The Edge - January 2023

Celebrating our success with the community
Issue #6
January 2023
Warrington & Vale Royal College Newspaper
@wvrcollege
wvr.ac.uk
FREE * adult
courses this
January
Generations of apprenticeship
success at Warrington & Vale
Royal College
If you’ve been at our Warrington
campus recently, you will have
noticed our new electrical
barriers in the main reception
area - just the first phase of a
campus-wide implementation.
The work was carried out by
not one but two of our very own
apprentices who work for
Lock-tec (UK) Ltd - a company
owned by Warrington & Vale
Royal College apprentice alumni
Glen Whalley.
The work was carried out by Sam
Whalley, Glen’s son, and Joe Lowe
- both bright sparks completing
their apprenticeships at Warrington
& Vale Royal College. Sam, who
has been an apprentice for one
year, studies in the college’s
Advanced Manufacturing &
Engineering Training (AMET)
Centre one day a week, where
he benefits from the specialist
facilities. Here, Sam develops
his practical skills and theoretical
knowledge of electrical installation
including wiring, installing cables
and lighting circuits. When asked
what advice he would give to
anyone considering taking the
apprenticeship route, he said: “Go
for it! I am so much happier doing
an apprenticeship than I would
have been if I had gone down a
different route. At Lock-tec, I am
well supported and happy. I am
learning something new every day.”
Joe has worked at Lock-tec for
over four years now and began
his career in a similar fashion
to Sam. Preferring practical,
career-orientated learning, Joe
knew early on that he wanted
to go straight into work and an
apprenticeship was the perfect
way to do this, whilst gaining a
nationally recognised qualification.
After successfully completing his
apprenticeship, Joe decided to
continue his studies at Warrington
& Vale Royal College and
progressed on to a HNC and HND
Electrical & Electronic Engineering
course - achieving fantastic results.
After working in the industry for a
number of years, Joe’s career is
thriving and he now intends to work
towards a promotion at Lock-tec.
#TheCareerCollege
In addition to Sam and Joe, Glen
Whalley - Managing Director
of Lock-tec, also studied for
several years at Warrington &
Vale Royal College (formerly
Warrington Collegiate). Glen
says: “I would highly recommend
an apprenticeship for any
budding engineer who wishes to
develop specialist skills and gain
experience within a trade whilst
continuing their studies. Working
on the tools with guidance and
support of experienced engineers
develops practical skills, technical
knowledge and encourages
personal growth.”
We are delighted with the success
of these two apprentices, and look
forward to seeing Sam and Joe
flourish in their careers as Glen
has. If you think the apprenticeship
route could be for you, visit:
wvr.ac.uk for more information.
We are pleased to be offering
our range of Adult Community
Learning (ACL) courses
completely free of charge this
winter.
We understand that many people
are worried about the rising cost of
living and are tightening their belts
- but this needn’t act as a barrier
for getting back into education. Not
only is the college’s ACL course
offer now completely free, but
there is a large amount of financial
support available for adults looking
to study a professional or higher
education course, too.
The offer, which was introduced by
the college in response to the rising
cost of living, seeks to provide
opportunities for local residents to
retrain, upskill or just have some
fun - without having to worry about
the price. So far, hundreds of
people have taken advantage of
the offer and are now enjoying their
new course.
The line-up of free courses
includes options from a range
of subject areas such as Art &
Design, Business & Professional,
Counselling, Digital & IT, Holistics &
Well-being, Hospitality & Catering
and Languages & Communication.
Whether you’re looking to take
the first step toward a new career,
improve your prospects of a
promotion or simply learn a new
skill and have some fun, we have a
free course for you.
Interested? Contact our friendly
Learner Services Team today
on 01925 494400 or by emailing
learner.services@wvr.ac.uk for
more information and to enrol on
your chosen free course.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford
Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

2
Warrington & Vale Royal College
is delighted to have opened
the doors to the brand-new
Advanced Creative & Digital
Skills (ACDS) Centre. The
centre, which will officially
launch in the new year, has
been created with the help of a
£1.3million investment from the
Department for Education and
will immerse students in a world
of innovative technology.
Based at Warrington campus,
the ACDS Centre boasts an
impressive roster of features
including virtual reality, robotics, a
motion-capture studio and virtual
effects. The centre is fit with a
whole host of new and outstanding
facilities including a recently
renovated 160-seat theatre with
sprung floors, specialist lighting
and specialist sound equipment.
Also housed in the centre is
fully-equipped dance and acting
studios, also with sprung floors
and floor-to-ceiling mirrors; plus, a
host of digital suites equipped with
advanced Apple Macs and PCs,
all optimised for running the latest
specialist software.
The centre will work in
collaboration with employers to
provide students with exciting
opportunities and experiences.
Games design students can
look forward to working with
local developer 10:10 Games,
performing arts students can
expect to be busy with the
Liverpool Empire Theatre, and
our art & design students can
anticipate live briefs and travel
opportunities as they benefit from
our partnership with Tate Liverpool.
These are the first of many
partnerships to follow!
The ACDS Centre is not just
for those leaving high school.
Those already in employment will
benefit from the centre as it will
accommodate sector-specific,
bespoke training designed to
retrain and upskill the current
workforce, or provide a
stepping-stone into industry for
those seeking a change of career.
Stephanie Doyle, ACDS Business
Centre Manager at the college,
said: “We are amazed with how
the ACDS Centre has evolved
and been brought to life at the
college. We have enabled a world
of digital creativity where students
will learn and develop skills that
are transferable throughout every
single industry and every aspect of
the future.”
