In order to gain this top award, fifty year-old Robert, who has owned Headmasters Hair Team for thirty years, was tested for his barbering skills, professionalism, health and safety standards and business management, proof of barbering qualifications and Academy Qualification.

There are only around 15 barbers in the UK to have achieved this top award and Robert is the first in Birmingham to achieve the status of Grand Master Barber.

He said, “It was a bit nerve-wracking, the criteria is extremely strict, I had to send a video of myself doing practically everything that a barber might do, including cutting using scissors, using a razor and clippers and teaching other students. Everything is thoroughly checked by a team of assessors, who are some of the industry’s top barbers, and they decide whether someone is to be accredited.

“After achieving this award I plan to open an accredited barbering academy to train and share with new barbers my passion and skills, issuing the relevant qualifications to start a successful career in the barbering craft. I am extremely excited about achieving this award and I look forward to the next stage in my successful career as a Grand Master Barber.”