College students help athletes look and feel their best at Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

Students from City of Glasgow College are helping athletes look and feel their best at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, providing professional hairdressing, barbering, beauty and make-up services throughout the international sporting event.

A selection of students from the College’s Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy and Make-up Artistry courses have been selected to work at athlete hotels, including the Crowne Plaza and Radisson Blu, delivering complimentary treatments from dedicated salon spaces created for the Games.

From haircuts and barbering to manicures, hand massages, chair massages and make-up services, students have been helping athletes relax, recharge and prepare between events. They have created a welcoming environment for athletes from across the Commonwealth.

The opportunity came about after Glasgow 2026 organisers approached the College to support the Games while providing students with the chance to gain first-hand experience at a major international sporting event.

Through paid placements, students are developing their technical skills, building confidence and working with clients from around the world in a fast-paced professional setting. The experience is also helping them build industry networks and demonstrate the high standards of service they have developed throughout their studies.

HND Beauty Therapy student Rhian Fraser said:

"I have nothing but wonderful things to say about all the athletes who visited us on the opening day of the Commonwealth Games. Everyone who visited was so friendly, and our conversations ranged from everyday life to hearing about their sporting careers. I met people from all around the world, saw photos of their hometowns and even had visitors stop by just for a chat. It was such a warm and welcoming environment, and it was amazing to see so many people united through their passion for sport.

Lynn Mulligan, Curriculum Head of Beauty Therapy, Hair and Make-up at City of Glasgow College, said:

"This has been an incredible opportunity for our students to put their learning into practice at one of Scotland’s biggest sporting events. They are working with clients from across the world in a professional environment, adapting quickly, communicating confidently and demonstrating the high standards of service they have developed throughout their studies."

The initiative further strengthens City of Glasgow College’s partnership with Glasgow 2026 while highlighting the talent, professionalism and industry-ready skills of its students.

Lorraine Quinn, Dean of the Faculty of Hospitality and Leisure, said:

"We are delighted that our staff and students are participating in the Commonwealth Games 2026. This opportunity provides our students with exceptional real-world experience and showcases the outstanding talent and professionalism of City of Glasgow College."