How to Train an Apprentice Hairdresser

Education and training, alongside salon experience, are the keys to developing a great career in hairdressing. When initially training an apprentice hairdresser, talk about her interests outside of the craft. Ask about the career path she intends to take and how far she wants to climb up the ladder. Share your experiences in the industry as well. Before the more practical steps of training, the connection and good grounding are very important in building the mentor-apprentice relationship.
Then, set up the professional learning curve and training schedule.

Things You'll Need

• Do's and don'ts for the apprentice hairdresser
• Training plan and schedule
• Tools of the trade in hairdressing
• Fashion magazines, portfolios, and related online articles, books and DVDs
• Initiatives for perks and rewards

Instructions

Training

1. Present the training plan and discuss it with him. Primarily, this discussion should provide an overview of what he will learn, how he will be trained, and how and when he will be assessed. This training plan should start with the basics. A proper foundation coupled with appropriate advice can initiate a good start.

   As hairdressing apprenticeship may be taken on a full-time or part-time basis, clear up the concerns with regards to compensation/wages/honoraria.

   By the book, a full-time hairdressing apprenticeship usually takes three years; however, based on the competency of the apprentice, he may actually qualify sooner.

2. Start the official day with the training plan ready for implementation. According to the schedule, the apprentice hairdresser should learn to perform the various hairdressing skills and techniques. She should learn how to do haircuts on a variety of clients. Shampooing and conditioning hair, trimming and shaving, styling and hair drying, and setting pin curls and finger waves should also be incorporated.

   As the training moves on, cover more essential skills required for a hairdresser. Level up to procedures in performing: hair and scalp treatments; coloring services including off-scalp bleaching services; a range of perming and relaxation services; and even facial massage.

   Move on further by performing: advanced fashion hair cutting; drying and styling; fashion coloring; perming and relaxing techniques; and creative hairstyling techniques.

3. Make sure your apprentice has the right catalysts to keep his creativity and drive going, which can help him develop and progress within the industry. Provide him with fashion magazines, portfolios, and even online articles, books, and DVDs related to the craft. Ask him opinions about them.

   It is also ideal to provide full practical and theoretical trainings, including fun benefits. This can include assisting at shoots, weddings, shows and other arts and beauty events. Perks and rewards that can make him enjoy his work more are highly recommended.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget to incorporate lessons about carrying out administrative duties, as well as lessons about health and safety, when it comes to various hairdressing procedures.

• Reiterate that commitment is as essential as experience.

• Know your apprentice's strengths and weaknesses. That way, as training progresses you will both discover which aspect of hairdressing suits her best.

References

• "Good Training Guide: I Want to Train as a Hairdresser. What Do I Need to Do?"
• "HubPages: How to Become an Apprentice Hairdresser"
• "Government of Western Australia Department of Training and Workforce Development: Hairdresser"