West Thames College’s Beauty Therapy Department recently welcomed 21 guests from Da Vinci College in the Netherlands for a dynamic knowledge exchange visit that celebrated creativity, collaboration, and international learning.
The delegation included 17 Hairdressing and Barbering students and thier four lecturers. Together, they spent the day immersed in the vibrant world of hairdressing and beauty at West Thames College, participating in a range of interactive and educational activities.
To ensure the Da Vinci College visitors experienced the department to its fullest, the event featured live demonstrations of advanced hairstyling techniques led by both students and tutors. Guests also took part in hands-on workshops, giving them the opportunity to try new hairstyling methods and share their own approaches.
A curriculum presentation showcased how West Thames College integrates practical skills with industry standards, followed by a Q&A session that encouraged open discussion about teaching strategies, equipment, and the overall student experience. The day concluded with an engaging networking session, where students and staff from both colleges exchanged ideas and contact details — sparking the beginning of an exciting international connection.
“International collaboration brings so many advantages to both institutions,” said Kate McGill, CQTM in Hair & Beauty at West Thames College. “For students, it’s a chance to gain new perspectives and explore global trends in their chosen field. For tutors, it’s about sharing best practices and discovering innovative teaching methods that can enhance what we do here at West Thames.”
“The visit from Da Vinci College has helped build a bridge between the UK and Holland,” added McGill. “It promotes cross-cultural understanding and professional growth. Collaborations like this inspire innovation, broaden horizons, and ultimately improve the quality of vocational education — preparing our students for the demands of an increasingly globalised industry.”
The enthusiasm between both groups suggests this visit is just the beginning of a long-term partnership.
“Our students have already exchanged social media details with their Dutch counterparts and are continuing to connect online,” McGill shared. “We’re already exploring the exciting possibility of arranging a visit to the Netherlands in the near future!”
West Thames College looks forward to strengthening its international links and continuing to provide opportunities that inspire creativity, collaboration, and global awareness among its students.
