Future Hairdressers from across East Kent Colleges Group showcased their talents at this year’s KFE Hairdressing Heat, hosted at EKC Sheppey College.
Bringing together 32 students from the Group’s Colleges in Ashford, Broadstairs, Canterbury, Folkestone, and Sheppey, the event saw competitors take on four exciting categories: First Year Blow Dry, Cut and Style, Era, and Fantasy. Judged by a panel of industry professionals, the competition provided students with invaluable insight into industry expectations and standards.
The morning began with the ‘First Year Blow Dry’ and ‘Cut and Style’ categories, where learners worked to perfect voluminous curls and dramatic finishes using simple techniques. Competitors in the ‘Cut and Style’ category demonstrated their precision cutting and modern styling expertise, executing sleek and polished looks under timed conditions.
Taking the top spot in the ‘Cut and Style’ category was Izzy Fierro from EKC Broadstairs College, who impressed the judges with her Butterfly Cut. The contest was particularly special for Izzy as she had the opportunity to style her sister’s hair.
Speaking about why she took part, she said: “I work very well under pressure, and I wanted to prove to myself, and to others, that I can take part in this.
“I’m very excited and happy to be here. I don’t mind whether I win or not, I’m just really happy to be part of this experience. I’m having fun, and the fact that my sister is my model makes it even better. Cutting and styling are what we’re focusing on, and it’s really testing me.”
Representing Sheppey in the challenge was Level 2 Hairdressing student, Cliona Sheehan, who secured third place overall. She was inspired to enter the KFE Heat after participating in the KFE4Skills 2024 Finals. Her final look featured a shaggy layered cut with textured finishing touches.
“I entered because I really enjoyed the blow-dry challenge in my first year, and I wanted to take on more opportunities like that. I have the confidence and don’t mind about the outcome as long as I’m happy with my work.
“My favourite part of the day is seeing if I’m going to win or not after everything is finished. I think I’m doing pretty well and feel quite confident.
“My advice to future competitors would be to practice, don’t stress. If you don’t get it right the first time, just keep practicing, and you’ll get there.”
Later in the day, students competed in the ‘Era’ category, which took styles on a journey through time with stunning recreations of 1920s finger waves, elegant vintage updos, and other classic styles. Meanwhile, the Fantasy category brought a touch of magic, with students crafting avant-garde and theatrical looks inspired by characters like Wicked’s Elphaba, and Rapunzel.
Taking first place in the ‘Fantasy’ category was Ashford’s Sonya Daniels, a Level 3 Hairdressing adult learner. Her final look combined elements of steampunk, the Victorian age, and Mary Poppins. Speaking as she applied the finishing touches, she shared her excitement about experimenting and building her own custom looks: “My favourite part has been weirdly enjoying the experience, though it’s also been a bit stressful. It’s really nice to be doing it now I’m here in the Salon.
“Initially, I was planning on a Victorian look, but my original concept didn’t work out when it came to a practice run. I ended up changing it to a mix of fantasy, Mary Poppins, and steampunk—trying something a little different.”
She was delighted at her win, saying upon receiving the award: “I’ve learned a lot of hair skills, and I think it’s also boosted my confidence. The fact that I’m being brave enough to take part in these challenges has been great, and I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve tried my best, so I’m happy that everything has come together as planned.”
Adding another element to the event were Sheppey’s own Creative Media students, who took on the role of event photographers. Capturing the action throughout the day, they gained valuable experience in event photography while building their professional portfolios.
For Level 3 Creative Media student, Jack Gordon, the KFE Heat was a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience.
“I’m enjoying being able to take very different photos each time I come into the Salon. We’re learning how to focus on different areas, working around people, and what makes a great image.
“This event is helping me to build my own portfolio of photography work and to show that I can work in different settings.”
Marking the first time the College has hosted a KFE Heats event, the competition was an exciting milestone for students and staff alike.
During the Awards Ceremony, Programme Director, Fay Morgan, said:
“It’s been incredible to see the talent and enthusiasm across the Group, and I want to say a big thank you to everyone who has taken part today. Thank you as well to our judges and the staff joining us today.”
Principal, Alexandra Syrotiuk, was also in attendance to present some of the prizes. She shared her pride in the students’ work, stating: “There have been some outstanding looks today, and you should all be very proud of yourselves and the work that you have done. We’ve been very proud to host this event today, and we look forward to having more opportunities like this in the future.”
With incredible displays of skill and creativity, this year’s KFE Hairdressing Heat has been a fantastic success.
The winners from each category will now move on to the KFE4Skills Competition Finals in March at EKC Canterbury College, where they will compete against the best from MidKent College and North Kent College. We can’t wait to see the final looks that students across the Group create.
Full list of winners from the KFE Heats:
Cut and Style:
1st: Izzy Fierro – EKC Broadstairs College
2nd: Maddie Jones – EKC Broadstairs College
3rd: Cliona Sheehan – EKC Sheppey College
First Year Blow Dry:
1st: Maddie Piper – EKC Folkestone College
2nd: Hannah Parsons – EKC Canterbury College
3rd: Lottie Wilson – EKC Broadstairs College
Eras:
1st: Morgan Huckstepp – EKC Ashford College
2nd: Rosie Crawford – EKC Sheppey College
3rd: Laylah Corbett – EKC Folkestone College
Fantasy:
1st: Sonya Daniels – EKC Ashford College
2nd: Sky Sullivan – EKC Folkestone College
3rd: Shayla Jackson – EKC Canterbury College
If you’d like to learn more about our Hairdressing courses or our excellent salon facilities, visit one of our Open Days or explore our courses.
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