Who We Are
Branford Academy of Hair & Cosmetology brings world-class education and training to the Connecticut shoreline. Offering a comprehensive, progressive education in the basics of hairdressing and cosmetology, while being in an actual salon atmosphere.  The Owner, faculty and staff strive to maintain the level of excellence which makes our cosmetology program among the best available.  The academy furnishes students with the necessary training to become cosmetologists, manicurists, pedicurists, platform artists, salon owners, managers colorists, manufacturer representatives & cosmetology instructors.

Why We're Here
Branford Academy students will benefit from the substantial experience and expertise of academy founder, Diana Leonardi - Discher whom is also the Owner of the popular D.Leonardi Hair Nail & Skin Studio LLC. She created the Academy to provide students with an alternative to the existing, limited educational opportunities in Connecticut. More importantly, she hopes to pass along the keys of her own success and knowledge.

Why Choose Branford

• Branford Academy is certified by the State of Connecticut Examining Board for Barbers, Hairdressers and Cosmetologist for the purpose of providing professional education that meets the requirements for licensing of hairdressing/cosmetician...
• We are members of the American Association of Cosmetology Schools, the National Cosmetology Association, and nationally accredited with NACCAS, The National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences.
• We are registered with both the Federal and State Government, as well as have our Article of Organization from the Secretary of the State.
• All of our teachers are highly skilled and have over 55 years of combined experience. They are all licensed Cosmetologists and teach using advanced training techniques found at no other school.
• We have many different Financial Assistance Programs available to help students make the high quality education at Branford Academy affordable. Some of these programs include government guaranteed loans and pell grants with no payments until 6 months after graduation for those who qualify. 
• We have a 100% graduation rate, a 100% license rate, and a 100% placement rate.
• Our students are treated to free training seminars offered by many of the top of the line hair-coloring, cutting, hair extensions and permanent waving specialist. The students are also taken to the top hair show in the area, as well as Boston and New York & New Jersey to even further their learning experience.
• The school itself is brand new, modern, upscale, clean, well organized, high-end and a state-of-the-art facility.
• Although Branford Academy's techniques are forever changing as dictated by styles and fashions, our dedication to strict principles of superb craftsmanship and impeccable service skills will never change. The success of our graduates is proof of that philosophy.

What You'll Learn
The course of study includes classroom education and hands-on-training. Classes, taken either full or part-time, prepare students to apply for a Connecticut license in Hairdressing, Cosmetology and Barbering. The first sections focus on the theoretical aspects of all content areas. The remaining hours are devoted to both theory and practical experience. Each morning, we review our theory work books and for the remainder of the day each student works on clients. The hands on training includes cutting, foiling, perming, shampooing, coloring and so on.

Who Should Apply
Branford Academy offers educational opportunity to anyone interested in a career in hairdressing and cosmetology. New classes begin every other month. We encourage you to contact us to set up an appointment to visit us, tour our facility and learn more about a career in hairdressing and cosmetology.

Curriculum

1. The total curriculum shall not exceed the requirements set forth by the Connecticut State Board of Cosmetology.
2. The first part of the program will be on the theory of hairdressing and practical only on the mannequins and/or fellow students.
3. The remaining part of the program will be dedicated to supervised practice associated with ongoing theory and practical association. We are open to the public for hands on training.
   

Areas of Study

1. Sanitation and Hygiene
   Your personal and professional health
2. Anatomy and Physiology
   The skeletal, muscular, nervous, excretory, circulatory, endocrine, respiratory and digestive systems; cell growth and metabolism.
3. Chemical Procedures
   Permanent waving, hair coloring, chemical relaxing.
4. Business and Professional Relations
   The salon business
5. Hair Care and Treatments
   Artistry in styling, wet and thermal styling.
6. Skin Care
   Facials, makeup, shaving, disorders of the skin, depilatories, waxing.
7. Manicuring
   Manicuring, pedicuring, nails and disorders.
8. Hair Cutting
   Sectioning, guides, elevation, scissors over comb, effects, thinning, razor, clippers and curly hair.
9. State laws and regulations for hairdressers and EEOC guidelines