Sarah Bennett – Hairdressing apprentice

Name: Sarah Bennett
Age: 20
Apprenticeship: Hairdressing Apprenticeship
Employer: Bobby and Barry’s

What made you decide that an Apprenticeship was the right option for you?

When I left school I was either going to do further training in sports or hairdressing. I decided to pursue a career in hairdressing and I thought Apprenticeships were a great way to gain experience in a salon as well as learning the skills at college.

How did you find an employer?

I went in to the salon at Bobby and Barry’s and saw that they were advertising some in-house training. I arranged with them to go on the training course and secured a placement with them. The training which I was going to go on with them was put on hold, so I then looked at Apprenticeships and contacted Newcastle College.

What day-to-day jobs do you perform?

On a daily basis I help the stylists in the salon with the shampooing of their clients hair. I have to ensure that the salon is clean and tidy so that it looks professional. During busy times I also look after the bookings of clients and handling the telephone enquiries that come in.

What are your career ambitions?

Once I have finished my Apprenticeship I would like to move onto an Advanced Apprenticeship in Hairdressing. I’m also looking at part-time courses in beauty as well, so that I can further my knowledge. I’m also attending college on my day off and joining in with other classes so that I can continue to develop my skills. Once I qualify as a stylist I would eventually like to work for myself.
 

What would you say to individuals that were considering Apprenticeships as a way to develop their career?

For me an Apprenticeship has been ideal as I’ve been able to gain the skills I need in college but I’ve learnt so much from working in a real salon. I wanted to do an Apprenticeship because I feel that once I have finished I will have gained a good amount of experience that will hopefully make it easier for me to find a job. In college I’ve learnt skills such as how to colour and cut different styles and I’ve then been able to watch stylists in the salon work on clients. I’ve found that my Apprenticeship has been the best way for me to develop my skills.