Two beauty therapists are feeling relaxed after winning first and second in a national skills competition.
Nina Van-Staden, 19, from Hadleigh, and Amy Hunt, 17, from Harwich, are both studying on beauty courses at Suffolk New College.
The duo travelled to the Norbreck Castle Hotel in Blackpool, where they took part in the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) annual skills contest at the end of May.
VCTC Skills were also supporting this event.
They had to do a 30-minute back massage with a pre-cleanse and exfoliation, and then their work was judged by experts.
Going hand in hand against 15 others studying at different colleges across the UK, Nina was placed first, and Amy came second.
Nina said: “Once we were all set up, it was quite calm. I think we did well. I’m really happy.”
Amy said: “It has given me confidence. It’s very exciting. I guess technically we are one of the top two masseuses in the country. It’s been a big opportunity for us.”
They both won certificates, a selection of beauty products, a medal, and Nina received a trophy.
Hayley Mcglone is a Curriculum Co-Ordinator for Hair and Beauty Therapy. She supported the students before and during the competition. Hayley said: “To place in the top two in this national competition makes me very proud. They worked really hard, and it’s nice to see them rewarded.”
Next up for Nina and Amy is another competition called WorldSkills that will take place at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College at the end of June.
Ahead of this, Hayley continued: “We now have high expectations ahead of WorldSkills. Fingers crossed they can get to the national finals. (of WorldSkills).”
(WorldSkills is an international charity that organises world and national vocational competitions culminating in a ‘Skills Olympics’ style event that is held in different parts of the globe every two years).