Lucia Caldarelli
From starting as an apprentice, to working in a salon and running her own business, Lucia has done it all hairdressing. Driven by a desire to share her knowledge and support others, she became a TAFE teacher. At Chisholm, she found her calling in mentoring the next generation of apprentices.
Lucia brings an infectious, vibrant energy to the classroom that students love. Teaching the Certificate III in Hairdressing, she consistently receives glowing feedback. Students praise her approachable nature, her patience and her ability to break down complex techniques into simple, practical steps. Her classes are known for being supportive, engaging and relevant.
“Students don't realise that they're learning,” said Lucia.
Lucia is committed to meeting the diverse needs of her learners. She incorporates visual demonstrations, interactive workshops and salon-style simulations to ensure every student feels understands the task at hand. She also developed a digital tracking guide that gives learners a way to mark progress in real time, reducing their stress and helping them stay motivated.
Her dedication extends beyond the classroom. Lucia regularly attends expos and industry events, bringing back new insights and resources to improve how hairdressing is taught at Chisholm. She shares these learnings with colleagues, so all students are fully prepared for the workplace. Her collaborative approach has made her a valuable link between education and industry, driving continuous improvement across the department.
Lucia is currently completing a Graduate Certificate to enhance her teaching practice further.
Lucia is a finalist in the 2026 Chisholm Education Awards – Educator of the Year, a testament to her passion, innovation and impact on the next generation of hairdressers.