Cheshire College – South & West proudly celebrated the achievements of its Higher Education students with a formal graduation ceremony at Chester Cathedral on Wednesday, 22nd October.
The ceremony brought together graduates of university-level courses from the College’s Crewe, Ellesmere Port, and Chester campuses, alongside peers and college staff for a memorable day of celebration.
Graduates were awarded qualifications across a diverse range of disciplines, including Engineering, Computing, Performing Arts, Business, and Education.
Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College, said:
“Graduation day is always one of the highlights of the year. It’s a moment to celebrate the incredible achievements of our students, many of whom have balanced work, family, and study to reach this point. Congratulations and the very best of luck to all graduates as they take their next steps.”
Hannah Crockett, HND Engineering graduate, said:
“I’m currently in full-time employment and wanted to do Higher Education part-time. I really liked the flexibility and the fact that everyone is so friendly — there are so many opportunities here. I’m going to continue my education and go to university to do the top-up year so I can gain a full degree.”
Jo Francis, Lecturer in Education and Training, commented:
“It’s been an absolute pleasure teaching some of the students in this cohort — they’ve engaged in everything they’ve done. Graduation isn’t just a celebration of the certificate; it’s a celebration of everything else also conquered along the way.”
“It’s a really important time for reflection and for thinking about how graduates want to take their career forward and keep developing.”
Guest speaker Kamal Ellis-Hyman delivered an inspiring address, encouraging graduates to embrace the next stage of their personal and professional journeys.
The College’s Higher Education provision is closely aligned to local and regional skills priorities, ensuring students graduates with the knowledge, technical expertise, and professional networks sought by sought by employers across Cheshire and beyond.
Through strong partnerships with leading organisations, including Bentley, NHS, and Unipart, students benefit from invaluable real-world experience, with many completing higher-level apprenticeships alongside their studies.
“We have invested heavily in resources and facilities for Higher Education students because we are passionate about ensuring they have access to quality education, first-class facilities, and personalised teaching. That commitment continues to underpin our role as a leading provider of skills across the region.” Dhesi added.
Cheshire College offers a wide range of Higher Education qualifications, including Higher National Certificates (HNCs), Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), and professional qualifications, designed to provide flexible pathways for all.
With lower tuition fees than traditional universities, flexible study options, smaller class sizes, and strong employer links, the College provides a supportive and career-focused environment. Many students go on to complete to full degrees after their HNDs, with financial support available via Student Finance England.
As the lead education provider in the Cheshire and Warrington Institute of Technology, the College is at the forefront of shaping the region’s skills agenda. Its brand-new, two-storey IoT engineering facility at Crewe Campus will play a vital role in enhancing higher technical education and expanding opportunities for future students.
Cheshire College is now welcoming Higher Education applications for the 2026/27 academic year. To find out more or to apply, visit www.ccsw.ac.uk.