ve had loads of amazing experiences through my apprenticeship, including working on celebrity clients and doing hair for PrettyLittleThing, so it’s been a massive achievement for me.”
As well as family and friends of the winners, Cheshire College also welcomed several of their employer partners to the event.
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Employers such as Greif (an industrial packaging products and services leader) and Unipart Rail (experts in new technology and supply chain solutions for the Rail Industry) were recognised for their ongoing support for apprenticeship programmes and commitment to upskilling their workforce.
One of the employers honoured at the event was The Senate Group, who won the SME Employer of the Year
Award. Speaking of the company’s nomination, Janet Keeling, one of the directors from The Senate Group said:
“ We’re absolutely delighted to have won this award; we passionately believe in the benefits of apprenticeships, not just for the individuals but for the wider business too.”
Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College said that the evening’s ceremony had been a great
success and a perfect demonstration of why apprentices are so important:
“
The past few years have been difficult for everyone, but upskilling young people is vital to the UK’s long-term recovery. We are passionate about apprenticeships here at Cheshire College and we have seen the change which they can make to individuals, companies and communities first-hand.
“All tonight’s winners should
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be very proud of the themselves and they will no doubt go on to make significant contributions to their respective industries.”
If you are an employer interested in benefitting from an apprentice, email employers@ccsw.ac.uk or call the employer hotline on 01244 656 555 or 01270 654 654.
FULL LIST OF OUR APPRENTICESHIP AWARD WINNERS
Claire Morrell
Business Administration and Law Apprentice of the Year
Harley Moreton
Construction, Planning and Built Environment Apprentice of the Year
Kelly Pinches
Education and Training Apprentice of the Year
Jake Lynch
Engineering and Manufacturing Apprentice of the Year
Gemma Harrison
Health, Public Services and Care Apprentice of the Year
Eloise Mitchell Partner Apprentice of the Year
Leah Jones
Retail and Commercial Enterprise Apprentice of the Year
James Sambrook
Cheshire College – South & West Apprentice of the Year
Mark McKenna
Award for Exceptional Contribution
Danielle Kidd
Award for Outstanding Progress
Greif Employer of the Year
Unipart Rail Apprentice Employer of the Year
The Senate Group SME Employer of the Year
Scan the QR code to learn more about apprenticeships!
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HUNDREDS OF CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENTS PASS GCSE RESULTS
Cheshire College – South & West is celebrating an incredibly successful results day, after over 200 students achieved a Grade 4 or higher in their GCSE resits on 11th January.
After sitting their resits in November 2023, hundreds of students have now achieved a grade 4 or higher. All three Campuses have had cause for celebration, with Crewe Campus securing the highest percentage of high grades in mathematics, Chester Campus securing the highest percentage of high grades in English, and Ellesmere Port Campus achieving double the number of high-grade English passes from the 2022-2023 academic year.
Among the happy students was
18-year-old Jamie at Crewe Campus, who had successfully achieved a Level 4 in maths. Jamie said:
“ I went to a special education school which didn’t offer GCSEs. I spoke to a few colleges after I left school, but I always felt they were looking at what I was on paper rather than looking at me and my potential as a person. When I came to Cheshire College it was a totally different atmosphere; I was welcomed, and it’s paid off! ”
Ellesmere Port student Libby, who passed her GCSE mathematics shared that support from staff and friends was fundamental to her success, as well as “ lots and lots of hard work.”
Meanwhile, Chester student Alicia
achieved a Grade 5 in English and said that the lecturer’s emphasis on “ structural technique” had been particularly helpful during the revision process.
Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College, said that the day’s results are a testament to the hard work of students and staff alike:
“ Our students should feel immensely proud of what they have achieved today. Our English and maths teachers work incredibly hard across all sites to ensure that students are living up to their potential, and able to leave us with these sought-after qualifications.”
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BOOK YOUR PLACE 20thMARCH 17:30-19:00
01270 654678 academy@ccsw.ac.uk DINE WITH THE Winning Team BOOK YOUR TABLE
A LEVEL STUDENT HOLLIE SHARES
HER JOURNEY FROM ‘DRAINED’ HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT TO INSPIRING SCHOLAR AND OXFORD APPLICANT!
20 FEBRUARY 2024
Following her recent acceptance offer from the University of Oxford, we caught up with A Level student Hollie at Crewe Campus to find out more about her educational journey at Cheshire College – South & West.
: Hi, Hollie! Thank you for chatting with us. Can we start by asking why you decided to study A Levels with us here at Cheshire College?
A: Hi, thank you for meeting with me. In answer to your question, I decided to study here because I knew I needed a change. I’d left high school with a good set of GCSE grades, but I was feeling really drained. In the end, I decided to try studying subjects I’m actually passionate about at Cheshire College, and I really began to enjoy education again!
: What subjects did you decide to study here?
A: I’m studying English Literature, French, and Music.
: What inspired you to apply to the University of Oxford?
A: When I was considering my next steps I discussed going to university with my mentor. She told me that she believed I could get into Oxford, and she encouraged my aspirations and really told me to go for it. When I visited the university for an Open Day, I loved the different colleges and the way the lecturers taught their classes, so that inspired me to apply too.
: How did Cheshire College support you during the application process?
