Chris studied hairdressing with us one day a week from 2010 to 2012 as part of a two-year apprenticeship, before going on to specialise in barbering. He has since gone on to become a barbering big wig in York, having opened his own salon Rascal to Gentleman on Fulford Road in 2023.

In 2023, Chris returned to campus to give a demonstration on skin fade techniques. His former tutor Fiona Scholes-Ogram invited him back to Sim Balk Lane to share his knowledge and tips with her current students on our Barbering Apprenticeship and Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Barbering courses. Following his visit to the College, one of our then adult learners, Alana Howarth-Lees, secured a work experience opportunity at Rascal to Gentleman.

On his return to the place that helped launch his career, he said: “I loved it – the College still feels like it’s just been built and looks as new and smart as it did when I first came in 2010. I’m always willing to help people if I can and it’s important that students are around people who have been doing the job for a long time.” If you'd be interested in sharing your skills or experience with our current students like Chris, please email us at alumni@yorkcollege.ac.uk