Meet Kat Parsley, our amazing Administrator, and member of the SEN team here at Hair at The Academy. Kat’s role is incredibly diverse, serving as the point of contact for the salon and collaborating with various behind-the-scenes professionals to ensure everything runs smoothly. Each day brings a new adventure for Kat, whether she’s meeting with parents and professionals, organising exams, giving tours, or interviewing prospective students.
Before joining Hair at The Academy, Kat had a range of fascinating jobs. From being a SEND Teacher, Careers Adviser, and Employment Advisor, to working as a Respite Carer and Football Coach, she has always enjoyed working with people and helping them develop skills and confidence. One of her most rewarding experiences was working as a Multi-Sensory Team Leader, supporting Deaf Blind young people.
So, why did Kat choose Hair at The Academy? Having previously worked closely with the team here as a Careers Adviser, she was captivated by their enthusiasm for creating an inclusive, fulfilling, and purposeful education experience for all students. Kat said, “I was so impressed with how flexible and passionate Mary and the team were to make things work for their learners and witnessed first-hand the difference that Hair at the Academy makes to young people’s lives.” In fact, Kat’s eager to learn hairdressing herself and hopes the students can take her under their wing on her learning journey!
Now, let’s talk about Kat’s favourite part of her job. Well, it’s a tough choice, but she absolutely loves working with the incredible team and students here. Witnessing the personal growth and transformation of learners, from their nervous first day to becoming fully qualified professionals ready to embark on their careers, fills her with joy and pride.
When it comes to the students at Hair at The Academy, Kat describes them as kind, caring, hardworking, tenacious, bright, determined, and funny—just to name a few of their brilliant qualities. Kat added, “The team here is like a big family, where everyone accepts and supports each other, recognizing that everyone has their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Hair at The Academy truly is a fantastic place to be, and we hope you’ll have the opportunity to visit and experience it for yourself soon.”