Earlier this month, our Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, and Media Makeup and Prosthetics students, alongside learners from the UCW BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production degree, competed in the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists (AHT) National Final in Blackpool after successfully progressing from the South West Regional competition.

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.

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.

Following outstanding performances in the regional heats, several students advanced to the national final and achieved impressive results:

• Elora, a Level 3 Theatrical, Special Effects, Prosthetics and Make-up Extended Diploma learner, achieved 1st place in TV and Film Character Makeup.
• Yana, a UCW BA(Hons) Hair, Makeup and Prosthetics for Production 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.
• Aimee, a Level 2 Beauty Therapy learner, secured 2nd place in Nails.
• Janis, a Level 3 Hairdressing Adult learner, achieved 2nd place for her 1960s-inspired evening hairstyle.

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.

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.

Jenna Ratcliffe, Head of Service Sectors at Weston College, said:

“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.

“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.”

Congratulations to all our learners who competed in the finals, these achievements are a reflection of your talent, creativity, and hard work!

This competition forms part of the Hairdressing and Beauty Therapy 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. 

Progress to the next level in Hair and Makeup! At University Centre Weston (UCW) 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. Click here!

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 here. 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.

Earlier this month, our Electrical Installation Apprentice, Gracie Donaghy, was named joint winner of the Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 Award alongside another apprentice Petra O’Flaherty. Competing against more than 3,000 apprentices from across the UK and Ireland, Gracie successfully progressed through several challenging stages before being crowned one of just two winners.

The Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026 Award is an annual competition celebrating the most promising new talent within the trade industry across the UK and Ireland. The competition encourages apprentices to push themselves beyond their comfort zones, showcase their skills, and stand out among some of the industry’s brightest emerging professionals.

Throughout the application process, Gracie completed a series of written submissions, interviews, and practical workshops with major brands including DeWalt, Google, and Lego. She then advanced to the final stage, where she faced an interview panel made up of six industry specialists. Impressing the judges with her extensive knowledge, professionalism, and hands-on experience within the trade, Gracie secured the title of Screwfix Trade Apprentice 2026. Alongside this prestigious achievement, she received a prize package worth £10,000, including tools, training, and technology, as well as £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers for Weston College.

This latest success adds to an already impressive list of achievements for Gracie, who was also named SPARKS Female Skills Winner 2025. These accomplishments are a reflection of her dedication, precision, and strong work ethic. Taking part in competitions has also enabled her to network with employers, receive valuable feedback, and further develop her practical skills and industry knowledge. Competing alongside other talented apprentices has broadened her perspective and introduced her to new approaches within the trade, helping her continue to grow both personally and professionally.

Gracie Donaghy said:

“Winning this prestigious award is such a huge honour, and I am incredibly grateful to the team at Screwfix for giving me this opportunity. Earning the title of Screwfix Trade Apprentice, alongside the fantastic prizes, will massively benefit my career going forward, not only throughout the remainder of my apprenticeship, but also in my future career. It has also shown me that all my hard work is paying off.”

“I have always felt supported and encouraged throughout my time at Weston College to produce my best work. My lecturers have consistently motivated me to enter competitions to help build my confidence and allow me to recognise both my strengths and the areas where I can continue to improve. Without their ongoing support and encouragement, I would never have realised what I was capable of achieving.”

“I would encourage any apprentice considering entering a competition to go for it. You never truly know what you’re capable of until you put yourself out there. Competitions open up incredible opportunities, help you grow in confidence, and are hugely beneficial both personally and professionally.”

Richard Hanney, Head of Construction at Weston College, added:

“Gracie continues to amaze us with everything she has achieved throughout her time at Weston College. The work she produces is consistently of an exceptionally high standard, and she is always a pleasure to work with. We are incredibly proud of how far she has come and excited to see what she achieves next.

We always encourage our learners to step outside of their comfort zones and take part in competitions to build confidence and showcase their talents. Seeing how much they gain from these experiences, both personally and professionally, is fantastic.”

Thank you to the Construction Trades Team at Weston College for their ongoing support and dedication to push their learners beyond the classroom, these achievements wouldn’t be possible without your care and encouragement.

Finally, a huge congratulations to Gracie on this outstanding achievement, and a massive thank you for securing £2,000 worth of Screwfix vouchers for Weston College, helping to support future talent and invest in high-quality equipment for our learners.

