One of North Kent College’s partners is celebrating being named as a finalist in a prestigious set of national awards.
Lee Stafford Education is one of six finalists shortlisted for the Educator of the Year category in the HJ’s British Hairdressing Business Awards 2025. The category recognises outstanding dedication to education, innovation, and the inspiring advancement of skills within the hairdressing industry.
Lee Stafford Education works with affiliated colleges across the country to provide the necessary training for the hairdressers of the future, producing confident, skilled professionals ready to thrive in the industry.
North Kent College is one of those partners, with its own Lee Stafford Academy run across its Dartford, Gravesend and Tonbridge campuses, where students are trained in more than 20 colour and cut looks in-line with hairdresser Lee Stafford’s own specially designed hair styling techniques.
North Kent College was named by Lee Stafford Education as its Education College of the Year in 2023.
The HJ’s British Hairdressing Awards celebrate individuals and teams who push boundaries, inspire future talent, and keep the UK hairdressing scene vibrant and influential.
Lee Stafford (pictured above on a visit to North Kent College), founder of Lee Stafford Education, was delighted with the nomination saying: “The LSE team is absolutely thrilled to be shortlisted. As a not-for-profit foundation established 10 years ago, our mission has always been to work hand-in-hand with colleges across the UK to empower young talent with the essential skills for a successful career in hairdressing.
“Being recognised on a national stage, alongside some of the most respected names in the industry, means the world to us. It’s a proud moment not just for our team, but for all our partner colleges who deliver Lee Stafford Education day in and day out.
“Personally, I’m passionate about sharing the secrets to a happy, fulfilling life through the craft I love—and it’s inspiring to see that passion reflected and celebrated in this way. We can’t wait for awards night!”
Winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony on Monday 7 July at the iconic Royal Lancaster, London.
For more information visit the British Hairdressing Business Awards section of the HJ website.
For more information regarding courses at the Tonbridge, Gravesend and Dartford Lee Stafford affiliated academies, visit the Hairdressing and Barbering page of the North Kent College website.
It is not too late to apply for a September 2026 enrolment. Students receiving a conditional offer will be invited to a taster day in June or July. Come and experience the opportunities of studying at a Lee Stafford Academy.
Students learn in a commercial salon, open to the public, using industry brands such as Revlon, Redken and Lee Stafford products, fully supported by a team of experienced hairdressers and barbers who have achieved Master Trainer Status by Lee Stafford and his team.
The three salons are open most weekdays, and on selected evenings, to the general public with students providing all of the services, from working on the reception desk to implementing the latest styles and trends, at a fraction of the cost.
To find out more visit the Lee Stafford Hair Salons page of the North Kent College website.