Hairdressing Students Impress at KFE Heats

12 February 2026

Aspiring Hairdressers travelled to EKC Broadstairs College for this year’s annual KFE Hairdressing Semi Final Heats, judged by industry experts Vicki Lord, Stuart McDonald, and Rachelle Allistone.

The annual competition welcomed 38 students from across East Kent Colleges Group to compete in four categories: First-Year Blow Dry, Cut and Blow Dry, Ladies’ Hair-Up Bridal, and Ladies’ Hair-Up Era.

The day began with the First-Year Blow Dry category, students focused on creating volume, movement and polished finishes using key techniques. Under timed conditions, competitors showed confidence, delivering smooth, salon-ready looks that impressed both judges and spectators. 

Next up was the Cut and Blow Dry category, where Level 3 Hairdressing student, Blake, stepped up to the challenge with confidence and precision. Working against the clock, she shaped a modern, professional style with strong technical skill and attention to detail, earning an impressive third place finish.

Students then displayed their creativity across two exciting categories, Ladies Hair-Up Bridal and Era. In the Bridal category, Level 3 Hairdressing student, Rosie, created a beautiful sleek look, perfect for a wedding day. She displayed elegant shaping and a flawless finish that reflected both her creativity and technical skill which impressed judges and earnt her first place.

The Era category transported judges through time with stunning recreations of vintage waves, elegant updos and classic styles. Level 3 Hairdressing student, Skye, was nervous and didn’t think she’d be able to do it, but she won first place after creating a stunning vintage up-do with defined pin curls and a sculpted low bun. The polished finish and intricate detailing reflected classic hairstyling techniques, that perfectly captured the elegance of a past era.

The winners from each category will now move on to the KFE4Skills Competition Finals on Wednesday 3 March at North Kent College, where they will compete against the best students from both MidKent College and North Kent College. We can’t wait to see the final looks our students create.

If you want to take part in dynamic competitions, showcasing your skills, explore our Hairdressing courses and apply now.

Full list of winners from the KFE Heats:

Competition 1: 1^st Year Blow-Dry

1st: Sophie (Folkestone)

2nd: Freddie (Sheppey)

3rd: Sophie (Folkestone)

Competition 2: Cut and Blow-Dry

1st: Chimena (Broadstairs)

2nd: Leigh (Folkestone)

3rd: Blake (Canterbury)

Competition 3: Ladies’ Hair-Up (Bridal)

1st: Rosie (Canterbury)