All about apprenticeships at andrew collinge

The Andrew Collinge group is renowned for its in-house training program, with its own purpose-built training salons and graduate salons. The Collinge family launched their training schools in 1974, followed by a series of salons dedicated to honing the skills of graduates in the 1980s. Since then, their training has gone from strength to strength. Andrew has spoken to the Prime Minister on the subject and appeared on the BBC with his apprentices, as well as sharing his wisdom with HJ. We spoke to training director, Sarah Collinge, to find out more about apprenticeships at Andrew Collinge. What are the main differences between doing an apprenticeship and traditional college-based learning? The main difference between a full-time college course and an apprenticeship is that apprentices are employed and working in a salon, getting work experience and getting paid. What do you think are the advantages of an apprenticeship over college-based learning? Apprentices have the advantage of seeing experienced stylists working in a commercial environment. They also learn how to work as a team and the importance of this, as well as gaining experience dealing with real clients. Why do you think it’s important to offer apprenticeships in your salon? At Andrew Collinge, we believe it shows commitment to providing quality training; building a work force for the future. What is a typical format for the week for your apprentices?  Our apprentices spend four days working in the salon, with one day spent with the training provider. How long does an apprenticeship typically take? It's from eighteen months to two years for an Intermediate Apprenticeship, or twelve months for an Advanced Apprenticeship. Is there an age limit to apprenticeships? At Andrew Collinge we have a contract for 16 - 18 year olds. Do apprentices improve your business? Absolutely, they are our future of our business and of the hairdressing industry as a whole. Does an apprentice automatically get a job within the salon? If not, how do you think it improves their employability? Apprentices have to have employed status, and it is hoped that they will all qualify and then carry on as stylists within their own organisation.