A double award-winning Nelson and Colne College student is up for a third gong after getting through to the finals of the prestigious Burnley Business Awards.
Beauty therapist apprentice Rebecca Furmston, from Barrowford, has been selected as a finalist in the “Young Employee of the Year” category for her work at The Woodland Spa, within Crow Wood Leisure, Burnley.
The 21-year-old started her beauty therapy apprenticeship in July 2014, after winning the Student of the Year award. She also picked up the Beauty Therapist Apprentice of the Year prize at this year’s Nelson and Colne College’s Apprenticeship Awards.
Rebecca, who was chosen by her tutors to enter into the Worldskills UK Beauty Therapy Competition in 2014, said: “I chose to do an apprenticeship as I felt there was no better way to train and achieve the qualifications I needed within this industry.
“I am keen to use this opportunity to show other young people how fantastic apprenticeships are. The spa has given me an amazing start to my career, I can’t thank them enough.
“Winning this award would be a great honour for me, as well as for The Woodland Spa. The opportunity has allowed me to assess myself as a therapist and I feel that it would enable me to help other young employees and apprentices and show them what can be achieved through hard work and a passion for your work.”
Having made it as a finalist, Rebecca has now attended an interview in front of a panel of judges. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony, organised by Burnley Council, on Thursday, June 11th from 7pm. It will take place in the stunning surroundings of Towneley Hall.
The Woodland Spa manager Karen Ashworth added: “In support of the government’s plan to improve employability skills and reduce the amount of young people who are not in education, employment, or training we recognise the importance of apprenticeships as a route to securing qualifications whilst training on the job.
“Furthermore in a bid to reinvest in our local community and economy we are committed to investing in the town’s young people. As a company we are always on the lookout for talented, passionate people to invest in and join our team. Rebecca plays a most valuable part in the future of The Woodland Spa and we hope that she succeeds in winning the Young Employee Award this year since we feel that she is a remarkable example of, and testimony to, how effective and rewarding apprenticeships can truly be.”
If you are interested in starting an apprenticeship, please contact the Nelson and Colne College Business Team on 01282 440319 or email employer.services@nelsongroup.ac.uk
