How hairdressing apprenticeships vary in different countries

Apprenticeships are a fantastic way for those who prefer hands-on experience to gain a hairdressing qualification. Where you choose to take this apprenticeship can have a huge impact though, with places aboard offering varying styles of teaching and enticing experiences. For some, travelling abroad is an exciting route for the best training, whereas the most suited apprenticeship might be right on the doorstep for others. Below, we speak to industry professionals about the many benefits of training in the UK, US and Australia, and what makes taking an apprenticeship in their given country so special.

Hairdressing apprenticeships in the UK

- Phillip Haug, academy manager for TONI&GUY “One of the biggest benefits of completing an apprenticeship is that generally the class sizes are smaller and that the trainers and educators are current, competent and highly trained. Academies can offer personalised classes that suit future employment, so students have an opportunity to delve deeper into a specific subject, and they can also provide additional pathways in the industry outside of mainstream funded qualifications. https://www.instagram.com/p/B776IKkj-wc/ “UK training is generally highly regarded around the world and opens opportunities for travel and worldwide working. There is a big demand for hairdressers that have trained in the UK. Hairdressing qualifications have transferable skills that work well with customer service and creative roles, so the career opportunities are endless. We offer funded courses for EU citizens and private courses to suit a variety of levels of qualified stylists and colourists.” - Paul Simbler, director for HOB Academy “British hairdressing is still held in high esteem by international hairdressers and its training is still some of the best in the world. London has an image of coolness, so to say you have trained there will get people’s attention straight away. You have access to some of the best hairdressers and best educational centres in the world, and can train in everything from commercial cuts to creative colour and session work. London is recognised as the hub for music and fashion and to say you studied in London can open a lot of doors internationally. https://www.instagram.com/p/B5-QQcehjgd/ “A lot of international hairdressers come to the UK for short-term and long-term training because they know they are going to be taught by the best of the best. We have a popular full-time Beginners course and a Salon Foundation course which upgrades every hairdresser’s techniques for any salon situation, and our Creative Cutting and Colouring course is perfect for any experienced hairdresser to get inspired by new techniques and new trends.”

A hairdressing apprenticeship in the US

- Lindsey Little, creator of Boston Balayage Salon “Here, most high-end salons require a minimum of a year to two years of training as an assistant before transitioning into a full time stylist. This would consist mainly of washing hair, cleaning the salon and taking care of beverages for the guests. “Then, there are apprenticeships which are a step above. Instead, they are hired by the stylist to be their own personal assistant and work solely for them. They would wash, blow dry, and even apply colours for the guests, getting real one-on-one training. These opportunities are much more coveted as they would get much more hands-on experience, and it’s much more lucrative. A great perk of this is they would almost have clientele handed down to them when they transition on their own, rather than having to start from scratch.” https://www.instagram.com/p/B6wZPYwg1uv/ “Some states like California would easily require green stylists to apprentice or assist for up to four years before earning a spot as an independent. If you’re lucky to work for a reputable salon or stylist, the benefits throughout training could consist of paid education, travel, and endless opportunities for exposure and growth on social media working for major brands.”

A hairdressing apprenticeship in Australia

- Marie Nieuwoudt, manager and educator at B'Me Hair Salon and Academy “A great aspect of training in Australia is that it has a real international flavour, and is influenced by the USA & UK. We have a thriving community with many industry bodies, competitions, magazines and online support groups through Instagram & Facebook. “Here, apprenticeships differ slightly from state to state, ranging from school-based apprenticeships to full time courses at TAFE, with day release to salons. In Queensland, if the student has completed a year, a full grant is given to complete the three year course. However, some feedback we’ve had suggests that three years is far too long and students become disillusioned & frustrated with the pace of learning. It all comes down to the Salon owners taking responsibility for the standard of education delivered to their students. https://www.instagram.com/p/B0fq1Mqg5f-/ “There are many private academies which offer fast-track, full-time courses, however the Australian TAFE system offers a particularly great standard. The Boxhill TAFE in Victoria and the Brisbane School of Hairdressing have international guest artists and offer a wide range of opportunities to students. We even have TAFES that travel internationally over to Salon International in London! It’s an exciting time to be an apprentice in Australia.”