at COLLEGE CHESHIREYou can
to Cheshire College Welcome
Beginning your journey at College is the start of an exciting new chapter, and we’re excited to welcome you into our community. This guide will introduce you to life at Cheshire College, so you can learn more about who we are, what you can expect, and the exciting steps ahead of you.
Expect to make new friends, have lots of new experiences, and gain skills and knowledge that will set you up for a successful future. Whether you are aiming for university, want to find an apprenticeship, or plan to move straight into employment, we’re here to help you achieve your goals.
As the largest provider of post-16 education in Cheshire,
across our three state-of-the-art Campuses. Your chosen programme of study will always be delivered at the Campus that you enrol at, so there won’t be any need to travel across our sites.
With over 10,000 students and 1,000 apprentices, our mission is to provide outstanding support for each and every student to ensure that they leave us with the skills that they need to excel. This includes additional learning support, which is tailored to meet your needs.
At Cheshire College, you'll be taught by experienced industry professionals in our modern, cutting-edge facilities, ensuring that you gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed. Thanks to our strong partnerships with local and national employers, you will also have access to valuable work placements and key industry insights. We also work closely with a variety of excellent universities to provide you with the best opportunities and experiences.
We are immensely proud of our College and the students who learn with us. If you have any questions about our courses or Campus facilities, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Jasbir Dhesi OBE
You can College
at Cheshire
One of the most important things I have learnt at College is that you have to put the effort in to reap the rewards. Making the most of what's around you is key to unlocking your full potential, and whilst it may be tough to open your mind to new ideas, it can be so worth it when you succeed.
Cheshire College has helped me to become mature and responsible, and has shaped the way I approach challenges, people, and life in general. My interactions with my lecturers, Personal Development Tutor (PDT), and friends have all played a key role in helping me grow - both socially and in the way I approach my studies.
Alexander Kertolli | Student Governor, Crewe Campus Studying A Level Law, Economics, and Business Member of the Student Senate
My favourite thing about studying at Cheshire College is that I have the freedom to do what I want, and your lecturers always treat you like an adult. It is refreshing to be able to just chill outside or hang out with friends in the cafeteria during breaks, or head to the library or a quiet study space to revise and work on assignments.
Top tips from Alexander to help you make the most of your time at Cheshire College:
Come prepared for the course(s) that you have chosen and always try your best.
Reach out for support – it’s really easy to access extra help and guidance.
The most important tip is to have fun and make the most of your time at College!
invested in our cutting-edge facilities £165m
Strong focus and green technology sustainability on over 500 with Proud to work
local, national, and international employers
WhyChoose Us?
Proud to be at the forefront of innovation and technology, as the lead training provider for the Cheshire and Warrington Institute of Technology. Find out more on page 40!
Rated ‘Strong for Skills’ by Ofsted
Access to real-world learning environments:
Fully equipped replica hospital wards
State-of-the-art motor vehicle workshops
Immersive aircraft training centre
And much more!
For more about our cutting-edge facilities head to page 34. FREE FREE pass rates in A Levels, T Levels, and BTECs
Lots of activities, clubs, and Skills Competitions
Largest
provider of post-16 education
in Cheshire
Transport Breakfast for all students aged to prepare you 16–18 years old for your day
Your College
Full-time Programmes
You can:
Focus on what you love
Specialise in one subject area that matches your interests and career goals.
Prepare to take your next step
Gain the skills needed to progress to university, an apprenticeship, or straight into employment.
Learn by doing
Gain hands-on experience in real work environments and benefit from using industry-standard equipment.
Find the right level for you
Study at the level that suits you best, with course options from Entry Level all the way up to Level 3.
Show what you know
Be assessed through a balanced mix of exams, coursework, and practical projects, so you can show off your skills and knowledge.
Boost your core skills
Continue working towards GCSE Maths and English, if you haven’t yet achieved a grade 4/C, with dedicated support built into your programme.
A Levels | Crewe Campus only
You can:
Explore your passions
Choose from 30 diverse subjects, so you can expand your knowledge in multiple subject areas and keep your options open.
Shape your future
Pursue an academic pathway to university or a higher-level apprenticeship.
