Apprenticeship in Professional Hairdressing

The Hairdressing Apprenticeship Consortia Steering group are proud to announce that the National Professional Hairdressing Apprenticeship is currently in development. As part of the development process we are seeking input from industry professionals.

Throughout this process we will be asking you for your opinion. It is important as industry professionals that you have your voice heard in order to develop a program that reflects the needs of the industry.

The consortia steering made up of the following groups;

• Apprentice Sub Committee representative
• Hairdressing Council of Ireland
• Synergy Hair Group
• Irish Hairdressers Federation
• Peter Mark
• Image L & D and Image Skillnet
• Limerick and Clare Education Training Board.
• Education Training Board of Ireland

The Hairdressing Occupational Profile serves to clarify what the qualified apprentice should know and be able to do. Therefor we would ask that you read the following Occupational Skills profile and answer the very short survey of 3 questions which should take no more than 5 minutes in total.

The Survey can be viewed HERE

Occupational Profile

Title: Professional Hairdressing
NFQ Level: Level 6
Duration 3 Years

Typical tasks & responsibilities: Hairdressers will be able to
• Shampoo and condition hair,
• Cut hair using a range of techniques, style and finish hair to create variety of looks,
• Colour and lighten hair for clients They are required to
• Carry out consultations with clients
• Demonstrate the professionalism, values, behaviours,
• Communication skills and safe working practices associated with their role
• Work without supervision to a high level of precision, with exceptional client care skills

 

Knowledge – What is required

Equipment Understanding of the use and application of hairdressing equipment whilst adhering to health, safety and legal requirements

Scientific Principles: The hair stylist will be knowledgeable in the science and theory of hairdressing supporting all the practical skills required by the hairdresser. They will understand the different types of cosmetic and technical products and their uses.

Customer Service: The hair stylist should greet clients in a friendly manner and be courteous at all times. They should respond promptly to clients seeking assistance and establish client expectations.

Consultation: The hair stylist should creatively assess the clients needs; examine the hair, skin and scalp and advise clients on hair maintenance. A hair stylist must be proficient in communication techniques and client consultation to include listening skills, speaking correctly, and non-technical and body language in all aspects of hairdressing.

Business A hair stylist must have the ability to stock control, time management, awareness of appointment system, ICT and Social Media.

 

Skills – What is required

Working Relationships Develop and maintain appropriate conduct with work colleagues. Working and collaborating effectively in a team environment. It will be important that the hairdresser has the ability to delegate and ask for advice, where
necessary.

Communications Verbal – Communicates effectively with the stakeholders in a professional manner

Written – clear and concise written skills to communicate with stakeholders

Listenening – Ability to listen and interpret instructions.

Digital – relevant IT skills to promote their salon and events

Safe Working Practices Maintain effective, hygienic and safe working methods; adhere to
workplace, suppliers’ or manufacturers’ instructions for the safe use of equipment, materials and products

Techniques

Shampooing and Conditioning: A Hair Stylist must be able to identify hair and scalp conditions. They must be able to choose the correct shampoo and conditioner for different hair and scalp types. The must be proficient at different massage techniques. They must be competent in applying surface and substantive treatments.

Blow-drying: A Hair Stylist must be competent in blow-drying different hair lengths and types to achieve straight, wavy, curly or volume result. They must be able to identify the requirements of the client, the equipment needed to carry out the blow-dry service and use the equipment efficiently.

Cutting: A Hair Stylist must be proficient in cutting different hair lengths and types. (Men’s’ and Ladies’ hair). They must be competent in a variety of cutting techniques.

Colouring: A Hair Stylist must be proficient at diagnosing and choosing colour. They must be competent in mixing and applying all types of colour service (temporary, semi-permanent, quasi-permanent, permanent and bleaching) including highlighting, fashion techniques and colour change.

Permanent Waving: A Hair Stylist must have the ability to perm a variety of hair types to include long, short, natural and coloured hair using a variety of techniques. They must be competent in using different lotions types and neutralising.

Up-style: A Hair Stylist must be competent in up-styling and finishing hair using a variety of techniques and products.

Setting and Dressing: A Hair Stylist must have the ability to roller set and dress hair using a various methods and products. They must be competent in back combing and the use of heated tools.

Behaviours –  What is required

Dependability: Is reliable: consistently attends work and arrives on time. Willing to take
direction and take responsibility for their work.

Adaptability: Works effectively with a team as well as on their own initiative.

Personal Commitment: Demonstrate professionalism and a passion for the industry; have a commitment to quality, a positive attitude and team working; work under pressure; observe time management and self-management; show a willingness to learn

Please answer the short survey HERE