A STUDENT is heading off to the Amsterdam Fashion Institute to help develop her creative skills.

Hannah Sutherland will be studying for a degree in fashion design after learning her craft in her hometown.

The 23-year-old, from Middlesbrough, has just completed her BTEC Extended Diploma in Fashion & Textiles course at Cleveland College of Art & Design’s (CCAD) Green Lane campus in the town.

Assisted by funding from family and charitable organisation, EWS Education Trust, the budding design student is excited about the future.

She said: “I really wanted to study abroad as I'm quite an adventurous person and love travelling, and I thought studying my design degree abroad would also make me more employable.

"I researched universities outside the UK and AMFI had a great reputation. The graduate shows looked really amazing and the Netherlands is easier to move to as coming from the UK you don't need to worry about visas.

“I can't wait to make friends from all around the world, and start designing at a degree level. AMFI also have their own shop in the centre of Amsterdam where they sell student and graduate designs, to be a part of that would be incredible. I have visited Amsterdam on numerous occasions and absolutely love it. I can't wait until I know my way around and I think exploring all the new areas I haven't visited and getting myself a bike will be first on my list."

For more information on opportunities at CCAD contact 01642-288888 or visit www.ccad.ac.uk