A series of workshops titled ‘Move Forward to the Professional World of Work’ kicked off the new term at Kerry College of Further Education (KCFE) for the beauty therapy students. An integral focus of this ITEC and QQI Certified qualification is to ensure that students achieve professional qualifications that have prepared them and they are work ready for employment. On Monday morning, students benefited from the expertise of RTE acclaimed Mary O’Donnell, Beauty Expert and Blogger and Radio Personality who focused on Customer Service and Professionalism in the beauty industry. Following on from that Horan’s Health Store linked up with the college to bring the OPATRA Skin Analysis Machine with their therapist. Nutritionist Sarah Nealan from Eskimo Oils discussed the importance of fish oils for hair, skin, nails and overall well-being. John Lalor from Revive Active provided tastings, samples and information on their beauty complex formula. On Tuesday CH Chemist’s make up expert Julie from Lancôme and Jean from Benefit continued to capture the interest of students with a lecture on the beauty industry and make up demonstrations. Overall, the two day event organised by the KCFE Beauty Therapy Department, was both engaging and enlightening. Students will commence their work experience placements at last week in January so workshop events such as these ensure that students are focused on industry needs enabling them to provide a first class service to their clients in the coming weeks. The college wishes to thank all the industry people who gave freely of their time to make this event a success. Engagement with industry benefits all involved and ensures that the link between Kerry College of Further Education (KCFE) as an education provider and the business community is thriving