Winnipeg high school seeing significant interest in nail technician program

Winnipeg’s John Taylor Collegiate is giving the students the chance to take a course focused on nail care.

Students at a Winnipeg school are getting hands-on experience in a potential new career path.

John Taylor Collegiate in the St. James Assiniboa School Division recently launched a new vocational program focused on nail technology, including pedicures, manicures, nail art and nail enhancement.

“It’s really fun to experience,” said Piper Chipman, a Grade 9 student at the school. “I’ve been really enjoying it lately. It gives me something to look forward to when I come to school.”

Nadia Cantafio, the school’s vice president, said this is the first vocational program at the school.

“We really wanted something that was built with kids, not just for them,” she said.

When students complete the program, they can earn a certificate that allows them to work as level one licensed nail technicians in Manitoba.

“This gives kids a skill that they could use while they’re going to university or exploring other career options,” Cantafio said. “It’s something they could be doing on the side, if it’s not something they want to primarily do as their first career choice.”

Currently, there are 66 students enrolled in the program, and Cantafio said more enrollments are expected next year when a Grade 12 course track is opened.

• With files from CTV’s Glenn Pismenny