CHESHIRE COLLEGE CELEBRATES THE COMMUNITY AT ANNUAL FUN DAY
P. 14
MAY 2026
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 …
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STUDENTS RAISE MONEY FOR THE NATIONAL AUTISTIC SOCIETY THROUGH CHARITY FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT
CHESHIRE & WARRINGTON INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE SHOWCASES THE POWER OF EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY PARTNERSHIP COLLABORATION
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CHESHIRE COLLEGE CELEBRATES THE COMMUNITY AT ANNUAL FUN DAY
CHESHIRE COLLEGE RECOGNISED FOR EXCELLENCE IN SOCIAL MOBILITY AT EDUCATE NORTH AWARDS
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CHESHIRE COLLEGE HOSTS FINAL OF YOUNG NORTH WEST CHEF OF THE YEAR
CHARITY FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT
Students from Cheshire College –South & West’s Uniformed Protective Services and Sport programmes at the Ellesmere Port campus have raised more than £700 for the National Autistic Society after organising and delivering a charity football tournament.
Students took the lead in planning, coordinating, and running a 6-a-side competition, bringing together six teams made up of current students,
staff, and alumni for an afternoon of competitive yet friendly football and community spirit.
The event raised an impressive £712.33 for the National Autistic Society, helping to fund vital support services for autistic people and their families across the UK.
Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO, Cheshire College – South & West commented:
“ It’s been fantastic to see our students take real ownership of this event and show such strong leadership throughout. From planning the tournament to running the day itself, they’ve done an incredible job and should be really proud of what they’ve achieved.”
Jennifer Waddington, Lecturer in Sports and Uniformed Protective
Services added:
“ This annual event is something our students really look forward to each year, and it gives them a fantastic opportunity to build and demonstrate the leadership, teamwork, communication, and organisational skills that are vital within both the protective services and sports industry.”
“ It’s been great to see students from across the courses come together and make such a positive impact while supporting an important charity.”
The event forms part of the College’s wider commitment to providing enrichment opportunities that empower students to build confidence, develop employability skills, and make a positive impact within their communities.
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.
Scan the QR code to see what some of our students say about our incredible Futures Programme.
Head to the Student Hub when you’re on Campus.
simonetta.pearce@ccsw.ac.uk
CHESHIRE & WARRINGTON INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCE SHOWCASES THE POWER OF EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY
PARTNERSHIP COLLABORATION
The Cheshire & Warrington Institute of Technology (CWIoT) brought together students, colleges, employers and regional stakeholders for its Higher Education Project Conference, celebrating innovation, collaboration and the future of higher-level technical education across the region.
Hosted by Cheshire College - South & West as the Institute’s lead partner, and delivered in collaboration with
Macclesfield College, Reaseheath College, Warrington & Vale Royal College and the University of Chester. The event showcased the strength of partnership working between education and industry, with a marketplace-style exhibition of higher education student projects from across the CWIoT network, giving attendees the opportunity to engage directly with students, staff and employer partners
from across CWIoT, exploring projects designed in response to regional skills priorities and industry skills.
Alex Edmunds, Director of the Cheshire & Warrington Institute of Technology, said:
“ It was fantastic to bring together partners from across education and industry to showcase the work taking place through CWIoT. The conference really highlighted
what strong collaboration can achieve in developing the skills our region needs. The projects on display reflect the exceptional higher-technical skills our higher education students continue to develop, alongside the confidence, creativity and passion they bring to their work.”
The conference also featured a keynote address from Chris Johnson of the University of Chester, who explored the theme of project-based innovation through his presentation, Learning Leadership Through Comic Literature, which examined creative approaches to leadership and learning.
Guests also heard from Jack Bate of Terroso, a former degree apprentice at Cheshire College, who reflected on how higher education, technical training and industry experience had supported his career progression.
The programme also included employer discussions, a project review panel and recognition awards celebrating outstanding student achievement. Attendees toured CWIoT facilities, gaining insight into the Institute's growing higher education provision, employer partnerships
and investment in technical learning environments.
