A NORTH-EAST training and education specialist has opened a new hair and beauty academy to offer skills and qualifications for people aiming to build a career in the industry.

Located at the old Gemini Centre, the Hartlepool Beauty Academy was officially opened by Tees Valley Mayor, Ben Houchen. The Academy offers diplomas in hair and media make-up, beauty therapy and nail technology to Level 2 and Level 3.

The courses are open to anyone over the age of 19 and are led by a team of six experienced and knowledgeable staff and delivered to national vocational standards.

With 12 new beauty salons opening each week in the UK, the employment opportunities for learners are extensive. Options range from working in a high street salon, hotel, spa resort, cruise ship or the media to establishing their own business.

The Level 2 courses covering the three disciplines are the perfect introduction for beginners, providing the essential skills, with the potential to progress to the more advanced Level 3 qualification.

In addition, Learning Curve Group is offering a Level 2 business start-up programme within the training to help those people who want to establish their own enterprise with the skills and qualifications they gain at the academy.

The units offered by the Level 2 beauty therapy course include facial skin care, manicure and pedicure treatments, brow treatments and hair removal, while the nail technology course covers manicures, nail art, shaping, colouring eyebrows and skin tanning techniques.

Level 2 hair and media make-up is perfect for learners wishing to become a make-up-artist, with an interest in fashion, theatrical and media make-up.

Progression to Level 3 mixes both the practical and theoretical skills required for a career in the media make-up sector, in areas such as fashion photography, film and television.

Learners also gain transferable, complementary skills during the training including health and safety and client communication.

MrHouchen said: “By launching this academy Learning Curve Group is raising aspirations not only for people in Hartlepool but across the Tees Valley and the wider region. It shows that the opportunities and support are available for those who want to improve their life chances by gaining the necessary qualifications and skills to enter a worthwhile career.”

Brenda McLeish, of Learning Curve Group, said: “We are very proud to support the North East’s growing hair and beauty sector with the opening of our new academy which will provide local people with training on the latest trends and practices."