Students style their way to success at Hairdresser of the Year 2018

Students and tutors from The Lee Stafford Academy at North Kent College, made their way to London for the prestigious Hairdresser of the Year 2018, at L’oreal Academy Hammersmith, in partnership with Lee Stafford Education.

6 students across various course levels, represented North Kent College, against 7 other colleges from around the UK to try to win one of the highly acclaimed trophies on show. Therese Ngayene, Level 3 Hairdressing, was awarded Highly Commended in the Level 3 LSE Mash Up category, for her long graduation and uniform layer cut mixed with a big and bouncy styling finish.

Peter Blackwell, Level 2 Barbering, was excited to be part of the experience commenting, “I really enjoyed today. It was inspirational watching everybody enjoy themselves and perform to their best abilities. I will take the skills I’ve learnt to progress in my career”.

Featuring a variety of guest judges including Errol Douglas, Sophia Hilton, Mike Saunders and Tony Wood, along with Lee himself, the students were treated to a real life experience of what a hair competition would be like out in the industry. Whilst completing their finished looks, they were interviewed and marked on their work. Throughout the day, the competition was broadcast live across social platforms, giving both entrants waiting for their category, as well as viewers from home and college, the chance to watch and support the students.

Georgi Hunter, Lead College Artistic Director Lee Stafford Education, was confident to say, “I feel personally overwhelmed with North Kent College’s team passion and enthusiasm to strive for excellence in the Lee Stafford Academy”.

North Kent College officially opened The Lee Stafford Academy in September 2017, but have been working on the whole process of building the brand for the past year. In that time the College has seen the department go from strength to strength, culminating in their participation, and trophy, at their first competition against other established Academies around the UK.

Lee Stafford commented on this year’s competition saying, “It has been a really exciting day, with amazing energy and great attitudes. This event gives the students something to reach for, and motivates people for the future by giving them confidence. They get to practise to get the skills so they are industry ready. I am very proud”.

Kim Catchpole, Curriculum Manager Hairdressing, was very emotional throughout the day, speaking of how amazing it was, to see how focused and professional all the students were, especially as some of them have only been studying for a few months. When asked on the highlights of the day, she said “Getting feedback for our learners from Sophia Hilton, who personally took the time to speak to them all and give advice on their journey into the industry. The Lee Stafford Education team were fantastic. I am so proud of all my students!”

We would like to congratulate all that took part and we look forward to their next steps in their studies!