Fifteen extraordinary Cheshire College – South & West students were recognised for their achievements last night at the prestigious Freemen and Guilds Awards 2023.
The ceremony, hosted within the theatre at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus, is an annual tradition and an occasion of great importance for both Cheshire College and the Freemen and Guilds.
The Freemen and Guilds of The City of Chester dates back as far as 1190, and they were originally established to represent local tradesmen, protect the quality of their goods and train apprentices. In the ensuing 800 years, the Freemen have also been involved in many civic events.
Today, the Freemen and Guilds Awards are presented to Cheshire College students who have achieved trade qualifications and apprenticeships aligned with the trade crafts of the various Guild companies, ensuring their trade’s survival for future generations.
The College’s students receive industry standard training on Campus and have access to world-class training facilities including Crewe Campus’ Hospital Ward and Anatomage Tables, Ellesmere Port Campus’ bespoke Motor Vehicle, Construction and Engineering Workshop and robotics, and Chester Campus’ Media Booths, TV Studios, Gaming Suites, Digital Hub and 3D printers.
Reflecting on the award ceremony, President of the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester, and member of the Baker’s Guild, Sara Smith, shared: “It is such a privilege to be involved with Cheshire College for this special evening, meeting the students and presenting the Awards. All students should be very proud of themselves, and we are delighted to celebrate their success.”
“The association between the Guilds and the College goes back 55 years. The President at the time, Mr Bill Dutton, proposed an annual ceremony to encourage and promote students who have excelled in their crafts represented by the various Guilds. We are very proud of our association with the College and hope it continues for another 55 years!”
The evening began with a drinks and canapé reception, provided by the College’s Hospitality and Catering students, and the ceremony’s accolades included the Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award, the Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award, and the Early Years Award, amongst others.
Level 3 Professional Cookery & Patisserie student Phoebe was one of many winners at the ceremony, taking home the Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award. When asked about her nomination and success she commented: “I felt honoured when I found out I was nominated for the award. I’m always willing to help out with Front of House at College events, and it’s so rewarding that my hard work has been recognised.”
Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO at Cheshire College commented: “As Britain’s economy is calling out for more and more technically skilled professionals, our relationship with the Freemen and Guilds of Chester remains of vital importance.”
“All the award winners deserve huge congratulations for their success, and we are confident their skills and hard work will go on to help local communities, the economy, and their chosen industries.”
Full list of award winners
- Zarr Jaffrey – 14-16 Pre-Apprentice Award for Outstanding Achievement
- Eddie Lloyd – Joiners and Carvers Company Award
- Luke Graves – Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award
- Amber Wess – Ladies’ Section of the Freeman and Guilds Awards
- Jacob Daniels – Coopers Company Award
- Cole Gilmour – Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries Award – Ironmongers Award
- Jessica Hope – Barber Surgeons, Wax and Tallow Chandlers Co Award
- Nathan Price – Butchers Award
- Phoebe Whitley-Smith – Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award
- Lucy Humphreys – Bakers Award
- Karol Matuszewski – Saddlers and Curriers Award
- Thomas Gibson – Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries – Pharmacy Award
- Veronika Kondratiuk – Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award
- Casper Jellicoe – Clothworkers, Walkers and Masons Company Award
- Robyn Bolton – Weavers Award
Cheshire College offer a diverse range of subjects for students of all ages. Whether it is a T Level or A Level course, or a part-time adult course, the College provides the core skills and key technical training required for all students to upskill and future proof their careers.
The College is now accepting applications for new fully funded adult courses that can be studied alongside their day-to-day commitments.