We had a chat with Natasha Crooks who has almost finished her Hairdressing Full-Time Course at Skills Group with flying colours and is currently interviewing for an apprenticeship!
“I’ve always enjoyed hairdressing – I used to do my Dad’s hair to practice! I also prefer a hands-on style of learning rather than theory and being sat at a desk, so a hairdressing course followed by an apprenticeship was the perfect option for me.
“The course at Skills Group has been brilliant. The facilities are fantastic; the training salon is open to the public so we gain experience working with clients which helps to prepare us to start an apprenticeship. The trainers at Skills Group are knowledgeable and supportive and I can approach them about anything. In the salon, we practice a range of tasks from blow-drying to setting – it’s very varied!
“The course also gave me the opportunity to go out on a work experience placement at Toni and Guy for two weeks – they offered me a Saturday job after just two days which I was thrilled about! I’m now interviewing in salons to secure an apprenticeship through Skills Group, which will enable me to achieve my qualifications while working and earning a salary.
“My advice for others who are wondering what to do when they finish school is to think about what they enjoy doing and go from there. Also pay attention to which course you choose, as some are more theory based and others more practical – so think about what learning style works best for you.
“After I’ve finished my hairdressing apprenticeship, I’d perhaps like to move onto a barbering qualification so I can offer both services. In the future, I’d like to have my own salon and take on apprentices.”
Well done Natasha and good luck moving onto an apprenticeship – you’re doing brilliantly!