Celebrity hairdresser is a cut above rest during South Shields visit

He demonstrated his cutting edge techniques on stage before a select audience at the Littlehaven Hotel, in South Shields.

His display was part of his new partnership with South Tyneside College, which has seen the creation of the innovative Lee Stafford Education Academy at STC.

The academy supports the college’s hairdressing lecturers by giving them new instruction in performing standardised but durable techniques.

They then pass on their skills to students taking level 2 and level 3 courses, who in turn move into employment.

He was watched closely by North East salon managers and owners, seeking to discover how they can benefit as employers from the academy.

Lee, a former British Men’s Hairdresser of the Year, who describes the academy’s training as ’Michelin standard’, said: “This visit allowed employers to see how lecturers and students are getting important extra support.

“A student’s time at college is a precious commodity and the academy aims to give them training that will be of benefit throughout their careers. It is teaching strong techniques that last. Training is constantly changing, but good techniques last.”