I think an apprenticeship is a great way to learn and gain qualifications; you feel more ‘grown up’ and independent going to work instead of going to college.  I am working towards a NVQ Level 3 (equivalent to 2 A levels!), but don’t intend to stop there.  I can take an assessors or management qualification so I could teach and/or run my own salon in the future.  I find time to study over the weekend and on Mondays when the salon is shut, or during quiet times at work. A training advisor visits regularly to assess evidence of my learning and I go to college once a month.  But the best bit about being an apprentice is you get paid, which means I can afford a car and go out when I want; I couldn’t do that if I was at college.

I get to work at 8.45am to set up for the first clients who start to come in at 9am.  As I’m on my feet all day comfy shoes are a must, all the salon staff wear a uniform as well, which saves time deciding what to wear in the morning!

I’ve been an apprentice for 3 years so have gained enough experience and confidence in my ability to be allowed loose with the scissors, which is just as well; as once you’ve cut it off you can’t stick it back on!

You get to know people – they can tell you their life story whilst having their hair done. I’d say you really have to like people to do this job.
I get an hour for lunch, but depending on whether I’ve got a client in, it can be half an hour here and there.

The rewards of this type of work are getting creative with someone’s hair and them really liking it. A bloke came in this morning, wanting to look like Noel Gallagher! I did my best and he was really chuffed; “cool, fantastic” he said.  That type of reaction gives me a real buzz.

The time I go home varies; we have training on a Tuesday from 5pm until 7pm and late opening on Thursdays. But the time flies by, which I suppose proves I really enjoy being an apprentice hairdresser!

If you are interested in becoming an apprentice in any area, get further advice from your careers advisor, or go to www.nwapprenticeships.co.uk

Steph is employed by Affinity, Dene Drive, Winsford, her Training Provider is Total People.