STUDENTS went head-to-head with other colleges as they put their skills to the test.

Around 100 students at Bolton College took part in the Greater Manchester Colleges Group Skills Competition and found themselves pitting their newly developed skills against those studying in 10 other colleges throughout the North West.

Students from 10 different departments — ranging from catering and hospitality to sports and public services —showcased their skills, expertise and talent through a series of challenges, including body repair, a dessert bake-off and a balloon shaving competition.

Among the students celebrating victory were Kelly Stott, who is studying level three nails at Bolton College and Kajwan Jabary, who is training to be a barber.

Kelly used the theme of Greater Manchester to create 10 acrylic false nails, drawing inspiration from iconic landmarks and locations including Deansgate Locks and the Manchester Ship Canal, whilst Kajwan was influenced by the region's famous cotton mill workers for his winning haircut.

Grace Sinnott and Danielle Naylor, both in their second year of health and social care level three qualifications, also received special recognition for their outstanding contribution in the curriculum tasks.

Other highlights of the week included second place in the 100 metre sprint for Valeria Kolosovska, studying sports and public services, plus three runner-up positions for the college’s digital and media learners.

The week ended at the University of Bolton’s Queen’s Campus, where Bolton College hosted the music and performing arts competition.

Taking to the stage were the college’s performing arts students who performed a dance and then an excerpt from Peter Pan.

David Thacker, award-winning director and professor of theatre at the university, joined actors Sushil Chudasama and Joel Parry to judge singing, acting and dance.

Andrew Hughes, the college’s enterprise and employability co-ordinator said: "These collaborative competitions are an excellent way of sharing best practice amongst local colleges and they also help with personal development, equipping learners with the necessary skills and resilience to progress in the competitive world of work."

Bill Webster, principal of Bolton College added: "We’re committed to giving our learners every opportunity to demonstrate and share their skills. I am very pleased with the effort shown by all of our students, who gave their all in each of the competitions."