Q&A, Sarah Martin, Southern Assessor of the Year 2025
“When I decided to start assessing it was not to be the best assessor, it was to give back to our industry and help the next generation. So winning the award feels like I’ve been given recognition for something I do for love.”
Can you tell us about yourself?
Can you tell us about yourself?
I’ve had a long and varied career in this industry. I started as an apprentice as soon as I could once I turned 16 (I had to do a course before that as I was too young for an apprenticeship). After I qualified I worked as a senior, a salon manager, a tutor assessor, and lecturer at Polytech. Then I moved into self employment, initially on my own but now as a salon owner employing and training apprentices.
What attracted you to the industry?
I loved it since I got my first taste of it. I used to spend my pocket money getting my hair coloured when I was 13, and as soon as I could leave school and start training I did.
Hairdressing has been my first love, and I’m still as excited and passionate about it now as I was then.
What has been a memorable moment in your career?
Being able to travel to attain my International Master Colourist certification with Keune and meet other hairdressers as passionate about hair as I am, learning more about international techniques and then bringing those techniques home to share with my apprentices.
What interested you in becoming an assessor for HITO?
I wanted to be the person I needed as an apprentice. To share my knowledge with the next generation of stylists, to help them feel secure in their knowledge and skills and to do so in a way that recognises and values the work they’ve put in.
"Winning this award twice has been amazing. When I decided to start assessing it was not to be the best assessor, it was to give back to our industry and help the next generation. So winning the award feels like I've been given recognition for something I do for love."
What are your favourite styles or cut trends at the moment?
I love a good wolf cut/shag, and helping people embrace their natural curl and hair texture.
What are some things you would love to do in this industry in the future?
Honestly, I just want to keep doing what I’m doing. Training apprentices, working with clients and assessing for HITO.
Who has been your biggest inspiration throughout your career?
Probably Tabatha Coffey. She’s a no-nonsense stylist whose focus is always on the quality of the service and client experience.
What advice would you give to someone starting a HITO apprenticeship
Hairdressing is a supportive, creative industry. There will always be someone willing to help if you’re willing to put in the work.