Successful participants of the Aromatherapy course will be able to carry out an Aromatherapy treatment for people, be able to evolve and blend appropriate essential oils for specific needs and conditions, understand the concepts inherent in complementary therapies and will be able to carry out a consultation with their client and an Aromatherapy massage. Once qualified Aromatherapists can find employment within the beauty or complementary industries or health sector and/or opt to work for themselves. Participants may decide to study other therapies to complement their Diploma or special in one aspect of Aromatherapy.

Achievement of the BIFM Level 5 Diploma in Facilities Management reflects the ability of the ability of the Facilities Manager to identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to address complex problems.  This course aims to deliver to the learner an understanding of difficult perspectives, diverse approaches and an independent school of thought when proposing a course of action in the Facilities Management context.  Live case studies delivered by senior industry practitioners give a real insight into the varied  world of Facilities Management.

Its the season of the Brows.  Look through any of the fashion magazines and beauty pages and its all about "How to create the perfect brow shape".  Never one to miss out on a trend we have developed are new Precision Brows workshop.

Have you ever thought about Training in a new sector or upskilling but money has been your one hurdle?  Then we have the perfect solution for you that could get you one step closer to your dream job.

Reports in todays Irish Times state that the points system for entry into 3rd Level programmes is to raise yet again this year, meaning the competition for places is extremely fierce.  Each year the points requirement for the more popular courses soars and last year the points for Sciene in UCD rocketed to over 500, leaving many students devasted as their dreams slipped away from them with a matter of points.

The best and most rewarding part about training people in something that they really love is when they go out there and start up their own business having completed a course with us.  Our latest success story is Catriona McMorris who completed our Portobello Makeup Artistry course in 2011.

Starting off the student year you want to look your best, but with new over heads such as accommodation, fees, books etc, funds can be tight.  Well hot foot it down to Jervis Shopping Centre tonight.  The centre has a Student Lock In for 1 night only from 6.30 to 9.30pm.  Lots of special discounts available from key stores in the Centre from New Look, Forever 21 and Topshop to name a few.  Get a hot new look at a fraction of the price -what's not to love?!

Our Beauty students got creative this work in their Nail class.  Adding a touch of glamour to nails the students created these amazing designs.

Laser treatment is fast becoming more popular in Ireland.  Laser is an extremely safe procedure with many people of all ages opting to treat areas of their face and body.  As part of there Beauty Therapy programme our students attended a fantastic guest lecture from Laser Clinic Balance Medi-Spa.  The Clinic came into the college to present to our students on the many benefits of laser surgery and what areas laser can be administered to, from Rosacea and sun damage through to Liver spots and port wine stains.

To celebrate International Women's Day earlier in the month many events took place globally celerbrating women past, present and future.  Portobello Institute have always been avid celebrators of the day and once again we were delighted to be working alongside the Islamic centre in Dublins City Centre.  Our full time Beauty students spend the day pampering the women at the centre from relaxing neck and shoulder massages through to manicures and makeup treatments.  The day was a huge success, not only did the women enjoy the relaxing treaments but our students got to put their new skills to the test.  Portobello Institute where honoured to be part of such an Internationally recognised day.  We look forward to next year already.

Choices the Education, Skills and Careers fair is back again.  This year the exhibition takes place at the RDS and will showcase the best in Educational providers and potential employers.  Over the course of the 3 days Portobello Institute will be exhibitiing (stand no 82) at Choices.  Our course advisors will be on hand to guide you through the range of programes the College has to offer for 2012 from Sports Therpay and Personal Trainer through to Fashion and Beauty Therapy.  The Choices exhibition is the ideal opportunity for those looking to seek out a new career or upskill in their chosen area.  The exhibition is perfect for school leavers, Third level students and graduates looking to further their knowlege in specific target sectors.  In addition to the many exhibitors taking part, there will also be  numerous seminars taking place delivered by industry experts. The career clinic is a definite visit where you can get all manner of adivise on your next career move and how to be successful in gaining your next big role. 

Running your own business, whatever the industry takes great precision and organisational skills, whether its a start up business in the Beauty or Childcare industry or a growing business in Marketing or Finance.  Many students who pass through our doors ready to kick start their careers chose to go it alone.   While you may opt to employ someone to do your accounts or marketing for you while you concentrate on your own skill set it is strongly advisible to have general knowledge in definitive areas, allowing you to manage your business successfully and profitably.

Gemma Faus, freelance make up artist and tutor at Portobello Institute hand picks her top make up products and what she can't live without.

After all the hard work and hours of study and dedication our full and part-time students from 2010 graduated at the Concert Hall, RDS.  Over 200 students attended on the day to receive their well deserved Diplomas which will lead them onto the first step of their career ladders in their chosen sectors.

