Striking the right balance between salon duties and training time is key for the success of both your business and your apprentice’s development.
Getting the balance right ensures that apprentices receive a great training and education while contributing meaningfully to your salon’s operations. Of course, dedicated training time is essential for enable apprentices to master the required hairdressing or barbering skills and meet the requirements of their qualification. The government’s funding rules require salons to release apprentices for off-the-job training for a minimum of 20% of their normal working hours (six hours for an apprentice working 30 hours or more). While the formal training that Cheynes Training provides through our academies is crucial, on-the-job experience is equally important, here are some ways salons can effectively mix salon duties with learning:
- Hands-on practice: On quieter days, allow apprentices to apply their learned skills under supervision.
- Observation opportunities: During quieter moments, encourage apprentices to watch and learn from experienced stylists.
- Balanced workload: Ensure apprentices contribute to daily salon tasks while having time for improving their skills.
- Mentorship: Pairing apprentices with experienced team members who can provide guidance and support.
Investing time in your apprentice’s education will benefit your salon in the long run, but balancing this with salon duties is also important.