Talented Tom Birch Wins West Kent College Hairdressing Competition

West Kent College hairdressing apprentice Tom Birch has scooped the top prize in a competition showcasing the talents of twelve local students.

His creative interpretation of a twenties/thirties inspired look, modelled by Jenna Warner, bagged him a camcorder.

"I'm so pleased to have won," said Tom, who is an apprentice with Matthew Cross Haircare Salon in Sevenoaks. "I'd never dreamt of being a hairdresser,

but I was working in a salon as a Saturday job and the manager spotted

potential in me and suggested I get a qualification. So I started a

course at West Kent College and discovered I had a passion for

hairdressing. It's not just a job - every day's different. The training

and knowledge I receive at the College, put together with the

experience I gain at work through the apprenticeship has benefitted me

hugely."

Tom's boss Matthew Cross said he was 'amazed' Tom created such a winning style in just 45 minutes, and in  the face of stiff competition.

Lucia Bresifer came second and Carys Evans came third.

The event was one of the first projects to benefit from funding from

a new College initiative - the 'Enterprise Factor'. It

supports projects that challenge and inspire students, allowing them to showcase their talents for the local community and

employers.