A HAIRDRESSING training academy has been rated as outstanding.

Saks Apprenticeships, which has an academy in Darlington is a national education provider to independent hairdressers across the UK.

The training is delivered through a network of educators who provide in salon apprentice training across the country and also inhouse via its academies located in Darlington and Maidstone.

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Managing director Tina Ockerby said: “When the company was founded over 20 years ago, I had high hopes it would transform the nature of training for hairdressing and barbering careers, and here we are with this double accolade from Ofsted.

"It’s a real credit to our apprentices and educators – and of course the salons across the UK who support their learners so wholeheartedly.

“There is currently a national shortage of stylists so enrolling an apprentice is the perfect way for a salon to gain a very enthusiastic extra pair of hands, and share their skills creating home grown talent to meet their own standards.

"And with so many different career options available to learners after they complete their apprenticeship it’s one of the best ways for a young person to get a foothold in what could be a career for life. A stylist, beauty therapist, barber, artist or educator – the world is their oyster.”

Saks Apprenticeships is offering salons the chance to use its services to help attract more people into the hair and beauty industry.

The company offers level 2 and level 3 apprenticeships in hairdressing, barbering, beauty therapy and nail services at more than 600 salons.

The Ofsted report also recognised how, during the pandemic, Saks Apprenticeships came into their own after the closure of salons during the initial lockdown, with the provider immediately sending hairdressing and beauty equipment to learners.

A Facebook forum and Zoom sessions were used to schedule demonstrations and lessons, setting daily tasks for apprentices and encouraging them to post their work.

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