Same time next year, please!

Groups of Further Education students were recently given the opportunity of a lifetime and a chance to experience working in their chosen field in Europe, thanks to the Leonardo Da Vinci work placement project.

Students studying across a range of programmes from Beauty to Travel and Tourism and from Hospitality to Childcare applied to go on the programme which took place over three weeks in destinations in Cyprus, Portugal, France and Spain.

To be chosen for the project students had to submit an application letter followed by interviews. The successful ones then started classes in French, Greek and Spanish having a tutorial once a week to help them prepare and bond as a group.

We caught up with a group of students who went to work in salons in Cannes and Antibes in France and they all agreed that given the chance they would go back and do it all again.

Hairdressing lecturers Carol Moore and Perry accompanied the students on the trip. Carol said "In the salons the students observed the French stylists at work and then had the opportunity to work on their own clients. The French stylists and salon owners were very impressed with the students’ skills and encouraged them to talk French and get involved as much as possible."

Alongside the work, the group also enjoyed social outings including trips to Monte Carlo and the Cannes Film Festival.

So what did the students think?

Michaela

"The stylists really encouraged us to talk French and get involved which was brilliant."

Sinead

"I was in a salon in Cannes which was very busy because of the film festival which was very exciting. I did blowdrys and texturising and learnt some interesting techniques."

Laura

"In my salon only one person spoke English. There were five other juniors and we all taught each other languages."

Kim

"It was hard at first but then I got into it and really enjoyed the experience."

Liam

"I’ve really grown in confidence since I got back."

Leigh Perry, Lecturer

"I asked the students what advice they would give to other students who are keen to participate in the project next year. They said go for it one hundred per cent, use your initiative and face the challenges head on. It's great to see them develop personally and professionally and it stands them in good stead for the future."