AN aspiring hairdresser has shown she’s a cut above the rest after securing an apprenticeship with a national hairdressing firm in one of their flagship salons.

Katie Barton, from Darlington, has just been taken on by Saks, in Darlington, which is run by Ruth Roddam, who has been involved in five franchiseships over a 20 year period.

Former Education Village student Katie, who is 16, is working towards her NVQ Level Two in hairdressing at Saks Academy in Darlington after completing her initial vocational training for hairdressing while she was still at school.

“I have always been interested in hairdressing,” she said. “As soon as it was offered as an option at school I took the course.

“I really enjoy my apprenticeship at Saks as it gives me experience at a professional academy, which provides unique and top quality training in its personal signature collection.

“Having only just started my Level 2, I am at the beginning of my career, but I am excited to be fully qualified and deliver styling sessions to clients.”

Mrs Roddam said: “Being able to take on an apprentice has added value to our experienced team. I feel it is important to invest in the local area and having Katie working for us will enable the team to pass on their in-depth knowledge and experience and professional technical skills.”