Cheshire College – South & West and Storyhouse, Chester’s independent and award-winning cultural hub and arts centre, have announced an exciting new partnership set to create opportunities for students and strengthen creative and cultural connections across the region.  

Building on their existing collaboration, Cheshire College and Storyhouse have formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding, marking a shared commitment to expanding educational, creative, and professional development opportunities for students, staff, and the wider community.  

The agreement provides a clear framework for strategic collaboration, underpinned by a mutual ambition to nurture talent and elevate cultural activity across Cheshire. 

Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College highlighted the significance of the partnership: 

“Storyhouse plays a vital role in the cultural life of our community, and partnerships like this are key to creating new opportunities for young people.” 

“By embedding cultural activity into our study programmes, we’re not only raising aspirations but also helping students discover the diverse and exciting career pathways within the UK’s fast growing creative industries.” 

Annabel Turpin, Chief Executive of Storyhouse, also welcomed the collaboration: 

“This agreement formalises what has already been a really productive relationship between Storyhouse and Cheshire College. By working together, we can connect students directly with artists, productions and projects, creating meaningful pathways into the creative industries while enriching the cultural life of our region.” 

Through this partnership, students will gain direct access to Storyhouse’s award-winning theatre, cinema, and arts venue, alongside the College’s own cutting-edge technical facilities. This unique blend of resources will enable hands-on learning and meaningful engagement with the creative industries. 

At the heart of the collaboration is a shared vision for long-term regional impact. By connecting education, employers, and the arts, the partnership aims to cultivate a strong pipeline of creative talent and unlock opportunities for students and the wider community through joint events, shared resources, and innovative cultural projects. 

To explore collaboration opportunities with Cheshire College, email employers@ccsw.ac.uk.