HAIRDRESSER Andrea Rothwell is proving that a disability and the discouragement of school teachers are no barrier to success.

After her teachers suggested Andrea's hearing problems would make a career in hairdressing unsuitable, she refused to let go of her dream.

Despite having to use two hearing aids, Andrea decided to pursue hairdressing via a Modern Apprenticeship scheme.

Combining work experience with a day release at Bury College, she has won first and second prizes in the hair shows for two years running.

Andrea's perseverance has paid off and not only is she close to completing her NVQ (National Vocational Qualfication) Level 3 in hairdressing, she has also become manageress of Scissors Hair Salon in Rochdale Old Road, Bury - using the mirror to lip-read her clients. Said 20-year-old Andrea: "I'm really proud of my achievements. I set my heart on becoming a hairdresser when I did work experience at school.

"The Modern Apprenticeship scheme and the help and support of BCE Mesnes and Bury College has helped me fulfil this ambition."

Andrea is one of hundreds of success stories of young people learning with Bolton and Bury Chamber's Modern Apprenticeship programme.

Further details about this programme are available from the Training for Young People team at Bolton and Bury Chamber on 0845 6016010.

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