From classroom to clippers: Westminster students learn barbering skills

One London high school is letting students test drive a career, clippers and all. CTV’s Lauren Stallone reports.

For a group of students at Westminster Secondary School in London, high school isn’t just about grades, it’s also about mastering the ‘perfect fade.’

“I’ve learned how to cut hair really nice and lots of other skills,” said Grade 11 student Hamza Almasri.

The school introduced a new barbering course in September, the first of its kind at Thames Valley District School Board (TVDSB).

“Many of our students that attend Westminster have a really big interest in barbering,” said Krysta McBain, a teacher for the course. “A lot of them are already doing it at home.”

Almasri said he watches YouTube videos to practice at home.

“I tried it and practiced on my brother,” said Almasri.

Students begin by practicing on mannequins before moving on to real haircuts. This offers hands-on experience that prepares them for a career in hairstyling.

“We focus on proper haircutting techniques,” said McBain. “Using our clippers, our trimmers and fading techniques, tapering, as well as scissor work.”

Westminster students can book free appointments with the barbering class, creating a unique experience for both the student behind the chair and client in it.

“You can do basically anything you want, make mistakes,” said Grade 11 student Hussein Alafnan. “At the end of the day, you’re going to be learning from your mistakes.”

Every shave marks more than a finishing touch, it marks the beginning of a career.

When asked if he would pursue a career in the hairstyling industry, Almasri was quick to respond, “There’s a good chance.”