To find out more, please visit:
wvr.ac.uk/acds.
Working in partnership:
ACDS Centre partners with local developer 10:10 Games
and nationally recognised Liverpool Empire Theatre
We recently announced our new partnerships with 10:10 Games and
the Liverpool Empire Theatre, the first of many in an exciting line-up.
Performing arts students to take centre stage at the
Liverpool Empire Theatre
10:10 Games is the stuff of digital students’ dreams
10:10 Games is a videogame
developer based in Warrington
with a vision to create an
‘inclusive, collaborative and
welcoming’ studio where its team
is empowered to achieve their
best; an ethos they share with
Warrington & Vale Royal College.
ACDS Business Centre Manager,
Stephanie Doyle, said: “This is the
most important thing about the
partnership, being able to work
with such a passionate, value-led
employer”.
Students can expect plenty of
perks from this partnership. As
well as live briefs from experts,
students can look forward to
masterclasses delivered by 10:10
Games, mentoring opportunities
with the chance to gain 1-1
feedback from those working
in the field, and support with
building their portfolios. Some
students will even be lucky enough
to participate in ‘test and play’
sessions, where they will test new
game releases at the 10:10 Games
headquarters. This is an important
stage in videogames development,
and will be an extremely enriching
experience for those looking to
pursue a career in the industry.
We are delighted to announce
that performing arts students
studying in our ACDS Centre will
benefit from a newly established
partnership with the Liverpool
Empire Theatre.
Students will benefit from this
strong partnership with such an
established employer. Students will
enjoy frequent visits to the theatre,
and even be offered complimentary
tours whilst there. A particular
highlight is the access that students
will have to the theatre’s ‘Young
Ambassadors Programme.’ This
will provide students with incredibly
valuable industry placement
opportunities such as working
backstage, in the hospitality team
and even performing.
Furthermore, students will have
access to question-and-answer
workshops with performers,
access to digital resources and
masterclasses, as well as the
chance to use the theatre’s stage
as a performance space.
The Liverpool Empire Theatre has
been established in the industry
for over 150 years and so it comes
as no surprise that Warrington &
Vale Royal College is absolutely
delighted to be working with them
so closely. Stephanie Doyle, ACDS
Centre Business Manager at the
college, said: “The partnership
between Warrington & Vale Royal
College and the Liverpool Empire
Theatre provides our students with
valuable, real-world experience
and opportunities that will enable
them to become experts in their
fields. Students will have access to
industry professionals and facilities
that will enhance their experience
and prospects while studying with
us at college.”
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

3
Warrington & Vale Royal College collaborate
with Warrington Contemporary Arts Festival
for its first-ever student-led ‘Fringe Festival’
Warrington Contemporary
Arts Festival (WCAF) is an
established festival which runs
a busy, eclectic programme of
events designed to push the
creative boundaries of both
its curators and visitors. This
year the festival was held in
collaboration with our students,
with a theme of ‘Connections’.
Inspired by this theme, Warrington
& Vale Royal College is delighted
to have worked in partnership with
organisers to launch the first-ever
Warrington Contemporary Arts
‘Fringe Festival’ - a brand-new,
exciting opportunity for art & design
and performing arts students to
fully immerse themselves into
the creative industry, gaining
experience of designing, producing
and presenting work within a
public space.
Located at the vibrant New Art
Spaces: Warrington, which most
might recognise as the former
Marks & Spencer on Sankey
Street, students transformed the
ground floor and window space
into a unique exhibition of artist
talks, live animation and
incredible artwork.
An exclusive private viewing of the
exhibition was held on Thursday
24th November where students’
family, friends and VIP guests,
including the Mayor of Warrington,
had a first look at the amazing
artwork on display. Everyone
who attended can agree that this
was a remarkable opportunity
for the students, who produced
spellbinding pieces.
Ben Brady, Assistant Director
for Creative Arts at the college,
said: “The students have worked
incredibly hard and produced some
absolutely amazing artwork. They
should be very proud of themselves
to have produced an exhibition like
this during their first term.
The collaboration between the
college and Culture Warrington
has given students a platform to
demonstrate their creative abilities
and prepared them with the skills
needed for future employment
in the industry. I’d like to say a
huge thank you to Leah Biddle for
allowing us to use the fabulous
exhibition space and to all the staff
and students at the college for
their hard work.”
Warrington & Vale Royal College
offer a wide range of creative
courses which are taught in its
brand-new Advanced Creative &
Digital Skills Centre and is taking
applications now. To find out more,
visit: wvr.ac.uk/acds.
Warrington & Vale Royal College rising stars scouted by Liverpool
Empire Youth Musical Theatre Company
Alisha Ward and Lucian
Hinchcliffe, both former Level 3
Performing Arts students at the
college, are taking to the stage
at the Liverpool Empire Theatre
after being scouted during the
college’s recent production, Bad
Girls: The Musical.
When Alisha started her studies
at Warrington & Vale Royal
College, she had no experience in
performing arts, but had a strong
interest in acting and wanted to
see where this could take her.
Now, she is working with the
Liverpool Empire Youth Musical
Theatre Company, preparing for a
role in an upcoming production of
the hit musical Legally Blonde.
Lucian, former pupil of Penketh
High School, joined the college
having already realised his
passion for performance while
participating in his high school’s
Christmas productions. Bad Girls
was a pivotal moment for Lucian,
as it was his first major role which
included both a musical solo and a
duet. He wowed the scout and was
invited to audition for a sought-after
position within this selective youth
company.