Each year the RDS plays host to the Professional Beauty Trade show, an essential date in the calander for anyone in the Beauty and Makeup industry.  This weekend (2nd, 3rd Oct) visitors can browse exhibitors stands ranging from Beauty and Nail salons to distributors and wholesalsers.  This is the perfect opporunity for Beauty professionals to network, source new products and learn about new emerging trends within this thriving industry.  Once again the Irish National student makeup competition will take place at the event and our very own tutor Audrey Manning is part of the judging panel.  This is a great chance for creative students to demonstrate their flair and ability.  This years themes are 50's Glamour.  The judges are looking for bold dramatic makeup emphasising how 50's Glamour with a twist plays a part in modern today look.   For Fantasty full body the brief is Pop Idol - think Lady Gaga, Madonna or Britney.  The more creative the better.  The competition is open to all colleges in the Republic of Ireland.  Audrey is delighted to be part of this years judging panel.  She says "There are so many young talented people in Ireland right now.  This is the ideal platform for them to show off their skills and show how much creativity they have. Plus the winning prize is amazing".    

Summer is officially over (well it never really began) but the good news is that the shops are now fully stocked with the all the new Autumn/Winter collections.  To help you decide on what key trends to work this season the Dublin Festival of Fashion is back once more this weekend. The first DFF took place last year and was a roaring success.  This year the DFF HQ on Dawson Street will play host to catwalk shows previewing the collections from all the favourite high street stores from around the city. Thursday kicks off with 'Street Style/Urban Chic', while the theme for Saturday is 'Fast Fashion.  Don't forget to grab the lookbook on the day which features all the looks shown on the catwalk.

If you are thinking of upskilling or changing your career then Which Course at the RDS next weekend, 27th + 28th August is the ideal starting point in your search for a new you.  Portobello Institute will be exhibiting over the course of the weekend and our expert course advisors will be on hand to answer all your questions about our part-time and full time programmes.  We offer courses in Fashion, Makeup and Beauty to name a few.  A one year Fetac or Itec certificate or Diploma will provide you with a solid foundation on which to start a career in a new sector.  In association with Which Course Portobello Institute will be offering the chance to win a place on our popular Facial Makeup course which starts in October. The course is a great introduction to makeup and skin care, teaching you the techniques required to be a successful makeup artist. To be in with a chance to win and start an exciting career in makeup simply register with Which Course at www.whichcourse.ie

On May 21st at St Marys Church, Dawson Street Portobello Institute held their summer 2011 Graduation Ceremony.  The church is the ideal venue with its beautiful interior and furnishings.  On the day the college were extremely proud of its graduates which were a mix of Montessori, Fashion Buying and Merchandising, Make-up and Beauty students who were all there to proudly receive their hard earned Diplomas.  The ceremony began with an opening speech from the college director Rebakah Lyons who congratulated the students on their achievements to date and wished them the very best in their chosen career paths. Once the students had all received their Diplomas the ceremony continued with additional awards for Student of the Year from each sector.

Its a once in a life time opportunity to work on board a glamorous cruise ship, mixing among the clients in the salubrious surroundings.  While docked in Dublin Port, North Wall our Beauty Therapy students had the pleasure to board the luxurious Crown Princess Cruise Ship and be shown around its lavish interior.  The Beauty treatment rooms are fitted out with state of the art equipment, furniture and finishings ensuring guests are given the best treatment and feel relaxed and spoilt while receiving massages, facials, manicures or any of the many treatments the Crown Princess Beauty rooms provides.  Working on board the Crown Princess as part of their Beauty team would be an amazing opportunity for any of our students to kick start their career and the visit last week really gave them a taste of what life could be like at sea.

Have you ever sat down to watch the Apprentice and feel yourself screaming at the TV in frustration thinking you could do a better job than the latest contestants.  Do you think you have what it takes to make your stance in the board room in front of Bill Cullen and his side kicks Jackie and Brian and be the next big thing?  Well this is your chance to make a change in your ilfe as series Four is looking for contestants to take part in the Apprentice 2011.  This year there is a twist with Bill offering the winner a fantastic opportunity to launch thier own business under the mentorship of Bill and his team.  The winner receives the extremely enticing and rewarding six figure sum of €100,000 in additin to another €100,000 cash prize to kick start your business plan.  Bill is looking for enthusiastic, passionate individuals who have excellent Business acumen and skill to ensure thier business performs and is a success, be it a catering company, a marketing company or a digital online firm.  So if you think you have a staminer, attidue and business mindset to outshine the rest then get ready to set into Bills boardroom.

