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Coatbridge College Celebrates World Skills | 21.06.10

Three of Coatbridge College’s students have been named as finalists in the UK heats of the WorldSkills Competitions – Sarah Vieira Da Cruz, John O’Hara and Maria Hanley.

WorldSkills UK are annual competitions run regionally then nationally to encourage people across the coutnry to excel in their vocational skill. Competition categories include everything from bricklaying and web design to acting and nail technology.

Sara Vieira Da Cruz , 29 from Hamilton, is a Make-up Artistry student at Coatbrigde College. She competed in the ‘Media Make-up’ category of WorldSkills and will now go on to take part in the UK final in Derby where she will be the only contestant from Scotland.

Mum of two Sara said:
‘It’s a great opportunity to take part in a national competition like WorldSkills UK. I love the avant garde and fashion looks you can create as a make-up artist. I’ve just finished my HND Make-up Artistry at Coatbridge College and while I work freelance, I’d eventually like to be a lecturer.’

Maria Hanley has just completed her HNC Complementary Therapies at the College. For the ‘Holistic Therapy – Reflexology’ competition, Maria had to complete a full Reflexology treatment including client consultation and after care advice – and she used her mum as her client! She will now join other regional winners in the UK final before going on to the second year of a BA in Health Care (Complementary Therapies and Reflexology) at Napier University.

Eileen Waugh, Curriculum Leader for Beauty, Spa and Holistic Therapies at Coatbridge College, said:
‘Maria is a fine example of a student who has fully embraced all of the learning opportunities presented to her. She has maintained her eagerness to learn throughout her time at Coatbridge College and has excelled in all that she has attempted. Her passion for learning is what enabled Maria to gain world class skills and find the confidence to enter the competition. We are extremely proud of all that she has achieved over the last two years and wish her lots of luck in final.’

John O’Hara, 28 from Motherwell, has just completed his Advanced Hairdressing course at Coatbridge College and, having been placed 1st in his regional heat, earned his place in the UK final of the Hairdressing competition. John was awarded ‘Highly Commended’ at the national final which took place in the L’Oreal Technical Centre in London.

He said:
‘I’ve always had a passion for Hairdressing and when I wanted a career change from working in pubs and restaurants, I knew Coatbridge College was the best place to pursue Hairdressing.

Entering WorldSkills UK was a great experience - it gave me the chance to show my skills and the creative side of my hairdressing. Winning 1st place in the regional heat was amazing but being awarded ‘Highly Commended’ at a national level was event better!

I would like to teach in the future. It’s something I am heading towards and taking every opportunity I can.’