In this blog we will introduce you to the Hair and Beauty team at EKC Broadstairs College.
Whether you are interested in becoming a nail technician or you would like to be a makeup artist for film stars, we have you covered.
The team have years of industry experience and are ready to welcome you into the salon with their knowledge and expertise.
Read on to find out more about them.
Adam Clarke – Head of Professional Industries
Adam has worked in education for 15 years and is the Head of Professional Industries at EKC Broadstairs College. You may see him around the department as in his role he works with tutors to improve teaching and learning. Part of his role is ensuring that students are supported to be the best they can be.
He is proud of the department and how closely the courses mirror the real-world industry. This is due to the classrooms that are working salons and beauty therapy rooms, giving you the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and work with real clients preparing you for a successful career.
Adam believes that with expert tutors, access to professional equipment and links to industry partners, you will be equipped with the skills, creativity and confidence to thrive in this dynamic industry.
🌍 Fun Fact: Adam has family all over the world, ranging from Barbados to Australia!
Amie Law – Hairdressing and Barbering Lecturer
Amie is the Hairdressing and Barbering tutor here at EKC Broadstairs College. Amie, who started her career at just 14 as a Saturday assistant, brings a wealth of experience from working in salons, teaching, and even styling for photo shoots and music videos. She is passionate about helping students discover their unique strengths and achieve their goals.
Amie believes Hairdressing is more than just a skill; it’s about connecting with people. As you train, you’ll develop not only technical expertise but also the social skills necessary for the industry. Our tutors work hard to bridge the gap between College and the professional world, forming partnerships with local salons and barbershops.
Her proudest achievement is her ability to build strong relationships with students, treating everyone as individuals and helping them find the right path – whether in hairdressing or beyond.
🗳️ Fun Fact: Amie used to do the ex-prime minister, Liz Truss’s hair!
Anne-Marie Goldhawk – Hairdressing and Media Makeup Lecturer
Anne-Marie has a wealth of experience from an exciting career in the industry, having worked in fashion and TV, including the iconic Top of the Pops. She was also part of significant campaigns like the “Keep Fur Out of Fashion” movement in the 90s, showcasing her dedication to meaningful causes. Now, she’s channelling her expertise into teaching, sharing her incredible journey to inspire you and the next generation of professionals.
Her role is all about equipping learners with the skills, tools, and confidence they need to secure employment and thrive in their chosen fields. She takes pride in seeing her students go on to amazing achievements, from working at New York Fashion Week to winning international competitions and building rewarding careers.
When asked about the best part of Hair and Beauty at EKC Broadstairs College, she highlights the supportive and collaborative team, which creates a nurturing environment for learners.
🐾 Fun Fact: Anne-Marie has 3 dogs called Pepper, Max and Zilla.
Claire Smee – Skills practitioner and Beauty Therapy Lecturer
Claire is a Skills Practitioner and teaches the Beauty Therapy courses alongside Donna. With over 17 years of experience, Claire is dedicated to making your experience enjoyable and exciting. With a passion for the industry and years of hands-on expertise, she brings practical knowledge and a supportive attitude to help you thrive in your studies.
Claire explained that EKC Broadstairs College Hair and Beauty department is more than just a department – it’s a family. The close-knit team is committed to your success, providing a supportive and approachable atmosphere. If you’re ready for a course that’s fun, social, and filled with opportunities, this is the perfect place to start your journey.
🎈 Fun Fact: Claire is trained in balloon modelling. If you need a balloon arch, you know where to go!
Donna Colyer – Beauty Therapy Lecturer
Meet Donna. You’ll find her in the relaxing Beauty Therapy room at the end of the corridor. As a proud EKC Broadstairs College alumna, Donna brings a wealth of experience -from running her own business to mentoring future Beauty Therapists like you.
Over the years, Donna has guided countless students, including some whose parents she once taught. She finds it heartwarming to see generations returning to Broadstairs College, a testament to the supportive and inspiring environment in the Beauty department.
In your Beauty course, you’ll explore fascinating topics like anatomy and physiology -more than you might expect – alongside creative skills like makeup and nail art. With passion and dedication, you’ll gain the skills to thrive in this exciting industry.
Donna’s advice? Anyone can succeed in anything they are passionate about.
🐕 Fun Fact: Donna loves to go out on nice, long walks with her Westie – Bella.
Emma Suter – Hairdressing Lecturer
Emma is a Hairdressing lecturer at EKC Broadstairs College. Emma has years of experience working in salons as well as being self-employed. Emma is happy to adapt her lessons to meet the needs of the class as well as help the team out whenever necessary.
Emma’s favourite lesson is at the end of term when students ‘Create an Image’ and the department host in house competitions, this is a fantastic way for students to show of the skills they have learnt over the term as well as have the chance to be creative with a look.
At the end of second year the lecturers help students to think about their next steps. Emma explained that there are many different avenues to explore when you gain your qualification it could be that you want to work on TV or film, you might be interested in travelling and fancy working on a cruise ship. These are all viable options, and the team will do all they can to help you achieve your goals.
💃 Fun Fact: Emma is a dance mum; she takes her daughter around London and the Southeast to different dance competitions.
Michelle Whittle – Industry Liaison Officer and Lecturer
Meet Michelle, your Industry Liaison Officer for the Beauty department. Michelle’s role is all about helping you find work placements and building connections with local businesses to support your learning journey. With her experience running a salon in Birchington, where she also hosted student placements, Michelle knows exactly how to prepare you for success. You might also see her teaching classes, a part of her job that she truly loves!
Michelle highlights how the department brings industry professionals into the curriculum to enrich your experience. Recently, students got insights into spa work from Bannatyne’s, attended the London Beauty Show, and participated in a Mac Masterclass in Canterbury.
One of Michelle’s proudest achievements is organising trips to local care homes, where students provided treatments for residents and staff. While some students are hesitant at first, they always leave with a great sense of accomplishment and can’t wait to return.
💇 Fun Fact: Working for the College is a full circle moment for her as she came here as a student. She now works alongside Lecturers who taught her!
Naomi Marshall – Skills Practitioner and Lecturer
Naomi is an EKC Broadstairs College success story starting her career as a Hairdresser at the College when she was 16. After running her own salon and Hairdressing freelance Naomi decided she would like to teach, where better to do this then the place it all started!
As well as teaching Naomi is also one of your dedicated Skills Practitioners, she ensures that the lecturers have everything they need to teach their lessons as well as meeting and greeting on reception.
Naomi believes that the best thing about the Hair and Beauty courses is that you’ll be trained by professionals. The Lecturers come from the industry with so much knowledge, plenty of skill and enormous amounts of passion ready to prepare you for a wonderful career in the Hair and Beauty sector.
🐎 Fun Fact: Naomi loves karaoke and cheese; she also has 5 horses!
Thinking about a career in Hair and Beauty? Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way. Explore our Hair and Beauty courses now.
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