University College Isle of Man’s hair and beauty department has been made a ‘Wella Centre of Excellence’.

The award recognises it ‘high level of facilities, qualifications and student talent’.

It is given to educational establishments in the UK and Ireland each year and aims to highlight the links between industry and education.

Hair product company Wella selects a number of colleges to get the award.

As well as demonstrating excellence, UCM had to meet set criteria which aim to keep students and staff up-to-date with the latest styles and colours.

As part of the award, students at UCM will take part in four Wella-led education sessions a year, watch training videos and get advice from a guest artist visit each year.

Hair and beauty students work in the college’s Synnova salon, which is open to the public.

Head of faculty Melanie Clague said: ‘This achievement is a testament to the fantastic facilities we have in Synnova, the hard work and skills of our fantastic hair and beauty staff and of course our brilliant students.

‘We join a select group of colleges who’ve proven their excellence and we’re delighted to be included.’