Training The Next Gen
Servilles Academy was established in 1993 by Paul Serville (Founder and Director) who has over 50 years of experience in the industry. The academy was created with the intention of training the next generation of Hairdressers in New Zealand.
Over the years the academy expanded, offering Barbering and Makeup courses, becoming Australasia’s leading and most award-winning Hairdressing, Barbering and Makeup academy.
The academy has earned its reputation as an exceptional training organisation (achieving the respected status a as a NZQA Category 1 provider) and is recognised both locally and internationally as a highly trusted and respected pioneer of Hairdressing, Barbering and Makeup education. This is reflected in their numerous awards, including being named Australasian Education
Organisation of the Year for three consecutive years.
The courses available at Servilles Academy are all NZQA approved qualifications, consisting of; Hairdressing (Level 3 and Level 4 certificates), Barbering (Level 3 certificate) and Makeup (Level 3 and Level 4 certificates). All of the courses are taught by the academy’s highly trained and passionate tutoring team, who each bring their own industry experiences and creative flare.
The barbering course taught at Servilles Academy is the New Zealand Certificate in Barber Skills (Level 3). In this course, students will learn how to create all the latest styles, as well as the classics, securing long and successful careers. Programme content includes; scissor cutting, men’s styling and blow-drying, clipper cuts, beard and moustache design and portfolio creation. The academy’s commitment to excellence and innovation includes ensuring graduates are trained expertly in all aspects of their chosen craft.
Leon Toki, barber tutor at Servilles Academy shares some insight into the trade:
How did it come about you becoming a barber?
After studying with Servilles Academy between 2001 and 2002, I was struggling to find a fit within the salon environment. One of the previous tutors suggested barbering within the Servilles group itself, as it was a new concept for them. 15 years later I’m thankful she suggested it!
What is your favourite / most rewarding thing about tutoring at Servilles Academy?
Favourite thing is the opportunities provided to both students and staff members while working for such an internationally renowned company. The students’ involvement within the creative community, from film to television to fashion and beyond, just rewards all the hard work the individuals put in. The alignment with the Davines brand and Sustainable Salons is another favourite aspect. Being conscious of where things are coming from and mindful of where they’re going. I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else right now!
What hairstyle or technique are you loving at the moment?
My current entertainment is a moustache! A well overlooked possibility for most males as a point of difference! I’m full beard/moustache and I spend more time on my moustache these days than my hair. Such fun.
What’s your favourite thing about being a barber?
Process and service. It’s ever changing. I love to change the experience an individual receives while I’m with them. And it all starts with understanding my own process and expanding on it.
What is your advice for any aspiring barbers?
Know your process. Know your clients. Be professional. Be prepared. Be present. And engage.
In addition to in-class learning, Servilles Academy students are also given the chance to partake in high-profile and diverse external opportunities, to give them a taste of work in the real world. Opportunities include; New Zealand Fashion Week, television programmes, live performances, runway shows and music videos for internationally renowned artists.
The academy is now taking enrolments for 2019, with the first intake commencing 26th February. Call 0800 SERVILLES or head to ServillesAcademy.com to find out more.