Newcastle College students have showcased their creative talent on a major regional stage, delivering a runway show as part of Metrocentre’s Spring-Summer Fashion & Beauty Weekender 2026.
Around 60 students played a central role in the ‘Future of Fashion’ show, working across design, styling, hair and make-up to produce and present a professional-standard runway experience in a live, public-facing environment.
The event formed part of Metrocentre’s wider experiential programme, which featured runway shows, beauty masterclasses and interactive experiences.
Students from six curriculum areas - including Art and Design and Hair, Beauty and Make-Up - worked collaboratively to develop original collections and styling concepts, many of which had been refined over the academic year.
Taking on industry-relevant roles including designers, models, stylists and backstage dressers, students worked to live deadlines and delivered to a public audience, gaining valuable experience of industry expectations.
The showcase featured a range of contemporary themes, including sustainability-focused concepts, alongside work produced in collaboration with fashion brand Disturbia. This gave students the opportunity to respond to an external brief and brand identity within a professional setting.
Libby Lagun, Head of Curriculum for Art & Design at Newcastle College, said:
“This was an excellent opportunity for our students to present their work as part of a major regional event, applying their skills in a live, public-facing environment.
Our students worked across fashion design, fashion styling, hair and make-up to deliver a professional runway show, responding to industry expectations and collaborating across disciplines to produce work to deadline.
Experiences like this are essential in preparing students for careers in the creative industries, giving them the confidence and practical understanding needed to succeed in a competitive sector.”
Helen Atkinson, Marketing Manager at Metrocentre, said:
“The Future of Fashion show by Newcastle College students, now in its fourth year, has fast become one of the highlights of our Spring-Summer Fashion & Beauty Weekender, with the quality, creativity and professionalism on display proving as inspiring as it is impressive.
Not only does the show give current students the chance to put their skills into practice, but it also demonstrates to young hopefuls the opportunities that could lie ahead for them, both in terms of study options and future careers. It’s a real legacy event and one that Metrocentre is hugely proud to be a part of.”
The collaboration highlights how Newcastle College works with industry partners to provide real-world opportunities that support students to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed for careers in the creative industries.