Dingwall woman’s award win ‘reminds local young people they can achieve amazing things’
A former Dingwall Academy pupil’s prestigious national award win has served as “a reminder to all young people growing up in the area that they can achieve amazing things,” according to the school’s headteacher.
Amber Stewart is an apprentice at Sandra’s Unisex Hair Salon in Dingwall, and was named as Best Apprentice Stylist at the Scottish Hair and Beauty Awards in Glasgow, on September 1.
Amber’s former guidance teacher at Dingwall Academy, Molly Alexander, explained more about the journey she has taken to become an award-winning stylist. Molly said: “I taught her from S1 and she was always such a quiet, shy, lovely, kind, caring pupil. Amber was much more capable than she gave herself credit, however she was not overly enthused with the school environment for learning. Her behaviour and attitude was always great, and it was apparent that she was a practical person.
“She attended a beauty college link course on a Friday whilst in S4, and she loved it. In S5 we investigated some work experience for her — she was not 100% about just doing hairdressing but we reassured her and encouraged her to give work experience a go. Her mother was a hairdresser and said she was a natural.
“After Amber had done a few weeks, they had offered her a Saturday job and shortly after they asked her to consider an apprenticeship. Amber sometimes lacked belief in her own abilities and often needed support to let her see how amazing she was. — her natural talent was always there.
“I could not be any prouder. It was an honour to go and visit her with some flowers after her achievement. School does not always have to be focussed around our young people going to college and university, there is a path for everyone, it just requires a good attitude and hard work.”
Headteacher at Dingwall Academy, Karen Cormack said: “We were all delighted to learn of Amber’s award and appreciate how much hard work she has put in. It is always wonderful to hear about former pupils’ successes, a reminder to all young people growing up in the area that they can achieve amazing things.”
As well as Amber’s accolade, Guy Morton from Sandra’s Unisex Hair Salon also scooped the Best Male Stylist.
Guy said: “We at Sandra’s Unisex Hair Salon in Dingwall were delighted and honoured that Amber Stewart was announced as winner of the Best Apprentice Stylist with Guy Morton winning the prestigious title of Best Male Stylist.
“We just want to thank our staff for all their dedication and hard work and also our many clients for all their continued support over the years. We very much appreciate it.”