Alisha looks back at her time at
college with gratitude, thanking
the tutors and the college’s strong
links with industry for opening the
door to this fantastic opportunity.
She said: “If it hadn’t have been
for my time at Warrington & Vale
Royal College then I would never
have known about Liverpool
Empire Theatre Company. Without
a doubt, these were the best two
years of my life so far and I’ve
met some amazing people, been
involved in so many opportunities
and I have trained to be a great
performer.”
Lucian is still treading the boards
in the college’s Advanced Creative
& Digital Skills Centre, completing
his HNC Performing Arts to further
enhance his acting resume. To
him, the welcoming, inclusive,
and nurturing environment he
found at the college and the
industry experienced tutors have
been instrumental in building
his confidence. He said: “I have
loved my time at the college so
far. At my course discussion in
year 11, I knew this was the place
for me and I was certain I would
be happy here. I wholeheartedly
recommended the college, not only
for the course, but for the amazing
opportunities you are offered along
the way!”
The college, its tutors and fellow
students are so proud of Alisha
and Lucian, and we cannot wait to
see what they will achieve next on
their journey to centre stage.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

4
First Employer Week of the
academic year is the biggest
and best yet!
#TheCareerCollege
We recently hosted our most
successful Employer Week to
date, with the event boasting
our broad range of industry
links and unique experiences for
students. The college regularly
hosts the Employer Week event,
which sees a wide range of
organisations visit students to
share their knowledge and give
advice, preparing them to enter
their chosen industry.
Central to our ethos is preparing
students for the world of work
and Employer Week is a fantastic
opportunity for students to
explore their post-college options.
This not only shapes students’
passion and ability, but also instils
confidence that can be applied
in the workplace. Throughout the
week, we welcomed a range of
companies to Warrington campus
including ABB Group, Dunky’s Day
Nurseries, Flawd Wine, Oddballs,
Draw & Code, Trauma Resus,
Warrington Borough Council,
Warrington Hospital and The Royal
Navy - to name but a few.
Several organisations in
attendance at Employer Week
were keen to discuss work
experience opportunities, with
some even looking to recruit for
new apprentices and part-time
roles at the college’s ‘Find Your
Match’ event. Students across
college watched presentations
delivered by top employers, with
the opportunity to have their
questions answered, as well as
participating in activities specific to
their chosen industry. This provided
students with a real insight into
what they can expect from their
chosen future careers. This was a
fantastic week had by all!
Sport students
support local
community
We are so proud of our Level
3 Sport students who have
recently led an ‘Ability Day’ at
Orford Jubilee Hub.
The students supported primary
school children with additional
learning support needs,
encouraging them to participate
in various fun sporting activities.
This was a great way to help the
children build their confidence and
teamwork skills, and our students
did a fantastic job.
Well done everyone!
Think Pink for Breast
Cancer Awareness
Hair, Beauty, Holistics &
Wellbeing students and staff
recently held a ‘Think Pink
Week’ in honour of Breast
Cancer Awareness month.
The reception of The Academy
was given a complete pink
makeover, cakes and raffle tickets
were up for sale with all donations
going to Breast Cancer Now, and
both students and staff participated
in ‘Wear It Pink’ - donating £1. Our
fabulous students were also able
to invite their family and friends
into college for the day to have
their hair styled.
Trees planted in memory of Colin Daniels and Craig
Atherton - two members of staff missed dearly
On Wednesday 19th October,
we took time to remember Colin
Daniels, ex Chair of Governors
and Craig Atherton, our Higher
Education Sports Lecturer - two
valued and very much missed
members of staff that sadly
passed away in 2020 and 2021.
Colin Daniels joined Warrington &
Vale Royal College as a Governor
in 1989 and was quickly elected
as Chair. He served the college
through some extraordinarily
challenging times, including
the rebuild of the remarkable
Warrington campus that students
across the borough benefit from
today. Colin is missed dearly by
his colleagues, who remember him
as being full of wisdom, wit and
a mischievous sense of humour.
Colin’s family joined the college at
the ceremony, where a tree was
planted alongside the Colin Daniels
Construction & Engineering Skills
Centre in his name and memory.
Craig Atherton worked at the
college for several years and was
a truly valued member of staff,
remembered for his caring, diligent
and student-centred approach
to work. Craig had a unique set
of skills that brought out the best
in his students, many of whom
would not have progressed
onto universities without his
expert support and guidance. A
dedicated study space in Craig’s
memory has been built in our
Learning Resource Centre and a
special award has been created
in his name to honour sporting
excellence at the college’s annual
Higher Education Graduation
Ceremony. Craig was a man with
a love of the outdoors, and so it
seems fitting for the college to
have been joined by his family as
a tree was planted in his name
and memory.
We wish to extend our gratitude to
the friends and family of Colin and
Craig for attending the ceremony at
Warrington campus - a place where
they both made a huge difference
to the success of the college. Colin
and Craig are remembered every
day by the colleagues and students
whom they had such a positive
impact on.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

5
The Health & Social Care Academy
is officially open!
Buckley’s
bright star
shines during
Christmas
dinner service
Working in partnership:
We were delighted to officially
open our brand-new Health
& Social Care Academy on
Monday 3rd October. A number
of key stakeholders, employer
partners and supporters from
the voluntary sector attended,
joining in our celebrations as
Charlotte Nichols MP cut the
ribbon!
The Health & Social Care Academy
(HSCA), based at Warrington
campus, was established
thanks to a £1m investment
from Warrington’s Town Fund
and significant support from key
partners including Warrington
Borough Council, Warrington &
Halton NHS Trust, the University
of Chester, employers and many
other stakeholders from voluntary
sector organisations.
