Finding my feet
My journey as a hairdresser began in a nearby salon not far from my house. I would go after school and help out with cleaning, making refreshments and shampooing - learning basic customer service skills.
Once I left school, I wasn’t sure I wanted to be a hairdresser. In April 2019, a vacancy became available at Scarlet Knight, and I thought ‘that will do’, not realising where it would lead to.
Looking back, I wasn’t confident in my ability. But after a few weeks, I settled into my role and started to enjoy the day-to-day activities of working in a salon.
Progression through the salon
Since joining Scarlet Knight as a hair stylist, I have been able to complete two apprenticeships – Level 2 Hairdressing and Level 2 Barbering. Once I completed my Level 2 Hairdressing qualification, Charlotte and John appointed me as team leader.
My role as team leader is to make sure that everyone is working as a team and that every customer leaves happy. It is my role to make sure each client is comfortable as soon as they step into the salon and are left feeling confident and wanting to return.
Getting support as a young carer
Working with Katie, my trainer coach, has honestly been a blessing. She has been amazing and very flexible. I care for my little brother to help support my mum and her lifelong illness. Katie books in appointments and assessments around me and my availability.
Katie is always on the end of the phone if I ever have any questions. She encourages me to complete the Moodle modules and any outstanding work. She has truly been amazing, and I would recommend her to anyone.
Katie Navoa, Trainer Coach said “Chloe has done extremely well in her Level 2 Barbering qualification. It's been great to see her develop her skills and confidence over the 15 months that I have worked with her.
I can see how difficult it is sometimes for Chloe to manage both her work and looking after her little brother. I want to make sure that she feels supported through the flexibility of my role.
Chloe has done incredibly well and I'm so proud that I've been able to watch her grow and look forward to seeing her start her Level 3 in Hairdressing.”
Continuing my learning
Starting as an apprentice has really helped my confidence. I have learnt how to speak to customers and people I’ve never met before.
I would 100% recommend an apprenticeship with ISA Training. I never thought I would be here 4 years ago without them.
I have learnt so many important skills through studying an apprenticeship, including customer service and the ability to speak to a wide range of clients. I am really looking forward to continuing my learning, building my clientele, and completing my Level 3 qualification in the near future.
Are you a young carer looking for support into employment? Contact ISA Training today.
