Vacancies
If you’re creative, passionate, have an interest in fashion, like change and love making people feel good about themselves, then a hairdressing or barbering apprenticeship could be what you are looking for.
What personal qualities do I need?
To be a great hairdresser or barber you must have an eye for detail, a keen interest in fashion and creativity, and a sociable and outgoing personality. Honesty, reliability, punctuality, motivation and a well groomed appearance are also very important.
You will need at least three years secondary education. A good level of mathematics, art, English and communication skills are important. You may already have some of these key skills and units from your NCEA.
What type of jobs are there?
Hairdresser:
Hairdressers cut, colour, style and care for their client’s hair and scalp.To become a qualified hairdresser you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Hairdressing (Professional Stylist).
Barber:
A barber is someone whose occupation is to cut any type of hair, give shaves, and trim beards. They do not generally offer significant styling or ‘fancy’ haircuts when compared to hairdressers working in hair salons. To become a barber you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Barbering.
Colourist:
A hairdresser who specialises in dyeing hair. To become a hairdresser you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Hairdressing (Professional Stylist).
Salon Manager:
Someone who oversees day to day duties and salon maintenance, staff performances and motivation, deals with customer care and general quality control. To become a salon manager you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Hairdressing Management.
Beauty Therapist:
Beauty therapists provide facial and body care treatments including massage and electrolysis (the application of an electric current to hair-roots). HITO is currently reviewing Beauty National Qualifications to ensure all qualifications and training are appropriate and accessible.
Where can it take me?
There are countless opportunities to keep growing your future with hairdressing. Once you have your National Certificate in Hairdressing (Level 4) you can:
- Be a hairdresser anywhere
- Own or manage a salon
- Train future apprentices
- Work in films, TV, magazines or fashion shows
- Work on cruise ships or resorts
“There are so many opportunities available with hairdressing if you’re passionate and open to learning all the time,” Nikita Barker, 2008 Apprentice of the Year Regional Winner
