A salon, spa and make-up studio has opened in a college after a big refurbishment.

North Kent College’s Dartford campus officially launched the Miskin Spa last week on November 1, as a fully operational training facility.

Students are able to offer high quality treatments to the local community at much lower prices than the high street, while they work on their qualifications.

Emma Mackay, a manager of hair and beauty at City and Guilds, opened the make-up studio and said: “It is a fantastic opportunity to see how centres like North Kent College are progressing. It is all about employability and these type of facilities are fundamental.”

During the day, students offered treatments including mini manicures, back and neck massages and others showcased how to apply body art. Catering students from the Gravesend campus provided the afternoon tea for all guests.

Dan Hoey, a freelance make-up artist currently working with celebrity Dawn French, said: “I am very impressed with their skills. It is excellent to see the students using professional branded products such as MAC and Sleek MakeUP at this stage of their training.”

Stacie Collings, the college’s curriculum manager for beauty, said: “We are so pleased with the launch. We have a fantastic range of courses in beauty therapy and make-up artistry and are excited to see our course offers expand further to include theatrical make-up next year.”