Q&A with Sarah Stonier

I teach Levels 1-3 in Hairdressing and the part-time Level 2 Diploma in Barbering.

I have worked in the barbering industry for 15 years, gaining extensive experience in all aspects of men's grooming, customer service and salon operations. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong understanding of barbering techniques, industry standards and client care, while building lasting relationships with customers. My experience has allowed me to adapt to changing trends and continuously refine my skills, giving me a well-rounded knowledge of the profession.

What attracted me to teaching was the positive impact that one of my own hairdressing teachers had on me during my training. They were knowledgeable, supportive and passionate about the industry, and their encouragement helped me develop both my skills and confidence. Their approach inspired me to pursue a career in hairdressing and showed me the difference a great teacher can make to a learner's journey. It's a really diverse industry and two days literally are never the same.

Having worked in the industry for many years, I now feel passionate about passing on the skills, knowledge and experience I have gained to others. I enjoy helping people learn, develop their confidence and achieve their goals, and I find it rewarding to support learners as they progress and discover their own potential within the industry.

Having worked in the profession for many years, I can teach learners current industry techniques, professional standards and best practices that will prepare them for employment within the barbering industry.

Alongside technical skills, I also support our adult learners within the salon setting to gain valuable employability skills, including professionalism, communication, teamwork, time management and customer service which are also very important. My experience working with the general public and building relationships with clients has given me a strong understanding of the importance of creating positive customer experiences and maintaining professional conduct in the workplace.

By combining practical expertise with real-life industry experience, I can help students develop the confidence, knowledge and workplace behaviours needed to succeed in their future careers.

Adult learners have a very strong motivation to learn as it's their choice to return to education and although it is important to maintain a professional balance, I enjoy the camaraderie between myself and adult learners and it helps to break down any worries around learning.

This part time Level 2 course is ideal for adult learners aged 19+ who would like to begin working within the barbering industry. Usually someone who is looking to retrain or who wanted to enter the industry when they were younger, but for various reasons were not able too.

Someone with great customer service skills who can work as part of a team and has a creative flair. You need to enjoy interacting with people as this is a huge part of barbering.

No previous experience is necessary but volunteering in a Barber shop really helps. 

Once the course is completed, learners may wise to carry on their studies or learn as they go in the workplace. Popular courses include Level 3 and 4 units in cutting and shaving which are great for keeping on top of the latest trends.

When they first join us on the course, students practice on head blocks and then when ready will proceed onto real clients for their assessments and industrial experience.

Learners will get feedback on practical skills to allow them to develop their skills and taught theory sessions will deliver essential knowledge.

We teach these really useful skills which are essential for grasping the basics of barbering:

• Advise on how to consult with clients on their chosen style
• Shampoo, condition and treat hair and scalp
• Dry men's hair
• Cutting men's hair using basic techniques
• Cutting facial hair using basic techniques
• Create basic patterns in hair
• Perming

Learners develop in confidence from learning new skills and passing assessment and also from learning the theory aspect and passing exams.

Go for it! So many of my adult learners have amazing careers within the industry, working in Barber shops, performing at trade shows and working on cruise ships, so there are lots of career opportunities out there that you may not have thought about.