The Ultimate Guide to Barber Apprenticeships (2022)
July 30, 2022
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So you want to become a barber? Great choice! The barbering industry is booming, and there are currently plenty of opportunities for talented individuals out there. But how do you go about starting your career?
In this guide, we’ll explain why barber apprenticeships are one of the best routes into the industry, along with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether this career path is the right choice for you.
What is a Barber Apprenticeship?
A barber apprenticeship is a structured training program that will teach you the skills and knowledge required to become a successful barber. Through on-the-job training and theoretical study, you will learn everything from hair cutting techniques to client communication and barbering business practices.
Apprentices are required to spend a minimum of 20% of their working time completing classroom-based learning with a college, university, or training provider in order for them to achieve a nationally-recognised qualification.
Why Should You Choose a Barber Apprenticeship?
The most significant benefit to choosing a barber apprenticeship is that you will gain invaluable on-the-job experience while completing your training. This means that by the time you qualify, you will already have a strong understanding of what it takes to be a successful barber.
In addition, barber apprenticeships tend to be more affordable than other education options, such as a private barber course. And as you will be working in a barbershop environment from the beginning of your apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to build important industry contacts and relationships that can help you further your career once you qualify.
Complete benefits include:
Earning a Wage from Day One
One of the biggest advantages of completing an apprenticeship is that you’ll receive a salary from your employer while you learn. This means that you can start earning money while you gain the skills and qualifications needed to launch your career.
Learning in Real-Time
One of the best ways to learn is by doing, and with a barber apprenticeship, you’ll have the opportunity to do just that. You’ll gain first-hand experience working in a barber shop, learning from experienced professionals, and putting your skills into practice every day.
Getting a Nationally Recognised Qualification
Upon successfully completing your barber apprenticeship, you’ll walk away with a nationally recognised Diploma in Barbering. This qualification will open doors for you, and make it easier to find employment in the future.
Job Security
The barbering industry is growing rapidly, and there is currently a high demand for qualified barbers. By completing an apprenticeship, you’ll have the skills and qualifications needed to secure long-term employment in this booming industry.
What Will You Learn During a Barber Apprenticeship?
During your barber apprenticeship, you’ll learn a wide range of skills that will help you to succeed in your career. These skills will be taught through a combination of on-the-job training and classroom-based learning and will cover everything you need to know about becoming a successful barber.
Some of the topics you can expect to learn about during your apprenticeship include:
- Hair cutting techniques
- Shaving
- Barbering business practices
- Health and safety
- Client communication
- Customer service
What are the Entry Requirements for a Barber Apprenticeship?
In order to become a barber apprentice, you must be 16 years of age or over, and more often than not, need to be well presented with a deep passion for barbering.
There are no specific requirements for GCSEs, although some employers may have varying criteria.
You may also need to undergo a series of interviews and aptitude tests with your chosen employer in order to be accepted into the apprenticeship program.
How Long Does a Barber Apprenticeship Take to Complete?
A barber apprenticeship typically takes between 15 and 18 months to complete, although this can vary depending on your employer and the specific requirements of the apprenticeship program.
During this time, apprentices will learn all the skills and knowledge necessary to become a barber.
What skills do you need as a Barbering Apprentice?
Barbering is an art form, and it takes a lot of time and practice to perfect your craft, so you’ll need tons of passion and enthusiasm for the trade. You’ll be working closely with clients, so it’s important that you’re good with people and able to build relationships to put them at ease.
Other skills required to be a successful barbering apprentice include:
- General customer service skills
- A positive attitude
- The ability to work well under pressure
- Active listening skills
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- The ability to work well as part of a team
- Great attention to detail
- The ability to work well with your hands
From cutting hair to trimming beards, barbers need to be able to execute every style with precision. If you have these skills, then a career in barbering could be the right fit for you.
Day-to-Day Tasks of a Barbering Apprentice
As an apprentice, you will be working under the supervision of a qualified and experienced barber. You will learn how to cut hair, style hair, shave, and learn about the different products that are used. In addition, you will experience real-time customer service and how to effectively build relationships with clients.
Day-to-Day Tasks may include:
- Meeting and greeting clients
- Making drinks for clients (and colleagues)
- Offering styling and grooming advice
- Assisting stylists throughout the day
- Shampooing and washing client’s hair
- Cutting and styling hair
- Shaving, trimming and shaping beards and moustaches
- Keeping the barber shop clean and tidy
- Cleaning and sterilising equipment, such as combs, razors, and clippers
- Making appointments, taking payments and maintaining records
- Keeping up-to-date with the latest styles and techniques
The skills that you learn on a day-to-day basis as an apprentice will give you the foundation you need to be a successful barber.
How Much Does a Barber Apprenticeship Cost?
There is no cost to you (as the apprentice) to complete a barber apprenticeship. Your employer covers the cost of the training, and you will receive a salary from day one, so it is truly ‘Earn as you Learn.’
How Much Do Apprentice Barbers Get Paid?
Apprentice barbers are normally paid the Apprentice Rate for all hours worked, including any time spent on training away from the workplace. The rate you are paid is dependent on your age and what year of your apprenticeship you’re in.
