The Association of Hairdressers & Therapists was founded in 1963 by a group of hairdressing teachers as a national network of like-minded specialists who exchanged good practice and support. Members are teachers, trainers or assessors of hairdressing or therapy subjects, who hold or are working towards teaching/assessing qualifications. There is an annual seminar for updates on skills, National Standards, Qualifications, Education and Training Initiatives, Manufacturers and Specialist Demonstrations. Student competitions are held annually at regional and national level