Build on what you know
Strengthen and expand the knowledge you gained during your GCSEs.
Sharpen your skills
Develop essential research and analytical skills that will support you in further education and beyond.
Experience real-world learning
Study in professional environments, and benefit from using state-of-the-art specialist equipment.
Demonstrate your understanding
Be assessed through a tailored combination of exams and coursework, which has been designed to showcase your strengths.
Apprenticeships
You can:
Start an apprenticeship your way
Whether you’re already employed or looking for the perfect match, Cheshire College’s strong industry connections and expert delivery will get you off to a great start.
Learn on the job
Gain valuable hands-on experience that prepares you for real-world challenges and sets you up for employment.
Earn while you learn
Get paid to work alongside experienced professionals and build valuable jobspecific skills to help you achieve your career goals.
Assessed by industry experts
You will be assessed both in the workplace and at College to ensure your skills meet professional standards.
Achieve a nationally recognised qualification
End your apprenticeship with an attractive qualification which boosts your career prospects.
Pathways
T Levels
Focus your learning
Specialise in one subject area and expand your theoretical knowledge in the classroom, while building hands-on skills in the workplace.
Gain practical knowledge and skills
Develop your skills in preparation for seeking skilled employment, further study, or higher-level apprenticeships.
Benefit from a carefully tailored
study programme
Spend around 80% of your time in the classroom and complete a minimum of 45 days’ work experience.
Build real-world experience
Learn directly from industry professionals during your comprehensive work placement.
Show off your skills
Be assessed through a balanced mix of exams, coursework, and practical tasks to showcase your abilities.
Secure a strong route to university
Earn UCAS tariff points accepted by degree programmes, so you have a clear pathway to higher education.
Boost your employability
Learn in hands-on environments, so you’re prepared, confident, and ready to step straight into an apprenticeship or employment.
Higher Education
Study at Level 4 or Level 5
Our HNC and HND qualifications have been designed to equip you with the skills that you need to succeed in your chosen industry.
Stay near, go far
Gain a university level qualification, while saving money on course fees and staying close to home.
Benefit from smaller class sizes
Your lecturers can get to know you on a personal level to ensure that they are offering enough support and teaching you in the way that suits you best.
Have a timetable that suits you
Flexible schedules allow you to balance your studies around existing commitments at work or at home.
Access exclusive resources and support
Our strong partnerships with leading universities and industry experts allow you to access additional support and exciting opportunities.
Improve your career prospects
Our courses are designed with employability in mind to help you build key skills and gain employment or advance in your current career.
Course
No formal entry requirements
4 GCSEs
Grade 2/E
5 GCSEs
Grade 3/D
5 GCSEs
Grade 4/C or above
5 GCSEs, including:
Two grade 5/B (or above)
Three grade 4/C (or above)
GCSE Maths & English only
Combination of grade 3/2 (D/E)
GCSE Maths & English only
Combination of grade 4/3 (C/D)
GCSE Maths & English only
Minimum of 4/4 (C/C)
Additional entry criteria
Level 2 Electrical and Plumbing students are required to have a minimum of a grade 4 in GCSE Maths and a grade 3 in GCSE English Language.
A Level subjects have subject-specific entry requirements which will be discussed at your Guidance Meeting.
Entry requirements
Your Application
Application Journey
Open Evenings
Our Open Evenings are a great opportunity for you to explore our Campuses and check out our cutting-edge facilities. Meet and talk to our current students and staff members about the wide range of courses that we offer, so you can make the right decision about your future.
Apply online in just a few minutes and take the first step towards your future. It’s also possible to apply in person at one of our Open Evenings, if you would prefer to speak to someone face to face.
If you need any extra help with your application, get in touch with our friendly admissions team by sending an email to:
admissions@ccsw.ac.uk
Guidance Meeting
This is your chance to ask any questions and find out more about your chosen course. Our lecturers will talk to you about your ambitions and career plans to make sure that the course that you have applied for is right for you.
After your guidance meeting, you will receive your course offer (including any agreed conditions e.g. GCSE grades).
Application
Welcome Day
Updates
Throughout your application journey, we will keep in touch by sending regular updates via email and social media.
