Success Stories: Claudia Dymond, Level 2 Hairdressing

“I had already completed my Level 2 and 3 Media Make-Up Apprenticeship and had worked on two film sets, photoshoots and in the theatre. I even worked alongside the make-up artists from the Walking Dead! However, I wanted to achieve a qualification so I can progress with both make-up and hair in my career going forward”.

At just 20 years old, Claudia already has a wealth of experience in the Hair and Beauty sector. She is currently working on her Level 2 Hairdressing Apprenticeship at March Hair, training with Skills Group one day a week.

“I wanted to be a hairdresser from being little, as I loved experimenting with different styles. Since I started at March Hair in September, I’ve realised how creative the stylists truly are. It is great to be able to learn from experts in their field.

“I chose an apprenticeship to achieve my qualifications as you learn more on the job than when you are just sat in a classroom. During an apprenticeship, you have stylists and industry professionals to learn from everyday whereas in college you do not receive the hands-on experience. It would be a huge step moving from there onto the shop floor.

“Since starting my apprenticeship I’ve been involved in a huge range of tasks from colouring to blow-drying – it’s never dull! I’ve perfected my foils and have been observing cutting and will progress onto this soon. Every day I learn something new in this industry, and I’m sure in ten years’ time I’ll still be learning new techniques!

“My apprenticeship has been amazing. You get thrown in the deep end with March Hair, but it means you obtain plenty of experience. I would recommend working here to anyone. In the future, I would like to progress onto Level 3 and continue to work at the salon. My goal is to grow a big clientele and work with both make up and hair.

“I would definitely recommend an apprenticeship over going to college, as you do not develop the people skills needed to deal with customers there. My top tips for anyone wanting to do an apprenticeship would be to work very hard, take on board any criticism and learn from it”.

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