A NEW partnership between a college and local hairdressing salon has been launched.

The new partnership between Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor and the Francesco Group was held in the main hall at Dolgellau on Monday, 19 November.

On arrival, the 150 guests were served with canapés prepared by the catering students before being treated to a masterclass by top stylists Mark Izzard and Heather Shaw.

Displaying their many talents, Mark and Heather demonstrated cutting, colouring and styling techniques which inspired students, providing them with an insight into the various career paths of this profession including television and the fashion industry.

Francesco’s director of education, Craig Davies explained how they support the students at the college and said: “It is all about getting the students work ready and generating a passion for the industry.”

Eifion Owen, programme manager for the Hairdressing department, said: “Our continuing aim is to ensure that the students leave the college having qualified and gained the relevant skill set necessary to enable them to succeed in this highly competitive profession. Our partnership with the Francesco Group will ensure that the best possible training and techniques are available to them.”

Llio Griffiths who is on her first year on the Hairdressing course commented: “This was a fantastic evening, we helped both the stylists and the models prepare for the event, gaining an insight into what is expected by top hairdressers. It encouraged me and my fellow students to think about aiming high and to try to follow the different career paths available to us”.