British barbers association launch two competitions to find outstanding barbers

The British Barbers Association (BBA) is launching two high-profile competitions. The National Student Barber of the Year will search for the stars of tomorrow and the British Barber of the Year competition, with support from Andis and booking site Booksy.net, will search for the best of the best in the barbering world. Read on for background info and details of how to enter both competitions... BBA National Student Barber of the Year 2018 The National Student Barber of the Year 2018 competition, supported by VTCT and Mr Barber, will give learners the chance to develop their skills and demonstrate their technique to their peers, as well as be recognised for their exceptional achievement. Entrants will be able to compete in three separate categories - basic haircut and finish (level 2), basic facial hair design (level 2) and precision, creative cut and finish (level 3) - by submitting two photographs (front view and side view) of work they have done, unassisted, by 13 March 2018. Winners will then be chosen at a specially convened judging day by a select panel of BBA judges, with the first-placed entrant in each category receiving their awards, plus a prize of £500, on stage at Barber UK, Birmingham NEC on 21 May 2018, in front of BBA members and the press. Second and third place runners-up will also receive a certificate of merit, a trophy and a good bag of industry products. Paul Davenport, Director of MR. Barber, said, ‘This competition is a fantastic opportunity for us to work with our industry association, the BBA, and have the chance to help shape the next generation of barbers coming through. Education is the cornerstone or MR. Barber, our foundation, and we are currently in the process of establishing two training centres, demonstrating out commitment to learning’. Lynda Whitehorn – VTCT Apprenticeship Manager said: "VTCT is proud to be working with the BBA on the ‘National Student Barber of the Year Competition’. If you are a barber with impeccable technical skill and precision when working then this competition is for you. To win a competition like this can launch a career. Good luck!" Training providers or employers must apply on behalf of their learners and be BBA members while their learners must be undertaking a formally accredited barbering qualification at level 2 or level 3. BBA Barber of the Year 2018 Open to all BBA members, entrants must submit three photographs featuring different models and demonstrating their abilities in fading, flattops and creativity by 29 March 2018. Cost of entry for both competitions is free, as is membership of the BBA for those not already members. To request an application form, contact the BBA at [email protected] and for more information, go to britishbarbers.com.