Chesterfield barbers named top 50 SME apprenticeship employer four years in a row
Less Than Zero Barbers has once again secured its place in the Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers 2025, as published by RateMyApprenticeship in partnership with the Department for Education. Now ranked ninth nationwide, this marks the fourth consecutive year that the pioneering barbering business has been recognised for its exceptional contribution to apprenticeship training and youth employment.
Founded with a vision to modernise barbering and transform how young people enter the trade, Less Than Zero Barbers has developed an award-winning training pipeline that combines government-funded apprenticeships with privately accredited programmes. The company has supported hundreds of learners in gaining practical skills, customer service expertise, and commercial acumen while championing the independent spirit that defines the UK’s grooming sector.
“We believe apprenticeships are far more than qualifications — they are life-changing springboards for meaningful careers,” said Martin Wallis-Keyworth, Founder and CEO of Less Than Zero Barbers. “To be recognised for a fourth year running demonstrates the impact of investing in people and our commitment to driving standards ever higher.”
With its dedicated academy and expanding network of shops, Less Than Zero Barbers continues to create pathways for local talent. Many apprentices progress to become senior barbers or open their own chairs and businesses under the group’s guidance, strengthening local economies and high streets in the process.
The Top 50 SME Apprenticeship Employers list celebrates small and medium-sized enterprises across England that demonstrate outstanding dedication to apprenticeships. The rigorous selection criteria highlight not only the scale of provision but also quality, retention, and the transformative impact on learners’ futures.
Apprentice Town
Chesterfield is an ‘Apprentice Town’, where young people, parents and businesses think apprenticeship first.
Growing individuals’ careers and futures alongside successful businesses and a growing local economy.
Taking on apprentices is a positive way for businesses to address their workforce needs.
Benefits include:
- Solving recruitment challenges and growing your business
- Increasing productivity
- A tried and tested way to recruit new staff, re-train or upskill existing staff
- Flexible training that meets the needs of your business
If you would like support on taking on apprentices or wider skills or business support, you can request further advice at https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/
Search here if you are looking for an apprenticeship in and around Chesterfield.
