It’s not long now until you join us on Campus, and we’re looking forward to welcoming you to Cheshire College!
Starting College is an exciting new chapter. You’ll meet new people, learn in a different environment and begin working towards your future goals. It’s also completely normal to have questions or even feel a little nervous about what your first day will involve.
To help you feel prepared, here’s everything you need to know before you arrive, along with a few simple tips to help you get off to a great start.
When will my first day at College be?
Your official course start date will depend on the course you are studying. When you enrol at the end of August, we’ll confirm your exact start date and provide you with all the information you need before term begins.
The earliest your course could begin is Tuesday 1st September 2026, which is the first day of our Autumn Term. Please keep an eye on your emails and the information provided during enrolment for confirmation of your individual course start date.
Where should I go when I arrive?
On your first day, simply enter through the main front doors of your Campus. You’ll be welcomed by members of staff and our student ambassadors, who will be there to help you find your way around and answer any questions you have.
You won’t be expected to know where everything is straight away. Your first day will give you plenty of opportunities to explore the Campus and become familiar with the areas you’ll use throughout your time at College.
Our top tip: If you’re not sure where to go, ask! There will be plenty of people around who can point you in the right direction.
What happens on the first day?
Your first day is designed to help you settle into College, meet new people, and feel confident about starting your course.
Your lecturers will have a full day of activities planned, including:
- A tour of your Campus – You’ll be shown the key areas of your Campus, including any key facilities you’ll use regularly.
- Getting to know your classmates – You’ll take part in activities designed to help you meet the other students on your course and feel comfortable with your new classmates.
- Learning more about your course – Your lecturers will introduce you to your course and explain what you can expect to learn during the year.
- Getting settled in – You’ll have time to meet staff, ask questions, and become familiar with your new College environment.
For most students, the first day will usually run from 9:00am to 4:00pm. Your first day may feel different from what you’re used to at school, so give yourself time to settle into your new routine.
When will I collect my bus pass?
If you have applied for our free transport scheme, you’ll be able to collect your bus pass on your first day. Please visit the Transport Team in the Student Hub during your lunch break to collect your pass.
Please remember that you’ll need to make your own way to College on your first day. Once you’ve collected your bus pass, you can start using the free transport scheme straight away.
Haven’t applied for free transport yet?
There’s still time to apply for free transport to College if you’re aged 16–18 and live more than one mile from the Campus where your course is delivered. You can apply using our 2026/2027 Transport Application Form.
If you have questions about our free transport scheme or need help with your application, please email transport@ccsw.ac.uk. You’ll need your student ID number to complete your application, and you can find this in your course offer letter or email. If you can’t find your ID number, our Admissions Team can help you.
What should I bring with me?
You won’t need to bring lots of things with you on your first day, but we recommend bringing a few basics such as:
- A pen and notebook, so you can make notes if you need to
- A bag suitable for carrying your belongings and anything given to you during the day (e.g. notes or handouts)
- Any specific equipment that your course has asked you to bring with you
- A water bottle or other drink
A few things to do before your first day
- Plan your journey – It can be helpful to work out how you’re getting to College and what route you will take. Think about how long your journey will take and give yourself plenty of time, so you aren’t worried about being late on your first day.
- Check your emails – Make sure you are keeping an eye on your email inbox, in case we need to send you any key information before your course begins.
- Use the day before to prepare – It can be useful to make sure you have everything prepared the day before College begins. You could pack your bag, choose an outfit, and set an alarm so you don’t oversleep.
Feeling nervous about your first day?
It’s completely normal to feel nervous before starting somewhere new, and you certainly won’t be the only one feeling this way. You may be wondering who you’ll meet, what your teachers will be like, or whether you’ll be able to find your way around. These are all things that many new students think about before their first day.
Our staff members and student ambassadors will be here to support you throughout your first few weeks and beyond. As you become familiar with your Campus, your course, and your new classmates, you’ll soon start to feel more comfortable.
Remember, you’re not expected to know everything on your first day. Take your time and give yourself the opportunity to settle in.
If you have any questions before your first day on Campus, our friendly Admissions Team is always happy to provide additional support or guidance.
Email: admissions@ccsw.ac.uk
Phone: 01244 656555 (Chester and Ellesmere Port Campuses)
Phone: 01270 654654 (Crewe Campus)
We look forward to seeing you very soon!
