Central Learners Rock the Catwalk at Wella

Super talented hairdressing apprentices from across London and the South East took to the catwalk at Wella World Studio to show off their creative hair looks in the finals of the Central London and Central Essex photographic competition.

The young stylists were asked to produce either a look that is current for the What’s Hot category or a more out there style for the Avant Garde section. The competition is suitable for both Level 2 and Level 3 learners. From the many who entered, 30 finalists were carefully selected by a team of first round judges, who included world renowned colourist Carolyn Newman, Jodie Withers, Editor of Good Salon Guide, and Amanda Nottage, Editor of Creative Head Magazine.

Finals day saw the finalists recreate their look in front of judges who included Celia Matthews, Managing Editor/Owner of Concept Hair Magazine. With just two hours to achieve a catwalk ready style, the apprentices were busy ensuring not only the hair looked right, but that the make-up and clothes were on point too. Finished looks were then presented to the judges and a packed audience in the main auditorium. The response was superb as friends, family members and colleagues of every finalist cheered them on. For Celia Matthews it was an honour to judge, as Concept Hair Magazine is targeted at apprentices. She said:

I was thrilled to see so much talent, passion and enthusiasm among the finalists. It’s so encouraging to be in a room with people who, at the start of their career, are so excited about their future.

For Central Hair Essex and Central Hair London Managing Director, Martin Kolton MBE, the event was a great way to showcase the huge talent that exists among learners at every stage of their apprenticeships. He said:

When you consider that some of the work we have seen today has been produced by people who have literally just started their career, it is incredible to see how far they have come already. Not only is the high standard testament to the talent of our students but, of course, reflective of the wonderful tutors we have working so hard to bring out the best in every single apprentice. Many thanks also to our sponsors Wella and Good Salon Guide.

And the winners are:

• Year One What's Hot - Elise Clabburn from The Hairdressing Company
• Year One Avant Garde - Ionella Blidaru from Hare & Bone
• Year Two What's Hot: Rose Tandy from Volume Hair Salon
• Year Two Avant Garde: Lily Marriage from Finishing Touches
• Year Three What's Hot: Simona Gabriela Istrati from Avant Garde Salon
• Year Three Avant Garde: Charlotte Keats from Clipso Cheshunt