“Changing career is the best decision I’ve ever made,” said 27-year-old Rachel Haines who’s not only studying for the full-time Level 3 diploma in hairdressing, but the Level 3 certificate in barbering on a part-time basis too!
Rachel said: “I wanted to be a hairdresser from an early age but went into sales after leaving school to earn some money, and it was only after having my son that I decided to make the change – and I’m so glad that I did as I love it!
“I started with the Level 2 diploma in hairdressing which covered the basics, such as standard cuts and colours, before progressing to Level 3 where I’m learning about more creative techniques like balayage, baby lights, disconnected cuts, and ombre colouring, and on the barbering course I’m learning different types of cuts and the latest trends of shaving pictures into the hair.
“I’m really enjoying both courses and gaining commercial experience by working with real clients in the college salon has improved my confidence and is preparing me for working in a high street salon in the future.
“There are so many different areas of hairdressing to go into and the tutor has talked to each of us about what we want to do in the future and given us individual advice about the best way to achieve it.
“When I complete the course I want to get some more experience working in a salon and in a few years set up a business from home – it feels right and what I’m meant to do!”
