A 15-year-old hairdressing student is head and shoulders above the competition after scooping a top national award.

Jessica Robinson beat off stiff competition from across the country to pick up the prestigious title of Habia Young Apprentice of the Year 2010.

The youngster, who is completing a two-year young apprenticeship course at the WS Hair Academy in Lower Brook Street, was presented with the award by hairdressing icon Patrick Cameron during a London ceremony held by Habia, the body which sets the industry standards for hairdressing.

She completed an assignment based on a “history of hair” theme, creating a classic Audrey Hepburn style, complete with a mood board and statement describing the look and her inspiration for it. A judging panel made up of top industry names awarded her the prize ahead of 12 other finalists from across the country.

“We are extremely proud of Jessica,” said Jane Vincent, Chief Executive of WS Training Ltd, which runs the WS Hair Academy. “She is very hard-working and keen to develop her skills, and has an absolutely fantastic attitude towards her work. Her tutors describe her as a model learner who thoroughly deserves this national recognition.

“It is the first year that we have offered this young apprenticeship course in hairdressing, so it is great news for everyone at WS Training that one of our students has achieved such tremendous success so early on.”

Jessica, a pupil at Stoke High School, said: “I couldn’t believe it when I found out that I had won, and it still hasn’t really sunk in yet. It’s really nice to have received the award, as I absolutely love hairdressing and can’t wait to make it my career. My training at the WS Hair Academy has been fantastic, and has given me the chance to do something I really enjoy while also gaining my GCSE qualifications.”

Sue Healy, assistant headteacher at Stoke High School, said: “Jessica is an extremely hardworking and conscientious young lady who has taken full advantage of the opportunities and support she has been given, both within school and at the WS Hair Academy. She is an excellent role model for younger students who aspire to careers in the hairdressing industry and a superb ambassador for Stoke High school.”

Patrick Cameron will be live on stage demonstrating his couture long hair looks to salon owners, stylists and trainees at Trinity Park on 13 September during an event arranged in association with the WS Hair Academy. For more information, or to buy a ticket, please contact WS Training’s Bury St Edmunds office on 01284 788005.