A: I joined the College’s Futures Programme* as a Scholars student, and through the programme I got all the help and support I needed to apply to Oxford. Also, the support I received from my mentor really made me believe that I could do it! I received help to refine and perfect my personal statement over and over again, took part in interview workshops and had coaching for the admissions exams.
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: What course did you apply for?
A: I applied to study English and French (Combined Honours).
: How did you feel when you received your acceptance offer from Oxford?
A: I was genuinely shocked! I told myself throughout the whole process that there was no pressure because of how competitive it was and that if I even just got an interview, it would be a massive achievement. I never dreamt I’d actually be accepted!
: Have you thought about what you might want to do after university?
A: Right now, my plans looking forward are hopefully to spend a lot of time in France, and eventually I’d love to live and work there as a journalist.
: Do you have any advice for future Cheshire College students who might be considering their futures at the University of Oxford?
A: I’d say go for it! It has been such a great process for me, and I have learnt so many valuable skills which I could
have applied at any university, not just Oxford. If you think you can do it, then you should go for it. I kept telling myself that I had nothing to lose, and it would be a waste not to give it a shot.
: What about for the university interview?
Any top tips?
A: I’d say try not to get overwhelmed, take deep breaths and be yourself in all aspects of it. Make sure the person you put out to the university Admissions people is who you really are and demonstrates your authentic ability.
It’s been a pleasure talking with you, Hollie! Congratulations again on your incredible success.
*The Futures Programme at Cheshire College – South & West is a unique selection of pathways designed to support progression onto university and employment. We work with students to boost their skills and confidence through academic and professional programmes.
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FUTURES PROGRAMME
THERE ARE NO LIMITS
The Futures Programme at Cheshire College – South & West provides our students with coaching, support and unique opportunities to ensure your goals for the future are achieved.
Whether your dream is to go to a top university or start on the career ladder in a highly respected industry, we’ll work with you to boost your skills and confidence throughout your time with us.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY…
NAIRAH
Progressing to the University of Warwick to study Philosophy, Politics & Economics
I am so happy with my results and I am excited to start my course at University. The variety of subjects, adult learning environment and teachers at the College have helped me achieve my results.
USE THE CONTACT DETAILS BELOW TO SPEAK TO FUTURES SUPERVISOR, HOLLY JONES.
Head to the Student Hub when you’re on Campus.
holly.jones@ccsw.ac.uk
01270 654654 (ext. 4832)
Scan the QR code to see what some of our students say about our incredible Futures Programme.
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“YOU’RE HIRED!”
CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENTS ASSESSED FOR NATIONAL APPRENTICESHIP WEEK
As part of the National Apprenticeship Week campaign, twelve of Cheshire College – South & West’s Business students took part in a Mock Assessment Centre, overseen by two members of staff and the College’s special guest Allie Swindlehurst from the Department for Work and Pensions.
In keeping with the week-long celebration of apprenticeships, students were applying for the role of a Customer Service Apprentice. In the lead up to the event, students analysed the job description and identified the skills and behaviours that would be
looked for by their assessors.
There were three elements to the day: a group task to assess teamwork and listening skills, two customer service tasks, and an individual interview to assess overall employability.
The learners rose to the challenge admirably and seemed to gain a great deal from the experience:
Level 2 student Ruby said:
“ In my feedback I was told that I made good eye contact, had great body language, and was very confident in what I was saying.”
Fellow Level 2 student Jack
was also praised for his confidence, commenting:
“ They said they could tell I’d been in an interview before! The feedback was really good, and it’s made me realise how I can be even better in the future, so I’m definitely going to update my CV after this.”
When asked about the students’ assessments, Allie Swindlehurst said they should all be proud of their achievements:
“ It was great to see how they grew in confidence as the day progressed and they were very mature in how they presented themselves. Every single one of them has so much to offer employers and some of them didn’t realise just how many transferable skills they had. I wish each and every one of them all the luck in the world for their future and next steps!”
All participating students have plans to attend an upcoming event at Chester Town Hall hosted by The Pledge, in which they will have the opportunity to meet over 30 employers and practice their new interview skills.
Assistant Director Ben BennettStanley commented:
“
It is great to see the students showcasing their skills in such a professional way. As a department we aim to prepare every learner for the realities of industry and increase their value to future employers.”
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25 CHESHIRE COLLEGE CHRONICLE Interested in a course? ENROL TODAY! admissions@ccsw.ac.uk Or get in contact to find out more: *Subject to eligibility www.ccsw.ac.uk You can apply on our website: NEW ADULT COURSES Enrol onto a FREE* adult course. Upskill. Retrain. Follow your dreams. Crewe Campus Dane Bank Avenue, Crewe CW2 8AB 01270 654654 Chester Campus Eaton Road, Handbridge, Chester CW4 7ER 01244 656555 Ellesmere Port Campus Off Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 7BF 01244 656555
Cheshire College is proud to provide impressive facilities at all three of our Campuses.
Whether you’re interested in our newly designed hospital ward at Crewe, our innovative Digital Hub at Chester or our very own Motor Vehicle workshop and Sustainable
House at Ellesmere Port, we have the resources to provide expert training and support.
Take a look a closer look at our Campuses through our virtual maps and let us know what you think!
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FEBRUARY 2024
HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?
We’d love to hear more! Send your news to p.release@ccsw.ac.uk so we can include it in our next issue.
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Off Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 7BF
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