Guests were welcomed to the
HSCA where they had the chance
to network with one another,
before listening to Amy Yorke,
the HSCA Business Centre
Manager, welcome guests with
a brief presentation about the
Academy and its story so far.
This was followed by a few
words from special guest Dave
Thompson, Chief Executive at
Warrington Disability Partnership,
with whom the college has a
strong partnership. Guests were
also treated to a talk from Kelsey
Siddall, HNC student, who has
seen huge success during her
time at our college. She delivered
a heart-warming speech about her
educational journey and how, with
the support of our fantastic tutors
and facilities, she is pursuing her
dream career in the health and
social care sector.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Russ
Bowden, said: “Warrington’s
Town Deal has been an important
programme of work for the town
over the last few years and
I’m really pleased to see the
HSCA open.
“Schemes like the HSCA prove that
when we work in partnership we
can do great things. The Academy
is going to be a game-changer
for Warrington and the future of
our local health and social care
workforce.”
The launch was a huge success
and we wish to extend thanks to
those who attended and to those
who have supported the Academy
since its inception through to
its opening.
To find out more about the
Health & Social Care Academy,
please visit: wvr.ac.uk/hsca or
email Amy Yorke directly on
ayorke@wvr.ac.uk.
College staff get into festive spirit with free ACL course
In a response to the rising cost
of living and people’s concerns
about money, we have decided
to offer our range of adult
community learning (ACL)
courses for free.
Included in the long line-up
of courses to choose from is
Christmas Wreath Making, which
proved to be a huge hit! Lots of
people from the wider Warrington
community have joined us over the
last few weeks (including members
of staff from the college) to create
their fabulously festive wreaths.
Our Floristry sessions are always
popular and fill up fast! Don’t be
disappointed and enrol online
today at: wvr.ac.uk.
Following a fantastic Christmas
dinner service at our
award-winning Buckley’s
restaurant, we caught up with
Level 2 Hospitality & Catering
student Lauren Edwards to find
out about her time at college
so far.
Lauren, former pupil of Great
Sankey High School, knew
immediately that Warrington &
Vale Royal College was the right
place for her, due to the course
having a uniquely broad focus
including professional cookery and
front-of-house service. It is the
latter that has sparked Lauren’s
passion. She said:
“When I was growing up, going
to restaurants was always a
magical experience where I’d
make memories with my family and
friends. I want a job where I can
do this for other people, and this
course is making it happen already.
Being able to work in the restaurant
as part of my course is opening so
many doors and I am learning skills
you can’t teach in the classroom.
I can’t wait for our next dinner
service!”
In one month, Lauren and the team
of students and staff at Buckley’s
have welcomed over 500 guests
to experience the festive fayre on
offer. Well done on a very busy
and successful first few months at
college, Lauren!
To book a table at Buckley’s, email
buckleysrestaurant@wvr.ac.uk
or call 01925 494 378.
r e s t a u r a n t
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

6
Warrington & Vale Royal College hosts its annual
celebration of higher education students’ success
Warrington & Vale Royal College
was delighted to recently
host its Higher Education
Graduation Ceremony - a
charming celebration of student
success set in truly remarkable
surroundings. Students and
their guests gathered in St
Elphin’s Church, a location as
beautiful as it is historic.
As students arrived at the church,
they were transformed into
gleaming graduands ready to
walk the stage and claim their
achievements. The ceremony was
attended by a host of VIPs and
friends of the college, including
the Mayor of Warrington, Cllr
Jean Flaherty, and special guest
speaker Claire Lomas MBE.
The college was also honoured
to appoint its newest Fellow,
Steve Park, Director of Growth at
Warrington Local Authority.
All in attendance were deeply
moved and inspired by the
wonderful speech delivered by
Claire Lomas MBE who spoke
about the tragic accident that
left her paralysed and how she
overcame this. Claire talked about
how her previous life as an active
sportswoman completely changed
overnight and how she dug deep
to find the strength to restart
and rebuild. Claire’s speech was
captivating and thought-provoking;
a true inspiration to everyone there.
The college was once again
pleased to present a number of
esteemed students with special
awards. These select awards
recognise the hard work and
dedication of students who truly
embody the college’s core ethos.
Congratulations to Sarah Boniface,
The Hilary Tucker Art Excellence
Award recipient; Peter Connell,
The Professional Student of
the Year Award recipient; Adam
Boyd, The Harry Cunningham
Higher Education Progression
Award recipient; and to Joanne
Watson, The Craig Atherton Higher
Education Sporting Excellence
Award recipient. All worthy winners!
A huge thank you to all who
attended the event and
to Warrington Worldwide,
Warrington’s Own Buses
and Morgan Branding for
sponsoring the special awards.
Congratulations once more to
the higher education students
for all of their achievements - the
college looks forward to seeing
you progress in your successful
careers.
If you’re interested in studying
higher education at Warrington &
Vale Royal College, visit:
wvr.ac.uk/higher-education.
The Hilary Tucker
Art Excellence Award
Sarah Boniface
The Professional Student
of the Year Award
Peter Connell
The Harry Cunningham Higher
Education Progression Award
Adam Boyd
The Craig Atherton Higher Education
Sporting Excellence Award
Joanne Watson
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

7
Access to
HE student
secures dream
job at Alder
Hey Hospital
Higher Education at
Warrington & Vale
Royal College
Stay local and benefit from the expert teaching
and outstanding facilities at Warrington & Vale
Royal College.