Watch out for these messages, as they will typically include important information about upcoming events and dates that you need to be aware of.
We will invite you in to experience a full day on Campus, so you can get a taste of College life. You can meet your lecturers and other students on your course, explore our state-ofthe-art Campus, and find out more about what you will be studying.
Enrolment
Enrolment is the final stage of your application journey and secures your place at Cheshire College. You will come in to Campus to confirm your exam results and enrol on your chosen course.
Once you are enrolled, you are all set and we will share all the information that you need ahead of your first day at College!
Next Stop, Cheshire College
Travel
to College for FREE for the whole year!
We’re proud to offer FREE transport to all full-time students aged 16–18 who live more than one mile away from the Campus where their course is delivered. Our students travel to College from Cheshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Merseyside, North Wales, and beyond. Access to free transport means less stress and more savings, so you can focus on making the most of your College experience!
There are three different options available depending on where you live:
Coach Service (Crewe Campus only)
Deesid
s Quay
The free transport helped me massively. I don’t drive, so it would be a real struggle for me to get to College without that support. Being able to just hop on and off the coach is a big weight off my mind.
Harry
Level 3 Travel and Tourism
Scan here for more information!
Brereton
Support for
Personal Development Tutors (PDTs)
All of our full-time students will have their own PDT, who is there to support and guide them from day one. These skilled tutors will support you throughout your time at College, with weekly meetings to check your progress and offer additional support if needed.
Conveniently located in central areas at each Campus, our team takes a holistic approach to supporting every student’s personal and academic development.
Schools Team
Our passionate Schools Team will often be your first point of contact with the College, and their goal is to provide the key information that you need about life at College. Our friendly team offers a wide range of support services for students at local schools, including one-toone Campus tours, course taster sessions, and careers advice.
To find out more, please send a message to:
schools@ccsw.ac.uk
We’re proud to have a dedicated careers team who can provide access to career planning, information on employment opportunities, CV and application advice and much more! We offer confidential and impartial guidance across all three Campuses to ensure that your time at College sets you up for a bright future in your chosen industry. Step into your future with confidence, backed by expert careers advice and support from day one.
careers@ccsw.ac.uk
Financial Support Careers Team
We want to make sure that studying at College is as affordable and accessible as possible. This is why we offer a wide range of financial support, including FREE* transport and help with meals, uniforms, and equipment costs. Visit our website to find out more about our financial support services or send an email to our bursary team and we’d be happy to have a chat and check if you are eligible for support.
bursary@ccsw.ac.uk
*Free transport is available for students aged 16–18 who live over 1 mile away from Campus and is not means tested.
Health and Wellbeing
Your health and wellbeing will always be our top priority. At College, you’ll have easy access to a wide range of support services designed to help you stay healthy and feel supported. Whether you need advice, someone to talk to, or help with managing a challenge, our team of fully trained counsellors and wellbeing coaches are here for you.
We also work closely with trusted external services and can connect you with the right support if you need more specialised advice or guidance.
SEND Support
Our dedicated Additional Learning Support Team is here to help you thrive during your time at College. Their expert knowledge and experience allows them to provide a range of support for students with Special Educational Needs (SEND) and inclusion needs.
Support is tailored to each student, so the best way to ensure that you receive the right help is by letting us know what you need.
We also work closely with local authorities and external agencies to make sure you have access to the right resources and guidance to reach your goals. Whatever your journey looks like, we're here to help you achieve your full potential.
The College has the facilities to help me with my coursework and other things I need support with. It’s been really helpful!
Emlyn Learning for Life & Work
Develop New Skills!
I’ve found the experience really positive. I started at Level 1, so I’ve been at Cheshire College for 5 years!
The lecturers are very good and the work that you do here is extremely relevant to what happens in the industry.
Kieran HND in Computing
Skills!
At Cheshire College, you’ll learn in a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment at one of our three state-of-the-art Campuses. Every student will benefit from exceptional facilities, plus a wide variety of clubs and extracurricular activities designed to help you make friends and discover new interests. And if you need a quiet moment to recharge, there are dedicated sensory friendly spaces available at each of our Campuses.
