Students at CedarBridge Academy are getting a head start on their peers — by learning the professional art of barbering.

The public senior school began offering its barbering course this semester as part of teacher Janet LePage's personal care programme and already 11 male students have signed up.

Mrs. LePage said the idea was to address the need for better technical education on the Island and that the young men — aged between 16 and 19 — were all learning quickly.

"They seem to be enjoying both the theoretical and practical aspects of the course," she said. "This year is a pilot but if it is successful we will enter the students for the City and Guilds Barbering Certification, which is an internationally recognised qualification."

Student Jorde Smith told The Royal Gazette: "I am enjoying the barbering course very much. It is a very good experience and is exposing me to more things about the hair than just going to the barber shop and getting a haircut or having my mama washing my hair for me."

Tyler Ray Wilson said: "I am really enjoying the new barbering course, especially since I am making CBA history by being a part of the first ever all male barbering class!

"We are learning many techniques and things that I never knew before. I recommend this class for future students."