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Build a career you love with a Hair & Beauty Apprenticeship

Published: 15th of July 2026

If you're passionate about hair and beauty and dream of working in a creative, people-focused industry, an Apprenticeship could be the perfect way to get started.

A hairdressing Apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to earn while you learn, gain a nationally recognised qualification and build valuable experience in a real salon from day one. Rather than spending all of your time in a classroom, you'll develop practical skills alongside experienced professionals while also attending college to build the knowledge that underpins your training.

 

Learn in the salon and the classroom

One of the biggest benefits of an Apprenticeship is learning in two different environments.

Level 2 Hairdressing Apprentices Lailah and Darcie, who work at Harley's Hairdressing in Chesterfield, say they love the balance between college and salon life.

At college, they learn the theory behind hair types, structures and techniques before putting those skills into practice using professional products and working with real clients. In the salon, they gain invaluable hands-on experience, carrying out treatments such as shampooing, blow drying and toning while learning from experienced stylists who have worked in the industry for more than 20 years.

The pair also say their Apprenticeship has helped them grow in confidence by speaking to clients every day and developing real workplace skills. They would recommend an Apprenticeship to anyone looking to earn while learning and gain experience that employers value.

 

Do what you love every day

For Summer Smith, completing a hairdressing Apprenticeship has allowed her to turn her passion into a career.

Working at Nutt Case Hair Salon, Summer enjoys helping clients feel confident and loves meeting new people every day. She says the combination of college and salon experience has helped her develop both the practical and technical knowledge needed to succeed.

"College gives you the background knowledge of the hair structure, while the salon allows you to put everything into practice every day."

Summer says one of the best things about the Apprenticeship is that work never feels like a chore.

"You enjoy what you're doing and coming to work doesn't feel like a job, it feels more like a hobby and something you love doing."

 

Learn from industry experts

Throughout your Apprenticeship, you'll be supported by experienced tutors who understand exactly what it takes to succeed in the industry.

Hair and beauty Apprenticeship Tutor Louise Bell combines teaching with running her own successful hair and beauty business, ensuring learners benefit from the latest industry trends, techniques and client expectations.

Having completed her own Apprenticeship at The Sheffield College, Louise understands the journey Apprentices are on.

"It gave me the foundation and confidence to build a successful career. Now, I get to help others do the same."

With experience spanning salon work, business ownership, fashion shows and education, Louise helps learners build not only their technical skills but also the confidence employers are looking for.

 

Start your journey today

Whether you dream of working in a busy salon, specialising in colouring or styling, or one day running your own business, a hairdressing Apprenticeship can give you the skills, experience and confidence to achieve your goals.

With support from Louise and the Apprenticeships+ team at The Sheffield College, you'll develop industry-recognised qualifications, gain real workplace experience and build a career doing something you love.

Explore our Hairdressing Apprenticeships today and take the first step towards a rewarding career.

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