DOING THE BUSINESS: Donegal Daily in conjunction with the ETB will be profiling a number of individuals and businesses who have successfully graduated from one of the many training programmes ETB has to offer.
As the ETB launch their latest diverse range of courses, Donegal Daily spoke with Orla Crossan, who is now a Senior Makeup Artist with Inglot Cosmetics.
Orla did the Beauty Therapist Traineeship with Donegal ETB at the Gweedore Training Centre in 2012. This one-year course was her first step into the creative world of beauty.
“Beauty therapy was always something I wanted to do,” Orla said. “I was interested in anatomy and physiology, but college wasn’t for me.”
Orla Crossan Makeup
The programme began with the basics – from the theory of skin to the practical methods of makeup and waxing. In the second term, students practice more technical procedures such as Facial Electrical Treatments.
One of the greatest aspects of the course was the ITEC qualification that students received, which is an internationally recognised award. This qualification is the main thing that employers have looked for from Orla when she applied for roles.
The mixture of practical and theory lessons took place between the ETB Training Centre Gweedore and the Genesis salon, which is run by Mary Ferry.
“Mary teaches everything herself, from the theory to the practical. This was good because she would take the time to go around everyone individually and help them during practicals.”
“There was around 15 girls in the class, so you get a lot of one-to-one attention.”
Orla remembers that there was a lot of late night studying involved, with class tests every day and another test every week to make sure the class were on top of their studies.
“I actually enjoyed the exams. I enjoyed going home and learning something new every day,” Orla said.
Orla advises anyone considering the course that they should be prepared to study.
“There is a lot more to it than massaging people and putting makeup on them. Be ready to learn.”
Orla did written exams in Anatomy & Physiology, Waxing, Manicure and Pedicure, and Skincare and Eye Treatments.
Practical exams were carried out in the training salon.
“Everything had to be perfect to get your qualification. We were all a bit nervous, and had a lot of Rescue Remedy on the day!” Orla said.
The ETB traineeship gave Orla a great base knowledge of Beauty Therapy. She went on to do an intensive makeup course in the LA College of Creative Arts in Dublin. She then worked in makeup departments for films and TV.
Orla celebrating the Galway Inglot store’s first birthday.
Orla got a job at the Inglot store in Galway, and has been with the company for almost two years.
“I had always wanted to work in Inglot. I loved how the girls working there did their makeup. It’s such an artistic company to work for.”
Orla also works as a freelance makeup artist. She has recently moved home to Gweedore, and will be joining the new Inglot Derry store when it opens next year.
“It’s at home where I want to make my name, I’m really excited to bring Inglot here and do my own masterclasses from the store.”
For further information on these programs and others contact Sarah on 074-9120542
Email for course inquiries: coursesdonegaltc@donegaletb.ie
Visit www.donegaletb.ie
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