The fast-rising popularity of apprenticeships in south Essex was demonstrated at a special awards night for students of the Central Hairdressing Academy in Southend. 
The academy has seen a 16 per cent rise in the number of apprenticeships from July 2013 to July 2014. 
This year’s awards ceremony, held at the Arlington Rooms, in Leigh, saw a record 169 learners gain apprenticeship qualifications at Level 2 and 3. At other levels, 95 learners gained National Vocational Qualifications and Vocationally Related Qualifications.
Central Hairdressing Academy is the Essex-based hairdressing provision of Central Training Group. For Martin Kolton, MBE, the group’s chariman, the growth in the number of learners gaining apprenticeships has been especially rewarding. 
He said: “We have supported the Government’s promotion of apprenticeships because they provide such a comprehensive training. The skills acquired leave learners better equipped for the world of work.” 
Alongside the certificates handed out, several special awards were made by tutors. 
Keryl Titmus, curriculum manager, said: “They should all feel proud of their success.
“What all our special award winners shared was a commitment to helping and supporting their fellow learners. This attitude will stand them in good stead in the workplace.” 
Central Training Group’s core speciality is education in hairdressing  and it is the UK’s largest trainer for the industry. 
It also runs graphic design and business training courses. 
Learners from across south East Essex either attend the group’s Southend-based training centres or are trained on site.