OFSTED REPORT COMMENDS CHESHIRE COLLEGE’S STRONG CONTRIBUTION TO SKILLS
In here you’ll find an abundance of good news stories, features and updates from students and staff across Cheshire College’s three Campuses.
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 …
CHESHIRE COLLEGE UNVEILS CUTTING-EDGE HOSPITAL WARD AT ELLESMERE PORT CAMPUS
OFSTED REPORT COMMENDS CHESHIRE COLLEGE’S STRONG CONTRIBUTION TO SKILLS
“ We are delighted with the outcome of our Ofsted inspection, which affirms the hard work and dedication of our staff and students. Achieving ‘Good’ across all areas with recognition for strong contribution to skills demonstrates our commitment to delivering an exceptional learning experience and preparing our students for success in their future careers.”
CHESHIRE COLLEGE CREWE CAMPUS LAUNCHES SENSORY SPACE TO SUPPORT STUDENTS OUTSTANDING CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENTS CELEBRATED AT HISTORIC FREEMEN AND GUILDS AWARDS
CHESHIRE COLLEGE CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF SUPPORTING STUDENTS WITH FESTIVE HAMPERS
Cheshire College is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its heartwarming Festive Hamper initiative, which has donated over 2,000 hampers to students over the past five years. 21
OPEN EVENING
CHESHIRE COLLEGE UNVEILS CUTTING-EDGE HOSPITAL WARD AT ELLESMERE PORT CAMPUS
Cheshire College – South & West officially launch its cutting-edge hospital ward at its Ellesmere Port campus.
The innovative facility, created in partnership with industry experts offers a training environment designed to give students hands-on experience in a reallife medical setting, equipping them with the practical skills they need to excel in their careers in healthcare, life sciences, and other related industries.
The new hospital ward features an impressive 6-bed replica hospital ward, designed to simulate a working medical environment. The training space is complemented by cutting edge dental simulation equipment, tactile models, life-like mannequins, virtual dissection tables and immersive digital reality programmes.
Students will be able to interact with advanced mannequins to measure blood pressure, heart rate, and simulate patient care in a ward environment. They will also be trained to check pulses and monitor virtual procedures using the digital equipment.
The development of the facility began in 2023 and was carried out to ensure all students are equipped with the latest technologies and expertise to thrive in the fast-evolving healthcare sector.
Karen Roberts, Assistant Principal for Apprenticeships and Employer Engagement at Cheshire College said: “ This new facility is a prime example of how collaboration between
education and industry can transform learning. By offering students handson experience in a realistic medical setting, we are equipping them with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in their future careers and meet the growing demands of the healthcare sector.”
Last year, the College launched a similar hospital ward at its Crewe campus, which has already been a resounding success, providing invaluable learning experiences for students.
The new facility in Ellesmere Port will not only benefit students but also serve as a resource for local healthcare providers. Several organisations that collaborate with the College have already expressed interest in using the ward for staff training, recognising the potential for developing a highly-skilled workforce.
The ward is expected to play a key role in enhancing the employability skills for college leavers by providing them with practical, industry-relevant experience that is highly valued by employers.
Sarah Emes-Young (pictured below), Project Manager and Employer
Engagement, Cheshire and Warrington Local Skills Improvement Plan, said: “ The opening of the hospital ward is a perfect example of how the College is developing the skills of young people to meet the needs of the healthcare sector.
The facility gives students the hands-on experience that local
employers need, creating a stronger workforce and supporting regional growth.
Many students will be working towards T Level qualifications, which focus on giving students the hands-on training and knowledge required to meet the demands of the modern workforce.”
Karen added, “ Our learners don’t just gain theoretical knowledge; they benefit from meaningful work experience and industry placements that are life-changing. Sometimes, those placements lead them to discover career paths they hadn’t even considered. It’s about opening doors to new possibilities and inspiring them to think beyond the immediate program they enrolled on.
The hospital ward and its accompanying facilities across the College represent a significant investment in both the future of students and the broader community. This investment not only ensures that students gain the confidence and experience to pursue successful careers in healthcare but also supports local innovation, job creation, and economic growth.”
