Sign up to be part of...
New diploma proves popular
Date Added: 2009-09-04
The new diploma in hair and beauty is being embraced by students and industry professionals for its hands-on approach to learning.
The course which is worth up to three-and-a-half A-levels is among five new diplomas available in schools and colleges which combines academic and practical work-based learning.
Critics fear that it won't be enough for young people to secure a place at university, saying that it just looks like a second class option compared to A-levels.
The Diploma in Hair and Beauty Studies is set to encourage students to develop their skills and creativity as they come up with new looks and experiment with products. Pupils taking the hair and beauty diploma will study the history of hairdressing in society, including ancient Egyptian make-up.
Lisa Whiteman co-owner of Mayfair salon Webster Whiteman said: "The new diploma will be great for expanding the knowledge of trainees and will allow them to cover more aspects of both the hair and beauty industries as well as making them more prepared for working in a salon. Where some trainees may lack grounding skills in areas like IT and Maths, this diploma will make sure they have the vital training needed to not only be a great hairdresser but a well rounded employee too".
The diploma will allow students to learn about the reality of working as a hairdresser/barber or beauty therapist. The diploma covers that latest developments in technology giving students the tools they need to have a successful career in hair and beauty.
The diploma is an attempt to address the fact that many employers often complain that young people, despite their paper qualifications, leave school ill-equipped for the world of work.
The Governemnt believes that the diploma will provide a huge boost to a student's self-confidence and give young people the ability to work alongside professionals who take their views and work seriously. In the current climate, it's impossible to deny how important these skills are. What do you think of the new diploma? Have your say below...
By Jennifer Ebert
