Local Talent Shines: Gemma Miles of Hair by Phillip Selected for Prestigious Goldwell Art Squad 2026

Hair by Phillip is incredibly proud to announce that our very own Gemma Miles has been named as one of only eight stylists nationwide to join the elite Goldwell Art Squad for 2026.

Following a rigorous selection process that saw hundreds of applicants from across the UK, Gemma secured her place in the final eight after a high-pressure live audition at the Goldwell Academy in London. Tasked with demonstrating technical mastery and creative vision, Gemma impressed a panel of industry-leading judges with her fashion-forward "before and after" transformation and a meticulously curated mood board.

This achievement marks a significant milestone for the Stotfold-based salon. Since the passing of founder Phillip in 2024, the team has remained dedicated to upholding the world-class standards of artistry he established over many decades. Gemma’s success on the national stage is a powerful testament to that enduring commitment to excellence.

The Goldwell Art Squad is one of the industry's most sought-after mentorship programmes. Over the next six months, Gemma will work under the direct mentorship of global hair icon and industry visionary, Mark Leeson. The intensive programme includes advanced training at both the Goldwell Academy and Mark Leeson’s own salons, focusing on cutting-edge techniques in cut, colour, and session styling.

Gemma Miles commented: "Being selected for the Goldwell Art Squad is a dream come true. The audition process was intense, but it pushed me to showcase exactly who I am as a stylist. Following my Dad’s passing in 2024, it’s been so important to all of us at the salon to keep his passion for hairdressing alive and to keep pushing ourselves to the next level. I am so excited to learn from Mark Leeson and the other mentors, and I can’t wait to bring all that new inspiration and high-level technique back to the salon for my clients at Hair by Phillip."

The Art Squad programme runs from February to August 2026, during which Gemma will be at the forefront of British hairdressing trends, participating in professional photoshoots and creative showcases that represent the future of the industry.

Experience Award-Winning Hair at Hair by Phillip

Located in Stotfold, Hair by Phillip is a premier hair salon and training academy dedicated to providing exceptional colour, cutting, and styling services and education. Built on a legacy of excellence, the salon remains a local leader in professional hair care and artistic innovation.

Book an appointment for the main salon, or to model at the training academy and experience the magic for yourself!