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Cheshire College – South & West has continued its track record as one of the region’s top educational institutions, earning a ‘Good’ rating across all areas, as well as being awarded the top grade of ‘strong contribution to skills’ in its latest Ofsted report.
Colleges across the country are subject to enhanced Ofsted inspections, which include a specific judgement on contribution to skills. This judgement is reached by assessing how the college
identifies and meets regional skills needs, which contribute to a thriving economy. During the inspection in October 2024, Cheshire College was awarded the top outcome of ‘strong’ due to their highly successful relationships with employers, local authorities and communities, and commitment to collaboration.
The report recognises that the College’s collaborative approach has made a significant impact in preparing
students for success in a diverse range of industries, reinforcing the institution’s role as a key player in driving economic growth for Cheshire and beyond.
Inspectors highlighted the creation of skills bootcamps for engineering and rail, alongside new courses to develop skilled workers in hydrogen, smart metering and low carbon energy.
As the largest further education provider in the region with three sites:
Ellesmere Port, Crewe and Chester, Cheshire College serves a diverse community. At the time of inspection, the College had over 4,600 students aged 16-18 enrolled on a wide variety of courses. The College also supports over 1,500 adult students and 650 apprenticeship students, catering to local people at different stages of their education.
Reflecting on the results, Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College said:
“ We are delighted with the outcome of our Ofsted inspection, which affirms the hard work and dedication of our staff and students. Achieving ‘Good’ across all areas with recognition for strong contribution to skills demonstrates our commitment to delivering an exceptional learning experience and preparing our students for success in their future careers.”
The inspection report also commended the College’s approach to education, noting that students and apprentices are highly motivated and eager to learn, demonstrating positive and professional behaviours.
Dhesi emphasised that, “ By setting and maintaining high standards, we ensure that our students not only succeed academically but also develop the professional attitudes that will serve them well throughout their lives.”
In addition, the report praised the students’ access to high quality work placements and the broad extracurricular opportunities available, from chess to arts. Initiatives, such as the Scholars programme, foster academic development and prepare students for applying to Oxbridge and
Russell Group universities.
Dhesi added, “ Our focus remains on building on our success, ensuring we continue to meet the needs of our students and provide them with the skills they need to succeed in an everevolving world.”
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…
DYLAN
First Class BA Degree in Philosophy and Theology from Pembroke College, Oxford
I chose to study at Cheshire College due to the excellent standard of teaching and the flexible and enriching nature of the College environment. I was particularly attracted to the College by the Futures Programme. I received incredible help, advice, mentoring and opportunities throughout this programme, and it was pivotal for me getting into Oxford.
USE THE CONTACT DETAILS BELOW TO SPEAK TO FUTURES SUPERVISOR, PADDY MCDEVITT.
Head to the Student Hub when you’re on Campus.
patrick.mcdevitt@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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CHESHIRE COLLEGE CREWE CAMPUS LAUNCHES SENSORY SPACE TO SUPPORT STUDENTS
Cheshire College - South & West has unveiled a new state-of-the-art sensory friendly area at its Crewe campus to provide a haven for students with neurodivergent conditions when they are feeling overwhelmed or needing a quiet space to self-regulate.
At least one in five people in the UK are thought to be neurodivergent. This means they may think, behave, and process information differently to ‘neurotypical’ people. For some this will mean that they have sensory differences. These differences mean that certain environments can cause sensory overload.
Crewe Campus is a vibrant place to study but some students had provided feedback that they had felt overwhelmed by the busy environment. The new sensory area was based on this feedback from students, who said that they can feel overwhelmed by noise and crowds on campus and felt like there was nowhere to go. For some, the impact of sensory overload is so significant it limits their ability to fully engage with college life.
The innovative sensory space, which features calming elements such as dimmable lighting, sensory egg chairs, rocking chairs, and a nature-inspired “Forest” mural, was co-produced by students and staff. T-level student Poppy Clarke developed the design concept for the space, and Thomas Robinson, a fellow T-level student, was behind the idea for the wall mural.
