Government plans to introduce a new school-leaver model

The Government plans to introduce a new school-leaver model called the "Advanced British Standard," as announced by the Prime Minister. This model will combine A-levels and T-levels into one qualification. Students will need to study a wider range of subjects beyond the age of 16, including mandatory English and maths lessons until the age of 18. This approach is similar to the International Baccalaureate (IB), which some students in the UK already pursue as part of their education.

The scheduled introduction of T-levels in September 2024 caused a mixed response within our sector. While the beauty industries welcomed the prospect of a new college-based pathway, the hairdressing and barbering industries maintained a degree of scepticism. It has been evident from the outset that there have been both advantages and disadvantages associated with its introduction.

While employers in salons and barbershops typically prefer prospective employees, who have undergone a "job-ready" route or possess relevant qualifications, such as apprenticeships, it is acknowledged that there may not be sufficient capacity within the sector to exclusively rely on this avenue for workforce entry.

The NHBF’s recent skills crisis report highlighted that we have a ‘perfect storm’ of issues that have come together to create a skills and recruitment crisis in our industry as 57% of hair & beauty businesses have unfilled vacancies.

Caroline Larissey, director of quality and standards at the NHBF said: “It's not entirely unexpected that the Prime Minister has proposed a significant revamp of the UK's education system, following reports of delays and difficulties in its implementation. However, we are disappointed by the timing of this announcement, as significant time and public funds have already been invested in T-Levels.

 “Considering the threats to the future of the sector, it is vital that the sector works together with the Government to ensure we get it right to safeguard a pipeline of talent, built on robust training and education to meet the needs of salons and barbershop businesses in the future”.