Judy joined West Suffolk College in 1965, studying Hairdressing at the Northgate Annexe. She returned as a member of staff in 1985, eventually becoming a full-time lecturer. She brought the College international recognition and became a founding member of the International Association of Hairdressing Schools. Since retirement, she has kept in contact with her colleagues and enjoys hearing about the recent successes.
What made you join Eastern Education Group?
I served an apprenticeship in hairdressing from 1959-1962, where it was entirely completed within the salon – I was in Mr George’s employ in Hatters Street from 1959-65.
I wanted to go into teaching; however, despite my experience, I needed more qualifications. So then, I attended West Suffolk College to achieve City & Guilds certificates from 1965-1966 – in ladies hairdressing. For my course for the hair element Ann Johnson and Mrs. Barrett who came from Cambridge, John Williams taught me art and Mrs Shaw taught science and hygiene. This was in the Northgate Annexe. I had actually attended West Suffolk County Grammar School for Girls in that building, prior to the school moving out and the College moving in.
I became a West Suffolk College part-time hairdressing lecturer in 1985. During this time, I became YTS Course Director in charge of all part time hairdressing students. In 1988, I took up a post as a full-time Lecturer in Hairdressing. I progressed to become NVQ Level 3 Course Director. This was all because I loved my career in hairdressing and had always wanted to pass on my knowledge and enthusiasm to young people who were interested in making a career in hairdressing. While I was there as a member of staff, I recall the building of Australia House (second half of the L shape) and the creation of the catering department. I have memories of John Shipston, who I got on well with, and his wife, who used to use the salon like many other staff did.
I was a founding member of the International Association of Hairdressing Schools. After many years of competitive hairdressing prior to becoming a lecturer, I introduced competitive hairdressing internationally and was made chairman of the judging panel for annual international competitions. West Suffolk College students entered competitions throughout Europe, very successfully under my guidance.
The culmination of my years at the College was when I oversaw the organisation of the I.A.H. S. Millenium Festival of Hairdressing & Beauty in the year 2000. Students from numerous European Hairdressing Schools stayed in the town for 10 days, attending college in the mornings to improve their English, and visiting places of interest in the afternoons/evenings. It was my swansong, as my husband had already retired, and I retired shortly after this event.
International competitions in hairdressing were held during this time. Many of the staff/ students from throughout the College contributed to this very successful week. As a result, West Suffolk College was recognised throughout Europe in the world of hairdressing schools.
Do you have any special memories from your time with us?
A memorable time – perhaps not for the best of reasons – was when we took a coach load of mainly 16/18 girls to Paris to visit various hairdressing establishments and famous tourist spots. Our problems began as we checked into our hotel. We quickly discovered that a coach load of Italian male 16/18 yr old students had also just arrived. We had very little sleep throughout that week, as we were checking that our students were where they were supposed to be. A bit of harassing to say the least!
As mentioned before, the I.A.H.S. Millenium Festival was an outstanding memory for me, for the right reasons. To entertain the many international competitors for this event, my husband arranged for them and the College staff to go on a brewery tour of Greene King. However, although they were only sampling the beers, too many samples meant everyone got very intoxicated!
My years at West Suffolk College were all very memorable for me; I feel I was honoured to have a career that I loved and was so rewarding. Not many people can say that about their career. I wouldn’t have changed anything.
In addition, I also have happy memories of the Annual Prize Giving in the Corn Exchange with Ann Williams and Dickie Stewart.
Are there any family members or friends who have connections to EEG?
My only connections now are with the hairdressing staff at West Suffolk College. I speak to several staff, including Tracey Marshall, Jenny Seisun (beauty), Yvonne Warner and Jo Doward.
What did you go onto to do after College?
I remained at West Suffolk College until I retired, but I have kept in touch with the hairdressing staff for over the last 25 years. With the help of Joanne Doward, I have kept up to date with the continued success of the hairdressing students/ staff.
Is there a message you would like to share as we celebrate our 100 years of history?
I would like to pass on to all young people: if you want to do something with your life when you leave school, stick at it. You can do it. Don’t give up at the first hurdle and don’t be afraid of hard work. Always remember, there’s a time for work and a time for play. Further education will give you so many opportunities, go for it, and if possible, apply to West Suffolk College.
Lastly, do you have any advice for future students and staff at EEG?
West Suffolk College is the best for both students and staff.
