James Dun Salon expands with a new hair school, enhancing local education.
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In a significant development for the local education landscape, the historic Aberdeen Academy has reopened its doors as a hub for hairdressing education. The newly launched James Dun hair school, situated above the renowned James Dun Salon, promises to provide a variety of educational opportunities for aspiring hairdressers and industry professionals alike.
Educational offerings and community impact
The James Dun hair school aims to cater to a diverse audience, including secondary students seeking placements, apprentices looking to hone their skills, and professionals interested in short courses to enhance their expertise. This initiative not only addresses the growing demand for quality hairdressing education in the northeast of Scotland but also aims to foster a new generation of skilled stylists.
Dean Walker and Duncan Wiseman, the owners of the James Dun Salon, have invested a substantial £250,000 in refurbishing the Academy building, which previously housed a Jack Wills store. Their commitment to creating a state-of-the-art training facility reflects their ambition to double the salon’s turnover to £6 million by 2030, driven by both the expansion of existing operations and the opening of new salons and barbershops.
Thriving business amidst challenges
Despite the challenges faced by many businesses in the city, including decreased foot traffic, the James Dun Salon has continued to thrive. With 45 staff members currently employed at the salon and an additional 17 across their barbershops and training school, the business is experiencing a period of growth. Dean emphasizes the importance of their in-house training academy, which is designed to equip young stylists with essential skills in communication, customer service, and teamwork.
“It’s a privilege to be in a business that is growing and expanding,” Dean remarked. “People make appointments to come to us; it’s a destination. The salon is always bustling—it’s like a little oasis in the city.” This positive atmosphere is indicative of the high demand for their services, as clients continue to seek out quality hairdressing.
Bright future for aspiring hairdressers
With the hairdressing industry evolving, job prospects for future hairdressers appear promising. Dean notes that hairdressing has become an increasingly attractive career choice, particularly in the northeast of Scotland, where educational opportunities in this field have been limited. Many professionals in the industry now operate as independent contractors, which has led to a decrease in apprenticeship opportunities for younger individuals.
Nikki Findlay, an Aberdeen native who has returned from teaching hairdressing in Australia, will oversee the education program at the new school. She believes that hairdressing offers a versatile career path with numerous opportunities. “Once you complete your apprenticeship, you can work in a salon or even become a business owner, move into education, or work in film and TV,” she explained. “The possibilities are endless – you can travel the world with it.”
The opening of the James Dun hair school marks a pivotal moment for both the salon and the local community, providing essential training and career pathways for aspiring hairdressers in Aberdeen.
