East Durham college shapes the next generation of hair and beauty stars with celebrity partnership

The hair and beauty department at East Durham College’s Peterlee campus is home to the Lee Stafford Education Academy – a partnership that gives students access to industry-recognised training.

The academy features five commercial-standard salon areas where students can develop their hairdressing and barbering skills, alongside dedicated treatment rooms for beauty therapy, nail technology, make-up artistry and massage.

Students also benefit from regular visits by Lee Stafford and his education team, and access to exclusive online training resources.

Head of services for hair, beauty and catering, Angela Johnston, 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.”

Angela added: "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."

Alongside technical training, students can gain commercial experience by working with paying clients throughout their studies, offering services including hairdressing, colouring, facials, massage, waxing, manicures and pedicures.

Angela said: “Our students leave with far more than qualifications, they graduate with commercial experience, confidence and professional contacts that prepare them for successful careers in salons, luxury spas, hospitality, television, film and self-employment."

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.

“Working with nationally recognised partners such as Lee Stafford Education and L'Oréal ensures our learners are trained to the highest professional standards, while the success they continue to achieve in national competitions highlights the exceptional talent being developed here."