This year we're off to sunny Spain!

A NEW life in Spain beckons for five Lowestoft College students, who are hoping to get their careers off to a great start by working in the exclusive spa of the Hyatt Regency La Manga, in Spain.

Holistic therapy student Trevor Hurren and beauty therapy students Jennifer Douce, Michaela Adams, Polly Vincent and Louise Chipperfield are set to take up posts with the prestigious Hyatt Hotel Corporation in time for the peak summer season.

The opportunity came about when Trevor, formerly from Carlton Colville, decided to find a job and sent his CV to the hotel's spa and was invited to attend an interview.

He made an impression and was offered a position as an holistic therapist.

Assistant spa director Jane O'Brien contacted Mary Pretswell, head of school for creative studies at the college in St Peter's Street, to ask whether any other students would make suitable candidates for posts.

Jennifer, Michaela, Polly and Louise faxed off their CVs and statements and soon after were given phone interviews.

Mrs Pretswell said: “Once again the team at the spa was impressed with the skills training and attitude of our students.

The four beauty therapy students have now been offered a job and are due to start working for the Hyatt Regency La Manga in July.

“I am delighted - it's a great opportunity for our students and shows just what can be achieved with the right attitude. It is a huge compliment to them and to the standard of training delivered by Lowestoft College.”

The college and spa are hoping to develop their relationship further through the European Commission's Leonardo da Vinci programme, which is designed to encourage lifelong learning and aims to build a skilled workforce across Europe.

If successfully chosen to become involved in the programme, the college hopes students on its level three and foundation degree in holistic therapies will be able to access funding to spend up to six weeks at the spa gaining valuable work experience and training.