Innovative Salon Initiative Boosts Confidence at Northgate School

Image: Northgate School

In an innovative move, Northgate School in Northampton, a school dedicated to children with special needs, has opened its very own hair salon. The Hair Hive, located within the Bee Hive, the school’s sixth form centre, is buzzing with activity and excitement.

The salon’s inception is a heartening tale. The idea was born a decade ago when a local Kingsthorpe hairdresser closed down and generously donated a sink to the school. Over the years, the school managed to gather funds to purchase a hairdressing chair, and an online retailer contributed £1,000 to equip the facility.

The Hair Hive’s primary goal is to provide students with a taste of a real working environment. The salon has started to attract clients from the local area, providing students with the opportunity to interact with people outside their usual circles. Sheralee Webb, the executive head teacher, believes this initiative is “fabulous” for the students, as it helps build their confidence and customer service skills.

One of the students, Molly, admits she had never considered hairdressing before but has now developed a passion for it. “I really love it,” she says, revealing that she enjoys braiding hair and has been practising on herself.

Cameron, another student, shares Molly’s enthusiasm. He finds the entire process of washing, drying, and styling hair inspiring. “I think it’s gone really well, and I’ve loved it,” he says.

Tracy Forsyth, a stylist, has been helping the students hone their skills. The focus over the past few weeks has been on shampooing techniques and plaiting.

The school hopes to expand the salon’s services to include beauty treatments. This innovative initiative at Northgate School is a shining example of how schools can provide practical, real-world experiences to students, equipping them with skills that will serve them well in their future careers.