Students seeking a career in hairdressing are being offered a unique opportunity at the new Links Hair Academy at Bexleyheath Academy.

The fully functioning hair salon, a joint venture by Skills for Growth and the academy, will allow young people to learn the skills needed for a career in hairdressing. “Both organisations strongly believe in offering choice to young people,” said a Skills for Growth spokesman.

“Many choose to follow the formal academic route, but there is also a wealth of vocational opportunities open to young people from the age of 14.”

Both bodies currently offer pre-apprenticeship programmes in childcare and health and beauty to young people in Years 10 and 11 at the Bexleyheath school.

At the Links Hair Academy, students will be taught by Skills for Growth tutors, who are themselves experienced stylists.