Human Hair Donation Supports Bradford College Make-up Students
October 24, 2025Local salons contribute to practical training resources
Bradford College’s Media Make-up department has recently received a donation of human hair from HB Collective UK, a network involving local salons and volunteers. This contribution is intended to enhance students’ practical experience in wig-making, prosthetics, and character design.
Use of donated hair in media make-up training
The donated human hair will be used by students to develop skills such as styling, ventilating, and applying wigs and hairpieces. These techniques are important for careers in various creative industries including film, television, theatre, and fashion.
Jasmin Young, Programme Leader for Media Make-up at Bradford College, explained that working with real human hair allows students to practise advanced and professional-level techniques. She noted that this hands-on experience helps students gain confidence in industry-standard practices.
Educational and sustainability benefits
The initiative also reflects Bradford College’s focus on sustainability by repurposing donated human hair, thereby reducing waste. This approach provides students with authentic materials for their creative projects, which synthetic alternatives cannot fully replicate.
Applications and student opportunities
- The hair will be used to create postiche items such as hand-knotted mustaches and sideburns.
- Some wefts will be transformed into creative hairpieces, allowing students to experiment with intricate styling techniques.
- Students will explore character design in a practical setting, expanding their creative skills.
Matt Nowell, Head of Creative Industries at Bradford College, highlighted the importance of partnerships between local businesses and educational institutions in supporting the development of future creative professionals.
For further details about Media Make-up courses at Bradford College, visit their official course page.
