A New Academic Year at Y.O.U.R Beauty School
HALF TERM NEWSLETTER - SINCE SEPTEMBER
From first lessons and new techniques to finished looks, competitions and events — here is a look back at 2 September to 23 October at Catford and Greenwich.
September
Welcome Week, 2–4 September
September marked the beginning of a new academic year at Y.O.U.R Beauty School, with students attending induction sessions, meeting their tutors and taking part in our Beauty School Welcome Day across our Catford and Greenwich site.
During the first three days, students explored their learning environment, became familiar with their timetables and were introduced to the expectations of their courses. As part of their induction, students also collected their school uniforms, professional beauty kits and student photo ID cards, helping them prepare for the practical learning ahead.
This year also saw the introduction of our new mobile phone arrangements, in line with government guidance on phone use in schools. Students were informed that phones must be securely locked away during the school day to help reduce distractions, encourage positive interaction and create a more focused learning environment.
As September progressed, students began putting their learning into practice, exploring skincare, makeup, hair techniques and creative styling. Sessions covered essential skills such as skin preparation, colour matching, blending, sectioning and styling, with tutors encouraging attention to detail, safe working practices and creativity.
Alongside practical training, students were introduced to the importance of preparing workstations, handling products safely, maintaining professional hygiene standards and taking responsibility for their equipment. They were also encouraged to ask questions, respond to feedback and reflect on their work.
At Y.O.U.R Beauty School, developing communication, independence and professional habits is just as important as learning technical skills. September provided a foundation for the academic year ahead, introducing students to the routines, expectations and opportunities available at YBS.
October
Black History Month - Beauty in Our Community
Throughout October, Y.O.U.R Beauty School marked Black History Month with a special project inspired by the theme “Honouring Our Communities”, bringing it to life through our own focus, “Beauty in Our Community.”
Students began by exploring the meaning of Black History Month and the importance of recognising the people, cultures, businesses and achievements that have shaped our communities, particularly within the beauty and hair industry.
Working in their pod groups, students researched chosen topics and explored ways to celebrate Black heritage, creativity and entrepreneurship. The project encouraged students to think about representation, community role models and the influence of Black culture on beauty and hair trends.
On 16 October, the focus moved towards practical and creative activities, with students beginning to develop their own projects, including zines, Community Heroes mood boards and beauty business canvases. These activities brought together research, creativity and enterprise, giving students opportunities to express their ideas through different formats.
With 23 October dedicated to our school Halloween SFX competition, the Black History Month project was scheduled to conclude with a celebration and display of students.
The project reflected an important part of learning at Y.O.U.R Beauty School: connecting beauty education with cultural awareness, creativity, business skills and the communities around us. It was an opportunity to explore Black history while recognising the people and stories that continue to inspire the beauty industry today.
The Beauty Show, 5th October
On the 5th October, Y.O.U.R Beauty School took our students to The Beauty Show at ExCeL London, giving them the opportunity to step outside the classroom and experience the beauty industry in a professional exhibition setting.
The visit was an opportunity for students to explore the latest beauty products, equipment, treatments and industry trends. From skincare and makeup to nails, hair and professional beauty brands, the event offered a closer look at the different areas of the industry and the opportunities available beyond their training.
Students had the chance to discover new brands, explore products and gain inspiration from the creativity and innovation on display. The experience helped connect the techniques introduced in their practical lessons with the wider world of beauty, including product knowledge, professional presentation and emerging trends.
At Y.O.U.R Beauty School, we believe learning should extend beyond the studio. Educational visits like this help students broaden their understanding of the industry, explore possible career pathways and see how their developing skills relate to real professional environments.
The trip was a valuable opportunity to experience the beauty industry first-hand and bring fresh inspiration back into the classroom.
Halloween Special Effects (SFX) Makeup Showcase
The last day of term at Y.O.U.R Beauty School was all about creativity, imagination and bringing ideas to life through our Halloween Special Effects (SFX) Makeup Showcase.
In preparation for the event, students worked in their pod groups to plan and develop Halloween-inspired makeup designs. Miss Nicky and Miss Paloma also delivered a practical SFX workshop, introducing techniques to help students experiment with colour, texture and dramatic makeup effects.
Students were encouraged to think creatively, plan their designs and consider how different products and techniques could transform an everyday look into something spooky, theatrical or completely unexpected.
On the last day of term, each pod group had the opportunity to showcase its work, with students taking on different roles, from modelling and applying makeup to organising their team's final presentation.
The activity brought together practical beauty skills, teamwork, communication and creative expression, giving students the opportunity to explore a different side of the makeup industry.
It was a fun and creative way to end the first half term, bringing a little Halloween magic into the studios before the break!
What a fantastic first half term at Y.O.U.R Beauty School! From Welcome Week and Black History Month to The Beauty Show at ExCeL London and our Halloween SFX showcase, students have enjoyed opportunities to learn, create and develop new skills.
There is still a lot to build on, but the foundations are in place. The next part of term will give students more chances to develop their finish, extend their technical range and create work they are proud to share.
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