Our Hairdressing students gain valuable experience in our on-site Salon and through work placements with local Hairdressing businesses. These experiences help them to develop their confidence and skills so that they’re ready to step into work.
We visited Ginger Hair and Beauty in Sheerness to see how placements are supporting both learners and employers, and to find out what it’s really like to step onto the salon floor.
Discover what Level 2 Hairdressing student, Frankie, and salon owner, April, had to say.
Frankie – Level 2 Hairdressing:
How has it been working at Ginger Hair and Beauty alongside the College salon?
“I’ve been working here for around three months, and I’ve loved it so far.
“I think College is less school-like than I expected and they treat you really well. Being in the salon gives you so many different experiences such as working with the public in an environment away from education.
“The best part might sound a bit cheesy, but it’s the people. The girls I’ve worked with are so friendly, and being here gives you a real insight into what it’s like working in a salon, which makes it a nice environment to be in.
“I like how you can become friends with the salon staff and clients and give really good, customer service.
“Here, I’ve been doing a lot more practical work. College can be a tad slower as you understand the theory too, but in the salon, I’ve been helping to apply colour, washing it off, and watching different techniques, which gives you a really good idea of what the job is like.”
What made you choose to study Hairdressing?
“I think for me it was seeing all the crazy colours and cuts that people get.
“You can do so much with hair, and it makes people a lot happier about themselves. It’s nice to make people feel a bit better and I wanted a career where I could do that.”
Do you have an idea of what you’d like to do in the future after College?
“I might go on to a third year at College so I can explore hair extensions in more detail, but other than that, I’m thinking about working here as a hairdresser after.
“It’s very lovely here and it’s an environment I know well.”
When you started College, did you expect it to be so practical or more classroom-based?
“I thought College would be more like school, with lots of classroom work and writing.
“It’s much more relaxed. You’re not constantly being told what to do or where to go., You are trusted to make your own decisions.
“Everyone is easy-going, which makes it a lot more comfortable.”
What would you recommend to someone considering College and a work placement?
“I’d definitely recommend doing a bit of extra work outside of College. Being here has changed my life for the better.
“As you study Hairdressing, there is a mix of theory lessons and practical lessons, so revising the theory at home really helps to make sure you pass the exams.
“Taking part in a placement likes this helps you build those skills you’ll need for the future.”
Finally, if you could sum up your experience in three words?
“Exciting, friendly and joyful.”
April – Owner of Ginger Hair and Beauty
Can you tell us more about Ginger Hair and Beauty and yourself?
“We’re based in Sheerness just off the high street. I also work behind the chair as a stylist in addition to running the salon. Ginger Hair and Beauty has been here a long time. I think this year works out as 22 years.
“We are a self-employed salon, so we have lots of different stylists, with different ages and experiences, running their own businesses within our business.
“We also offer beauty treatments and partner with EKC Sheppey College for work experience.
“The students help us out, and we give them an idea of what it’s like to be in a salon.
“It also gives us the chance to see up-and-coming talent and potentially offer them extra opportunities in the future.”
What inspired you to support students and offer work placements?
“I’ve been Hairdressing for over 30 years and started as an apprentice myself, so I think it’s important to keep things moving.
“For me, it future proofs my business. Students come in, get comfortable with us and the environment, and then when they’re ready to work, they already feel confident approaching us.
“Outside of their College hours, they can even earn a little money while they’re here.”
What are the benefits of having students in the salon?
“It’s a great source of extra help, especially when we’re busy and need an extra pair of hands.
“However, a big benefit is also about giving students real experience. This could be helping them build confidence, learning how our salon works, and understand customer service in an environment away from College. It benefits both sides.”
What advice would you give to a student considering a Hairdressing placement?
“I’d recommend setting up a Hairdressing page and showing your journey, from what you’re doing, your training, and a bit about yourself.
“There are lots of people trying to get into the industry, so it’s important to show that you’re actively building your own clientele and putting yourself out there.
“It’s not just about Hairdressing as it’s also marketing, accounts, and building a business that matters in Hair and Beauty.
“As an employer, I want to see that passion and that you’re willing to grow.”
How has it been working with Frankie, and what skills has she developed?
“She’s been great. We’ve had quite a few students from the College, and we’d love to work with more in the future.
“Frankie was very confident. She would go and meet customers straight away, offer drinks, and was happy to have a go at doing hair without being prompted. She used a lot of her own initiative, which is really great.
“She just got on with things, found jobs to do, and was a natural in the salon.
“I think confidence is the biggest skill she’s developed, especially being comfortable in a team.
“You could see that grow over time, particularly when speaking to customers and just getting on with things more naturally.”
If you could sum up the experience of working with the College and students in three short phrases, what would they be?
“I’d say that the College and the students, help us, future-proof my business, and get us to work with the community.”
A huge thank you to April and the team at Ginger Hair and Beauty for welcoming our students and giving them such valuable experiences.
If you’re a student considering a career in Hairdressing, now is the perfect time to explore our Hair and Beauty courses and start building your own industry experience.
If you’re a local business interested in hosting work placements, we’d love to hear from you and work together to support the next generation of talent. Contact our team today.
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