Apprentice Hairdressers

Hairdressers provide beauty services to clients, which include shampooing, styling, coloring and cutting hair, as well as treating and massaging scalp. If you want to become a hairdresser someday, then you should first apply for a job in establishments that accept apprentice hairdressers. Apprentice hairdressers work under the supervision of hairdressers and assist them in their tasks. Entry requirements for apprentice hairdressers vary from one employer to another, but majority of employers require applicants to have basic training.

What are the tasks and duties of apprentice hairdressers?

Tasks assigned to apprentice hairdressers depend on their length of stay as apprentice hairdressers and the extent of their experience. Apprentice hairdressers who are just in the initial stages of their apprenticeships are often tasked to do routine assignments such as assisting senior hairdressers in shampooing clients and applying and removing simple hairdressing treatments. They are also responsible for cleaning, maintaining and sterilising tools and equipment. Once apprentice hairdressers gain more experience, they are then given more complex tasks such as styling and cutting clients' hair. During the later stages of their apprenticeship, apprentice hairdressers may also be tasked to provide services such as conditioning, straightening, bleaching, tinting and permanent waving.

Where can apprentice hairdressers seek employment?

Apprentice hairdressers are typically employed in men's, women's or unisex salons. But salons are not the only places where apprentice hairdressers can apply to. Apprentice hairdressers may also be needed in large department stores. Those who finish their apprenticeships can apply for positions as stylists in TV, theatre, film or advertising agencies.

How can individuals become successful apprentice hairdressers?

Apprentice hairdressers should have no skin allergies; this job requires contact with hair treatment products that may contain chemicals. It's also important for apprentice hairdressers to have a pleasant personality as well as excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Good hand-eye coordination and attention to detail is also essential for apprentice hairdressers to be successful at what they do. They should also able to follow instructions accurately.

What are the working conditions involved in the apprentice hairdresser jobs?

Apprentice hairdressers work while standing and during staggering shifts to accommodate clients. Apprentice hairdressers also need to be well-dressed and groomed as they face many clients every day. These apprentice hairdressers often give advice to clients and listen to their preference on what to do with their hair. There are also instances when apprentice hairdressers may have to sell products to their clients.

Employment News

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A range of new courses aims to address the growing shortage of hairdressers, writes Claire Halliday... read full story

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1 April 2005

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1 April 2005

THE recent hand-wringing over the dearth of apprentice chefs is hardly news to other professions such as hairdressing, which have been suffering a similar long-standing crisis. Maybe there are even some parallels between these "glamour" jobs that create unrealistic expectations for aspirants... read full story

Wanted ...

12 March 2005

... Bricklayers, Metal fitters, Welders, Toolmakers, Sheet metal workers, Motor mechanics, Electricians, Auto electricians, Carpenters, Panel beaters, Hairdressers, Vehicle painters, Plasterers, Furniture upholsterers, Child-care workers, Registered nurses, Plumbers. It's so hard to get a good tradesman these days. That lament is not just common, it's true, writes Paul Robinson... read full story