We offer a range of HNCs, HNDs and professional qualifications,
designed to help you progress onto your chosen career path.
Whether you dream of becoming a nurse, a graphic designer or a
teacher, we can help you achieve your goals.
per
Full-time fees just £5,995 year
Significantly lower than university fees!
Why choose Warrington & Vale Royal College for a
higher education or professional course?
Affordable course prices
Excellent links with employers
One-to-one support and
guidance
Small class sizes
Fabulous facilities on campus
Easily accessible by car and
public transport
Don’t be disappointed,
apply NOW for September 2023!
Emma Wheat, former Warrington
& Vale Royal College student,
is excelling in her career at one
of the UK’s leading children’s
hospitals, Alder Hey. Emma had
explored other options when
she was younger, but never
settled down in job she loved
until she discovered her interest
in children’s nursing.
Emma chose to study her Access
to Higher Education (HE) Diploma
course at Warrington & Vale Royal
College after it was recommended
to her. Even though Emma was
nervous, she was determined to
get stuck in and soon realised that
there is no age limit on education.
Upon completion of her Access
to HE course, Emma progressed
to Edge Hill University and has
since secured her dream role
in her desired sector. She has
worked hard to get to where she
is, balancing looking after her
young son alongside her academic
studies and placements, all during
the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite the challenges faced,
Emma felt that these were the
quickest four years of her life and
would recommend the Access
to HE course to anyone who is
thinking about starting a new
career in nursing. She says: “The
college encouraged me, supported
me and gave me advice. But,
more importantly, the tutors
made a very intense year before
university enjoyable. I’m now 28
years of age about to embark on a
journey I didn’t think was possible,
all thanks to the love, teaching and
support I received.”
We are delighted to see how
successful Emma has been!
Do you want to go to university
but don’t have the required
qualifications? Enrol on Access to
HE course today!
Visit: wvr.ac.uk/access-to-he for
more information.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

8
#ONESTEPGREENER
Our commitment to
sustainability
Sustainability continues to
remain one of Warrington & Vale
Royal College’s top priorities.
This year, we have continued
our hard work in raising
awareness about the importance
of sustainability and adopting
sustainable practices, such as
turning off lights and reducing our
usage of paper. Our Sustainability
Committee regularly meet to
discuss cross-college activity, share
ideas and consider the current
issues affecting the lives of us all.
In 2022, we have made lots of
progress towards our sustainability
goal, including:
• Introducing flexible working
principles
• Reducing printed materials
• Sending all waste to a
recycling facility
• Localised timers on all point of
use hot water boilers
• Planting fruit baring trees to
attract wildlife, and much more!
We also recently appointed a new
student Sustainability Officer,
George Bate. George has studied
at the college for four years
now, joining us on a multi-skills
course and working up to Level 3
Carpentry & Joinery. George, who
has also been a member of the
Student Council for two years, is
an amateur wildlife photographer
in his spare time and therefore
truly values the importance of
preserving nature and taking care
of our planet - a view he shares
with the college.
George feels as though the
college is doing a lot to support
sustainability and is very much
looking forward to championing the
students’ voice during the upcoming
Green Week in 2023. Commenting
on his exciting new role, George
said: “I’m really looking forward
to meeting new people, having
conversations with them and
learning as much as I can.”
For more information about how
we are tackling the issue of
sustainability, please visit:
wvr.ac.uk/about/sustainability.
Student Council member
selected as the voice of UK
youths in Further Education
Selected from hundreds
of applicants nationwide,
Warrington & Vale Royal College
student Dillon Hillary will be
collaborating with 12 other
young people on the UK’s first
ever Further Education (FE)
Youth Collective.
Created by the Association of
Colleges, this crucial initiative helps
to ensure that decision making in
further education is considerate of
the lived experiences of students
across the country. The panel will
act as a collective voice, where
their opinions, observations and
judgement will be put at the heart
of future decision making for further
education institutions.
Dillon has always been an active
participant in college life, making
the most of the enrichment
programme and Student Council
opportunities on offer. Dillon is
the college’s Diversity & Equality
Representative, and will be using
his dedication to these causes to
make a real change in the current
FE policy making process.
When he saw that applications
were open to be a part of the FE
Youth Collective, Dillon jumped at
the chance to get involved, seeing
an opportunity to make a difference
for all students as he has done for
so many at the college so far. He
said: “I knew I wanted to be a part
of this fantastic opportunity. I love
college and I want all students to
feel as confident and supported in
further education as I am. Now that
I have been appointed, I can’t wait
to get started!”
The college’s Student Engagement
Officer, Courteney Ford, was
delighted when Dillon received
his appointment to the group and
feels assured that this is the perfect
role for him. She said: “I couldn’t
be happier for Dillon. Whatever he
does within the college, he always
impresses me with his enthusiasm
and dedication. Now, he gets to
make a difference at a national
level and I am sure he will do a
fantastic job!”
Dillon attended his first meeting in
Burton upon Trent in November
and the college wishes him every
success in his new endeavour.
The Warrington & Vale Royal College gift
card is truly the gift that keeps on giving
wvr.ac.uk 01925 494 400
Are you looking for an alternative gift idea?
Here’s the perfect solution.
Give the gift of learning
The Warrington & Vale Royal College Gift Card is truly the gift that keeps giving.
Redeemable against any course, your gift recipient will enjoy a learning experience that is
not only educational, but also unique, flexible and fun! They get to choose the course they
want, when they want, whether it’s full-time, part-time, accredited, non-accredited, taught
on campus or online!
