#NewYearNewCareer in Hairdressing

It’s not too late to change your mind…

Maisie, Hairdressing “I started with Skills Group a few months ago and have never looked back! I originally studied Photography at Art College, with the next step being University, which wasn’t right for me. I’ve always been creative and so when my mum suggested going into Hair, it felt like a good fit for me! I had to think about what I could see myself doing in the future – you spend a lot of time at work so it’s important to get it right. I’m really pleased I changed course and am excited for my future!”

Abbie, Hairdressing “After starting a course in Health and Social Care at Medical College, it wasn’t what I thought it would be. It was a hard decision to leave as I had thought this was what I wanted to do. However, I knew if I carried on, I would be stuck going down a career path that I didn’t really want. After discussing my worries with my parents and looking through my options, Hairdressing really stood out to me and I am so glad I changed paths. My parents were really supportive – my advice is if you are not truly happy, talk to someone and make the change!”

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