YourCampuses
Each Campus has an on-site Costa Coffee, a range of food outlets to suit all tastes and dietary needs, and on-site shops at our Ellesmere Port and Crewe Campuses. Whether you're looking for a place to study, relax with friends, or enjoy some quiet time, you’ll always find a space that feels right for you.
Want to see it all for yourself?
Come along to one of our Open Evenings and explore everything that Cheshire College has to offer!
Crewe Campus Dane Bank Avenue, Crewe CW2 8AB
Crewe is the largest of our three Campuses, offering an impressive range of facilities designed to inspire and support your learning. Here, you’ll find a dynamic mix of spaces including a multi-purpose sports hall with a climbing wall, a fully equipped fitness gym, professional-standard TV and radio studios, the Academy Restaurant, modern hair and beauty salons, a 176-seat theatre, and cutting-edge engineering and construction workshops focused on green skills.
At Crewe Campus, you can access cutting-edge facilities with 3D printers, drones, virtual reality (VR) equipment, a simulated hospital ward, and so much more. We’re always investing in the latest technology to keep our facilities at the forefront of innovation, and we’re proud to be the home of a brand new Institute of Technology Building.
Chester Campus
Eaton Road, Handbridge, Chester CH4 7ER
Our Chester Campus is just a short walk from the River Dee and all that Chester has to offer. The Campus features modern classrooms and industry-standard facilities, including fully equipped photography and art and design workshops, a professional Esports studio, advanced science labs, and 4K video recording equipment.
Need a quiet space to focus or catch up with friends?
Head to our cosy meeting pods on the second floor, which are perfect for study sessions or a well-earned break.
Though Chester is our smallest campus, it’s got a lot to offer. Our state-of-theart Digital Hub building is a vibrant space designed for fashion communication, business, and IT students, as well as the wider community. Inside, you will find top-of-the-line tech, from interactive learning tools to 3D printers, to ensure our students gain hands-on experience with the latest industry-standard equipment.
Our Ellesmere Port Campus is ideally located near the town centre and is packed with outstanding teaching and training facilities that have been designed to support your career goals. You’ll have access to professional training kitchens, a fully equipped gym, tennis courts, the Academy West Restaurant, high-end hair and beauty salons, our specialist aircraft training centre, a simulated hospital ward, and a 150-seat theatre.
Ellesmere Port Campus
Off Sutton Way, Ellesmere Port CH65 7BF
Our specialist construction and engineering workshops focus on green skills, including a purpose-built sustainable house, where students can gain hands-on experience with the latest zero-carbon technologies. The motor vehicle workshops also feature industry-standard ramps and a Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) bay to prepare students for the future of the automotive industry.
I chose Cheshire College because I went to the Welcome Day, and the Campus and lessons were great.
I’ve met a lot of friendly people, and I’ve got three amazing lecturers teaching my lessons. It’s a really good College.
Damain
Level 3 Games Development
Enrichment at Cheshire College
It’s more than just a course!
Life on Campus is more than just what you learn in the classroom or during a work placement. It’s also about becoming part of a vibrant community and having the chance to make new friends, try something new, and build new and exciting skills.
There are a wide variety of clubs, activities, and Skills Competitions to get involved in, including sports clubs, LGBTQ+ groups, Student Senate, our student magazine and much more. There is a place for everyone here at Cheshire College — and if you can’t see a club you like, we can provide the support that you need to set up your own!
Some of our most popular extracurricular activities and clubs include:
Basketball
Book Club
Charities Committee
Debating Club
Dungeons & Dragons
E Sports
Feminist Group
Football (men’s & women’s clubs)
Gym Club
Law Society
Lego Club
LGBTQ+ Group
Photography Club
Student Magazine
Student Senate
Our Futures
Programme
Our Futures Programme is designed to help you take your next step, whether that’s university, employment, or another post-18 pathway. You’ll follow a tailored route that builds your skills, confidence, and ambition through a mix of academic and professional development opportunities.
As part of the programme, you can also choose to join one of our specialist pathways: the Scholars Programme or the Honours Programme.
