Coleg Llandrillo Student Wins National Hairdressing Title
An award-winning student highlights the impact of part-time study at the college.
“Don’t even think about it. Just do it. You could change your life completely.”
That’s the powerful message from hairdressing student Ceri Thomas, who has not only returned to education as an adult learner but has also just been crowned a national winner—proving it’s never too late to live your dream!
Ceri, a part-time student at Coleg Llandrillo, recently made the Grand Final of the 2026 Concept Hair Learner of the Year competition, held at Telford College, where her talent, creativity and determination saw her win first place in the Cutting Levels 2 and 3 category. Some 60 students made it to the final out of 3,000 entries.
Ceri’s achievement is even more inspiring when you consider her journey.
At 16, Ceri dreamed of becoming a hairdresser, but life took her in a different direction. Over the next 25 years, she built a career across a range of industries, including care, retail, hospitality and pharmacy. Despite gaining valuable experience, the ambition to work in hairdressing never left her.
After facing several redundancies, most recently when her workplace closed, Ceri decided it was time to take control of her future.
“It was the perfect sign,” she said. “To do hairdressing and be my own boss.”
Enrolling on a part-time hairdressing course at Coleg Llandrillo allowed Ceri to retrain while balancing other commitments.
“I think it’s never too late to follow your dreams and treat that 16-year-old to the life that you deserve,” she said.
Now working in a local salon, Ceri is continuing to build her skills, grow her confidence and expand her client base, turning a lifelong ambition into a successful new career.
Her advice to others thinking about returning to education?
“If you're thinking about it, just do it. Three years will pass anyway—but you could come out with a qualification that changes your life.”
Ceri’s story is a powerful reminder that part-time adult courses offer more than just qualifications; they open doors, build confidence and create real opportunities for a fresh start.
Whether you’re looking to change career, upskill, or finally pursue a passion, there’s never been a better time to take that first step.
To see what part-time courses are available at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, visit: https://www.gllm.ac.uk/course-type/adult-learners-part-time
