Beauty Students Shine in WorldSkills National Finals

East Sussex College Beauty students, Beth Monro and Lorella Booker, participated in the WorldSkills UK National Finals last week.

Taking place in Manchester from November 14 to 17, the finals showcased the pair’s exceptional talent. Beth, in particular, garnered well-deserved recognition, earning the Highly Commended award for her outstanding efforts.

Speaking to the College about her achievement, Beth said, “The WorldSkills UK national finals has given me so many opportunities to show my skills and build my confidence. I’ve dedicated a lot of time to practising, the journey has been a lot of fun!

“During the competition I had to do a surprise make-up look. On the day they gave me a picture which I had to copy. The photo consisted of a nude lip and a dark Smokey eye; I then had to do a galvanic facial and choose the correct settings to benefit my client’s skin. We had a mystery task which we got given and straight away had to go into it - this was a leg cleanse and scrub, then a massage. I had to adapt as if my client had knee surgery six months before.

She added, “Lastly, I had to do a seven-minute presentation answering how this competition has helped me be more employable, what I can do as a therapist to be more green and my next career steps.”

On the support from her tutor at College, Beth said, “Shelli has put so much time and effort into me, she has always been there to support me and made me become the best therapist I can be. My courses have been amazing and I would recommend it to anyone who has a passion for beauty. I’ve developed so many skills and gained a lot of knowledge from my Level 2 and Level 3 in Beauty and now Level 2 in Nails. The tutors are all amazing and are always there to help you be the best you can.”

Both successful students who have already achieved great things in WorldSkills were supported by expert tutor, Shelli Simkin, who continues to provide maximum support for learners to succeed.

Shelli said, “It was my absolute pleasure to stand alongside these two wonderful students last week at the WorldSkill UK National Finals. Over 900 competitors from across four nations applied back in the spring. Beth and Lorella managed to gain a place in the top 8 in the country in their categories. This meant a road trip to Manchester for five days!

“No medals were won this time, unfortunately; but that does not take away from how immensely proud I am of both Lorella and Beth. The hard work and dedication that they have both shown this year is remarkable. You are both an inspiration to your generation, and I cannot thank you enough for representing myself and the beauty team at ESC Lewes in such an amazing way.”

If you’re interested in studying Beauty Therapy at East Sussex College and keen to follow in Beth and Lorella’s footsteps, please click here to see all the relevant courses on offer.