Ruth Szolkowska, Vice Principal at Cheshire College, said:
“ For some of our students, college can be an overwhelming place to be, and we want to do everything we can to minimise the impact that can have. Being able to provide a space
on Campus where students can go to remove themselves from the bustle of college is really important.
We know that for many, just a short period of time can be enough to feel calmer and less overwhelmed, and this can make all the difference
in their learning and help them to remain at college. We have listened to suggestions from students to make this a space that everyone can benefit from, and we’re looking forward to seeing how it’s used.”
The sensory space is part of the
College’s ongoing commitment to supporting students with sensory and inclusion needs at college.
Greenbank School, a special secondary school, supported Cheshire College in the research stage, offering advice and their experience on what
was likely to be needed to help students with sensory needs. Their pupils also visited to provide feedback for the project. As part of the project, over 100 college staff across all three campuses have also received training from the Cheshire East Autism team to further upskill and develop understanding of sensory needs.
The new sensory space was funded by the NHS Beyond Programme (Cheshire and Merseyside ICS' Children's Transformation Programme), which seeks to improve health and care outcomes for children and young people with emotional health and sensory needs.
Catherine Williams, Programme Manager, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust commented “ It was fantastic to visit the sensory space and see the impact the investment from the Beyond Programme, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside's Children and Young People's Transformation Programme, together with the hard work of the young people who designed the space, and the college”
She added, “ I enjoyed hearing and seeing how the learners are using the space and how it fits into the wider inclusion work of the college and look forward to hearing about the longer-term impact on learners.”
There are identified quiet spaces at the Ellesmere Port and Chester campuses with the view to roll out the sensory project to all sites in the future.
The space was unveiled in the Autumn term and is already having a positive impact on students.
Music Production student Jacob Smith described the new facility: “ It’s a very good place to calm your emotions and to have a bit of down time.”
David Goodwin Journey who studies Independent Living added: “ It is a very relaxing area, and it is very quiet. I enjoy going there.”
Choosing Higher Education at Cheshire College – South & West will provide you with the opportunity to study locally at one of our three cutting-edge Campuses based in Cheshire.
info@ccsw.ac.uk www.ccsw.ac.uk
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CHESHIRE COLLEGE
WINNERS AWARD
CHESHIRE COLLEGE –SOUTH & WEST STUDENTS SHINE AT WORLDSKILLS UK FINALS
Cheshire College - South & West is celebrating the outstanding achievements of four of its talented students, who brought home gold and silver medals from the prestigious WorldSkills UK Finals. The College is proud to be one of only two English colleges to finish in the top 10, further cementing its reputation for excellence in technical education.
WorldSkills UK is a charity that partners with employers, government bodies, and education providers to help young people develop key career skills. Through rigorous competitions, students improve their teamwork, problem-solving, time-management and performance under-pressure.
The national finals, which took place at Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall on Friday 22nd November 2024, showcased the incredible dedication and talent of the participants, who spent months preparing for the event.
The WorldSkills UK National Finals challenged competitors with a series of intricate, industry-specific tasks that tested their expertise.
Veronika, Kris, and Malakai shone brightly in the 3D Digital Game Art competition, with Veronika claiming Gold, Kris securing Silver, and Malakai earning a High Commendation from the judges. The talented trio were challenged to design and create two distinct 3D objects—one solid and one organic—demonstrating their exceptional skills and creativity in the
world of digital game art.
Gold medal winner in 3D Digital Games Art, and now Games Art student at Staffordshire University, Veronika (pictured right), 19, commented:
“ I spent an incredible four days among people who share my passion and talent. Competing for first place was exciting as I was in a room with the best students in my field.”
She added,
“ The gold medal will be a constant reminder of how important it is to strive for something and achieve your goals.”
Lecturer in Games Development, Iain McCluskey said:
“ I can not put into words how immensely proud I am of our medal winners. They went through a gruelling process to get to the finals and did amazing to take both the gold and silver medals by impressing our judges. All are fully deserving of this amazing achievement.”
