<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Earlier this month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a>, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… Makeup and Prosthetics</a> students, alongside learners from the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/"… BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production</a> degree, competed in the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) National Final in Blackpool after successfully progressing from the South West Regional competition.</p><p>The national event gave students the opportunity to showcase their talents against learners from across the country, applying their skills across a wide range of treatments, styles, and creative disciplines.</p><p>Students competed in a variety of categories, from classic blow-dries and intricate hairstyling themes to body painting, makeovers, and nail art. Each category challenged competitors to combine creativity, technical precision, and professionalism to produce high-quality work under pressure.</p><p>Following outstanding performances in the regional heats, several students advanced to the national final and achieved impressive results:</p><ul><li>Elora, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… 3 Theatrical, Special Effects, Prosthetics and Make-up Extended Diploma</a> learner, achieved 1st place in TV and Film Character Makeup.</li><li>Yana, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/"… BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production</a> student, achieved 1st place for her Banksy-inspired half body painting, as well as 3rd place in both Butterfly Body Paint and Magazine Front Cover Makeup.</li><li>Aimee, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… 2 Beauty Therapy</a> learner, secured 2nd place in Nails.</li><li>Janis, a <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… 3 Hairdressing</a> Adult learner, achieved 2nd place for her 1960s-inspired evening hairstyle.</li></ul><p>These fantastic results reflect not only the students’ talent and dedication, but also the hard work and preparation that went into the competition. Taking part in events like this helps students build confidence, develop resilience and adaptability, and gain valuable networking opportunities – all essential skills for working successfully with clients in the industry.</p><p>Competitions like this allow our learners to identify their strengths while receiving constructive feedback and guidance from industry professionals and peers. Experiences like these encourage students to explore new techniques, styles, and creative approaches that will help them stand out in their future careers.</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, said:</p><p>“Our students have excelled throughout this competition, applying their classroom knowledge to exciting new categories while stepping outside their comfort zones and thinking creatively. Opportunities like this give our students the confidence to experiment, develop their own style, and prepare for the challenges and unique requests they may face when working with clients in their future careers.</p><p>“I’d also like to say a huge thank you to all of my colleagues in the Hair and Beauty team. These results wouldn’t have been possible without your continued support and encouragement.”</p><p>Congratulations to all our learners who competed in the finals, these achievements are a reflection of your talent, creativity, and hard work!</p><p>This competition forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a> Careers Excellence Hubs. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/"… and Makeup</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">Click here!</a></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last month, our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…;, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut…;, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… Makeup</a> students hosted a successful pamper night for members of the public, inviting guests to enjoy an evening of relaxation, treatments, and dining.</p><p>Attendees were able to choose from a range of treatments delivered by our talented students, including wash, blow dry and style appointments, manicures, massages, and makeovers. The event created a welcoming and sociable atmosphere where guests could unwind, chat with students, and enjoy professional treatments at an affordable price.</p><p>Following their pamper sessions, guests moved to the Grove Kitchen and Restaurant, where our <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… and Catering</a> students prepared and served a delicious two-course meal consisting of hunter’s chicken followed by homemade trifle. This provided an excellent opportunity for students to showcase their culinary and presentation skills, transforming a simple traditional meal into a professionally prepared and presented dining experience made entirely from scratch.</p><drupal-entity alt="&quot;Students pouring custard into the trifle&quot;" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="500b5c0f-b30e-49a2-b583-5cd139427745" data-embed-button="file_browser" data-entity-embed-display="image:image" data-entity-embed-display-settings="{&quot;image_style&quot;:&quot;max_500x500&quot;,&quot;image_link&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;image_loading&quot;:{&quot;attribute&quot;:&quot;lazy&quot;}}">&nbsp;</drupal-entity><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The evening was highly beneficial for our students across all curriculum areas involved, offering valuable experience interacting with members of the public and working with real-world clients in a professional environment. Students developed their communication and customer service skills by learning how to respond to different personalities, preferences, and client needs, while also gaining experience working under pressure within a time-sensitive but fully supported setting. The event also helped students build confidence, professionalism, and practical experience, while giving them opportunities to receive feedback on their work and add to their professional portfolios.</p><p>The pamper night also benefited members of the public by providing affordable treatments and an enjoyable social experience, while allowing the local community to directly support student learning and the development of industry skills. Events such as this play an important role in helping students prepare for future employment while giving guests the opportunity to experience the high standards and talents of our learners.</p><p>A big thank you to everyone in attendance for making events like this possible and nurturing the professional development of our students.</p><p>This event forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a> Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/performance-and-production-art… and Media Makeup</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">Click here!</a></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

