A HAIRDRESSING academy is celebrating expanding its repertoire after it officially became a training centre for snippers of the future.

JJ’s Hair Group, based in Havelock Street, has been granted approval to become a recognised hairdressing qualification centre.

This means they can offer private training in both NVQ Level 2 and NVQ Level 3 hairdressing qualifications.

The training will include everything from basic cutting and blow-drying to colours and restyles.

Academy manager Carly Embling said the 20-strong team was delighted with the news.

“It’s something we have been working towards for a really long time so to have it finally happen is a great feeling and something we are really happy about,” she said.

“There aren’t that many opportunities like these for young hairdressers in Swindon so we are delighted to be able to offer such an amazing opportunity.”

Budding hair stylists will be able to stay with JJ’s for their two-year training, gaining valuable salon experience along the way.

Carly, who has been with JJ’s since 2007, said the fruits of the salon’s training could be seen all around the town

“The best feeling is seeing your apprentices develop their skills with you, do their training and go on to become amazing qualified hairdressers,”she said.

“All around Swindon I see people who have graduated from our training scheme and they all go on to do well, it really doesn’t get better than that.

“It is an amazing feeling to be training the hairdressing talent of the future.”

Owner Jane Jennings, who set up JJ’s when she was 23, also welcomed the new certification.

She said: “It’s a very big deal for the salon, it’s another string to our bow and it’s something we have been waiting for for a long time so it feels amazing to finally be a training centre.”

JJ’s will combine its training centre with its work teaching apprentice hairdressers as part of their contract with Swindon College.

JJ’s has been tending to the tresses of Swindon fashionistas for more than 30 years.

Jane opened JJ’s Hair Studio in 1983 in Highworth’s High Street.

As the business expanded Jane moved to new premises in Crombey Street in 1985 before her move to the town centre.

The business boasts an impressive pedigree with a roster of skilled stylists on the team.

Last April Jane scooped sixth place in the south west finals of the prestigious L’Oréal colour trophy competition.

Anyone who may be interested in JJs training should contact Carly on 01793 611558 or email janejenningshairacademy@outlook.com.