Scholars Programme
Delivered by a dedicated team of Oxbridge specialists, this exclusive programme offers tailored training experiences designed to prepare you for success in higher education. If your goal is to study medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, or secure a place at the University of Oxford or Cambridge, this pathway is built just for you.
Entry is based on academic achievement, as the Scholars Programme is specially crafted to support students applying early through UCAS. Our mission is to give you the advantage that you need to shine in your university applications and beyond.
Honours Programme
The Honours Programme is designed for ambitious students who are aiming to secure a place at top universities (e.g. Russell Group universities) or access to high-level employment and apprenticeships.
The Russell Group represents 24 of the UK’s leading universities, renowned for world-class research, exceptional teaching, and outstanding learning opportunities. These universities also have strong connections with businesses and the public sector, opening doors to exciting career pathways and real-world experiences.
Key features of the Scholars Programme:
Specialist support and bespoke enrichment activities
Oxford Partnership Programme in English, philosophy, the humanities, languages, and science
Oxbridge coaching for competitive courses in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary subjects
Online resources and help with preparing for the admissions test and interviews
Key features of the Honours Programme:
Exciting networking events with industry experts and academics
Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in your chosen field
Receive bespoke support and access to skills workshops, talks by guest speakers, careers fairs, and trips
4 tailored pathways to choose from (Aspiring Scientists, Leaders, Creators, and Academics)
InspireBelieve Achieve
Set yourself goals and then address how you are going to achieve them. You are in control of your own future.
The Honours Programme provided a great level of support in exploring my options.
Sam
A Level Economics, Politics, Business
What does the future hold for
No matter what your goal is, we’re here to help you achieve your dreams. We want your time at College to give you an advantage when it comes to taking your next steps, and our mission is to support you every step of the way.
Many of our students go on to exciting destinations such as university, employment, higher-level courses, apprenticeships, traineeships, and scholarships.
Thinking about university?
If you’re passionate about pursuing higher education, we’ve got you covered. Take part in exclusive workshops and talks led by our university partners, and get personalised, one-to-one support at every stage of your application — right up to accepting your offer! Many of our students have gone on to study at top UK universities, including the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford. We even have university level courses at Cheshire College!
Aiming for employment?
Many of our students leave us and step straight into exciting careers, thanks to the valuable skills they’ve gained and our strong links with local, national, and international employers. Every full-time student also completes a work placement as part of their course, which is a great way to build your CV, gain real-world experience, and boost your employability — you might even get a job offer!
My time at College has been really empowering and it’s helped to boost my confidence!
The staff have really helped me, not only inside College, but with support for things outside of College and moving on to university.
Leilani
Level 3 Health and Social Care
Want to earn while you learn?
An apprenticeship could be the perfect next step for you, with options available from Level 2 all the way up to Level 6 (degree apprenticeships). You’ll earn a wage, build in-demand skills, and gain hands-on experience in your chosen industry — all while working towards a nationally recognised qualification. It’s quick and easy to join our online Talent Pool to access help with CV writing and applying for vacancies.
Scan here to find out more
Our Facilities
Where you can turn bold ideas into reality!
All three of our modern Campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and immersive learning environments, specifically designed to prepare students for success in their chosen industries.
Benefit from realistic healthcare training:
Gain hands-on experience in our 8-bed replica hospital wards and master 3D anatomy with our interactive anatomage tables.
Develop desirable engineering skills: Train in state-of-the-art motor vehicle and engineering workshops, which have been designed to reflect real-world industry settings.
Future proof your CV with green skills: Learn in-demand construction skills and explore new eco-friendly technologies within our fully functioning sustainable house.
Dive into the latest technology:
Gain access to VR headsets, 3D printers, and life-sized robotics, as part of our mission to equip students for skilled digital careers.
Soar into your future with our Aircraft Training Centre:
Train inside a realistic aircraft cabin and gain hands-on experience that sets you apart in the tourism and aviation industry.
Fine dining — at a fraction of the price:
Dine in our award-winning Academy
Restaurants or train behind the scenes with expert hospitality professionals.
Step into the spotlight:
Take to the stage in our top-tier theatre spaces, or use our fully equipped podcast, film, and radio studios to bring your ideas to life.