This competition forms part of the Construction 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. 

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 here. 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.

How has Bristol Port worked with Weston College to support staff development and upskilling across the business?

Weston College has worked closely with Bristol Port Company across a wide range of learning and development initiatives to support staff development and upskilling throughout the business. This has included apprenticeships in Engineering, Marine, IT, HR and Stevedoring, helping employees build practical skills and long-term careers within the Port.

The partnership has also delivered leadership apprenticeship training through ILM Level 3 and Level 5 programmes for more than 60 employees, supporting the growth of leadership capability across the organisation. In addition, Weston College has supported the development and delivery of new Port induction programmes, as well as crane contractor inductions.

Weston College has also designed and delivered a number of bespoke training courses tailored to the Port’s operational needs, including Train-a-Trainer programmes, Dignity training and ILM Level 2 qualifications.

What types of training programmes have been most beneficial for your workforce?

ILM training has been particularly beneficial in supporting Bristol Port’s leadership teams, enabling employees to unlock their potential through a deeper understanding of both the business and its leadership requirements. These programmes have helped strengthen management capability and develop confidence across teams.

Weston College has also worked with Bristol Port to deliver high-quality apprenticeship programmes, providing employees with the broadest possible foundation for long-term careers at the Port. These apprenticeships combine practical experience with recognised qualifications, helping to build a skilled and adaptable workforce for the future.

Bristol Port has completed ILM Level 2, Level 3 and Level 5 apprenticeships with Weston College. What impact have these leadership and management qualifications had on staff and the wider business?

Bristol Port’s ILM Level 2, 3 and 5 apprenticeships with Weston College have had a significant positive impact across the business by strengthening leadership and management skills at all levels.

Employees who have completed the apprenticeships have gained greater confidence, improved communication skills and stronger team management abilities. The qualifications have also provided staff with recognised professional development opportunities and clearer pathways for career progression, helping to create a more capable and motivated workforce.

How have apprenticeships supported workforce development at Bristol Port?

Apprenticeships have played a critical role in workforce development at Bristol Port by enabling employees to gain practical skills, industry knowledge and recognised qualifications while working. They are helping to develop the Port’s future managers and leaders by building capability from within the organisation.

For employees, apprenticeships provide valuable hands-on experience, structured training and the opportunity to earn while they learn, supporting long-term career development. For the business, apprenticeships help attract new talent, support succession planning and ensure the workforce has the skills needed to meet future operational demands.

Bristol Port is now undertaking a second round of “Train the Trainer” programmes with Weston College. What has made this training successful enough to continue expanding it?

Training and development have been a priority for Bristol Port from the very beginning, with a dedicated training department established in the company’s first year of business to ensure high standards are maintained across operations. Instructors play a vital role within the Port by delivering the practical skills required to support trade and operational activity.

As the business has grown and trade commodities have evolved, there has been an increasing demand for new skills to meet customer requirements. The success of the initial Train the Trainer programme has therefore led to a second round of training, helping the Port continue expanding internal expertise and capability.

Can you talk about the process of identifying staff training needs and how Weston College helps provide the right solution for those requirements?

Bristol Port identifies staff training needs through regular discussions with trade managers, performance reviews and ongoing assessments of operational and future business requirements. Skills gaps, succession planning and changes within the industry all help shape the company’s training priorities.

Weston College supports this process by providing flexible, industry-relevant training solutions tailored to the Port’s specific needs. By working closely with staff and maintaining a strong partnership approach, the College is able to respond effectively to changing requirements and deliver training that has a direct impact on the business.

How does partnering with a local college help Bristol Port stay competitive and future-focused as an employer?

Partnering with a local training provider such as Weston College allows Bristol Port to respond quickly to changing workforce demands and develop training programmes that are tailored to specific operational needs.

This investment in people helps the business remain future-focused by improving staff retention, strengthening workforce capability and building a strong pipeline of talent for the future. The partnership also ensures employees have access to high-quality development opportunities close to home, supporting both individual career growth and long-term business success.

Is there anything you would like to add?

The relationship with Weston College is one of true partnership in every sense of the word. The college cares deeply about our employees and no challenge has been too difficult.

Benjamin Franklin said “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest”. This quote could not be more true in our case.