Former Barnsley College student unlocks her future

Former @BarnsleyCollege student, Chloe Hewett, has turned her dream of owning her own business into a reality as she picks up the keys to her very own beauty salon, CH House of Beauty.

Chloe said:

“My interest in nails started as a hobby in 2017. I found employment at a salon and that’s when I realised, I could earn more by being self-employed, but to be able to do this, I needed more qualifications, so I decided to enrol at Barnsley College.

“When I was studying Nail Technology, my tutor was fantastic. I think she really believed in me and my potential; she spurred me on lots during my course. I was the last to start and the first to finish, despite being in a pandemic!”

Chloe’s goals have been made achievable with the help and support of iTrust, Barnsley College’s Enterprise initiative. iTrust is a joint venture between the College, The Barnsley Chronicle and The Business Village, which supports students interested in starting up a business in Barnsley. Students who choose to receive support from iTrust, will have access to an array of information and guidance such as mentoring from industry specialists and local businesses and financial investments. Chloe has received a grant totalling £250 from iTrust which will go towards the flooring and renovation at her new premises.

During lockdown, Chloe has been completing online courses to further her knowledge in the industry and joined virtual groups with other Nail Technicians which allows her to network and share her work with others.

Jess Widdowson, Enterprise Team Leader at Barnsley College, added:

“Chloe first came to me back in February with a full business plan, building in mind and a list of long-term goals. To see Chloe achieve so much in such a short space of time is an excellent example to all of our students that anything is possible.

“We are now supporting Chloe to get her business off the ground and get the salon ready to open! I’m both proud and pleased for Chloe and look forward to supporting her over the next few years.”