Cutting-edge hair salons and beauty studios:
Train in our professional on-site hair, beauty, and spa facilities, where you’ll work with real clients and build the skills you need for a successful career in the hair and beauty industry.
Raising the bar with our on-site gyms:
Unlock your potential with our fully equipped gyms, sports arenas, and tennis courts to reach your fitness goals or kickstart your career in the industry.
Snapshot of Success
At Cheshire College, you’ll have the chance to put your talents to the test in exciting local and national competitions. Some of our students even go on to compete internationally, and we’re proud to be multi-medal winners at the prestigious WorldSkills championships. These competitions are a fantastic way to showcase what you’ve learnt on your course, and you’ll receive full support every step of the way to help you succeed!
We’re also proud to celebrate our students’ success every year with our Student Awards, Apprenticeship Awards, and Freemen and Guilds Awards.
Cheshire
College Chronicle
Student Showcases
Issued monthly, you’ll find an abundance of good news stories, features and updates from students and staff across Cheshire College’s three Campuses.
Student Awards
Greener Tomorrow Building a Together
We’re fully committed to creating a cleaner, greener world, with a clear goal of reaching net zero emissions. Every decision about our
College is made with sustainability in mind, so we can help to build a healthier planet and a brighter future for all.
Collaborate with employers to provide access to the latest sustainable technologies.
Raise environmental awareness through comprehensive training programmes.
Invest in cutting-edge, eco-friendly facilities and equipment to support green learning.
Offer innovative courses focused on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Implement smart energy and waste management practices across our Campuses.
Provide opportunities for partners to share their journeys to net zero.
Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations located on Campus.
Use of light sensors to reduce energy waste across our facilities.
Minimise waste sent to landfill by promoting recycling and reuse.
Protect local ecology and biodiversity by reducing our environmental footprint.
Actively reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions through ongoing improvements.
Offer free transport initiatives to lower environmental impact and encourage greener travel.
The Cheshire and Warrington Institute of Technology (IoT) is an exciting partnership between local further and higher education providers and leading employers. Together, we will deliver high-quality technical training designed to close the skills gap and shape the workforce of the future.
Our Crewe Campus is home to one of the new Cheshire and Warrington Institute of Technology buildings, a dedicated state-of-the-art engineering facility which opened to students in Autumn 2025.
Cheshire College is incredibly proud to be the lead provider for the Cheshire and Warrington IoT, in collaboration with Macclesfield College, Reaseheath College, Warrington Vale Royal College, and our research partner, the University of Chester. The region will benefit from £15 million of investment to support this cutting-edge project.
As part of a national network of Institutes of Technology across England, we’re working closely with industry experts to deliver world-class education in key STEM areas (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). By aligning training with employer needs, we’re helping businesses grow and ensuring that students gain the skills and opportunities needed to succeed in highly skilled careers.
IoTs are designed to:
Have an economic impact by providing the skills that local, regional, and national employers need now and in the future.
Have a social impact by attracting a wider range of students to address the lack of diversity in some parts of the technical workforce.
Drive skills growth by increasing the number of students with a technical qualification, and provide adults with access to flexible higher technical education.
Track Your Application Progress
Open Evenings
Tuesday 7th October 2025
Wednesday 19th November 2025
Wednesday 14th January 2026
Monday 9th February 2026 (Apprenticeship Open Evening | Ellesmere Port)
Application
Submitted Application
Welcome Day
Wednesday 11th February 2026 (Apprenticeship Open Evening | Crewe)
Wednesday 18th March 2026
Thursday 23rd April 2026
Guidance Meeting
Questions I’d like to ask at my Guidance Meeting
Enrolment
Course Shortlist
Notes
Our Courses
for Speakers of Other Languages
Higher Education
Get in Touch!
If you have any questions about our courses or facilities, we’d be happy to help. Get in touch today using the contact details below!
All information correct at the time of printing.
Crewe Campus
01270 654654
info@ccsw.ac.uk
Ellesmere Port Campus
01244 656555
info@ccsw.ac.uk
Chester Campus
01244 656555
info@ccsw.ac.uk