Students from Stoke-on-Trent College enjoyed success at the Midlands regional finals of WorldSkills UK.

The level three make-up and nail treatment learners competed in a range of categories covering make-up, nail art, and aromatherapy, securing eight top three finishes.

Student Kimberley Birch, who came third in the advanced nail art category with a design inspired by the Wizard of Oz, said: “My inspiration came from my own childhood memories. My mum would always read to me and I loved the Wizard of Oz. I now read it to my daughter and it is her favourite tale by far.”

Theatrical and media make-up tutor Rachel Ogilvy-Lea, who took the team to Newcastle for the competition, said: “All the students have put in a great deal of hard work, above and beyond what they are already doing on their courses.

“They’ve undertaken additional training on top of their coursework and exams, so it’s great to see all that work and dedication being rewarded.”

Picture caption: Team members Kimberley Birch, aged 32, Shanine Dale, 18, Adeeba Khan, 17, Rebecca Prince and Devon Cawley, both 18, and Emma Smith, 34.