Kris, 18, studying HNC Games Development at the College, was awarded a silver medal in 3D Digital Games Art. He added:
“ The whole medal ceremony was huge and bigger than I expected it to be. I enjoyed it so much, if could do it again I would.”
For hospitality students, the finals featured a dynamic range of challenges, including wine recognition, smoked salmon carving, orchestrating a live afternoon tea service, flambéing pineapple, and carving duck live for service. Additionally, competitors demonstrated skills in serving vegetables, pairing wines, and expertly portioning gateaux—all while performing before a live audience.
Jayden (pictured right), 17, studying Level 3 Hospitality Food and Beverage Supervision, achieved Silver in Restaurant Service. Reflecting upon his experience he said:
“ John supported me just the right amount. The competition was intense, but after learning from my mistakes on day one, I gained more confidence and came back stronger on
day two. It’s a huge achievement, and I’m incredibly proud of myself.”
John Holden, lecturer in Hospitality at Cheshire College commented:
“ It’s clear when a student is truly committed to pushing themselves further. Jayden has taken full ownership of his development, and it’s been amazing to watch him grow through this process. We’re all very proud of him.”
John added:
“ Jayden clearly recognised
where he’d made mistakes and where he needed to improve. But his response was nothing short of impressive, refocused, and came back with determination that saw finish in 2nd place.”
As an exciting next step, there is now the possibility that the students will be selected for the WorldSkills International Competition in Shanghai in 2025, providing them with an incredible opportunity to represent the UK on the global stage.
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At Cheshire College we offer GCSE and Functional Skills qualifications in both English and maths. After we receive your application, you will be invited to Campus to take an assessment so we can enrol you on the course that is right for you.
Seventeen students from Cheshire College – South & West were celebrated in November for their exceptional achievements at the annual Freemen and Guilds Awards.
The prestigious ceremony took place in the theatre at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus, attended by students and their families, College
staff, Guild members, and special guests.
The Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and comprises 23 Guilds including the Joiners, Carvers and Turners, Bricklayers, Clothworkers, Walkers and Masons, and Barber Surgeons. The Guilds
were established to represent local tradesmen, maintain the quality of their goods, and support the recruitment and training of apprentices.
Today, the Freemen and Guilds Awards aim to celebrate young talent in trades aligned with the Guilds, ensuring the preservation and future success of these essential crafts.
Reflecting on this year’s ceremony, President of the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester, and member of the Baker’s Guild, Sara Smith, commented:
“ It’s always a privilege to be part of this special evening with Cheshire College, meeting such talented students and presenting these awards. Every student has so much to be proud of, and we are thrilled to celebrate their achievements.
The partnership between the
Guilds and the College has now extended to 56 years. It began in 1968 when our then President, Bill Dutton, proposed an annual awards ceremony to recognise students excelling in their crafts. We are incredibly proud of this longstanding tradition and look forward to it continuing for many more years to come.”
The evening began with a drinks and canapé reception prepared by the College’s Hospitality and Catering
students. Awards presented on the night included the Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award, the Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award, and Weavers Award, among others.
Clara (pictured left), 16, studying Professional Cookery Diploma Level 2 received the Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award. She commented:
“ I’ve had so many favourite moments at the College, I honestly could not pick just one. The College has supported me throughout, even by just winning this award.
When I started college, I was as shy as can be, so I have learnt not to be afraid to speak up. I’m planning to stay at college to do a Level 3 course in Hospitality. I love working with desserts and pastries so I would love to be a pastry chef.”
Shaun, 41, studying Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Level 3 received the Saddlers and Curriers Award. He commented:
“ I have always chosen to study at Cheshire College, I have done Technical Theatre, Catering and my Maths and English here. The College support me all the time, especially my
PDT and tutors. Getting stuck into practical work throughout my course has been my favourite part, I just love mechanics; it keeps my mind focused, so I would love to be a mechanic in the future.”
Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College, expressed her pride in the students: “ As the demand for technically skilled professionals continues to grow in Britain, our partnership with the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester is more important than ever. Watching our students excel at their craft and being recognised at such a prestigious event is truly inspiring.
