‘Winning this award has been a life changing experience,” says Denis Banatean – after receiving the Barbering Level 2 award at this year’s Concept Learner of the Year Award 2025.
Denis Banatean, 17, a former Colne Primet Academy student, travelled to Telford College last month to take part in the annual competition known for showcasing emerging talent in the hair and barbering industry.
Working towards his Level 2 qualification at Nelson and Colne College, Denis was shortlisted to the final 6 from more than 2800 entrants.
Denis said: “It was exciting travelling down to Telford and competing against students from across the country.
“My tutors are amazing, so when it came to competing on the day, I knew I had all the skills I needed to be able to produce my best work, and thankfully I won.”
Louise Parr, Hairdressing Lecturer at Nelson and Colne College and Denis’ Personal Tutor, commented: “Denis has grown a lot as a student and a professional throughout his time on the course.
“Winning is a great achievement that reflects Denis’ skill and dedication to the barbering industry.”
Alongside his success in national competitions, Denis has also been taking part in local charity schemes. Barbering students from the college work with Church on the Street and the Open Door Project in Burnley, to offer free haircuts to the homeless.
Denis added: “I know that not just I, but the whole barbering group, have found this experience invaluable. Being able to get work experience whilst giving back to the community has been eye-opening. I am very grateful to be able to take part in these sorts of situations.”
Between national competitions and volunteering for charity, Denis has been working hard improving his skills in Nelson and Colne College Group’s own salon – Distinction Salon.
Denis said: “The content of this course is so vast, and there’s a lot to learn. I like it when the whole barbering group is in the salon, learning from and helping each other get better.
“After finishing my Level 2 qualification, my goal is to open my own salon and with the college giving me lots of advice, I can’t wait to see this become a reality.”
More information about barbering courses at NCCG can be found here https://bit.ly/nccgbarber