With a wide range of courses in accountancy, art & design, counselling, digital & IT, hair,
beauty, holistics and many more, there really is something to suit everyone!
Gift cards are valid for 12 months and can be purchased via Learner
Services at Warrington campus or by calling 01925 494 400.
Redeemable against any
course at Warrington
& Vale Royal College.
Gift Voucher
Serial number: Expiry date:
Find the perfect course for you:
Enrol on a course:
View our full list of adult courses
Call our Learner
online or in our adult course guide.
Services Team.
wvr.ac.uk 01925 494 400
Terms & conditions apply. For more information visit wvr.ac.uk/policies-procedures.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

9
Students blaze a trail at
Warrington & Vale Royal College
Ready, Set, Grow with a FREE *
Distance Learning course!
Art & Design student
makes his mark in
the industry
This winter, study for FREE * from the comfort of
your own home!
We have hundreds of Distance Learning courses, including:
• Business & Professional
• Childcare
• Counselling
• Digital & IT
• Health, Safety & First Aid
• Health & Social Care
• Hospitality & Catering
• Languages &
Communication
• Skills for Independence,
Life & Work
+ many more
Visit wvr.ac.uk/distance-learning to sign up today!
Travel & Tourism
trailblazers
Olivia-Faith Roberts, Ellie
Garton and Mia Delaney are
three gifted former Level 3
Travel & Tourism students
whose careers have taken off
since leaving Warrington & Vale
Royal College this summer.
These inspirational young people
have all been employed as Junior
Business Travel Consultants
with a global business travel
management company: CWT.
Having joined our college from
different local high schools, the
trio completed their level 2 course,
before progressing to successfully
complete their level 3 course. The
knowledge and skills they learnt
throughout their course meant that
they were able to transition straight
from college to their desired career.
Well done girls!
Sean Muir, current Level 3 Art &
Design student, has been busy
making his mark while on his
industry placement with Culture
Warrington.
Sean’s artistic talent has been
spotted by Manchester based
artist, actor and puppeteer, Thomas
Byrne during a puppet making
masterclass he was delivering.
Thomas realised that Sean had
a natural talent for the craft
combined with an excellent work
ethic. He was so impressed with
Sean’s ability that he wrote a
glowing reference singing his
praises and nodded to future
collaborations once Sean has
completed his qualification. On
this, Sean said: “I am so happy
that the college has given me the
opportunity to work with Culture
Warrington - the experience has
been so valuable to me. I have
learnt tonnes about the industry,
given back to the community, and
made a connection with a great
artist who I hope to work with
again in the future.”
Wow - keep up the good work!
House of memories visits
Warrington & Vale Royal College
Students studying in our HSCA
and ACDS Centre recently got
the chance to step into the
House of Memories: a new
mobile museum housing an
immersive cinema and activity
space created by National
Museums Liverpool.
As the first-ever immersive mobile
experience in the UK, the House of
Memories ‘On the Road’ tour visits
communities and invites groups of
up to six people at a time to enjoy.
The museum creates memorable,
interactive experiences for those
who are vulnerable, socially
isolated or living with dementia. In
a re-creation of the sights, sounds
and smells of the past through a
virtual ‘front door’, users get to
take a real trip down memory lane.
Our students studying a health
and social care or digital course
were lucky enough to be invited to
*Terms & conditions apply.
sample the experience. Those on
a digital course gained valuable
insight into how digital skills and
innovation can be applied across
a range of different sectors and
settings, while those studying
health and social care were
exposed to a way of engaging
with patients that they may not
have considered before. This
collaborative, cross-sector
experience was of huge value to
the students and has certainly
enriched their studies.
Warrington & Vale Royal College student is a sporting superstar
Joe Bullock, current Warrington
& Vale Royal College student,
has a hugely successful sporting
career as a professional rugby
league player.
Joe, who has completed his HNC
and HND Sport & Exercise Science
qualifications at the college, is now
enrolled on our Level 3 Personal
Training course as he wanted to
learn what it takes to be a personal
trainer and deliver sessions.
Although Joe is currently a
trailblazer in the sport industry,
he has his sights set on his future
career options. Keen to stay in the
sporting sector, Joe is interested
in building up his knowledge of
personal training. On his time at
the college, Joe said: “The best
aspect has been the flexible
learning and high-quality teaching
from friendly tutors.”
Curriculum Manager for Higher
Education at the college, Joe
Hatwell, said: “Joe is a fantastic
student and scholar to have
here at Warrington & Vale Royal
College. His academic success
alongside being an elite athlete
is a testament to Joe’s work ethic
and drive to be successful in all
that he does. During his time on
the course, Joe has developed a
range of higher education skills and
qualities outside of rugby that now
places him in a fantastic position to
pursue his career goals after rugby.
Congratulations Joe!”
Joe recently donated a signed
shirt to our Sport, Military &
Emergency Services Academy,
so keep an eye out for it when
passing through! Warrington &
Vale Royal College is incredibly
grateful for Joe’s kind donation,
and wish him every success in his
already outstanding career.
Visit wvr.ac.uk for our full range
of courses.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

10
Amazing alumni Lauren King shares heart-warming
message about her time at college
#TheCareerCollege
We recently caught up with
former health & social care
student Lauren King. Lauren,
who progressed on to study at
Edge Hill University and is now
working in the health and social
care sector.
Lauren studied Level 3 Health
& Social Care at the college
after having heard nothing but
good things from her friends. For
example, they told her that tutors
are very supportive and nonjudgemental,
which Lauren felt
was an incredibly important factor
in her decision to study here. She
says: “Having friends who were
understanding and tutors that were
so supportive was the difference
between me giving up completely
and fulfilling my dreams of going
to university.”
