Shoppers at the Cornmill Centre, Darlington, were treated to a selection of free treatments including manicures, nail polishes and hand and arm massages from Level 2 beauty students at Darlington College.
Darlington College technician in hair, beauty and catering Louise Taylor said: “This is a great opportunity for the students to gain experience of dealing with members of the public and practising their nail and massage techniques.
“They have only been working towards their Level 2 since September last year so coming out of the college environment and meeting new people is a great way to boost their self-confidence and people skills.
“It’s also a fabulous way to let people know about our Elements hair and beauty salon at the college where students provide a whole host of hairdressing and beauty therapy services.”
With its own reception area and guaranteed parking spaces Elements salon is located on the ground floor of Darlington College.
Students are supervised by highly qualified staff to provide the latest in hair and beauty treatments, at competitive prices, with an emphasis on customer satisfaction and a quality service.
Student Zabrina Elliott, 16, of Barnard Castle, said: “Since September we have covered a whole range of beauty treatments including facials, eyebrow and eyelash tinting, manicures, pedicures, make-up application and body waxing.
“Although we’ve had clients come into the salon at college this is the first time we have come out to offer treatments to the general public. It was a bit scary at first but it’s been really good and I feel a lot more confident now.
“There have been quite a few people who said that they didn’t know that we had a salon at the college so hopefully they will think about coming there for their treatments in the future.”
Shopper Collette Leeman, of Darlington, who stopped for a file and polish with student Shannon Mason, 17, of Catterick Garrison, added: “I think it’s fabulous that the students are interacting with the public and it’s a nice treat to have a manicure while I’m shopping.
“I do have regular beauty treatments but I didn’t know that the college had a salon so I’ve taken one of their leaflets and may think about visiting it in the future.”
Darlington College students will be in the Cornmill Centre offering free treatments from 9.30am to 4pm, from May 16-20 and from June 6-10.