Amber Kershaw makes it to national finals

Amber Kershaw's media make-up, with her model showing the completed look

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Amber Kershaw, a 17-year-old media make-up student from Littleborough, made it to the finals of the WorldSkills UK competition.

The finals were held at The Skills Show at the Birmingham NEC and involved students from around the UK competing in various subjects.

In order to secure her place, Amber took part in the regional heats in the summer; she secured third place in the heats, gaining her a place in the national finals.

The theme was World Fashion Week; Amber was inspired by late fashion icon Alexander McQueen to create a very avant-garde look. Her look included full hair and make-up. She also completed the look by designing an outfit to fit her theme.

In the run up to the event, tutors at Hopwood Hall College helped train Amber and prepare her for the competition.

Amber had a big support group behind her - several proud members of her family and also her tutor Becki Shaw went with her to the competition.

Competitors had to complete their work in a rather nerve-wracking situation, where spectators could walk around and watch them in action.

Amber's tutor Becki Shaw said: “The feedback from spectators was outstanding, people were commenting on how amazing Amber’s look was and how fantastic she had done.

"After the show, while Amber was waiting for the judging she was constantly stopped by people to take photographs and she felt like a celebrity. 

“Unfortunately, Amber did not get placed in the competition, however, she did extremely well and has made her talent well-known in the media make-up industry.”

“Amber was the first ever student to be placed as a finalist at the World Skills UK competition from Hopwood Hall College’s Hair and Beauty department and we are all extremely proud of her. She has been a shining example of excellence and we know she will go very far in her industry.”