West Notts College students are spa stars

West Nottinghamshire College has struck gold for the third year in succession after once again being awarded ‘Gold College of Excellence’ status by one of the UK’s leading destination spas, Ragdale Hall Spa.

The prestigious accolade recognises the college’s high standards of beauty therapy training, its commitment to preparing students for careers in the industry and its longstanding partnership with the Leicestershire-based spa.

(Left to right Amy Stirland-Fell, programme area leader for hairdressing, beauty therapy and make-up artistry, Kate Taylor, beauty therapy teacher, Suzanne Szepeta, teaching head of department for hairdressing and beauty therapy and Nicholas Thorpe, head of department for apprenticeships, adult and commercial.placeholder image
(Left to right Amy Stirland-Fell, programme area leader for hairdressing, beauty therapy and make-up artistry, Kate Taylor, beauty therapy teacher, Suzanne Szepeta, teaching head of department for hairdressing and beauty therapy and Nicholas Thorpe, head of department for apprenticeships, adult and commercial.

Programme area leader for hairdressing, beauty therapy and make-up artistry Amy Stirland-Fell said: “It’s wonderful recognition of the high standards we maintain and the strong relationship we’ve developed with Ragdale Hall Spa over many years.

“Our partnership is something we really value because it gives our students opportunities that extend well beyond the classroom. Being able to visit such a prestigious spa, meet therapists, learn about career pathways and potentially undertake work experience is incredibly beneficial.

“We’ve had students progress into employment at Ragdale Hall Spa, and the team has also supported staff wishing to further their qualifications with us by accommodating their working arrangements so they can attend college.

To achieve gold status, colleges must demonstrate excellence in teaching, strong industry relationships and a commitment to helping students develop the skills and experience needed for employment.

The award is reviewed annually, with colleges required to continue meeting criteria covering teaching standards, student progression and engagement with industry. of beauty professionals by strengthening links between education and employment.

Related topics:
News you can trust since 1952
Follow us
© 2026 Iconic Media Group Ltd. All rights reserved.Cookie SettingsTerms and ConditionsPrivacy notice