<p data-pm-slice="0 0 []">Last month, Weston College proudly hosted the <strong>Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT)</strong> South West Regional Competition at the Winter Gardens, welcoming talented students from across the South West and Wales. The event provided an exciting platform for aspiring professionals to showcase their skills, creativity, and technical expertise in a competitive, real-world environment.</p><p>Our FE <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Barbering</a>, <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a>, and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… and Prosthetics</a> students, alongside <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses/makeup-wigs-and-special-effects-ba-hons/"… HE Makeup, Wigs and Special Effects BA (Hons)</a> students, took part in a wide range of categories. From body painting, theatrical ageing, and face painting to cut and blow-dries, facials, and hairstyling, the competition challenged students to apply their practical knowledge under time pressure while maintaining high professional standards.</p><p>We are delighted that 14 of our students have progressed to the <strong>AHT National Finals</strong> in Blackpool on 11th May, where they will compete against top students from across the UK.</p><p>Taking part in competitions like this plays a vital role in our students’ development. Working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment helps to build confidence, resilience, and adaptability which are essential qualities for careers in the hair and beauty industry, where working with clients often requires quick thinking and professionalism.</p><p>The experience also enables students to refine their technical skills and push their creative boundaries. Constructive feedback from industry professionals gives them valuable insight into current standards and expectations, helping them to elevate their work and continue improving.</p><p>In addition, the competition provides invaluable networking opportunities. Students are able to connect with peers who share similar ambitions, as well as industry experts, allowing them to exchange ideas, gain inspiration, and build relationships that may support their future careers.</p><p>Competing in a respected event such as the AHT also strengthens students’ professional portfolios. It demonstrates their ability to perform at a high level in a competitive setting and provides credible, industry-recognised experience that will stand out to future employers.</p><p>It was also great to see former <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… Therapy</a> student and training <strong>WorldSkills</strong> judge, Maddie Hulbert, on the judging panel. Her fantastic progression and achievements act as a role model for our students, showing them what can be achieved with hard work and perseverance.</p><p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, added, “Seeing our students apply their classroom knowledge to a professional competition and do so calmly and maturely was fantastic to see. It reflects how far they have come since they began their course, and I am so proud to see what they have achieved. I would also like to say a huge thank you to the FE and HE Hair, Beauty, and Media Makeup team who have worked tirelessly with our students. These fantastic results are also a reflection of the hard work you’ve committed to our students.”</p><p>A huge thank you to <strong>VTCT</strong> and the judges for their time, expertise and invaluable feedback that will inevitably elevate the learner experience.</p><p>We wish all of our finalists the best of luck as they prepare to represent Weston College on a national stage in Blackpool.</p><p>This competition forms part of the <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-…; and <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut…; Careers Excellence Hub. Weston College's Career Excellence Hubs are designed to be the launching pad for our learners' careers. In a world where connections and relevant skills matter more than ever, these hubs offer a holistic approach that prepares learners to thrive in their chosen industries. With the support of these hubs, our learners are well-equipped to make a significant impact in their professional journeys.&nbsp;</p><p>Progress to the next level in <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/courses-by-subject/performance-and-production-art…, Makeup and Special Effects</a>! At <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">University Centre Weston (UCW)</a> our students give us impressive feedback, with our latest National Student Survey results putting us above average in all nine areas! Find out more about our exceptional teaching, wellbeing services and learning resources by visiting our website. <a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.ucw.ac.uk/">Click here!</a></p><p><strong>If you are passionate about education and are looking for an opportunity to join the staff team at a leading college, then look at the latest job vacancies available at Weston College </strong><a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link" href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/jobs?utm_source=main-menu&amp;utm_medium=main-…;. You can find all the latest job opportunities that Weston College has to offer, with a commitment to providing quality education for learners and a focus on continuous professional development for staff, Weston College is an excellent place to work and grow in your career.</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p>