Apprentice at Kidderminster Academy comes up top in beauty comp

Luscious lashes, a magnificent manicure and minimal make-up with a wow factor have led to an apprentice achieving first place in a beauty competition’s regional heats. Lauren Evans who works at Hayley’s Beauty Boutique in Kingswinford, Dudley achieved the highest scores in the WorldSkills UK beauty therapy (hands and face) category.

“It was a great experience just taking part in the competition – coming first was an unexpected and amazing bonus,” said Lauren, who is studying a beauty therapy qualification at Kidderminster Academy. “I thought the standard was really high so I’m honoured the judges gave me top marks.”

The competition involved Lauren creating a day make-up appearance on a model, along with an eyelash tint and nail treatment/manicure. Judges awarded marks for overall appearance, the beautician’s focus on client care and hygiene as well as the rapport they built up with their client and model.

Lauren was presented with a WorldSkills UK certificate and an exclusive beauty kit containing manicure equipment.

Her employer, salon owner, Hayley Churchill said: “I couldn’t be more pleased at how well Lauren has done. Over the last two years that she has worked at the salon, going from Saturday girl to apprentice, I’ve seen her confidence grow.

“It’s lovely to see her bring back to the salon everything she’s learning at college. Her success in the competition reflects this.”

Lauren is continuing her apprenticeship and has just started a Level 3 beauty therapy course at The Academy.