Nikki Irvine

Could you tell us a bit about yourself, your background? 

I own a beauty salon and training academy in Newburn called Butterfly Beauty but I've worked in lots of different roles in the beauty industry throughout my career including working on make-up counters and in larger salons.

Why did you choose to study an adult course at Newcastle College?

I studied my BTEC at Newcastle College when I was 16 and I loved it, so every time I’ve wanted to delve deeper into any specific area of beauty therapy, or even when I wanted to do a teaching course so that I could teach beauty myself, Newcastle College has been my go-to for courses. 

I’ve also completed the nail technology and artificial nails courses. There is a massive nail trend at the moment called BIAB (builder in a bottle) nails, and you can only buy the products if you’ve completed particular training, which is covered in the Nail Technology course, so it’s still a relevant and useful course.

How do you think learning from industry-experienced tutors has benefitted you?

I think it’s brilliant that the teachers have significant experience in the field themselves, they’re not just academics. They add their experiences into the learning so you get a real feel for what it will be like to work in the industry.  

It’s about so much more than the classroom education at Newcastle College. It’s about what you’re going to do when you complete the course. They bring employers in so you can ask questions about what it’s REALLY like to work in the industry, so you can see if it’s for you, and also so that you can make contacts.

How would you describe the staff at Newcastle College?

I’ve always had a good experience with the teachers at Newcastle College. They’ve always been understanding, compassionate and open. I've never once felt like I haven’t wanted to ask a question because I might feel silly for asking it. It’s always such a comfortable environment, there’s no judgement and you can ask anything. Even when they don’t know the answer, they’re honest about it and then they go and speak to a colleague or an expert they know and come back with the answer. That’s such a big part of education for me, that’s why I keep coming back!

What has been the highlight of your time studying here?

My favourite thing about the college is the relaxed learning environment; how comfortable I’ve been made to feel over the years. If you excel in a particular area, they do notice and they will suggest extra things you can do, or particular areas of the industry you could look into. There’s no pressure, just gentle, supportive suggestion.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about signing up for an adult course at Newcastle College?

If you’re thinking about doing a course, but you’re not sure, reach out to somebody at the college, they’re all super helpful and super friendly and they’ll get you the answers you need and guide you to the right course.