TWO members of the Quinns Hairdressing team in Okehampton have won student of the year awards from Exeter College.

Sophie Martin has been recognised for her achievements on NVQ hairdressing level 2 course, which she completed ahead of time, while Evie Courtier has been named student of the year for her achievements on the NVQ level 3 course.

The awards are open to teachers to nominate one particular student they feel has gone above and beyond to succeed on their course.

Evie joined Quinns as an apprentice three years ago, while Sophie started at Quinns two years ago and is planning to go on and do her level 3. They work alongside nine other advanced stylists, who are able to demonstrate their skills and support their learning.

Both girls said they were thrilled and surprised to receive nominations, and to have actually won was ‘amazing’.

Salon owner Dawn Pitts said: ‘I am proud of Evie and Sophie for what they have achieved. Their individual hard work and commitment proved to be hugely important in them securing their awards, as well as the rest of the salon team in their contribution to their learning.’