Seventeen students from Cheshire College – South & West were celebrated on the 21st November 2024 for their exceptional achievements at the annual Freemen and Guilds Awards.
The prestigious ceremony took place in the theatre at the College’s Ellesmere Port Campus, attended by students and their families, College staff, Guild members, and special guests.
The Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and comprises 23 Guilds including the Joiners, Carvers and Turners, Bricklayers, Clothworkers, Walkers and Masons, and Barber Surgeons. The Guilds were established to represent local tradesmen, maintain the quality of their goods, and support the recruitment and training of apprentices.
Today, the Freemen and Guilds Awards aim to celebrate young talent in trades aligned with the Guilds, ensuring the preservation and future success of these essential crafts.
Reflecting on this year’s ceremony, President of the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester, and member of the Baker’s Guild, Sara Smith, commented:
“It’s always a privilege to be part of this special evening with Cheshire College, meeting such talented students and presenting these awards. Every student has so much to be proud of, and we are thrilled to celebrate their achievements.”
“The partnership between the Guilds and the College has now extended to 56 years. It began in 1968 when our then President, Bill Dutton, proposed an annual awards ceremony to recognise students excelling in their crafts. We are incredibly proud of this longstanding tradition and look forward to it continuing for many more years to come.”
The evening began with a drinks and canapé reception prepared by the College’s Hospitality and Catering students. Awards presented on the night included the Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award, the Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award, and Weavers Award, among others.
Clara, 16, studying Professional Cookery Diploma Level 2 received the Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award. She commented “I’ve had so many favourite moments at the College, I honestly could not pick just one. The College has supported me throughout, even by just winning this award. “
“When I started college, I was as shy as can be, so I have learnt not to be afraid to speak up. I’m planning to stay at college to do a Level 3 course in Hospitality. I love working with desserts and pastries so I would love to be a pastry chef.”
Shaun, 41, studying Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Level 3 received the Saddlers and Curriers Award. He commented: “I have always chosen to study at Cheshire College, I have done Technical Theatre, Catering and my Maths and English here. The College support me all the time, especially my PDT and tutors. Getting stuck into practical work throughout my course has been my favourite part, I just love mechanics; it keeps my mind focused, so I would love to be a mechanic in the future.”
Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College, expressed her pride in the students:
“As the demand for technically skilled professionals continues to grow in Britain, our partnership with the Freemen and Guilds of the City of Chester is more important than ever. Watching our students excel at their craft and being recognised at such a prestigious event is truly inspiring.”
“Congratulations to all the award winners on their remarkable achievements — we are confident that their skills, passion, and hard work will have a hugely positive impact in their industries, local communities, and the wider economy.”
Full list of 2024 award winners:
- Christian Evans – Ancient and Worshipful Company of Bricklayers Award (Construction)
- Michael Brown – Joiners and Carvers Company Award (Construction)
- Lillie Parry – Smiths, Cutlers and Plumbers Award (Construction)
- Takudzwa Kambasha – Bakers Award (Hospitality and Catering)
- Deborah Clarke – Barber Surgeons, Wax and Tallow Chandlers Co Award (Hair and Beauty)
- Lewis Gilmartin – Butchers Award (Hospitality and Catering)
- Roxanne Oliver – Cappers, Pinners, Wiredrawers & Linendrapers Award (Construction)
- Juliette Clowes – Clothworkers, Walkers and Masons Company Award (Visual Arts)
- Mufaro Baiwa – Coopers Company Award (Engineering)
- Clara Rabadan-Escobar – Innholders, Cooks and Victuallers Company Award (Hospitality and Catering)
- Alicia Howell – Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries – Pharmacy Award (Science)
- Harvey Dean – Painters, Glaziers, Embroiderers and Stationers Award (Visual Arts)
- Timothy Shaun Omarah – Saddlers and Curriers Award (Motor Vehicle)
- Ethan Elmer – Mercers, Ironmongers, Grocers and Apothecaries Award – Ironmongers Award (Engineering)
- Milissa Simon – Ladies’ Section of the Freeman and Guilds Awards (Early Years)
- Antony Daniells – Weavers Award (Visual Arts)
- Isabella Osborne – 14-16 Pre-Apprentice Award for Outstanding Achievement
