Emily Kennan, Level 2 Hairdressing

Emily completed her A Levels but knew University wasn’t for her.

“Once I’d completed my A Levels, I wanted to start working so the apprenticeship route was the perfect choice. Learning new skills whilst developing a career for life is so exciting, everything I’m learning and practicing day to day, is setting me up for a great career once I finish.

“The Study Programme at Skills Group really helped me gain confidence before going into the workplace. I learnt basic hairdressing skills and also completed certificates in Health and Safety and First Aid amongst other things, so by the time I had completed the course, I was prepared to go into a real working salon.

“I had to do work experience which was so beneficial – it gave me the opportunity to make sure that Hairdressing was definitely what I wanted to do before I committed to an 18 month apprenticeship. It completely confirmed that this was the route I wanted to go down and therefore made starting the apprenticeship a really positive experience.

“Now I am working towards my Level 2 Apprenticeship, I am really proud of how far I’ve come. I have gained valuable skills through working at Yoke the Salon. They have given me so many opportunities – I have already been put forward for Learner of the Year in Concept Mag and booked onto several masterclasses with London brands. My customer service skills have really developed and I am confident talking with clients now – which I never thought I would be!

“My goal is to become fully qualified as a Colour Specialist Hairdresser and now, I have no doubt that I will achieve this and more!”

I just wanted to say the biggest thank you to Vanessa, my trainer. You have made my journey so much easier, I don’t know what I would have done without you. You have been amazing and helped me to achieve my qualification. You’ve guided me through every step of the way, I really appreciate it, Vanessa, you have been my rock.

Katie Shorland, Level 2 Hairdressing

I always struggled in school as I wasn’t very academic, so knew learning on the job would be a better option for me. I would find it difficult to get up for 9am but now I wake up and look forward to my day. I wanted to try a hair apprenticeship as I’ve always been interested in hairdressing, and by the end of the first week, I already loved it!

Jaimee Benson, Level 2 Hairdressing

I have developed a range of new skills through work including the technical, industry skills required for the job, to personal development such as ensuring I am always on time. The biggest change since leaving school is adjusting to the independence you gain from earning a salary. My advice to anyone thinking of doing an apprenticeship would be find what you like doing, and go for it!

Will Birch, Level 2 Bricklaying

Since starting the apprenticeship, I’ve become far more confident. In a classroom, you only interact with your classmates, but through working you develop your people skills as you interact with customers on a daily basis. At school, you are closely monitored and parented, however I am now more independent and feel grown up

Sam Collard, Level 2 Light Vehicle and Maintenance Repair

The most important thing I’ve learnt since leaving school is that there are other routes to success than just academia. I failed my GCSEs, as I never suited the school environment. Now though, I’m really enjoying my apprenticeship as I’ve discovered I learn more through hands-on practice.

Ben Freeman, Level 2 Carpentry

I would just like to thank you and your team for all the amazing work they do, you have provided me with the most invaluable experience which has helped to pave the way of my future. The work you do for young people is incredible!

Luke Kowalski, Teaching Assistant and former apprentice at Sir Robert Gefferys School