Cameron Connolly triumphs in National Competition

Cameron Connolly, first place at the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists National Finals

Cameron Connolly, is celebrating exceptional competition success after scooping first place in a national competition.

Talented Level 2 Barbering student Cameron claimed first place after impressing judges with his creativity during the Association of Hairdressers and Therapists National Finals competition 2017.

The 18-year-old from Rochdale competed against 23 other competitors from across England and as a result Cameron has been recognised as one of the best in the country.

Challenged with just half an hour to create a cut and finish, Cameron created a modern, clean skin fade cut with a textured crop on top.

The former Hollingworth Academy student was delighted to have won his place and was really shocked to hear the news.

Cameron, who also won first place in the North West Regional Association of Hairdressers and Therapists competition, said: “The standard at the competition was extremely high and I am so proud to have won. I was very shocked, I couldn’t stop shaking.”

Following on from his competition success, Cameron is now looking forward to the opening of his own salon, Barbering by Cameron James, which will offer wet shaves, cuts, beard dying and waxing. 

Cameron added: “My mum owns her own hairdressers and I completed some work experience in her salon which gave me a real taste of the industry.

"The competition experience I have gained has really helped with my confidence and has really opened my eyes to where my career can take me.”

The competition, which took place in Blackpool Winter Gardens, offers students a chance to put the skills they have learnt in the classroom into practice.

Cameron added: “My time at Bury College has been fantastic. I have learnt so much and it has been great to use the industry standard facilities.”