Bolton College hairdressing apprentice Caitlin Hesketh has been named 'Young Person/Apprentice of the Year' at the Bolton Business Awards. 

Caitlin, who works at AK Hair Lounge in Hindley, walked away with the prestigious accolade after being nominated by Bolton College. She gave up a lucrative position at university, studying Law, to pursue her passion for hairdressing and has wowed her tutors with her strong work ethic, talent and commitment to learning.  

After just three months at AK Hair Lounge, Caitlin secured her own column and clientele. She also harnessed the power of social media to promote the salon, which attracted a younger clientele, and resulted in numerous bookings for Parklife Festival.

Caitlin’s own Instagram and Facebook channels, promoting her work, frequently generate likes and comments from influential figures within the hair industry, and customers consistently leave 5-star reviews for her work. 

In College, Caitlin is a mentor to her peers, and has impressed her Work Based Tutor with her commitment to learning and growing as a stylist. Working on friends and family in her own time allowed Caitlin to complete a two year portfolio in just nine months, and she has showcased her skills in numerous hair sector competitions. 

Speaking of the win Caitlin, 20, said: "I can't believe I made it to the finals then actually won, I'm in shock. I'm so glad that my hard work is paying off. I couldn't have done it without the support of my Worked Based College Tutor Michaela, and my fantastic boss Karla. This win has definitely given me the drive to push myself and achieve even more!" 

Michaela Maddocks, Caitlin's Work Based Tutor, said: "To say I'm proud of Caitlin is an understatement. She is an exceptional apprentice, with a real talent for hairdressing, and it has been a pleasure to support her. I'd also like to recognise Caitlin's employer, AK Hair Lounge, for bringing out the very best in her, and allowing her to flourish in the salon."

Caitlin was supported on the night by her employer, Karla Stafford from AK Hair Lounge; Adele O'Keeffe, Programme Manager for Creative Services at Bolton College; Beaulah Chadwick, Apprenticeship & Contract Manager at Bolton College; and Bill Webster, Principal of Bolton College.

Bill Webster said: "Over the years, our Apprenticeship programme has produced some outstanding talent. The sky's the limit when it comes to what our apprentices can achieve. It's wonderful to see that Caitlin's hard work, determination and positive attitude has been recognised at these awards. She can achieve anything she sets her mind to, and we're so pleased that we've helped her along the way."      

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