She continued: “Lessons were
so engaging and I always felt
comfortable discussing the different
topics. Tutors would always
communicate with us to ensure
we felt fully supported and were
coping well.” It’s this high level of
support that made Lauren’s time
at the college so enjoyable. She
tells us that her and her peers
truly felt like tutors cared about
them, saying: “Education isn’t just
about answering the questions on
the paper or writing assignments,
it’s holistic. When you enter a
classroom, you’re also bringing
your life with you. Ensuring student
happiness in all aspects of their
life is vital in ensuring that they are
learning effectively, and working
productively towards their future
work, career or education goals.”
Lauren is currently studying at
Edge Hill University, where she
has achieved a BSc in psychology
and is now completing a MSc in
counselling and psychotherapy.
Between leaving our college and
starting a new chapter at Edge Hill
University, Lauren has had some
really exciting opportunities come
her way, such as working with Alder
Hey Hospital and Wigan Council.
Alongside her current studies,
Lauren is working as a healthcare
assistant at a residential care
home, as well as taking on the role
of Student Governor at Edge Hill.
A key part of this exciting role is
being part of a Widening Access
panel, where she and her peers
consider barriers to education and
how these can be overcome.
As if all the above wasn’t enough,
Lauren also volunteers for the
Office for Students and is an active
member of Edge Hill’s Choir. She
says: “It’s fair to say I’m a very
busy bee, but I haven’t always
been like this. There are some
weekends where you’ll find me in
the pub eating food and drinking
with friends but gaining my health
& social care qualification has
opened so many doors for me and,
as you can see, I have stepped
through every single one.”
Reflecting on her time at the
college and how effectively it
prepared her to work in the sector,
Lauren said: “My course has taught
me so much more than just a
qualification. At the interview for my
current job, I found myself reciting
information I had learnt at the
college over 3 years ago - which
proved vital to the role that sees
me support care home residents
both physically and emotionally.
The health and social care course
at the college is so vast and
variable that it feels like there is no
role in the sector that would not be
benefitted from this course.”
Lauren continued: “Words cannot
express the eternal gratitude I have
for all the staff and tutors who have
supported me, taught me and in so
many ways shaped me into who
I am today. I know for a fact that I
would not have achieved half as
much as I have if it were not for the
college and the amazing staff.”
When asked what advice she
would give to other adults
considering a Higher Education
course or an Access to Higher
Education course at Warrington &
Vale Royal College, Lauren said:
“We are experiencing a flux in
higher education pathways and
opportunities. There are more day
courses, night courses, access
to higher education courses, and
combined courses than there
ever has been. I studied a level 3
course, as well as completing my
GCSE English while at the college,
which has helped me get into
university and get jobs in health
and social care roles. If you have
ever thought about changing your
career, developing your career or
even just learning something new,
now is the perfect time. Also, don’t
let anything hold you back. I come
from a working-class background
with few GCSE’s, struggled with my
mental health, and studied without
support from my parents. I still
struggle sometimes, and it can be
hard, but with the support from the
college and what you can achieve
both on and after the courses, it is
so worth doing.”
Has Lauren’s story inspired you
to start something new or upskill
within your current job role? Higher
education and access to higher
education courses at Warrington &
Vale Royal College are the perfect
place to begin. Visit: wvr.ac.uk for
more information.
Team leader apprentice Hayley is thriving in her career
Hayley Whitmarsh decided to
study her Level 3 Team Leader
apprenticeship at Warrington
& Vale Royal College due to
our excellent location and
reputation.
Hayley, a former pupil of Helsby
High School, has worked at Lady
Heyes Park in Frodsham for seven
years. She began her career
at the company as a business
administration apprentice before
being promoted to a management
role. This prompted Hayley
to enrol on the team leader
apprenticeship at our college, so
that she could gain the necessary
skills and knowledge required to
face the challenges that came with
her new role.
Since starting her apprenticeship,
Hayley has learnt lots of new
skills and techniques that she now
applies in the workplace. These
include personal development
plans, self-awareness activities,
performance management
techniques, time management
tools, feedback processes and
target setting. Hayley is incredibly
complimentary of the teaching she
is receiving on her day release
at the college, saying: “My tutor
Sarah is very supportive and
knowledgeable. She reaches out
for further discussion to ensure
we’ve understood the lesson and
always marks our work quickly.”
Hayley was apprehensive to return
to education but is so glad she
did! She has loved meeting new
people on her course and feels her
confidence has grown a lot. Hayley
never finished her A levels and has
enjoyed being able to study for
a higher-level qualification whilst
working at the same time. When
asked what advice she would give
to anyone considering studying an
apprenticeship at Warrington & Vale
Royal College, Hayley simply said:
“Do it!”
Upon completion of her
apprenticeship, Hayley hopes
to continue her progression at
Lady Heyes. She feels incredibly
lucky that the company is a small
business that she is helping to
develop and grow. Keep up the
good work, Hayley!
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

11
WVR Glow-up champion crowned by popular
TikTok content creator and make-up artist
Holly Barnes
Warrington & Vale Royal College
recently challenged students
and applicants to create
glamorous Christmas looks in
its first social media competition
of the year, Glow Up, which
offered a first-place prize of a
£100 Beauty Bay voucher for the
worthy winner.
In the weeks leading up to the
closing date, lots of dazzling entries
were submitted to be judged by
popular TikTok content creator
and make-up artist Holly Barnes
(@__hollybarnes). The big prize on
offer inspired even bigger entries,
with talented budding stylists
going above and beyond to turn
heads with their Christmas-themed
creations.
