Students help Prom Ally by giving van a makeover

Learners from Coleg Llandrillo’s Rhyl campus have helped local social enterprise Prom Ally by repairing the company’s van and painting it bright pink.

Prom Ally offers the free loan of prom dresses and suits to disadvantaged teenagers and those facing financial hardship.

Learners and staff at the Rhyl campus offered to repair and paint the van, so that founder Ally Elouise can travel to schools and colleges to reach out to students and showcase her suits and dresses.

The transformation involved students from various courses including Level 2 and 3 Paint, Level 2 Work-based Paint, Level 3 Paint, Level 2 Body Repair & Level 2 Work-based Body Repair. They completed the full repairs and bodywork repairs before painting the van.

Ensuring the overhaul was completed with the highest levels of professionalism were staff members Gavin Roberts, Ben King and Bryn Smith, from the college’s Vehicle Body Repair and Paint Refinishing Department, and engineering manager Tim Peel.

The van will now be instantly recognisable - whether driving around or parked outside Prom Ally’s new shop on Llandudno Road in Rhos-on-Sea.

Practical skills supervisor Ben King said: “It’s been fantastic to see our students take on a project like this. It has provided them with an invaluable opportunity to apply their skills in a real-world setting.

“Not only have they gained valuable hands-on experience in vehicle repair and painting, but they’ve also had the chance to contribute to a great cause. Supporting local charities and social enterprises through projects like this helps build strong community links and gives our learners a real sense of pride in their work.”

You can find more information about the social enterprise at www.promally.co.uk or on its social media channels

Do you want to work in motor vehicle technology? Grŵp Llandrillo Menai offers a range of courses, including apprenticeships. Learn more here.