meet the team at hb academy

Sarah Chidley

founder
&
MANAGING DIRECTOR

With over 20 years of experience in the hair and beauty industry, I have honed my skills and knowledge across a range of disciplines, developing a deep understanding of both the artistry and the technical aspects of the trade. My dedication to continuous learning and improvement has fueled my ambition to not only excel in the field but to share my expertise with the next generation of beauty professionals.

This passion led me to establish my own training academy, where I am proud to work alongside a team of highly skilled and loyal staff members who share the same commitment to excellence. Together, we have created an environment that fosters creativity, skill development, and professional growth.

As a self-motivated, conscientious, and personable individual, I strive to build strong, supportive relationships with our students, ensuring they receive not only the technical knowledge they need but also the confidence and inspiration to succeed. My goal is to help as many students as possible unlock their potential, providing them with the tools, guidance, and mentorship to achieve their professional dreams.

At our academy, we offer a range of courses tailored to various levels of experience, from beginner to advanced, with a focus on both practical skills and business acumen. Whether it’s mastering the latest trends, perfecting classic techniques, or learning how to thrive in a competitive market, we are committed to providing a comprehensive education that equips our students for success in the ever-evolving beauty industry.

Through our training programs, I aim to empower individuals to build fulfilling careers, make a lasting impact in the industry, and ultimately, fulfill their own professional aspirations.

Collette Palmer

Academy coordinator

I have had over 23 years experience working within the Hair & Beauty industry. After following my dream of becoming a beauty therapist, I wanted to teach others to also progress in the industry, so I qualified as a Beauty Teacher/Assessor. I then later went on to do hairdressing. I have now taken on a different role working with HB Academy as the Academy coordinator, using my knowledge learnt over the years to help me support staff & Students within the Academy.

Kelly Millen

administrator
&
exams officer

Before joining HB Academy, my hair and Beauty knowledge was very limited however,  I have now taken on a few courses and improved my knowledge within the industry. I have gained a greater understanding around the funding available for students and now manage exams with in the academy. I enjoy meeting potential learners and doing placement visits with our apprenticeship students. I have since built a relationship with local employers, helping our students gain placement.

Emma Smith

BEAUTY tutor / assessor
& iqa

I have been involved in the beauty therapy industry for 28 years. My love of learning lead me into my current profession of teaching. I enjoy seeing the new generation expand their knowledge and progress and become highly trained therapists. My main passion is advanced treatments such as epilation and anti-aging face and body electrical treatments. 

Kate Oxley

hair tutor assessor & iqa

I have been working within the Hair and Beauty sector for the past 23 years. I began my teaching career 16 years ago by chance and have since enjoyed watching students build their skills, confidence, and knowledge all while gaining their qualifications. I consider myself to be knowledgeable, supportive and passionate about hairdressing and hope to encourage others to be as well. 

Saffron Hirsch

hair tutor assessor & IQA

I have been in the hair industry for 22 years and teaching for 10 years. I have a passion for quality hairdressing and love sharing my experience and stories with learners. I love all aspects of my work but education is the most rewarding and I really do enjoy watching my work pay off as learners skills grow as they become more confident. 

Michelle Warner

Beauty tutor
assessor
& iqa

I have been in the beauty industry for over 20 years, and teaching and assessing for over 12. Teaching my skills to trainee beauty therapists is my passion. I love to inspire the learners and to see them develop their professional skills. I also like to use my own experience of working in spas and salons to excite learners and tell them what a wonderful career beauty is.

Alesha Edwards

NAIL
tutor & ASSESSOR

Doing nails is a true passion of mine—I love that no two sets are ever the same. I really enjoy being able to teach and share my skills and experiences with others, helping them reach their goals. Many of my students are adults who have put their lives on hold, so it means a lot to me that I can now support them in getting back into the workforce and achieving their dreams.