Hairdresser apprenticeships - where to start
You could get into this job through:
a college course
an apprenticeship
working towards this role
College
You can take a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Hairdressing.
You may be able to combine these courses with other subjects like beauty therapy, make-up and nails.
You'll usually need 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a Level 2 course. You'll need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a Level 3 course.
Apprenticeship
The following Apprenticeships may be relevant to this role:
Level 2 Hair professional
Level 3 Advanced and creative hair professional
You'll usually need some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for a Level 2 apprenticeship. You need at least 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for a Level 3 apprenticeship.
Work
You may be able start work as a trainee hairdresser in a salon and learn on the job. Your employer would expect you to take qualifications part-time, either at a college or in their own training school. You may be able to work freelance and rent space in a salon, though you may have to supply your own equipment.
With experience and an interest in business, you could move up to manage or own your own salon. If this is your aim, it may help to gain some business qualifications alongside hairdressing experience.
Hairdresser apprenticeships - what it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- customer service skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- excellent verbal communication skills
- the ability to work well with others
- to be flexible and open to change
- the ability to work well with your hands
- active listening skills
- be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
Hairdresser apprenticeships - what you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As a junior hairdresser, you'll:
- welcome customers
- shampoo and condition hair
- cut simple styles
- make sure towels and hair products are well stocked
- keep the salon clean and tidy
- make appointments
As a more senior hairdresser, you'll: - talk to clients about what they want
- suggest style ideas
- cut and style hair
- colour, curl or straighten hair
- give advice on minor hair and scalp problems
- take payments
- order stock and promote products to customers
- keep up to date with new trends, techniques and hair products
Working environment
You could work in a salon, at a client's home, at a health spa, at a store, at an adult care home or on a cruise ship.
Your working environment may be physically demanding.
Career path and progression - Hairdresser apprenticeships
With experience you could become a senior stylist or salon manager. With further qualifications, you could also move into training or assessing student hairdressers.
You could become self-employed or open your own salon.
You may be able to use your skills as a hair professional in the theatre, film or television industry.