The CWIoT is one of 20 Institutes of Technology across the country, helping address regional skills shortages and support economic growth. Specialising in higher technical
education in advanced engineering and manufacturing, agriculture, construction, digital and life sciences, the institute is helping develop a highly skilled workforce and create clear progression routes into skilled careers within the region.
CHESHIRE COLLEGE CELEBRATES THE COMMUNITY AT ANNUAL FUN DAY
Cheshire College – South & West welcomed families, residents, schools and community groups to its annual Community Fun Day, held across its Ellesmere Port, Chester, and Crewe campuses.
The free event celebrated the College’s strong ties with its local communities, bringing together
students, schools, and partners for a day of engaging activities, performances, and interactive workshops.
Visitors enjoyed a packed programme featuring live performances, games, arts and crafts activities, and information stalls, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere across all three campuses.
The popular Crewe Out Loud Festival made its return to Crewe Campus, showcasing a variety of student performances in music, drama, dance, and visual arts from local schools such as The Oaks Academy, Edleston Primary, Gainsborough Primary, Beechwood Primary and Monks Coppenhall Academy.
Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College – South & West commented:
“ Community Fun Day is a great opportunity to celebrate our strong connections with local communities and showcase the talent and creativity of our students and staff. It also provides insight into the wide range of courses and support services we offer.”
“ Events like this are an important part of how we build and maintain strong relationships with our community, and we’re proud to welcome so many families and partners onto our campuses.”
The event also gave prospective students and their families the opportunity to explore the College’s industry-standard facilities, meet teaching staff, and discover more about the wide range of courses, enrichment opportunities, and student support services available.
Anyone interested in joining Cheshire College can book a campus tour to experience College life firsthand, meet staff, and explore the facilities.
For more information or to arrange a campus tour, scan the QR code:
CHESHIRE COLLEGE RECOGNISED FOR EXCELLENCE IN SOCIAL MOBILITY AT
Cheshire College – South & West has won the Liverpool Hope Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Social Mobility at the 2026 Educate North Awards (ENA), one of the North of England’s most prestigious education awards.
The award recognises the impact of the College’s Crewe 42 initiative, a targeted early intervention programme designed to support young people at risk of becoming NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training).
Jasbir Dhesi, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College – South & West, said:
“ Winning the Liverpool Hope Prize for Outstanding Achievement in Social Mobility is a proud moment for the College and recognition of the impact that early intervention and strong partnerships can have on the lives of young people.”
“ Crewe 42 demonstrates what can be achieved when education providers, schools and support services work together to remove barriers,
raise aspirations and create clear progression opportunities for every young person. ”
The 12th ENAs took place at Emirates Old Trafford on 7 May 2026, bringing together more than 700 education leaders, employers and industry partners from across the region.
Delivered in partnership with Cheshire and Warrington Careers Hub, schools, local authority and DWP and funded by the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board (ICB) the programme identified 42 students across Crewe most at risk of disengaging following their transition from school.
Through coordinated multi-agency support, students received tailored guidance, mentoring, and structured progression routes into education and training.
Around 90% of participants progressed into education, employment or training, with many continuing their studies with Cheshire College.
The initiative has been recognised as a scalable model for early intervention, demonstrating the impact of targeted, preventative support in improving long-term outcomes for young people.
The award reflects the College’s wider commitment to improving social mobility, widening participation and ensuring learners across Cheshire can access high quality education and progression opportunities.
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.
CHESHIRE COLLEGE STUDENT WINS NATIONAL YOUNG SOMMELIER TITLE
A Cheshire College - South & West hospitality student has been named Young Sommelier Champion at the prestigious International Wine & Food Society’s (IWFS) Awards Lunch for Young Chef & Sommelier 2026 — one of the UK’s leading competitions for emerging culinary and front-of-house talent.
Leah Wood secured the title in the Young Sommelier category after impressing judges with her wine pairings for two complex dishes, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of flavour balance, guest experience and professional service.
