Celebrity stylist Lee Stafford partnership at East Durham College

East Durham College in Peterlee is working with celebrity hairdresser Lee Stafford through its Lee Stafford Education Academy, which is part of its Hair and Beauty department.

Each year, around 160 learners aged 14 to their mid-50s enrol in hair and beauty courses at the college.

Lee Stafford has been a hairdresser to the stars and on TV shows for many years.

He has also been a go-to brand name for home haircare, with his products often spotted in Boots stores around the country.

Now, his new partnership with East Durham College offers students industry-level hairdressing training, delivered to the same standards used across the Lee Stafford network.

(Image: East Durham College)

Angela Johnston, head of services for hair, beauty and catering at East Durham College, said: "When we established the Lee Stafford Education Academy, our ambition was to create something that would genuinely inspire the next generation of stylists and beauty professionals while demonstrating the incredible career opportunities the industry offers.

"Every member of our teaching team completed intensive specialist training to become accredited Lee Stafford educators, ensuring our students receive the same high-quality teaching and techniques used across the academy network."

Ms Johnston said the partnership with Mr Stafford has opened new doors for students, giving them confidence and insight into the realities of a fast-paced industry.

She said: "Students also benefit from Lee Stafford's online learning platform, regular visits from his education team and twice-yearly sessions with Lee himself.

"Those experiences give our learners confidence, motivation and a real understanding of what it takes to succeed in the industry."

The department includes five commercial-standard salon areas and dedicated treatment rooms for beauty therapy, nail technology, massage and make-up artistry.

Learners also gain hands-on experience by offering paid services to real clients throughout their studies, including hairdressing, colouring, facials, waxing, massage, manicures and pedicures.

The college is also part of the L'Oréal Future Talent Excellence Programme, where learners receive Colour Keys training.

Major brands including Eve Taylor, Nouveau Lashes, Glitterbels, and Peaches & Cream regularly visit to deliver masterclasses and product demonstrations.

Graduates have progressed to salons across the North East at prestigious employers including Seaham Hall's Serenity Spa, Radisson Blu Hotels, cruise ships, and the film and television industry.

Scott Bullock, principal and CEO of East Durham College, said: "Our Hair and Beauty department demonstrates exactly what East Durham College stands for, delivering industry-focused education that equips students with the skills, confidence and experience employers are looking for."

The department’s success comes during a period of significant investment in technical and vocational education at the college.

East Durham College is currently undertaking a major redevelopment of its Houghall campus, with new facilities planned for agriculture, animal management, science, floristry, and environmental management.

The redevelopment will also improve agricultural training, and a new teaching and learning centre is being built.

Set for completion in April 2027, the project is part of the college’s wider strategy to provide students with industry-standard learning environments and the practical skills needed for future careers.