AS THE male grooming industry blossoms, people in Basingstoke now have the chance to stay ahead of the trend or become part of the barbering sector.

Since September, Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) has become the place for barbers to train as leading male grooming specialist Mike Taylor has opened up his exclusive Barbering College in the south campus of the college.

This new style of barber training is the only one of its kind in the area where students get to learn under the specialist direction of Mr Taylor who is offering a varied curriculum.

To ensure barbering students can perfect their skills, clients are being invited in for an array of cuts and treatments including wet shaves, massages, haircuts, beard trims and skin fades – all completely free of charge.

There is no booking required, just drop-in.

The barber shops open hours are Wednesdays from 11am to 6pm, Thursdays from noon to 6pm and Fridays from 9am to 3.30pm during college term time.

A former BCoT student himself, Mr Taylor is now one of the country’s leading barbers and was the very first in the UK to be crowned a master craftsman.

Mr Taylor said: “Partnering with BCoT was a no brainer for me.

“Having worked at BCoT before, I know that they share my passion for raising the standard of barbering and providing quality training.”

The barbering college offers a range of full time Level 2 and 3 courses for 16 to 18-year-olds, Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships and full cost programmes for adults.

All students will receive a genuine barbering experience studying together in a real barber shop environment.

The range of courses available also include health and safety, client consultation, how to shampoo and condition hair, cutting hair, cutting beards and facial hair and colouring – encompassing all the skills required for a successful career in the industry.

Principal of BCoT Anthony Bravo added: “The men’s grooming market is a growing industry and with this partnership BCoT is at the forefront of barber training in the area.

“We’re also particularly proud to be teaming up with Mike as not only is he a former student of ours but he’s also the best person in the industry to team up with.”

For further information on the full range of courses for students now available and the servies offered to visitors to the Barbering College, go to bcot.ac.uk.