Hairdressing
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a work-based learning programme designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed to develop your prospects and career in the industry. By starting an apprenticeship in hairdressing you begin the first step to a challenging and rewarding career. You should have artistic flair, good communication skills, stamina, patience, reliability and flexibility. You should also be well motivated and aware of current clothing and hair fashions. You will learn a range of skills, including actual hairdressing techniques, customer service and contributing to the financial effectiveness of the business.
The Advanced Apprenticeship is also available to learners who have the appropriate skills. These are identical in structure to the Apprenticeship; however learning is at Level 3 which is equivalent to ‘A’ Level standard.
How do I find an Apprenticeship?
The first thing you need to do is to gain employment in a salon that will support your apprenticeship training. Once employed you can start your training.
There are many places you can go to find a job; Connexions, local papers, internet job sites, and Job Centre Plus. You can even try friends and family to see if they know anybody who may have a vacancy.
Once you have gained employment contact Total People!
What happens then?
Total People will send one of their Training Advisers out to you. They will sit down with both you and your employer to arrange your learning plan.
Your training could take place at college, one of Total People’s Training Centres or at your workplace for one day a week. Your employer will give you time off to attend your classes and meet with your Training Adviser.
How long will it take?
The time taken to complete your NVQ depends upon you and your employer; how quickly you want to do it. However it normally takes around 18 – 24 months to complete.
Key Skills normally take around 12 months to complete, but again this is dependant upon you!
Completing your Apprenticeship
Your Hairdressing Apprenticeship is made up from 3 core elements;
- NVQ
- Key Skills
- Employer Rights and Responsibilities
Your NVQ portfolio is like a work diary, it records your activities and experiences. Your portfolio is assessed to make sure you are competent. Your work will be assessed at your place of work, college or at one of our Training Centres.
Key Skills are similar to Maths and English GCSEs; however learning is focussed around Hairdressing!
Employer Rights and Responsibilities covers such topics as contract of employment, working time regulations, minimum wage, Health & Safety and career pathways.
Further Progression
Being qualified will open many doors to you. You will be able to show your employer that, along with being qualified, you have also shown commitment, dedication and professionalism. This could lead to promotion, higher rates of pay, or managerial opportunities.
Once you’re qualified, the opportunities open to you include working in a salon, a session stylist for fashion shows, as a Training Adviser, as a technician for large manufacturers, or even in the film or TV industry.
