“We all learned to file, but no one taught us how to run a business.”
90% of manicurists struggle in their first year. Not because they lack talent, but because they lack a system.
This is the education we needed from day one. High-end technical skill combined with professional business mastery.
Official TGB™ Training
Train with the globally leading brand. Certified by ABT / The Guild with the official TGB stamp.
Direct BDA Path
Our own master curriculum accredited by Professional Beauty. Same high standard at a lower price point.
1-2-1 Mentorship
Maximum 6 students per session or bespoke 1-2-1 training for rapid skill acquisition.
Tools of the Trade
Strategic digital tools designed to solve the everyday challenges of running a profitable nail business.
PRICING EXCEL
Automatic calculator for your real profit. Calculate exact costs and determine your true net profit.
STORY IDEAS
300+ Story ideas for nail artists. Maintain daily Instagram presence without stress. Never run out of content.
How It Works
Discovery & Booking
Choose your course and accreditation path. TGB courses are booked via their official site, while BDA courses are booked directly with us for a lower cost.
Intensive Training
Join Sue at our Horbury studio for hands-on guidance. You'll master theory, technique, and practice on models with professional-grade products.
Certification & Support
Upon completion, receive your industry-recognized certificate and gain lifetime access to our private student support community.
Hi, I'm Sue
I've been working in the nail industry for over 20 years — and honestly, I still love every single day of it. I started Black Diamond Academy because I spotted a gap for nail education that was truly personal.
I'm proud to say I've now trained hundreds of nail technicians. Watching my students grow and build their own successful businesses is the greatest reward.
What Our Customers Say
28 reviews from The GelBottle Academy
“I really enjoyed the whole course. Sue made me feel comfortable and at ease instantly. I found it to be very informative. Thank you so much for your time and sharing your knowledge and experiences! I would definitely recommend Sue to anyone who would be looking at doing any TGB courses.”
Kathryn Archer
TGB Course
“Really enjoyed this course, it was very thorough and I learnt so much. My educator was brilliant and went through everything in detail. I would definitely recommend this course to others. Thank you”
Meg Hegarty
TGB Course
“Amazing, skilled and really took her time trying to explain things to me. Would recommend!”
Layla Kaye
TGB Course
“Clear instructions, very helpful and made my appointment time reduce down. I also love the probits range.”
Shelley Van Lierop
E-File Course
“I thought Sue was great! She was so helpful and more than happy to answer any questions no matter how many we had! I especially appreciate that we can contact her for any further help in the future should we need it. Really enjoyed my course.”
Emilie Hayes
TGB Course
“Attended the full Gel Bottle course with Sue. I absolutely loved this course and Sue's knowledge and delivery enabled me to come away and be confident in moving forward as a nail tech, I've gained so much from this and look forward to attending other courses. Thank You Sue x”
Diane Monk
Full GelBottle Course
Frequently Asked
Questions
Absolutely not! Many of our most successful graduates arrived with zero nail experience whatsoever. Our foundation courses are designed specifically for complete beginners.
Every single course is taught personally by Sue — a master nail educator with over 20 years of experience. You will not be handed off to an assistant.
We have a strict maximum of 3 students per session. This ensures you get the attention and personal guidance you need to master the craft.
Turning Nail Excellence
into a Career.
From precise acrylic architecture to business dominance. Elevate your career with the method that changed the industry.