Our guest judge Holly was hugely
impressed with the talent on
display, saying: “I’m absolutely
amazed at the talent shown by
students at Warrington & Vale
Royal College. There are definitely
lots of rising stars! The creativity
and execution of the students’
Christmas looks really are of
industry standard and beyond.
It’s been so difficult to choose a
winner; every entrant deserves a
huge well done.”
A huge well done to this year’s
winner Layla Thorpe – current
Level 3 Hair & Media Make-Up
student – and to runners up
Marissa Calland and Katie
Pritchard. Holly was especially
blown away with the students’
creativity, their use of hair foliage
and colour placement of face paint.
Layla stole the winning spot due to
her exquisite technique, and Holly
notes how impressive the line and
shading work is on all of her looks.
To see all of the fabulous entries,
search #WVRGlowUp on
Instagram and TikTok. Keep an
eye on our social media for the
next competition!
Warrington & Vale Royal
College celebrates a series of
successful Open Evenings
During the Autumn term, we held
three hugely successful Open
Evenings and welcomed just over
a thousand prospective students
into Warrington campus.
It has been a pleasure to welcome
so many Year 11 pupils and their
parents and carers to explore
the next step of their educational
journey after leaving school. We
hope that everyone who visited
us enjoyed experiencing our
wonderful college and we can’t
wait to see all those who have
applied again in the New Year at
our College Experience Evenings.
Have you missed our Open
Evenings? Don’t worry! Our next
Open Evening will be taking place
on Tuesday 7 th February 2023.
Register here:
wvr.ac.uk/openevenings.
WHERE
YOUR
FUTURE
MATTERS
YEAR 11 OPEN EVENING
Tuesday 7 th February 2023
Warrington campus, 5.00pm - 8.00pm
Register in advance at: wvr.ac.uk/openevenings.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk

12
Getting to Warrington & Vale Royal College
has never been easier!
Performing arts tutor wins gold medal, becoming the
International Dance Teachers Association undefeated
reigning champion
Shannen Stocks, a former
Warrington & Vale Royal College
student who now teaches dance
in our Advanced Creative &
Digital Skills (ACDS) Centre,
has recently won gold at
the prestigious International
Dance Teachers Association
competition. This wonderful win
has secured Shannen’s title as
reigning champion, having now
won two years in a row.
Shannen’s specialism is ballroom
dance, and she performed in 31
dances throughout the competition,
wowing the judges with her skilled
foxtrot, tango and quickstep
techniques. Realising her passion
Did you know that we offer six
FREE college bus services?
Reserved for full-time 16-18-yearold
students, our dedicated bus
services transport students to
and from our Warrington campus
in time for their free breakfast
every morning!
Services are subject to demand
and places are offered on a first
come first served basis, so be sure
to register early. We offer services
starting in: Irlam, Northwich,
Winsford, Penketh, Leigh, and -
new for this year - Runcorn.
for dance at age eight, Shannen
continued to strive for excellence.
She studied dance at our college
for four years, gaining her HNC and
HND qualifications, before going to
Liverpool John Moores University to
complete her degree.
Now, she is inspiring our current
dance students, bringing back gold
medals from her two most recent
competitions. To any aspiring
dancer out there, Shannen says:
“If you love to dance, then go for it,
but be prepared for hard work! You
should take every opportunity you
are given, especially if you want
to compete professionally. And,
most importantly, if you fall down,
The Runcorn service route is
perfect for pupils currently studying
at: The Grange Academy, The
Heath School, St Chad’s Catholic
High School, Ormiston Bolingbroke
Academy, Sandymoor Ormiston
Academy, Bridgewater High
School, Sir Thomas Boteler CofE
High School and Cardinal Newman
High School.
This service is set to be very
popular, so register your interest
early before it’s too late at:
wvr.ac.uk/bus.
get back up!” Everyone here at
Warrington & Vale Royal College
is proud of Shannen’s latest
achievement.
Introducing
the next level
qualification
Warrington & Vale Royal College
is delighted to be offering a
selection of T Levels starting in
September.
T Levels are 2-year qualifications
for students aged 16 to 19
in England. Created by the
Government and backed by
employers, T Levels are the
technical, more hands-on
equivalent to A Levels.
T Level students spend 80%
of their time in the classroom
learning the essential theory
behind their chosen pathway.
The other 20% is a meaningful
industry placement, where they
put these skills into action, working
with industry-leading employers
on real-life projects. Assessed
with an exam, coursework and
a placement-related project, T
Levels keep your future options
open, whether you want to
go to university, do a higher
apprenticeship or go straight into
your career.
With a T Level, your future is
exactly what you make it! To find
out more about Warrington & Vale
Royal College’s T Level options,
visit: wvr.ac.uk/t-levels.
APPLY NOW FOR
SEPTEMBER 2023
Applications are now open for Warrington & Vale Royal College’s wide range of
exciting courses for school leavers, all of which lead students onto successful
careers and university places.
Vocational Courses T Levels Apprenticeships
We have already seen a HUGE increase in applications this year, if you are
considering continuing your educational journey at Warrington’s leading provider
of technical training, we would strongly encourage you to apply early to avoid
disappointment.
Apply online:
wvr.ac.uk/16-18
Request a paper application:
wvr.ac.uk/request
#TheCareerCollege
Where a qualification becomes a career.
01925 494 494 Campuses in Warrington and Winsford Warrington & Vale Royal College
wvr.ac.uk