Those who work in the Hair and Beauty sector provide an important service for their clients. The demand for skilled workers in Hair & Beauty is expected to grow over the next few years as Personal Services remain one of the fastest developing business areas in the UK. Many jobs are at operative or technician level, although there are openings for professionals in management and teaching roles. There is an increasing demand for trained Holistic Therapists.

Most hair and beauty salons are small, employing less than 10 people, so there is a strong demand for qualified employees to develop their commercial as well as technical skills. Good interpersonal skills are also crucial as this is a ‘people’ industry. Some of the jobs are physically demanding.

Successful professionals are usually very creative as their services are closely linked to the fashion industry and the latest trends. Continued training is important for staying at the leading edge.

Self employment is a real possibility for those with experience, qualifications and good technical skills who are happy to learn about running their own business.
(Source: jobs4u/Habia)

This area looks at just four different job areas in the Hair & Beauty sector, with three possible career routes for each:

You can get your qualifications by taking vocational courses or by studying while you are in employment. The important thing is to choose a route that suits you.

Remember these are career pathways, and you can get on or off the pathway at any point!

Mature students without formal qualifications are advised to talk to their local nextstep provider www.nextstep.org.uk One year Access to Higher Education courses give adults without formal qualifications the chance to study at degree level. Contact individual colleges and universities to discuss their entry requirements.

There’s a lot you can do to help your Hair and beauty career: