A HAIRDRESSING student is so sharp with her scissors that she has scored two qualifications in just one year.

Catherine Jefferies, of Grange Park, completed her NVQ Level 2 and NVQ Level 3 qualifications at Oxford and Cherwell Valley College during the last academic year, from September to June.

Completing both courses normally takes about three years, but the 19-year-old former Bradon Forest School pupil is the first from her college to complete both courses in the same year.

She said: “It was really hard work. I had about seven assessments there.

“I finished level two and went straight on to level three. My tutor said, ‘I don’t know how you did it. It’s so hard.’ “When people give you help, you need to take it. I was really committed to my college work. I never missed a day. I loved it. I can’t believe it’s over.”

Catherine snapped up the chance to complete both courses in the same year after her teacher, former Swindon College tutor Nicky Smith, gave her the encouragement.

As Catherine was under 18, she did not have to pay for the course fees.

She is now hunting for her first job as a full-time hairdresser.

Catherine said: “I have always been passionate about hairdressing.

“I just like making people feel good about themselves, so I thought it was the industry for me.

“Eventually, I want to start my own business.”