Razwan Amin, a 27-year-old Erdington Academy alumnus, has rolled back into his former school with a pair of scissors to tackle one of the most pressing concerns for low-income families: the cost of living. At Razortrim Studio, which he founded in 2015 after leaving the academy, Mr Amin is offering free haircuts to current students from disadvantaged backgrounds, working in collaboration with Erdington Academy's Parent, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA) to identify eligible pupils.
Erdington Academy serves an area where deprivation levels are significantly higher than the national average, with over half of its student body qualifying for free school meals. Mr Amin is no stranger to the financial struggles that many families face; having grown up in a low-income household and received free school meals himself, he understands the weight that even small expenses can carry.
He highlighted the impact of a simple haircut on a child's mental wellbeing: 'A fresh haircut can boost their confidence and eagerness to learn.' The initiative was initially conceived as a raffle prize for prom but has since expanded to ensure all students from low-income backgrounds can benefit. Mr Amin draws from his own experiences, recalling how his parents struggled to afford barber services during his youth.
Nicki Kansara, Chair of Erdington Academy's PTFA and school governor, praised the collaboration, noting its dual benefit: 'The cost of living crisis is affecting a wide range of families, not just those receiving pupil premium. Beyond practical support, Mr Amin's success as an Erdington alumnus can inspire our students to pursue their aspirations.' Her son, Esa, has already received a free haircut and testified that it gave him a confidence boost, adding that seeing Razwan's achievement was empowering.
The scheme demonstrates the value of community support, showcasing how local businesses and former pupils can make a meaningful contribution to the welfare of younger generations. It also underscores the ongoing impact of economic pressures on households and the importance of addressing both practical needs and emotional well-being within educational settings.