Our Story

Our Story

The history and story of Sid Sottung Academy’s humble foundations and superb success

Humble beginnings

Sid Sottung started off as we all do, a beginner!

At the age of 14 working as an assistant in a traditional Italian barbershop in New York, but so eager to make his mark on the industry, Sid at 18 began a his career with Vidal Sassoon by training in their Downtown New York salon as a stylist.

After successful stints in their New York & Washington D.C salons he rose to Assistant Creative Director.

On the back of a decorated career in Sassoon salons, Sid graduated to their academies as an educator teaching both hairdressing & barbering. Sid’s first stop was the Santa Monica Academy also working for television and teaching at international shows as far afield as China

After parting ways with Sassoon, Sid pursued an exciting freelance career guesting & teaching in exclusive salons & barbershops. He was also, proudly a member of the hair team, working on the 2005 blockbuster Pride & Prejudice.

Building on success

Having trained educators & written curriculums for other academies, Sid felt that 2014 was the correct time to open his very own academy.

Having travelled the globe educating and as a host of other leading industry names, Sid opened the doors of the Sid Sottung Academy in February 2014. “Our academy offers the rare opportunity to study directly under the tutorage of an internationally recognised educator.”

After winning various awards and years of success, Sid opened up another location in 2018: his salon and Advanced Academy, Haus of Sottung.
As per today his latest venture is the Edinburgh Academy, a bespoke training centre in the beautiful city centre where he offers bespoke training 1:1 or to small groups.

Meet our Educators