HASTINGS AND PRINCE EDWARD DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Centennial Secondary School students explore careers in new Hair and Aesthetics program

This semester, Centennial has officially launched its new Hair and Aesthetics program, providing Grade 10 and 11 students with hands-on experience in the personal care industry. The program was developed in response to strong student interest in the Specialist High Skills Major programs at CSS that promote skilled trades and creative, technical professions.

The program provides hands-on, industry-focused training that equips students with practical skills, workplace certifications and real-world experience. Students gain foundational knowledge that supports future apprenticeships, college programs, entrepreneurship and employment in a growing and dynamic sector.

The newly renovated classroom is designed to mirror a professional environment, featuring a salon area for hair, washing, cutting and styling, and a spa section for manicures and skincare. The remaining space is arranged as a traditional classroom to support theory-based instruction and foundational learning. Facility Services, under the leadership of Sarah Stewart, completed the renovations in December and January in order to be ready for the semester two start.

The program has seen a strong start, with three full sections running this semester. "It's an opportunity to give students a different kind of learning experience," says teacher Kate Vahrmeyer. "Hairstyling and aesthetics are growing industries, and providing this training early helps students see the skilled trades as a viable career path."

Students currently practice their skills on each other and on specialized mannequins. The curriculum covers a wide range of practical skills:

•  Hair care: Styling, cutting and coloring techniques.
•  Aesthetics: Manicures, pedicures and facials using equipment.

By aligning with the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), the program can provide a practical foundation for students looking to pursue professional hairstylist licensing after graduation. The grade 11 course can also count toward the program requirements for any one of the three existing Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM) offered by the school: Hospitality and Tourism, Arts and Culture and Health and Wellness.

The successful launch of the program was made possible through strong collaboration and strategic use of Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) funding by several staff members, including Experiential Learning Coordinator Erin Spry, Principal Andrew Ross and teachers Kate Vahrmeyer and Corey Phillips. The school securing the funding supports the program development as well as the purchasing of the equipment needed to bring this learning opportunity to students.