A leading college has launched a groundbreaking new hair and beauty centre designed to elevate skills, enhance wellbeing and deliver inclusive support for communities across the region.
Coleg Cambria Deeside has opened its pioneering Cosmetology Centre – a first-of-its-kind facility created to advance the hair and beauty sector, enrich the learner journey, and serve as an accessible, welcoming hub for local people.
The purpose-built centre marks a major investment and follows two years of development.
Designed specifically for individuals who may face challenges accessing treatments – including those living with dementia, cancer, autism, menopause symptoms, mental-health conditions or other complex needs – the facility offers a calm, supportive environment with modern treatment rooms, specialist staff, and cutting-edge technology.
“This is an absolute game changer for the sector and for further education,” said Vicky Edwards, Vice Principal of Technical Studies.
“There is nothing else like this regionally or beyond. It is a centre of excellence, a community space and a professional commercial setting all in one – created to support people when they need it most, and to ensure our learners become truly industry-ready.”
Developed in close partnership with organisations such as Flintshire Social Services, mental-health groups, the Muslim Cultural Society, dementia and Alzheimer’s support networks and various community organisations, the centre reflects a shared commitment to accessibility and inclusion.
The facility has already hosted mental-health groups, domestic-violence survivors and women’s support organisations for wellbeing sessions and coffee mornings, receiving overwhelmingly positive responses.
Lisa Radcliffe, Assistant Principal for Technical Studies at Deeside, added: “The aim was to build an accessible, supportive facility where carers and families can relax, have a coffee, connect with others and feel at ease while their loved one receives a treatment with trained staff. Inclusion is at the heart of everything we do.”
Two members of staff central to the development were Beauty Therapy Lecturer and Equity Specialist Esther Leigh, and Hairdressing Lecturer and Equity Specialist Kelly Pasicznyk. Their work shaped the design, technology choices, décor and accessibility features to ensure the space meets the needs of every client, including those experiencing hair loss, heightened sensitivity, cultural considerations or anxiety.
Over the past year, both undertook extensive specialist training. Esther completed oncology massage, menopausal massage and hydrafacial qualifications, while both lecturers developed expertise in working with varied hair textures, supporting clients with dementia and providing dignified care for those at end of life. They also spent time within local hospices to better understand the needs of vulnerable people and their families.
“We’re so proud of what has been created,” said Esther. “We’ve trained intensively and built our knowledge in specialist areas so we can provide the highest-quality treatment in a genuinely sensitive, supportive setting. Now we can put all of that into practice.”
“This incredible space gives our students confidence and hands-on experience with leading-edge equipment and product ranges,” added Kelly.
“It prepares them for the industry in a way we’ve never been able to before and ensures every client who walks through the door feels respected, safe and welcome.”
Level 3 learners will gain valuable real-world experience by working in the hub one day each week, supporting clients requiring tailored treatments such as light-touch oncology massage and specialist skincare approaches.
A progression pathway will also allow learners and industry professionals to advance to higher-education Level 4 qualifications in areas such as Skin Needling and Chemical Peels.
The launch event highlighted support from partners including the Jennifer Young Training School, L’Oréal, Dermalogica, Elemis and the Welsh Government.
Lorraine Nordmann – Beauty Therapy Author and Habia Consultant – and Joan Scott, CEO at Habia, said: “The new Cosmetology Centre looks absolutely stunning, a truly high-end, luxury environment.
“We’re thrilled to be part of the unveiling of phase one, which has been carefully aligned with industry standards to deliver a professional service that meets the needs of all. It’s also a brilliant facility for the local area, bringing an exceptional new space to the community.
“The atmosphere allows both clients and students to feel at ease, supporting open conversations during consultations and ensuring everyone is confident that their needs will be met.”
Level 3 Beauty Therapy learner Sophie Towler, from Rhyl, added: “It is an amazing facility and looks fantastic. The hub is very advanced, and I’m looking forward to working here one day a week in addition to our studies – it will be a great experience.”
With demand rising quickly, the college is already considering opportunities for future expansion of the Cosmetology Centre.
Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for more news and updates from Coleg Cambria.