Congratulations to all the award winners on their remarkable achievements — we are confident that their skills, passion, and hard work will have a hugely positive impact in their industries, local communities, and the wider economy.”
FULL LIST OF 2024 AWARD WINNERS
Isabella Osborne
14-16 Pre-Apprentice Award for Outstanding Achievement
Christian Evans
Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award
Takudzwa Kambasha Bakers Award
Deborah Clarke
Barber Surgeons, Wax and Tallow Chandlers Co Award
Lewis Gilmartin Butchers Award
Roxanne Oliver
Cappers, Pinners, Wiredrawers & Linendrapers Award
Juliette Clowes
Clothworkers, Walkers and Masons Company Award
Mufaro Baiwa Coopers Company Award
Clara Rabadan-Escobar Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award
Michael Brown
Joiners and Carvers Company Award
Milissa Simon
Ladies' Section of the Freeman and Guilds Awards
Ethan Elmer
Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries Award - Ironmongers Award
Alicia Howell
Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries Award - Pharmacy Award
Harvey Dean
Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award
Shaun O'Marah
Saddlers and Curriers Award
Lillie Parry
Smiths, Cutlers and Plumbers Award
Antony Daniells Weavers Award
Association of Apprentices (AoA)
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Connecting with other, like-minded Apprentices
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End point assessment support
CHESHIRE COLLEGE CELEBRATES FIVE YEARS OF SUPPORTING STUDENTS WITH FESTIVE HAMPERS
Cheshire College is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its heartwarming Festive Hamper initiative, which has donated over 2,000 hampers to students over the past five years. This year’s effort has earned recognition from local Members of Parliament, highlighting the significant impact the scheme has on students during the festive season.
The Festive Hampers which were
filled with food, toiletries, and other treats, are made possible through the generosity of several local suppliers. Ruth Szolkowska, Vice Principal (Innovation, Curriculum and Quality) commented:
“ We are incredibly grateful to the local businesses who have supported us this year, including Dunsters, Proper Cornish, Harlech, Turner and Wright, Barr, and
Mornflake. Their contributions make a real difference, ensuring our students have access to a variety of essential and festive items during the holiday season. ”
The hampers were offered to students receiving the enhanced bursary, as well as those referred by the College’s support services. The initiative is designed to relieve some of the financial pressures faced by many
students, ensuring that everyone can participate in the celebrations and feel supported during the festive period.
Cheshire College’s commitment to student welfare has garnered praise from local MPs, with both Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich, and Justin Madders, MP for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough, acknowledging the positive impact of the scheme.
Connor Naismith, MP for Crewe and Nantwich commented:
“ Initiatives like this are vital, especially at Christmas, as they offer extra support for families who may need it. It's fantastic to see the College and students involved in a creative project that not only supports the community but also showcases their talent.”
He added,
“ Projects like this strengthen the link between the College and the
local area, demonstrating that the College is more than just an academic institution; it's truly the heart of the community.”
Justin Madders, MP for Ellesmere Port and Bromborough added:
“ It was heartwarming to see the real effort and care that goes into these hampers from a huge number of people involved with the college. It is a really important initiative ensuring that people are not forgotten that students are given the opportunity to give something back to the community and that this can make a real difference to a person’s festive experience.”
At the heart of the initiative is the involvement of the College’s students. Those from the Health and Social Care department were involved in packing the hampers along with the Student Senate, gaining valuable practical
experience while giving back to the College community.
Additionally, Hospitality students from the Academy Restaurant used their culinary skills to prepare special items for the hampers, highlighting the College's emphasis on practical learning and student engagement.
The Christmas Hamper scheme reflects Cheshire College’s broader commitment to supporting its students in every aspect of their lives. The College strives to ensure that all students have the resources and support they need to succeed academically and personally.
The scheme is a prime example of how the College continues to prioritise student well-being, helping to ease financial burdens and ensure all students can enjoy the festive season.
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 closer look at our Campuses through our virtual maps and let us know what you think!
We’d love to hear more! Send your news to p.release@ccsw.ac.uk so we can include it in our next issue. HAVE A STORY
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