<p>The service sectors faculty recently held their end of year celebration in the Knightstone Bistro at Weston College, to award the achievements of learners’ outstanding performance and dedication throughout the academic year.</p>

<p>The Service Sector Department at Weston College encompasses a diverse range of courses, including <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hospi… &amp; Hospitality,</a> <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/educa… &amp; Early Years</a>, <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… </a>&amp; <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut…; and <a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/compu…;. These programs aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the dynamic and ever-expanding service industry.</p>

<p>Over 160 learners attended the event in support of their peers and the event was hosted by Sandra Bull, Dean of the Faculty, who praised the students for their unwavering commitment and perseverance. She emphasized the importance of their chosen fields and highlighted the immense opportunities awaiting them in the service sector.</p>

<p>Each of the four subject areas presented the ‘Employer of the Year’, ‘Apprentice of the Year’ and ‘Learner of the Year’ award, based on nominations from teachers and peers across the faculty. Reasons for nominations and winners ranged from exemplary academic performance, strong work ethic, leadership skills, and contributions to their courses.</p>

<p>The winners were:</p>

<p><strong>Digital Employer Nomination</strong>- Maple from SenseIT</p>

<p><strong>Digital Apprentice of the year</strong>- Rion</p>

<p><strong>Digital Full-time learner of the year</strong> – Luke</p>

<p><strong>Hair and Beauty Employer Nomination</strong>- Ellie from Aesthetica</p>

<p><strong>Hair and Beauty Apprentice of the year</strong>- Kate</p>

<p><strong>Hair and Beauty Full-time learner of the year</strong> – Kiera</p>

<p><strong>Education and Early Years Employer Nomination</strong>- Ruby from Little Bears</p>

<p><strong>Education and Early Years Apprentice of the year</strong>- Amy</p>

<p><strong>Education and Early Years Full-time learner of the year</strong> – Callie</p>

<p><strong>Hospitality Employer Nomination</strong>- Anthony from The Rising Sun</p>

<p><strong>Hospitality Apprentice of the year</strong>- Owen</p>

<p><strong>Hospitality Full-time learner of the year</strong> – Sophie</p>

<p>Sandra Bull, Dean of the Faculty, commented on the success of the event: “I am so proud of all the learners and their achievements from the past year. It has been an absolute pleasure watching everyone develop their skills in their chosen industry, and I cannot wait to see what they go on to achieve following their time at the college.”</p>

<p>The end-of-year celebration at Weston College's Service Sector Department not only recognized the exceptional achievements of its students but also served as a reminder of the college's commitment to nurturing talent and preparing individuals for success in their chosen fields. The event left everyone inspired and eager to embark on their professional journeys, armed with the knowledge and recognition they had gained during their time at Weston College.</p>

<p>In a heart-warming gesture, Level 2 Hair and Beauty learners provided a range of mini treatments for the dedicated NHS staff at the Wellbeing Centre in <a href="https://www.uhbw.nhs.uk/">Weston Hospital</a>.</p>

<p>The learners wanted to express their gratitude for the workers’ tireless efforts and provide a well-deserved moment of relaxation and pampering.</p>

<p>The Wellbeing Centre at Weston Hospital has been the perfect spot for NHS staff to unwind, de-stress, and recharge. Recognizing the immense dedication and selflessness exhibited by healthcare professionals, the hair and beauty learners wanted to contribute to their wellbeing by providing a series of indulgent treatments.</p>

<p>Under the guidance of skilled instructors, the learners skilfully carried out an array of mini treatments, including hand massages, file and polish services, and expertly applied makeup. These treatments were specifically designed to uplift the spirits of NHS staff and give them a much-needed respite from their demanding roles on the front lines.</p>

<p>The event was a resounding success, with NHS staff members expressing their gratitude for the thoughtful initiative. Many shared that the experience not only helped them relax but also boosted their morale, reminding them of the unwavering support they receive from their local community.</p>

<p>Jenna Ratcliffe, Divisional Lead of Service Sectors, expressed her pride in the learners' dedication and commitment to making a positive impact. She stated, "Our learners were thrilled to have the opportunity to give back to the incredible NHS staff who have been working tirelessly to keep us safe. This event allowed them to showcase their skills and demonstrate the power of beauty and self-care in promoting overall well-being."</p>

<p>Jodie Alden, HR and Management Assistant at Weston Hospital, commented: “It was a real treat to have the beauty students join Weston General Hospital to provide mini hand treatments and make-up. I opted for the hand massage, which was excellent, but all of the treatments looked fantastic! It was lovely to see the Hospital staff taking time to relax and chatting away with all of the students.”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/beaut… you would like to find out about Beauty Therapy courses, click here!</a></p>

<p>Last week, our Level 3 Beauty Therapy learners were treated to a guest lecture and demonstration from an industry professional at <a href="https://www.guinot.co.uk/en_GB">Guinot</a&gt;. Guinot, the No. 1 Beauty Salon in France, offers beauty treatments and exclusive skincare treatments for the face and body in approved beauty salons.</p>

<p>Jenna Ratcliffe, the Divisional Lead of Sector Services, explained the demonstration, and how this benefits the learners in their studies: “Learners focus on providing advanced skincare therapies during their course; the industry masterclass was focused on enhancing learner awareness around alternatives to aesthetic medicine. Guinot was the perfect brand to offer this insight to our learners as they have over 50 years' experience in the professional beauty therapy industry with treatments available in 70 countries.”</p>

<p>Jenna continued: “Learners had the opportunity to further develop electrical therapy technical skills under the direction of Michelle, our Guinot representative. Learners explored Guinot's Hydradermie, Hydraclean and Hydralift treatments and were fascinated by the results.”</p>

<p>At Weston College, we understand how vital live demonstrations are in bridging the gap between education and industry. Learners are aware of professional brans, however being given the opportunity to experience them first hand is far more supportive for the learner’s progression into industry.</p>

<p>One learner participating in the session commented: “I thoroughly enjoyed today's Guinot masterclass with Michelle. She provided so much information on the treatments and products available, allowing us to test each product out. The fragrances were phenomenal, and the quality of the product is definitely top of the range and allows me to see treatment profit margins.”</p>

<p>Jenna commented on the success of the visit: “I’m so thrilled that at Weston College we are able to present opportunities such as these to our learners; as our motto is ‘careers, not courses’, industry professional demonstrations opens the door for our learners to achieve those dream careers!</p>

<p>“Michelle from Guinot stated that she would offer any of our learners a career pathway at Guinot, stating that they were professional and very knowledgeable! We are immensely proud of our learners, and so grateful to Michelle for sharing her expertise and knowledge with us all!”</p>

<p><a href="https://www.weston.ac.uk/what-can-i-study/courses-16-18-year-olds/hair-… you would like to find out more about our Hair and Beauty courses, you can do so here.</a></p>