Are you looking to upskill, learn something completely new or simply trial a new area?  With our new Summer schedule there is something for everyone.  In addition to our part-time courses in areas such as Fashion, Beauty, Sports, Business and Childcare Portobello have devised a comprehensive portfolio of short courses and workshops across all sectors.  These workshops are the ideal addition to working professionals, or those who are thinking of moving into a new area and want to trial  it with shorter/taster programmes.

With the Spring days getting brighter, Summer is just around the corner.  Unfortunatley the Irish are not blessed with a sun kissed look and need a little help to bring us up to Californian standards.  Spray tanning is still really popular in Ireland.  Its the safest way to achieve a healthy glow and lasts for a week if maintained correctly.  Every Beauty Therapist should hone her skills in this area as most salons nationwide offer a tanning service.  With this in mind the Beauty Therapy studends will visit Salon Services (at the Red Cow) to have a spray tan demo and to practice the skill themselves.  Additionally the students will receive an eyelash extension demo.  And while the students are at Salon Services they can partake in a bit of retail therapy.

As part of their curriculum the full time Beauty Therapy students undertake a number of field trips throughout the year and on 25th March they will visit the Dermalogica training centre in Rathmines.  This is a great opportunity for our students to see the centre in action and familiarize themselves with the facilities should they ever be sent there by a future employer.  Dermalogica is the most used skincare brand in Ireland and the college has a long standing relationship with them.  It is the chosen product for our Beauty treatment rooms therefore the students use Dermalogica on a daily basis.  On the visit to the traiining rooms the students will gain an insight into new and current product available and be educated in line with the brand ethos.

Irelands leading Beauty Trade Show, The Irish Beauty Show takes place at the RDS once again on 13th and 14th March 2011.  This event is a must for those working or training in the Beauty industry. 

Ensuring Beauty Therapists are up to date with all the latest trends 'Young Nails' popped into to see our Beauty students last week and to demo the latest craze in Nails.

Beauty Therapy students attended the yearly BITE event at the RDS on 3rd + 4th October. BITE is Ireland's premier trade show and students get to immerse themselves in the beauty industry. Guest speakers from Dermalogica were present on the day to speak about global skincare and the cosmetic market. The students also entered into the Nail Technician competition. Entrants from all over the UK and Ireland competed in the National Nails Competition showcasing their talents and skills and Portobello Beauty Therapists were excited to take part in this exciting industry competition.

AIT, the professional body that provide Insurance for Health and Beauty professionals, delivered a concise  presentation to Portobello Institute's Beauty and Sports students this week.   Martin Widdicombe of AIT spoke to Portobello Institute students on 2nd November about becoming a member of the organisation and its many benefits.

Launched last year at New York Fashion Week, Shellac is the latest craze to hit Ireland. This 14 day nail polish as seen on Xpose is a must for manicure fanatics. The high-tech polish goes on like a polish yet it is sealed liked a gel under a UV lamp and leaves the wearer with smooth sleek finish. Creative Academy were the first people to launch Shellac here on Irish shores. They took the time to pop into Portobello to chat to our Beauty students and give a quick demo on how easy Shellac is to apply.

While Creative Academy were here they also divulged a few trade secrets about MINX, the new IT Nail Art that all the celebs are favouring such as Beyonce and Lady Gaga.

Thinknblink Promotions are currently recruiting for a Skin care sales rep. The position which is 3 days a week is for a very prestigious skin care range and provides excellent opportunities for the right candidate.  Applicants must be experienced on counter sales with skin care qualifications. They must also have their own transport.  If this sounds like the job for you then please forward your CV to events@thinknblink.ie

Learn how to apply your make up perfectly and look your best for the Spring/Summer months. This 3 hour masterclass gives you a real insight into make up application and shows you how to make the most of your features.  It is suitable for anyone looking to improve their personal make-up techniques or for those looking to get a "taste" of the industry.

Looking for the ultimate nail polish that doesn't chip or smudge?  Launched last year at New York Fashion Week, Shellac is the latest craze to hit Ireland. This 14 day nail polish as seen on Xpose is a must for manicure fanatics. The high-tech polish goes on like a polish yet it is sealed liked a gel under a UV lamp and leaves the wearer with smooth sleek finish. And the best thing about it, it doesn't smudge, scratch or discolour and sets immediately – No more hanging around for nails to dry.

If you haven't heard of hip Swedish brand Make Up Store then your missing out. Make Up Store is one of the leading cosmetics franchises in Scandinavia. Founder, owner and front man Mika Liias has come a long way since opening his first store in Stockholm in 1996. The concept hasn't changed from the start; the idea is still to provide the customer with personal service, competent advice and top quality products at affordable prices.