Lecturer Spotlight: Amy Marina Yeats

What's your role at D&A College, and what's the story behind how you ended up here?

I am a hairdressing lecturer within the Hair and Beauty department, specialising in bridal hair. Since school, I always knew I wanted to work in a creative industry and initially pursued dance. However, my passion for hairdressing began when I modelled for a friend who was a hairdressing student.

As a student myself, I used the skills I learned to explore my creativity further and was encouraged to enter competitions. The more I entered and won, the more motivated I became. This was when I realised this was the path for me. During my time as a student, I was fortunate to win 17 national awards.

After completing my studies, I worked in the salon industry and continue to run a successful bridal hair business in my spare time, which I absolutely love. I am now a lecturer at the same college where I trained, and I’m passionate about passing on my skills and inspiring the next generation of hairdressers. I also had the opportunity to help deliver a large-scale competition at our Kingsway campus, AHT, which was hugely successful.

So, work is one thing, but what’s the scoop on your life outside these college walls? Any exciting projects or weekend adventures?

So, work is one thing, but what's the scoop on your life outside these college walls? Any exciting projects or weekend adventures?

I’m originally from Arbroath and live with my partner and our two beautiful young children. I love spending quality time with my family.

I’m also part of the parent council, where we regularly meet and help organise events and trips for the children at the school.

Most weekends, I work styling bridal hair or wigs for theatre productions and photoshoots across the UK. I really enjoy this as it gives me the opportunity to travel, visit breathtaking venues, and collaborate with a wide range of creatives.

If you had to ditch your current expertise for something entirely different, what subject would you dive into, and what's the reasoning behind your switch up?

Looking back, I don’t think I fully knew what path I wanted to take. However, I often think that teaching in a school setting would be really interesting.

I work well with children, both through having my own and teaching on Senior Phase courses. I’ve built a strong rapport with students and feel I’m relatable. I really enjoy being part of their journey and helping them discover a passion, one that often becomes their own.

If you could have any person, dead or alive, as a guest lecturer in your class, who would it be and why?

Chris Appleton is an incredible British hairstylist who I’ve followed on social media for a long time.

His passion, drive, and creativity really inspire me. His journey started similarly to mine, and through hard work and determination, he’s achieved incredible success.

He now lives in LA and works with celebrities such as Kim Kardashian and Jennifer Lopez, which just shows what’s possible with dedication and belief in your craft.

Share with us the most valuable piece of advice you've picked up on your academic adventure, especially when it comes to navigating the ins and outs of your subject.

“Success does not rush, the greatest reward is the journey.”
This quote really resonates with me. There’s no need to rush into choosing a course or career. It’s the journey, where you’ve been, where you are, and where you’re going, that truly matters.

If Amy has inspired you, browse our Hair & Beauty courses here!

Look out for more lecturer spotlights coming soon!