For example:
Aged 16 to 18
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £4.81 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and in your first year
The current National Minimum Wage rate for an apprentice is £4.81 per hour.
Aged 19 or over and have completed your first year
You’re entitled to the National Living Wage rate for your age.
How Much Do Qualified Barbers Get Paid?
After successfully completing an apprenticeship, barbers can expect to earn a salary of around £24,000 per year. Experienced barbers can earn significantly more than this, with some taking home up to £50,000 per year, including tips.
Can You Get a Barbering Apprenticeship with No Experience?
Yes, most barber apprenticeships are open to those with little or no experience in the industry. However, some employers may require you to have completed a barbering course or have some experience working in a barber shop.
What are the Different Levels of Barber Apprenticeships?
There are two main levels of barber apprenticeships: Level 2 and Level 3.
Level 2
The Level 2 barber apprenticeship is equivalent to GCSE grade A*-C and will take around 15-18 months to complete. This level is suitable for those who are new to the industry and covers the basics of hair cutting and barbering.
Level 3
The Level 3 barber apprenticeship is equivalent to an A-Level and will take around 18-24 months to complete. This level is suitable for those with some experience in the industry and covers advanced hair cutting techniques and barbering business practices.
Career Prospects after a Barber Apprenticeship
After completing a barbering apprenticeship, there are a variety of career options available. Many barbers choose to open their own barbershops, while others may find employment in salons or spas.
Some barbers may choose to work as independent contractors, providing mobile services to clients in their homes or offices. There is also the option of teaching barbering courses at a vocational school or community college.
The industry offers a lot of room for growth and advancement. Once you have some experience under your belt, there are many opportunities open to you, including:
- Barber at a Salon
- Colour Technician
- Barber or Salon Manager
- Barber Shop Owner
- Freelance Barber
- TV or Film Work
- Trainer/Assessor
- Teaching
Whichever path you choose, a career in barbering can be both rewarding and lucrative. With the right training and dedication, the sky is the limit.
Barber Apprenticeships vs Private Barber Courses
The decision of whether to choose an apprenticeship or a private barber course is a personal one. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options.
Barber Apprenticeships
An apprenticeship will provide you with on-the-job experience and the opportunity to learn from experienced barbers. You will also have the opportunity to build important industry contacts. However, apprenticeships can be difficult to find, and you may not have the opportunity to learn everything that you would learn on a private barber course.
Private Barber Course
A private barber course will give you a comprehensive education in all aspects of barbering. You will learn about cutting hair, styling hair, shaving, and more. Private barber courses can be expensive, but they will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful barber.
Do I need to do an interview for a Barbering Apprenticeship?
An interview is often required in order to secure an apprenticeship, and while the questions asked during an interview will vary depending on the individual barber shop, there are some common topics that are typically covered, such as:
- Why are you interested in a barbering apprenticeship?
- Why do you want to work for our barber shop?
- What sets you apart from other candidates/apprentices?
- What qualities do you think we look for in a barbering apprentice?
- What are some of the main duties of a barbering apprentice?
What should I look for in a Barber Shop?
When looking for a good barber shop to partner with, it’s important to consider the diversity of clients, the ability to learn new techniques, and the opportunity to work with experienced barbers.
A good barber shop will allow you to learn all aspects of barbering, from cutting hair to shaving and styling. It’s also important to find an apprenticeship that can teach you the science of hair, as this will give you the chance to learn how to deal with different hair types and textures, and to understand the needs of different clients.
Find out what their training programs are like, what their pass rates are, and how long the apprenticeship will take. It’s also important to ask about the support you’ll receive during your apprenticeship.
Where Can I Find a Barber Apprenticeship?
The best place to start looking for an apprenticeship is with your favourite barber shop, or start making enquiries online to check current availability. Many barbershops are on the lookout for new talent, and will be happy to consider an apprentice if they have the capacity to do so.
Why Choose a Career in the Barbering Industry?
The barbering industry is booming, and with demand for professional grooming services rising rapidly, now is the perfect time to start your career. Some great reasons for joining the industry include:
Job Stability
People will always need their hair cut, no matter what the economic climate. Barbering is a stable industry, and you can be confident that there will always be a demand for these skilled services.
Creativity
Barbering is a creative profession and allows you to express your creativity on a daily basis. If you’re looking for a career where you can use your creative flair, then barbering could be the perfect choice for you.
Flexibility
Barbers are not confined to a 9-5 job and can choose a more flexible working pattern or location for a better work/life balance. This could be part-time or full-time, with many barbers now offering mobile services in their client’s homes and offices.
Good Earning Potential
As a barber, you can earn a good wage while enjoying the satisfaction of providing an essential service to your clients. Plus, with tips, your earnings have the potential to be even higher.
It’s Fun!
Finally, barbering can be a lot of fun! It’s a great way to meet new people and to make them look and feel their best. If you’re looking for a career that’s highly rewarding and enjoyable, then barbering could be the perfect choice for you.
Is a Barber Apprenticeship Right for You?
If you’re interested in starting a career in the barbering industry, then a barber apprenticeship could be the perfect choice for you.
With on-the-job training, a nationally-recognised qualification, and the opportunity to earn a wage from day one, there are many advantages to completing an apprenticeship.
Contact us at barberhub@trimcheck.com
