Students from Fort la Reine School (FLRS) recently received a unique glimpse into high school life at Portage Collegiate Institute (PCI), combined with the luxury of professional hair care. Katie Knowles, an instructor at the Hair Styling Academy at PCI, spearheaded an initiative to invite younger students for complimentary haircuts and styles, fostering a festive atmosphere just in time for the holiday season.
Knowles expressed enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing its dual purpose of introducing FLRS students to the high school environment and providing an opportunity for them to experience the workings of a salon.
“We thought it would be great for the holiday season and it gives a good opportunity to get the chance to do the hair,” Knowles explained. “The students who come from Fort la Reine get to experience the salon and see how it works at the high school.”
The inspiration for this initiative came from Knowles’ experiences during her practicum in Winnipeg, where she witnessed similar events at other schools. Intrigued by the positive impact, she was eager to bring the concept to Portage.
“The fact that we got to do it, and do it so fast, was amazing. The schools are right on board. It’s been really fun working with the school, and hopefully, we can work with more in the future,” Knowles added.
The Hair Styling Academy team actively involved the FLRS students by inviting those interested in having their hair washed, a gesture met with wide-eyed excitement from the younger participants.
Sienna Nikkel, a Grade 11 student with two years of experience in the class, found the event special and appreciated the chance to connect with the FLRS kids.
“To get involved with that, it’s kind of special. I know. I would have really liked it if I was in Grade 5, going into an actual salon in the high school. So, it feels really special. And I love being with kids,” Nikkel shared.
Nikkel pointed out the joy of working with children, emphasizing their eagerness to converse during the hair care process, a dynamic she found enjoyable.
Danica Woods, a Grade 5 student at FLRS, shared her excitement about witnessing how high school students learn to work with hair.
“It’s actually a cool place. The washing was really good, and I’m gonna get my layers, curtain bangs, and a bit of trimming,” Woods remarked.
Knowles believes that this opportunity not only benefits the high school students by exposing them to real salon scenarios but also serves as an excellent way for younger students to explore potential careers in the community.
“Our students, being able to give to the community and getting their practice in, helps, but also being able to give is a great feeling. I think the students are really going to enjoy it and want to keep doing this,” Knowles concluded.
