Introducing this week’s apprentice..
Name: Scott Goodwin
Job Title: Junior Hairdresser
Company: David Youll Hair and Beauty
Apprenticeship Company: David Youll Hair and Beauty Apprenticeship: Hairdressing (NVQ Level2 in ladies hairdressing and NVQ Level3 in barbering)
What's a typical day like for you?
On arrival at the salon I check the computer to see what the day’s overview looks like. If there are any colour appointments we go through the files to access client consultation sheets, then we prep the salon setting up trolleys with equipment ready for the day. No day is ever the same because we see new faces as well as regular clients - the mix of people keeps the day interesting.
Looking after clients is top priority and I do a lot of massages, shampooing, blow-drying, straightening and mixing colours. There are always other things to keep an eye on though like washing towels (we get through a lot), looking after clients generally and keeping the salon tidy.
Even though we have a receptionist when it gets very busy any help is welcome, so I confirm appointments over the phone and sort general salon orders from the local wholesalers.
What has been the most memorable day of your apprenticeship so far?
I took part in a day-long hair show alongside every student at every level of hairdressing from my college. The show, held at the English Riviera Centre, was open to the public and people in the industry. The theme was ‘Autumn’ and I designed the hair, make up and outfit for my model.
It was the best day because I got to show off my hard work, and I loved the planning and the steps and days leading up to the event. Working in a salon there is always pressure but at the hair show there was a different pressure and different vibe all together.
One of Scott's hair styles
Why did you decide to become an apprentice?
I decided to an Apprenticeship because I took my A Levels first and did not enjoy the approach to teaching. I felt I was ready to learn in a more mature and equal environment and also wanted to gain practical experience as well as learning the theory.
What are the best things about being an apprentice?
Most people are going to say getting paid to pursue a career you enjoy and are passionate about, but there is also the benefit of gaining the experience and knowledge of people in your Apprenticeship that have been in the industry for years and that is invaluable.
What are the best things about working in the industry you work in?
Things that really appeal to me in the hair and beauty industry are getting creative whilst working with people face to face, the new challenges, the constant opportunity to learn something new throughout your career and the unforgettable guest relationships you build up with a mixture of fascinating people.
What's the most surprising thing you've learnt during your apprenticeship?
Things that really appeal to me in the hair and beauty industry are getting creative whilst working with people face to face, the new challenges, the constant opportunity to learn something new throughout your career and the unforgettable guest relationships you build up with a mixture of fascinating people.
Scott perfecting his skills on a mannequin
What would you say to someone thinking about applying for an apprenticeship?
I think that if you are considering applying for an apprenticeship you need to know that it is right for you. I myself have loved my two year apprenticeship working with two very different teams and products. I went in with my heart open to learning new skills and going in with a very open mindset. If you are really wanting to go for it you need to grab it with both hands and never let go as the achievement at the end of your apprenticeship is worth more than any challenges you will face during.
What do you think are the biggest myths about apprenticeships?
The biggest myths I heard about entering an apprenticeship was that it was for those who wanted to further their education but were not the best academically. During my apprenticeship I knew this couldn't be true as I met others who had been to university, some had done their A-levels and others had a wide range of qualifications. I came to realise that a lot of people were in fact very intelligent.
What do you expect to be doing in 10 years time?
This is a hard one, I have often been lost in my thoughts about this. There are so many opportunities and places I could go in this chosen career path. For example I could work on cruise ships with the potential to see the world. I could spend lots of time in hair shows and competitions all over the world. There is always the chance to teach and pass on the knowledge that I have received. I could work for myself being a self employed hairdresser or even open up my own salon, or I could stick to the conventional working in a salon. For now, as much as I like to plan my life out, I am happy and excited to see were my career and future may take me.
Why an apprenticeship rather than university?
I was going to go to university was part way through my second year of A Levels and UCAS application when it hit me that university was not for me. I thought to myself what is it I could see myself doing and everything lead back to hairdressing. I looked into full time but lacked the experience so I chose an apprenticeship. Everyone is different, for some people university is the way forward and for others apprenticeships, but all I recommend is do your research into what you want to do as you'll be spending the next few years doing it and possibly the majority of your adult life.
What advice would you give someone leaving school or college now?
Seeing as I have come to the end of my Apprenticeship and have been to sixth form and I am now planning to travel to get some more life experience, I say choose with your heart as more times than not your heart knows what you want. Try not to be pushed into a career by anyone else, the decision should be yours.
Don't worry if you have already chosen or started higher education like me, I was a little older than most. Just stay dedicated and really push for it. The reward of having the experience, the friends you make on the way and a qualification is worth it in the end. I would never trade the time I have spent doing my apprenticeship for anything.
For more information on apprenticeships visit apprenticeships.org.uk