Spotlight on Talent – Jo Clarke

Studied: Level 2 Beauty Therapy
Progression: Level 3 Beauty Therapy

Jo Clarke’s hard work and commitment to her Level 2 course has led to her being chosen by beauty lecturers at Walsall College as the recipient of a Dermalogica Student of the Year Award.

She was presented with an exclusive carry case containing skin cleanser and toner products worth around £130.  Jo also has exclusive access to the Dermalogica Expert programme, normally reserved for Dermalogica Salon professionals.  Here, she can attend online workshops and complete courses that will lead to her achieving ‘expert status’.

For Jo, the award was a complete surprise.

“I felt honoured to be one of two students out of our whole group chosen for this award,” said Jo.  “I wasn’t aware that my lecturers had all been following my learning and development so closely.”

“I am quite an ambitious person,” she continued.  “I throw myself into everything I learn.  That will continue with my Level 3 course where I’ll enhance my knowledge ready for when I start working full-time.”

One of the stand-out learning achievements in Jo’s Level 2 course has been mastering the art of giving facials.

“There’s so much anatomical knowledge around muscles, veins and bones to get to grips with,” said Jo.  “That’s on top of understanding the procedures to follow and products to use.  I’ve done a lot of research into all this.

“I’ve also completed additional Dermalogica-based workshops to enhance my understanding around skin therapy.

“It’s been worth it considering what I’ve achieved so far.”

Jo had been home schooled since she was eight, which made joining an education environment, filled with thousands of students, all the more ‘overwhelming’ when she first arrived.

“College was initially terrifying for me from a social perspective,” said Jo.  “But I loved learning about beauty therapy enough to keep coming back every day.

“In the end, I enjoyed my year here.  It is true what people say about college being fun and one of the best times in your life.”

Jo’s hopes to progress into spa therapy once she’s fully qualified, pursuing what she says is the dream career she’s always wanted.