THE Scottish heats for a prestigious ‘WorldSkills UK’ event was a ‘beautiful’ success for West College Scotland.

Students from all over the country arrived in Greenock with the aim of securing a place at the national final in November.

The college was picked to host competitions across a number of beauty treatment categories such as hands and face, body, nail services and ‘media body’.

WorldSkills UK is commissioned by the Education and Training Foundation to give careers advice and engage young people in skills competitions where they improve their technical and employability abilities.

A college spokesperson said: “We offered up our Greenock campus on for a full day of competition over a range of categories, with the college represented in each one.

“A huge congratulations go to Kathryn Docherty who secured first place in beauty therapy hands and face, Leah Pickens who picked up second place in media body and Stacey Robinson who took third place in beauty therapy hands and face.

“The highest scoring placed competitors from across the UK will make the final in Birmingham in November.”

Portonian Stacey, 26, who is studying SVQ Level 2 beauty therapy, said: “I’m really delighted that I managed to be placed in this competition. It’s a great feeling of achievement, especially when you’re competing against so many other colleges.”

Karen McIlvenna, head of sector for hairdressing, beauty and make-up artistry, said: “It was a great atmosphere throughout the competition.

"Well done to everyone who took part – the standard of work has been truly outstanding.’
Curriculum enhancement lecturer Caroline Paton said: “Thanks to the staff for organising, mentoring and making everything go smoothly.”

A spokesperson for WorldSkills added: “We equip students with the tools and resources they need to a build a future. It gives students the opportunity to showcase their skills and talent, build confidence and self-esteem.

“The judges saw some lovely practice throughout the day, and were extremely pleased at what the students presented. We’d like to thank West College Scotland for making everyone feel very welcome .”