
SKINS & NEEDLES BARBERING ACADEMY
Why Choose Skins and Needles Barbering Academy?
At Skins and Needles Barbering Academy, we take pride in being a premier institution dedicated to nurturing and shaping the next generation of skilled barbers. Our academy is committed to providing top-notch education, fostering creativity, and equipping our students with the expertise they need to excel in the dynamic world of barbering. We have two sites for you to choose from, Middlesbrough and Durham, both based at the heart of the city centres.
- Expert Instructors: Our academy boasts a team of highly experienced and talented instructors who have made a mark in the barbering industry. They bring their wealth of knowledge and industry insights into the classroom, ensuring that our students receive the finest education.
- Cutting-Edge Curriculum: Our meticulously designed curriculum covers a wide spectrum of barbering techniques, from classic scissor cuts and clipper work to the latest trends in men’s grooming and beard styling. Our courses are tailored to cater to beginners seeking a solid foundation and seasoned barbers looking to elevate their skills.
- Hands-On Training: We understand the significance of practical experience in mastering the art of barbering. That’s why our academy places a strong emphasis on hands-on training, allowing students to practice their skills under the guidance of our expert instructors. From classic cuts to intricate designs, our students gain real-world experience from day one.
- Supportive Community: At Skins and Needles, we foster a supportive and inclusive community. We believe that collaboration and networking are essential for personal and professional growth. Our students forge lasting connections with fellow learners, mentors, and industry professionals.

Our Courses
We have three different courses for you to choose from:
- 4-Week Intensive Barbering Course is specifically designed for beginners.
- 2-Week Beginner Barbering Course which is suitable for individuals who have some basic knowledge or training in the barbering industry.
- 2-Day Advanced Grooming Course, which covers all aspects of shaving and luxury grooming.
Within these courses you will learn the following:
• Basic Barbering Techniques: Master the fundamentals of barbering, including scissor cuts, clipper work, and razor techniques, and understand the art of blending and fading.
• Creative Barber Designs: Unleash your creativity and develop your unique barbering style through this specialised course, exploring artistic designs and patterns.
• Beard Grooming and Styling: Learn the art of beard shaping, grooming, and styling, catering to various beard types and client preferences.
• Classic Shaving Techniques: Discover the traditional art of wet shaving and enhance your skills in delivering a luxurious and relaxing shaving experience.
Join us at Skins and Needles Barbering Academy and embark on an exciting journey of learning, creativity, and personal growth. Whether you aspire to become a skilled barber or dream of owning your barbershop, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Invest in your future and unlock your potential with Skins and Needles Barbering Academy. Enrol now and let your passion for barbering soar to new heights! Check out more information on each course below!

Meet our expert tutors

SUCCESS STORIES
Our previous trainees have now gone on to progress within the barbering industry – have a look at their success stories and what they have accomplished since!
Award-winning Barbers
Our Award Winning Barbers has a plethora of experience and talent you can be confident that your training will exceed all expectations and take your career to new levels.
- 5* BARBERS OF THE YEAR 2021 – NORTH EAST HAIR & BEAUTY AWARDS
- BARBERS SHOP OF THE YEAR 2021 GOLD & OVERALL – BRITISH HAIR & BEAUTY AWARDS
- GOLD BARBERS OF THE YEAR 2021 – BRITISH HAIR & BEAUTY AWARDS
- BARBERS SHOP OF THE YEAR 2021 – ENGLISH HAIR & BEAUTY AWARDS
- BARBER TEAM OF THE YEAR 2019 – NORTH EAST HAIR & BEAUTY AWARDS
- SALON OF THE YEAR 2019 – NORTH EAST HAIR & BEAUTY AWARDS
- BARBERS TEAM OF THE YEAR 2018 – NORTH EAST HAIR & BEAUTY AWARDS

Finance options available
If you are interested in getting finance the first thing you need to do is contact us to know how much you are wanting to pay with the finance. We will then give you a link for a form that you can complete in your own time which will assess your eligibility and let you know the full process.
Payl8r use an affordability check, so the search will not show up on your credit file. You can pay from 1 – 12 months.
- What do I need to apply?
- No CCJs within the last 3 years
- No accounts in default
- Be a UK resident
- Access to online banking
- A Regular source of income
- At least 10% of the total finance amount is required in your bank as a deposit.

CHECK OUT OUR REVIEWS
Max Ashton
Great course. Learning loads and developing loads of new skills. Had a class time here. ??
Seamus
The first day I couldn’t hold a pair of scissors properly, after two weeks could easily do a decent skin fade and all my skills have been developed such as learning how to thread at waxing and now I feel as if though I now feel as if I have all the skills I need to take on barbering as a career.
Abbie
Best experience! Had the most fun working with Leah, Alice, and other barbers. I was working on real clients within 3 days which helped me gain more confidence. I felt trusted and was supervised with every cut. If you’re looking for a career in barbering, Skins & Needles Education is the way to go! Can’t wait to continue to work in the industry!
Lauren Brown
Wow wow wow…… completed a wet shave and skin fade course, the head educator Leah was amazing, very knowledgeable, and gave one-to-one tuition. I would definitely recommend Skins and Needles Education for anyone wanting to become a barber or upskill on their barbering.
Abi Rose
Amazing course, with knowledgeable tutors. After four weeks I feel I am equipped with skills I can take into the industry. For example, we learnt about long hair, skin fades, and male grooming. Also been given a great job opportunity at the end. Couldn’t recommend it anymore. Thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Applying for our barbering course is easy. Complete an enquiry form on our website and one of our team will be in touch with you and help you get booked in on one of the courses.
To enrol on our barbering course, you typically need to be at least 16 years old. Specific requirements may vary depending on which course you would like to enrol on. Typically, the 4-week course is for complete beginners therefore no requirements are necessary. The two-week course is for individuals who have some experience within the barbering industry. The two-day luxury grooming course is for those who are experienced barbers and would like to develop their skills in all things shaving and waxing.
We have three different courses to choose from, 4 week beginner barbering course, 2 week barbering course and a 2 day luxury grooming course. The course runs Monday to Friday 10am to 5pm. We may be able to offer flexible scheduling options in our Durham Academy.
Our comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including haircutting techniques, shaving, beard grooming, hairstyling, customer service, and sanitation practices.
Of course! We encourage prospective students to schedule a tour of our academy. It’s a great opportunity to see our facilities, meet instructors, and get a feel for the learning environment. To arrange a tour, please contact us at maria@skinsnneedles.co.uk
Yes, we offer payment options to make your education more affordable, including 0% finance options. Additionally, we can provide information on potential financial aid that may be available for you.
Upon successful completion of our barbering course, you will be awarded a CPD certification and be fully competent to work in the barbering industry.
We offer additional work experience if you would like some extra practice. If you are still not confident after the 4 weeks, you will have the opportunity to come in and continue practising on clients offering free haircuts. You will need to show competency in all aspects of the course to be able to pass and be awarded with the CPD certification. We have also taken on several trainees in our barber shops who are now working successfully as self-employed senior barbers.
You can reach our admissions team by completing the enquiry form, alternatively you can call us on 01642 913632 and ask to speak to the academy tutor.