A partnership spanning more than five decades has continued to recognise the achievements of Cheshire College – South & West students, as the annual Freemen and Guilds Awards celebrated the next generation of skilled professionals.
Held at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus, the ceremony recognised students across a range of disciplines, including construction, motor vehicle, hospitality, creative arts and applied science.
The Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester were established in the 12th century to support local trades, uphold standards of craftsmanship and encourage the development of apprentices. Today, the Guilds continue this tradition by recognising emerging talent and celebrating the skills that will support future generations.
The awards continue a 58-year partnership between the College and the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester – an organisation with centuries of history supporting skilled trades, craftsmanship and the development of future generations.
Today, the Freemen and Guilds Awards aim to celebrate young talent in trades, ensuring the preservation and future success of these essential crafts.
Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College – South & West and Macclesfield College, expressed her pride in the students:
“Skilled craftsmanship continues to play an important role across many industries, and we are proud to see our students developing the expertise and passion needed to carry these skills forward.”
“Our long-standing partnership with the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester reflects a shared commitment to celebrating skills, supporting young talent and recognising the achievements of our students through these special awards.”
President of the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester, Dorothy Trussell, commented:
“The Freemen and Guilds have a proud history of supporting craftsmanship and skilled trades, and it is wonderful to see that tradition continue through these awards. Recognising these students helps highlight the importance of these skills and ensures they continue to be passed on to future generations.”
Students were recognised across a range of categories, including the Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award, the Saddlers and Curriers Award, the Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award, and the Weavers Award.
Among this year’s recipients was Navy, who received the Weavers’ Award while studying Level 3 Art and Design at the College’s Chester Campus. She said:
“I’m really flattered to have won an award. I wasn’t expecting it, so it’s really lovely to know that my teachers put me forward for it.
“There’s so much diversity at College and lots of different opportunities. It’s been really eye-opening to see what you can do here. You can come in with the craziest ideas and the tutors will help you make them happen. They’re always willing to support you, help you figure things out and get you where you want to be.”
Sophie, a Level 2 Professional Cookery student at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus, received the Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award. She said:
“I was quite shocked when I found out I was receiving the award, but it feels really good to know that my achievements have been recognised.
“When I came along to the Open Evenings, I saw that the kitchens were great and the staff were really friendly. I felt it would be a good place to thrive, and my experience has been really positive. The support has been incredible, and I’ve absolutely loved my course.”
Full list of 2026 award winners:
- Billy McCone – Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award
- Liam Smitheman – Joiners and Carvers Company Award
- Dylan Lee – Smiths, Cutlers and Plumbers Award
- Ho Chung Hermes Chiang – Bakers Award
- Natasha Mealor – Barber Surgeons, Wax and Tallow Chandlers Co Award
- Josh Wiffin – Butchers Award
- Oliver Edwards – Cappers, Pinners, Wiredrawers & Linendrapers Award
- Anastasia Preston – Clothworkers, Walkers and Masons Company Award
- Jack Ryan – Coopers Company Award
- Sophie Wall – Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award
- Muqads Ghyiass – Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries – Pharmacy Award (Science)
- Nadia Apalewicz – Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award
- Jack Jones – Saddlers and Curriers Award
- Tristan Young – Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries Award – Ironmongers Award (Engineering)
- Navy Barrigan-Cross – Weavers Award
- Callum Maciver – 14–16 Pre-Apprentice Award for Outstanding Achievement
