Avant Garde Make-up Academy faked Babtac and Cibtac certification

Training school Avant Garde Make-Up Academy & Studio in Drogheda, Ireland, made false claims that its courses were certified by Babtac and Cibtac.

After receiving several enquiries from former students of the academy, the British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (Babtac) and the Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (Cibtac) launched an in-depth investigation into Avant Garde, which revealed it was using Babtac and Cibtac’s name, credentials and logos on courses without prior approval.

“We were extremely distressed to learn that the academy was using our credentials… without any prior approval or affiliation, and can confirm that we are taking all the necessary legal steps to prevent future promotion in this way,” said Lesley Blair, Batac and Cibtac chair.

“We appreciate that many former students of the academy may have concerns over the validity of their training, and while we cannot comment on the quality of any training received, we can confirm that it was and is not in any way affiliated with either Babtac or Cibtac.”

The body is offering support for affected students and graduates, telling them to speak individually with their insurance provider to see if their cover has been affected and with their employer to ascertain any impacts.

It’s also advising that complaints be referred to Avante Garde directly in the first instance, and then to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) in Ireland should they wish to take their concerns any further.

Babtac accreditation is available for UK-based courses only and cannot be extended to an Irish training provider. Becoming a recognised Cibtac centre requires passing an extensive and stringent application process.

All accredited centres and courses are listed on the Babtac and Cibtac websites.

Image is for illustration purposes only, and not of Avant Garde Academy