Following her relocation from Sydney, Australia, in 2023, Dungannon woman, Gillian McCaughey returned to South West College to brush up on her nail techniques and hopes to further pursue this passion by setting up her own nail-based enterprise.
Gillian previously studied Advanced Nail Technologies at the college 13 years ago and with a Master’s in Business Administration (Executive) and Post Graduate qualifications in the Psychology of Risk and Governance and Management, she returned to her first love studying both the VTCT Level 2 Award in Gel Polish Techniques and City & Guilds Level 3 Enhanced Nails using Electric File.
Discussing her experience at the college as a returning student, Gillian said;
‘The experience at South West College has been fantastic. The courses have been exceptionally well presented and facilitated. I am delighted that I decided to come back to study at South West College and even more delighted that these courses are offered in Dungannon, right on my doorstep. The courses are very practical and the information within each course has been extremely valuable.’
Gillian also noted the support of her tutor, Eileen Brady commenting;
‘Eileen has so much experience in her industry and is so professional in everything that she does, she is the most amazing teacher, always willing to help and guide us wherever she could.’
Although Gillian believes she might have enough qualifications under her belt for now, she is not ruling out a return to the college for ‘another challenge’ this September.
South West College Principal and Chief Executive, Celine McCartan said;
‘Part-time courses at South West College are crucial in supporting those who wish to upskill, reskill and further develop their careers. These practical qualifications are aligned to the needs of industry and I am always delighted to hear of students returning to the college after a period away from study and having such a positive and meaningful experience.
Gillian’s experience is one that is shared by so many of our students and I commend her commitment to life-long learning and the passion she has shown for further study. I would encourage all those who are considering a part-time course to review our website and look forward to welcoming a new cohort of part-time learners to our campuses in Enniskillen, Dungannon, Cookstown and Omagh this September.'
Applications for part-time study at South West College, with courses beginning in September 2024 are now open. Further information is available at https://swc.ac.uk/courses