A clean sweep: Next step for apprentices
– put that broom down!

With autumn apprentices up and running, now is the time to set out
a training plan for the year. Chris Moody shows you how!

Your autumn apprentices are up and running in the salon, performing basic supportive tasks. But what are you going to do with them next? Most salons will suspend training over the Christmas period, but now there’s a great opportunity to maximise training time.

I’d suggest that the next most logical step is colour application. Re- touch applications, semi and demi permanent colour applications are all within easy reach of an apprentice at this stage, especially one who’s already experienced at sectioning and handling hair due to their blow-drying training.

The stylist can still consult and formulate the colour, while the apprentice can mix and apply. This frees up the stylist to maximise their time and allows the apprentice to contribute to the salons earnings.

I’ve often said before, start to build up a bank of block training heads, as these are these are ideal to practice colour application. Maybe you used them during your blow-drying training?

Work on technique first – accuracy and neatness – then start to work on the speed of application, setting targets (and timers) to let your apprentice know where their
benchmark is. Remember, we’re only looking at basic, practical colour application here, don’t get caught up in the whole colour theory at this stage. Someone senior should
be formulating and if necessary mixing.

Again, this is an ideal opportunity to build the apprentices confidence and
profile in front of the client.