LONDON, UK. August 29th, 2025 – Central London-based B.I.G. Hairdressing Academy, founded by veteran stylist and salon owner Marie Biggerstaff, has burst onto the scene with an approach to training that’s already shaking up the industry and has been crowned with a prestigious Most Loved Brand award.
Marie, who boasts 35 years in the industry and runs award-winning salon, The Boathouse Hair Rooms in Chatham, opened B.I.G. Hairdressing Academy to fast-track aspiring stylists into careers without cutting corners. Her 18-week course goes far beyond the standard NVQ and offers high-impact practical training with flexible online learning, giving students a fulsome portfolio of real salon-ready skills and the confidence to succeed.
“We’re rewriting the script for hair training,” said Marie. “This isn’t just about an NVQ – it’s about producing confident, capable professionals who are ready to hit the salon floor from day one.”
From mock trade tests that simulate real interviews to a free nationwide salon recruitment database, the academy is focused on getting students into paid work quickly. To make their hiring a no-brainer, each student is equipped with a portfolio that contains photography, testimonials and details about their style, skills and aptitude. Employers only pay a modest finder’s fee if they hire, ensuring students graduate with genuine opportunities and are matched with salons where they will be a fit for the style and culture.
Later this year, Marie and B.I.G. Hairdressing Academy will also launch a subscription-based alumni community for newly qualified stylists to receive ongoing mentoring and career support.
With its award-winning wraparound support, emphasis on confidence, and direct links to top salons, B.I.G. Hairdressing Academy is setting a new standard in UK hair education, and proving that passion plus innovation is a winning formula.
ENDS