HANDS UP: WHO WANTS A CAREER IN HAIRDRESSING?

The kids are our future, so be inspired by these hairdressers and salon groups who are spreading the message about what a great career you can have in our industry

“I went into one of our local colleges to speak to hairdressing students as part of a college roadshow. What we do at HxHair isn’t always something that’s taught at college, so the students loved to see the more creative side of the industry and the way that hairdressing can be a form of art. I think it’s so important that we get out there as ambassadors for the industry and talk about opportunities away from the chair as there’s so much more to hairdressing than working in a salon and I don’t think that young people realise that. I was overwhelmed by the positive response that I received from the students and it’s something that I’m looking in to doing more of this year.”

"It is so important to speak to young people about what an apprenticeship in hairdressing involves. The Headmasters’ team were out in force at the National Apprenticeship Show this year. Headmasters were one of the 50 exhibitors from a wide selection of industries including British Airways and The Metropolitan Police. The day-long event welcomed over 3,000 15-16 year olds about to leave school and we were able to chat to them about what an apprenticeship in our sector involves. We had many sign-ups from young people wanting more information and we hope that it will bring us in a great crop of new talent.”

“I work with one of our local colleges and local schools, acting as an ambassador for the industry. We have great relationships with them which often leads to apprenticeships, assistant roles or work experience. The local high school hosts mini Dragons Den days where students get the opportunity to pitch business ideas to local entrepreneurs, but they also host careers days where I chat to the students about my role, my experiences and exactly what a career in hairdressing has to offer. I’ve had such positive feedback from the teachers and lecturers and it’s great to be helping to excite young people.”

"I think it's really important that, as salon owners, we continue to support the pipeline of young hairdressers who will keep this industry moving forward. Our salon often works with our local secondary schools on career days. We speak to the Year 10 pupils about what the industry entails, apprenticeship opportunities, wages, industry opportunities and what they can expect from a job in a salon. We have also hosted 'Apprentice for the Day' sessions, where we invite anyone who is thinking of a career in hairdressing to experience salon life first hand. Throughout the day we run demos, talk about the hair industry as a whole and the varying roles and job types available, and then let them practise on dolls heads to get a feel for it and to see if this is something they would like to do."

"When we visit our local schools and career events, we discuss the development of a possible pathway and aim to answer every question in an open and honest way. We also discuss wages, as this is a key issue for the students. We take blockheads with us and offer a hands-on experience getting them working using scissors. We also take products and a parent pack, because educating the parents is essential for helping young people understand the benefits of a career in hairdressing. We always ensure that the school teaching team is a part of what we do, their understanding of our industry is key to entering the school environment. It’s enlightening for all and really important that the parents and school are on board too.”