News

Northern Lights College's salon program is now taking clients, offering fresh cuts and colouring to the community. Residents interested in looking their best can book an appointment over the phone and come down to the South Peace Campus.

Program Instructor Tara May says the COVID-19 pandemic slowed them down, but they’re ready to accept clients for students to practice on. "It's been consistent - but we’re always looking for more. But it’s been pretty good. Of course we were shut down last year due to COVID. So we didn’t get the full extent of our salon out there, which was unfortunate."

Seven students are in the ten-month program this year and expect to graduate in June, says May, who’s been a Red Seal Hairstylist for 27 years. The salon has been reopened for roughly two months. "I'm really enjoying it, it’s a great program,” said May, noting it’s her second year instructing the program.

Student Sydney Dingwell says the hands-on experience exceeded her expectations, going beyond bookwork.

“Things have kind of been up in the air since COVID, but we’ve definitely found a way to make it go smoothly, and it’s been a good course so far. It’s really informative you learn a lot, it’s in-depth.”

She added she already has employment prospects lined up after she graduates, apprenticing full-time with one of the local hair salons.

“Eventually I’m going to go for my Red Seal and then I’m going to open my own business. There’s actually quite a few of us who have apprenticeships lined up already.”

Original article from The Dawson Creek Mirror News for Northern Lights College