Her winning selections included Gran Hacienda Merlot and Campo Nuevo Tempranillo paired with a Confit Rabbit Ballotine, and Odyssey
Chardonnay with Gran Hacienda Sauvignon Blanc to complement a Seafood Stuffed Savoy Cabbage.
The success marks a significant achievement for Cheshire College’s Hospitality and Catering provision, with two additional students, Ella Blase and Libby Bridge, also reaching the Young Chef finals. Both students were recognised by judges for the high quality of their dishes and their ability to perform under the pressure of competition conditions.
The finals and awards lunch were hosted at Cheshire College in partnership with the IWFS Merseyside & Mid Cheshire Branch, bringing together hospitality professionals, industry leaders and supporters from across the region to celebrate the next
generation of culinary talent.
Ruth Skolkowska, Vice Principal for Innovation, Curriculum and Quality at Cheshire College, said:
“ Competitions of this calibre provide students with invaluable industry experience, allowing them to apply their skills in real-world settings while building confidence and professional networks. Their success is a testament to the exceptional talent being developed at Cheshire College.”
Leah commented:
“ Hospitality and wine service is something I’m incredibly passionate about, and achieving this means so much to me. I’m so proud of all the hard work, research and preparation that went into this competition.”
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University Level Courses Higher Education at Cheshire College
From Higher National Certificates (HNCs) to Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), Cheshire College offers the best industry-relevant course for those who want to secure a successful and sustainable career.
We’re here to help you every step of the way, so you can reach your full potential in a friendly, supportive learning environment. Learn the right skills for your chosen industry and gain the knowledge and confidence needed to meet your goals and take the first steps towards your future.
We offer courses in the following areas:
Applied Science
Level 4 HNC Level 5 HND
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Level 4 HNC (HTQ)
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Level 4 HNC Level 5 HND
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Film and Television
Level 5 HND
Fine Art
Level 4 HNC Level 5 HND
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Health and Social Care Practice
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Performing Arts | Acting
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CHESHIRE COLLEGE HOSTS FINAL OF YOUNG NORTH WEST CHEF OF THE YEAR
Cheshire College – South & West hosted the final of the returning Young North West Chef of the Year at its Ellesmere Port Campus, bringing together the region’s brightest
emerging culinary talent for a showcase of creativity and technical excellence.
Organised by Taste Hospitality Recruitment in partnership with
founder Brian Mellor, the renowned competition returned after a five-year hiatus, reaffirming its status as one of the North West’s leading platforms for aspiring chefs.
The final saw talented young chefs from across Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside compete. Finalists were challenged to produce an exceptional three-course menu for two, while showcasing a commitment to seasonal and regional produce.
Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College said:
“ We are incredibly proud to host the return of the Young Northwest Chef of the Year competition. It’s great to celebrate the exceptional talent emerging across the region and highlight the importance of creating opportunities for young people to develop industry-leading skills and experience.”
“ Our students benefited enormously from being involved in such a high-profile event, working alongside respected chefs and hospitality professionals. It truly reflects our commitment to delivering outstanding career-focused education and strengthening partnerships with industry to help shape the future workforce.”
The event transformed Cheshire College’s Ellesmere Port Campus into
a vibrant centre of culinary excellence, with hospitality and catering students supporting the competition throughout
the day and gaining valuable industry experience alongside leading professionals.
Performing arts students from the College also delivered a live performance during the evening awards ceremony, showcasing the breadth of talent across the College.
The winner of the competition, Hope Ryall-Thurlow, secured first place with an outstanding performance throughout the final. Hope has also earned a place in the semi-final of the Young National Chef of the Year, organised by the Craft Guild of Chefs — an opportunity widely recognised as a stepping stone to national culinary success.
The return of Young Northwest Chef of the Year marks an exciting new chapter for the region’s hospitality industry, offering young chefs a unique platform to gain recognition, develop their skills and take the next step towards successful culinary careers.
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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