EMPLOYERS in the hairdressing trade are being attracted to the high quality of mature students graduating from a Gwent college.

A report on Coleg Gwent by inspectors Estyn is full of praise for the hair and beauty department, to which it awarded a Grade Two, indicating good features with no important shortcomings.

The college runs full-time and part-time courses at the Cross Keys, Ebbw Vale, Newport and Pontypool campuses.

The report said teachers worked well together to provide students with good role models. Effective techniques were used to demonstrate modern styling and beauty-therapy skills, with good use made of visiting speakers and the Internet.

"Mature students on accelerated courses become self-confident quickly," said the report. "Employers value their skills and many are eager to employ them when they complete their training."

Estyn found that students made good progress on all courses and rapidly developed a range of practical skills to good commercial standards.

"Most lessons are of a high standard and teachers are innovative in using a variety of teaching methods to meet the wide range of students' needs," the report continued.

"Students participate in a wide range of other activities, such as competitions, fashion shows, demonstrations and voluntary work with local charities."

Good features included the high standard of teaching, excellent student support, professional standards of student work and progression to further training.

The report did recommend improvements in key skills delivery and workplace assessment and that the college should continue to extend the range and number of clients available.

College quality director Christine Haines said Coleg Gwent was delighted with Estyn's recognition.

"We are committed to continuously improving our courses and ensuring that all students achieve their potential during their time with us."

* A new hairdressing competition - Salon Cymru 2002 - will be held in the splendid banqueting room of Cardiff City Hall on October 6.

Organisers I-SA Assessment and Training says it will be the first major hairdressing competition seen in South Wales for many years.

I-SA, Wales' biggest provider of hairdressing training, is expecting an attendance of around 3,000. The competition has so far attracted 100 entrants.

* Pictured: Brian Hancock gets a trim from staff member Alison Knapman at Fusion, the new hairdressing and beauty therapy centre at Coleg Gwent's Cross Keys campus