Bedwas High School is offering learners the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and recognised qualifications through a new hair and beauty course, part of the new Elev8 programme delivered by Educ8 Training.
Delivered within the school setting, the programme introduces learners to key areas of the hair and beauty industry, including shampooing and styling, skincare, and basic beauty techniques. Alongside technical training, students also learn about health, safety and hygiene, customer service, and client care – essential foundations for working within the sector.
Designed for learners aged 9 to 16, the course provides a practical vocational pathway for students who may feel less connected to traditional classroom-based learning, while helping them develop valuable real-world and employability skills.
The course also supports the development of transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, literacy, and numeracy, helping learners build confidence both inside and outside the classroom.
Exposure to industry-led learning is also inspiring learners to think about future careers, with some students now considering opportunities within the hair and beauty sector and beyond.
Janine Morgan-Jenkins, Family Liaison Officer at Bedwas High School said the programme is helping students re-engage with education and improve attendance.
“For some learners, traditional subjects don’t always connect, but this course has been incredible,” she said. “They genuinely enjoy it, it’s something they look forward to every week, and that’s made a huge difference.”
Janine added: “That enthusiasm has translated into tangible outcomes. Students who previously struggled with attendance are now coming into school consistently, motivated by a course that feels relevant and rewarding.”
“When students are engaged in something that resonates with them, you see real change. Confidence grows, attendance improves, and they start to believe in their own potential. This partnership has been fantastic for our learners.”
Joshua Rees, Senior Business Development Manager at Educ8 said:
“Working with Bedwas High School allows us to bring meaningful, hands-on learning directly to students. By combining industry expertise with education, we’re creating opportunities for young people to gain real skills, build confidence, and see a clear pathway into future careers.”
“As Elev8 continues to expand its reach across Wales, initiatives like this are demonstrating the power of blending education with industry, unlocking potential and inspiring the next generation.”
For more information, visit https://educ8training.co.uk/elev8-future-skills/
About Elev8
Elev8 is a vocational programme for learners aged 9–16, offering a practical alternative to traditional academic routes. It equips young people with industry-led skills, recognised qualifications, and the confidence to progress into further education, apprenticeships, or employment.
Delivered in partnership with Aspire 2Be, ISA Training, and Educ8 Training, Elev8 provides a diverse range of accredited courses. These include Hair & Beauty (City & Guilds-aligned), Digital Tycoons (entrepreneurship and business skills), Design for Life (sustainability through Minecraft), Create Academy (content creation), and Engineering (EAL-accredited technical training).
Each course blends hands-on learning with theory, helping learners develop transferable skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving alongside sector-specific knowledge. Flexible delivery options, ranging from weekly sessions to intensive programmes, make Elev8 accessible and inclusive.
Aligned with frameworks including Agored Cymru, City & Guilds, and EAL, Elev8 ensures clear progression pathways while inspiring learners through real-world, experiential education that connects learning to future careers.