Hairdresser

What is the work like?

Hairdressers cut, colour and shape their clients' hair to create the style they request.

As a trainee hairdresser you would usually begin by carrying out basic tasks such as:

• greeting customers
• shampooing hair
• making sure towels and supplies are ready for use
• keeping the salon clean and tidy.

As a qualified hairdresser your work would include:

• discussing with the client how they want their hair done, giving advice and suggesting ideas for suitable styles
• shampooing and conditioning
• cutting and styling
• colouring, perming or straightening
• advising on minor hair and scalp problems
• making appointments and handling payments
• ordering materials
• making sure that hair products containing chemicals are used and stored correctly.

You could specialise in a particular client group or technique, for example, traditional men's barber shop services or Afro-Caribbean techniques such as pressing, braiding and plaiting.

What qualifications and experience will employers look for?

You can train as a hairdresser either full-time or part-time at a college, or by working as a trainee, learning on the job and attending college on day-release. Whichever option you choose, you can complete the following qualifications:

• NVQ levels 1, 2 and 3 in Hairdressing
• NVQ levels 2 and 3 in Barbering.

NVQ Level 1 covers the basic introductory skills you would need as an assistant hairdresser. NVQ Level 2 includes the essential skills you would need as a qualified hairdresser. NVQ Level 3 covers skills needed for more senior roles.

Visit the Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA) website for information on qualifications and career paths in the hairdressing industry. Note: HABIA does not provide courses and is not able to supply lists of course providers.

You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.

What further training and development can I do?

Once you are working as a hairdresser, you would need to keep up to date with new trends, techniques and products. Manufacturers sometimes run short courses to introduce their hair-care products.

As a qualified hairdresser, you could complete training in the use of more advanced colouring, perming, assessing and remedial techniques. Completing NVQ Level 4 in Salon Management could be useful if you want to progress into management or self-employment.

As an experienced hairdresser, you could also develop your career by completing higher level qualifications, including:

• City & Guilds Level 4 Higher Professional Certificate and Diploma in Technical Salon Management
• BTEC HNC/HND and foundation degrees in hairdressing (usually combined with salon management)
• degrees in beauty therapy and hairdressing.

The Freelance Hair and Beauty Federation (FHBF) offers training on planning, setting up and managing a hairdressing business, as well as ongoing training and Continuing Personal Development (CPD). See the FHBF website for details.

Where can I go for more information?

If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form

Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice