‘Under the sea’ and under pressure

With the clock ticking the students had to create a whole look, including clothes, makeup and hair, in front of a small audience in G-Block Arts and Media Building atrium at the Nelson Campus.

The theme this year was ‘Under the Sea’ and models are dressed head-to-toe representing the look.
Hairdressing tutor Paula Canning says all the preparation on the models, such as crimping or curling, must be completed prior to the event and then all styling aids are removed.

Once the clock starts the students must construct their designs using hairpieces, clips, bands and other accessories.

She says the final look must incorporate current, forward thinking, and hair fashion trends which show off the students’ technical ability.
“The year one students only get 30 minutes and year two get 45 minutes to complete their designs and that’s based on what’s required in industry,” Paula says.

For the cut and colour event, work is done beforehand and presented on a mannequin.

Paula says the pressure really goes on during the hair up events.
“Although the students get very nervous, the competition encourages them to push the boundaries, and to express their creativity.”

She says the competition is a great opportunity for them, no matter whether they win or not, they all get something out of the experience.
“I am always impressed with what they come up with and how they choose to express themselves through their work.”

The judges this year were: Chloe Guerin, Sales and Relationship Manager at AR Distributors Hair and Beauty wholesalers, and Lisa Salter and Chanelle Taylor from the hair and beauty tutorial team.

Results:

Level 3 (year 1) Hairup
1st – Sophie Goodman
2nd – Aimee Lewis
3rd – Rose Stuart
Highly Commended – Hannah Limmer

Level 4 (year 2) Hairup
1st – Amber Coles
2nd – Sarah Lane
3rd – Paige Arbuckle
Highly commended – Siryn Adams

Level 4 (year 2) Cut and colour on a mannequin
1st – Sarah Lane
2nd – Shania Hawkins
3rd – Paige Arbuckle
Highly commended – Amber Coles