In the University's Alumni archive, we've started cataloguing and preserving various items of University clothing - from the early 19th century to the current day. We found two cloth badges – one for the Chester Diocesan Training College and one for Padgate Training College.

Such badges could be sewn onto clothing such as jackets – an early form of institutional branding! Both cloth badges are in fine condition – the Chester Diocesan Training College badge has 1931 written on the reverse, making it 94 years old.

Our latest alumni blog is from Primary Education alum, Hope Crabtree who shares her journey of navigating a different, fulfilling career path after her time at univeristy.

"When I graduated with a degree in Primary Education during the aftermath of COVID-19, I felt completely untethered. Our university experience had been shaped by lockdowns, online learning, and an ongoing sense of uncertainty. It was difficult to feel confident about stepping into the profession when we’d barely experienced it in full. Although I completed the course, I knew deep down that traditional classroom teaching wasn’t the path I wanted to take.

I vividly remember the questions from peers and tutors: ‘Have you applied for teaching jobs yet?’ Every time I was asked, I felt a pang of guilt. Deep down, I knew classroom teaching wasn’t right for me but saying that out loud felt like I was letting someone down. I had committed to a path, but the path no longer felt aligned. It took time, reflection, and a lot of self-questioning to accept that I hadn’t failed, I just had the opportunity to make a choice that felt right for me..."

The University has been placed third in the UK in the category of Personal Tutors and 10th for Job Prospects, in the StudentCrowd University Awards 2025, which are based entirely on student reviews.

Chester has now made the top 10 in the category of Personal Tutors for three years in a row.

To compile the UK university rankings, StudentCrowd analysed 32,097 verified student reviews submitted on the platform between May 2023 and May 2025.

Read more here

• Tuesday 12 August
• 5.30pm-6.30pm
• Online

This online event provides you with the opportunity to discover the courses we have on offer and will outline how we can support you to become a successful lifelong learner.

Meet our course leaders, who will be able to answer your questions about how we can tailor your learning to the specific needs of your profession, or your future career.

Discover how you will learn from research-active staff and find new pathways that allow you to develop in-professional practice, personal achievement, and academic success.

Book online here

• Wednesday 30 July
• 2pm-4.30pm
• Exton Park  

Our Theology and Religious Studies 'Find Out More' event gives you the chance to meet both staff and students in an informal and friendly atmosphere. You’ll discover more about our academic department, explore our Master's and Doctoral courses, discuss our PhD options, and learn about the unique nature of postgraduate studies with us. 

This event also provides an opportunity to consider the broader relevance of advanced study in theology and religious studies. Our courses equip you with critical insight and analytical skills that are highly valuable in today’s world, and we are open to discussion! In an era marked by diverse perspectives and complex global issues, an in-depth understanding of religious beliefs, practices, and ethical frameworks is essential for those aiming to engage and facilitate cultural and religious literacy. These areas are core to our courses' current and comprehensive curriculum.

Book online here

The University of Chester is truly built on the foundations of charity. We want to give every student at Chester, the opportunity to flourish and navigate their futures successfully - you can help to achieve this. By making a one-off or regular donation, you can help a current student build on their social capital – to create meaningful connections during their time at university, and enhance their academic, personal and career growth. 

Our university is so lucky to have such an engaged Alumni community. You are part of our past, present, and future, and we look forward to continuing our story with you.

Find out more about supporting the University at chester.ac.uk/giving

• Tuesday 12 August
• 5pm-7pm
• Online

Join our online PGCE Open Evening to discover how our teacher training courses can help you develop into a confident, reflective, and inspiring educator.

Whether you're interested in teaching in a primary or secondary setting, this is your opportunity to explore your options and take the next step towards a rewarding career in education.

Book online here

As part of the University’s Careers and Employability service, the Employer Engagement team is dedicated to bringing together recruiting employers and students seeking work.  

The Fair will take place on Friday 10 October, 11am-1.30pm in the Downes Sports Hall at Exton Park. Employers are encouraged to apply early by filling in a short online booking form and details can be obtained by emailing employers@chester.ac.uk. The event will form part of the University’s Welcome Week activities for new incoming students. 

Each month the University shares a wide range of news updates which you can follow on the website’s ‘News Page’. 

This month includes collaboration between student and academics exploring primary pupils’ attitude to PE and Fashion Communication Marketing students celebrate and look ahead to the future at launch night.

Head over to the website now to read more.

Travelling for your summer holiday whilst being sustainable can be tricky. From shampoos and sunscreen to swimming costumes and shorts, it can be tough to pack and be eco-friendly. Instead, focus on the three Rs – reduce, reuse and recycle; how much luggage do you really need to take?

Check out second hand summer clothes at your local charity shop or even invest in refillable travel essentials. Even one simple action can make a world of difference!

Development and Alumni Relations Office (DARO)

T: +44 (0)1244 512477
E: alumni@chester.ac.uk
W: www.chester.ac.uk/alumni

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