A GROUP of young carers were recently treated to a pamper session thanks to Swindon College students.

The nine pupils, who go to St Mary’s and St Catherine’s Primary Schools, had their hair washed and styled as part of an afternoon where they could focus on just themselves rather than think about the support they give to other people.

They were shown how to keep their hair clean but also how to style and maintain it and one youngster also got his hair cut.

Hairdressing lecturer Maria Sly came up with the idea to invite the youngsters in. She said “Swindon College has a commitment to giving something back to the community and it was a real honour to meet these incredible young people when they came to see us.”

Teresa Stewart, from St Mary’s and St Catherine’s Primary Schools, added: “We try to provide regular activities throughout the year to help our young carers feel valued and appreciated as they often have difficult circumstances to deal with.

“Maria, her staff and students proved very welcoming and put all the children at ease.

“The pupils had a wonderful experience and were delighted with the results. Even the most reluctant pupil was eventually encouraged to participate and her beaming smile throughout was testimony to the fact that she had thoroughly enjoyed her time, as had the rest of the group.

“All the pupils were uplifted by this experience and the expertise and skills of the students were impressive.”

The young carers have already been booked into coming back to Swindon College later on in the year for even more pampering.