A recent industry guest visit allowed Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) Level 3 students to learn from two talented local young emerging stylists with a SIT connection.
Students enrolled in the New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing (Level 3), were given the opportunity to learn from invited guest stylists, Ella Humphrey and Sophie Steel from Venom Hair Salon in Invercargill, at a workshop in the SIT training salon on July 13th.
The workshop began with the stylists sharing their hairdressing journeys by PowerPoint presentation. Following this, they delivered a long hair demonstration, walking students through every step, from preparation to the completed look.
SIT Hairdressing Tutor, Trish Dowling, said the class were captivated from start to finish. “The style Ella and Sophie presented was current and relevant—exactly the kind of look today’s clients are asking for. The demonstration prompted plenty of questions and discussion from our students.”
Ms Dowling said SIT Hairdressing regularly invite industry professionals to speak as part of their ongoing effort to inspire and engage their learners by showcasing real industry success stories. “This has proven to be an excellent motivator—especially when the guests are young and have come through similar pathways as our students.”
They were fortunate to host both the talented young women, who have excelled in the industry. “The workshop was a truly inspiring and valuable session for everyone involved.”
“Ella is a qualified stylist, and Sophie is nearing the completion of her apprenticeship, with final assessments just around the corner. As young professionals who have recently completed their training, they are relatable role models for our students.”
Ms Dowling added the stylists now train junior staff, have achieved outstanding results in numerous competitions, and last year, were two of only three New Zealanders selected by Davines hair company to attend a prestigious three-day hair show in
Berlin, Germany. Miss Steel also won the HITO (Hairdressing Industry Training Organisation) Southern Apprentice of the Year 2024.
Ms Dowling noted each stylist followed a different training journey. “Sophie began with a full-time training programme with SIT (the New Zealand Certificate in Hairdressing), before moving into an apprenticeship, while Ella completed her entire qualification through the apprenticeship model, studying at SIT.”
The Level 3 class began their programme in February and will complete it in November. Students are currently developing their foundational skills in long hair styling, cutting, and colouring. There is also a second intake which starts mid-year.