Our Educators and Staff
SB Barbering Academy was created out of a burning passion for the barbering industry, and one woman’s dedication and vision to turn out highly-skilled, newly-trained barbers. We concentrate on cutting using old school traditional techniques and incorporating them with modern barbering to create current trends and high-quality haircuts. We aim to give to our students all the tools they need to go out and become top quality barbers. What started as a one woman operation has snowballed into what you see today.
Vikki Harrison-Smith
Director of Education
With over 20 years in the industry as a barber and educator, Vikki has a wealth of knowledge and experience gained over two decades in a constantly changing, trend driven profession. With a burning desire to provide a positive, personal learning experience of the highest calibre, Vikki’s dynamic approach and unparalleled industry knowledge has positioned SB as the leading provider of barbering education in the UK and beyond.
Vikki is creator and founding member of the British Female Barbering Association and also holds ambassadorial roles with international brands Uppercut Deluxe and Matakki Scissors. These roles often see Vikki travel the globe providing expert training and advice to a diverse industry audience. You may have also read one of Vikki’s columns in leading industry magazine BarberEvo.
Samantha Sanders
Educator
Sammy joined the SB educating team in late 2019 having worked at our sister company, the iconic SB Barbers, for 7 years. Known for being a highly skilled barber, Sammy has a passion for education and her positivity, patience and professionalism make her a great asset to the academy.
Shai-dee Wild
Senior Educator
Longing for a creative career, Shai entered the barbering industry with a steely determination to succeed. Quickly excelling as a young SB Barbering Academy trainee, he appreciated how a simple hair cut could transform someone and, in some cases, alter how people felt about themselves.
As a past SB student and one-time apprentice of the year, Shai appreciates the importance of a meaningful barbering education and is perfectly placed to help future barbers fulfil their potential here at SB.
Shai combines his work as an educator with a regular slot in the iconic Smiths Barbers @sbbarbers.