Access to HE Learner, Isabelle Langton-Davies has secured an offer to study at The Royal School of Needlework, based in Hampton Court Palace, turning her dream into a reality.  

21-year-old Isabelle, joined the College in September 2020, after instantly making a connection with tutors at one of the College’s open evenings. Isabelle, who previously studied Maths, Physics and Economics A Levels, started embroidering in her free time, but following her Mum’s advice of ‘do what you love’, decided to pursue her passion and enrolled on the College’s Access to Higher Education – Design pathway.   

Before joining the College, Isabelle had no Art & Design qualifications, but knew she wanted a fulfilling career in something that she found enjoyment from.  

Isabelle said: “The variety of experiences and opportunities available as a Cheshire College learner are phenomenal. The tutors are extremely inspiring and go above and beyond to support our ambitions.  

“I thought my dreams of studying at The Royal School of Needlework were outrageous, but over the last year I have boosted my confidence and I now have the courage to follow my dreams, however crazy they may initially seem.  

“Deciding on your next steps can be really daunting, especially at 16 when you are leaving school and your friends for the first time, however I encourage everyone to take time to find something you are passionate about.” 

Rachel Davies, Art & Design Tutor, said: “I am absolutely delighted Isabelle has secured an offer to study at The Royal School of Needlework. She has worked extremely hard, and her achievements are testament to the dedication and commitment she has put into her studies over the last year.   

“Our Access to Higher Education – Design course enables learners to experience working within different Art and Design disciplines during taught workshops from specialist staff, as well independently revisiting areas they wish to specialise in, ultimately, providing learners with the knowledge, awareness and skills they need to progress into Higher Education.” 

As the largest provider of post-16 education in Cheshire, the College offers 5 specialist Access to Higher Education routes at its 3 Campuses in Crewe, Ellesmere Port and Chester:  

• Design
• Health Professionals 
• Science  
• Social Science and Humanities  
• Social Science with Law 

As the academic year draws to a close, success continues for Access to Higher Education – Health Professional learners, Jonathon Mackay, Rebecca Coles and Felicity Milazzo who were all named winners of the Outstanding Commitment to Study award at this year’s virtual Open College Network West Midlands Brian May ‘Access to Higher Education (HE)’ Learner Awards. 

Ruth Szolkowska, Vice Principal – Innovation, Curriculum and Quality, commented: “We have all been very impressed with the positive and mature attitudes our Access to Higher Education learners have shown towards their studies. Each and every one has shown an exceptional desire for learning and education, and we are delighted that their dedication has been recognised through a range of success.” 

To find out more about Access to HE courses at Cheshire College visit www.ccsw.ac.uk – there’s never been a better time to Get In, Stand Out.