Latest Hairdressing News

MINIMUM WAGE INCREASE - 1ST APRIL 2026

Please be aware that the National Minimum Wage rate is due to increase from 1st April 2026 as below:-

Apprenticeship rate increased from £7.55 to £8.00

Employees (non Apprentices)

Age 16-17 increased to £8.00

Age 18-20 increased to £10.85

National Living Wage (21 and over) increased to £12.71

Just a reminder if your apprentice is 19 years of age or older and they have completed 12 months of apprenticeship then they are due the national minimum wage appropriate to their age.

HALF TERM DATES 2026/27

Please see detailed below a list of dates when the academy will be closed to students. The choice is yours as to whether your apprentice works in salon or is given the time off. We hope this enables you to plan your salon rotas in advance.

WC 16th February 2026	1 Week
WC 30th March 2026 (Easter)	2 Weeks
Monday 4th May 2026	1 Day (Bank Holiday)
WC 25th May 2026	1 Week
WC 31st August 2026	1 Week
WC 26th October 2026	1 Week
WC 30th November 2026	5 Weeks
Monday 4th January 2027	Return to Academy

Leslie Frances Hairdressing Training News