Hair and Beauty students at Bath College have put their creative and practical skills to the test in an industry-standard competition at their Somer Valley Campus.
The annual challenge saw more than 25 Level 2 and 3 students showcasing their talents under timed conditions.
They had to impress a panel of professional judges by demonstrating their ability to work under pressure.
The competition, which counts towards the students’ coursework portfolio, aims to boost their confidence and creativity skills.
Jayne Withers, senior curriculum leader for hair and beauty, said the competition encouraged students to show their talents and inspire others.
She said: “The College’s annual hair and beauty competition is a fantastic showcase for our students to demonstrate the skills they learn at College.
“Working under timed competition conditions, it’s not easy, but the students once again impressed judges with their high standards and creativity.”
Level 3 Make-up Artistry students had to create a character based on the fantasy theme ‘Out of this World’. They used make-up, face and body art to come up with eye-catching designs such as space maids and sea life creatures.
Level 3 Hair students created the ‘total look’ with a colour, cut and finish, while Level 2 Hair students tackled a ‘long hair up’ style that was commercial and fashionable.
Level 2 Beauty students had just 45 minutes to use nail art techniques with an Easter theme.
Gemma Olsen was the winner of the ‘long hair up’ category after she put her 15-year-old daughter Karym’s hair in a French roll in the 60 minute timeframe.
The Level 2 Hair student decided on a career change and returned to College to train as a hairdresser after having four children.
Gemma of Chilcompton said: “It was awesome to hear my name being read out, this was my first big win.
“It’s given me even more motivation to go on to do my Level 3 Hairdressing then work in a salon.
“I’ve always wanted to be a hairdresser since I left school but I’ve been working in childcare as the hours fitted in with my own children.
“But now my children are 15, 12, 7 and 6 and all at school, I’m determined to work hard at College to get my dream job.”
The competition culminated in family and friends being invited to a prize giving ceremony at the Centurion Hotel.
The judges were Scott Green, who owns the ACU Hair Salon in Devizes, James Christopher, who owns JC Hairdressing in Midsomer Norton, Mark Hanock, of Gilmor Hair Supplies, and Mel Broom of The Body Panting Company.
Scott said: “This is the 13th year I’ve been invited to judge this competition and it’s been fantastic every year.
“This year was a very closely contested competition. We have had to make some difficult decisions as the talent has been so high.
“The students put so much hard work into their entries, it’s the pinnacle of their year.”
