James Mcneill

Amy Bradley, a mother of six and foster carer from Rainhill, has completed a Theology and Religious Studies degree at the University of Chester with first-class grades in her 40s. She returned to university after leaving an earlier course unfinished and balanced her studies with family responsibilities and a decade-long role chairing The Three Saints Academy Trust. Her dissertation on feminist trauma theology and the Christian understanding of the cross was highly praised by supervisor Professor Hannah Bacon. Bradley plans to pursue a master’s degree in the same field.

Cheshire ophthalmologist Hussam Muntasser is urging people to attend regular eye examinations, ideally at least every two years, even when their vision appears normal. Optometrists can identify early signs of glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration and other conditions, as well as indicators of diabetes and high blood pressure, enabling earlier referral and treatment. He also recommends avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and wearing sunglasses to reduce the risk of eye problems.

Our Wild Space, an outdoor learning environment in Great Budworth, Cheshire, will open in September through a collaboration between Cransley School and sisters Amy Dugdale-Wilde and Gemma Victorino-Wilde. Free open days on August 25 and 29 will let families explore the site and take part in nature-based activities. The project will provide home-education sessions, after-school clubs and family stay-and-play sessions, drawing on the Reggio Emilia approach and the founders’ experiences as educators and mothers of neurodivergent children.

The University of Chester is inviting employers to participate in a free part-time jobs fair at its Exton Park campus on October 2 during Welcome Week. The event, running from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., is intended to connect organizations with students seeking flexible work and workplace experience. It forms part of the university’s Earn While You Learn initiative, and participating employers are encouraged to register by email because spaces are limited.