Training is a crucial part of a hairdresser’s development, especially apprentices, and is an integral part of what we do at Shockwaves. Apprentices, of course, attend a technical training school on one of their work days each week for the first two years of their three year apprenticeship. In addition to that we dedicate each Thursday morning to our in-house training.

The Thursday morning training is part of the working week so we expect a professional dedicate approach to the training we provide. Our principal stylists supervise the training on a rotating basis which is primarily skills based giving our apprentices the opportunity to learn the Shockwave’s way. Interspersed with that training is product knowledge and customer service based training often delivered at Shockwaves by outside trainers especially from Schwarzkopf, our principal product supplier.

Schwarzkopf also have a training program that ranges from the basic skills and knowledge for early stage apprentices to more sophisticated training for apprentices nearing their qualification as well as qualified stylists. This training can vary from product and basic skills knowledge to the latest fashion techniques and trends. By way of example, these trends (Essential Looks) were highlighted in our May E-news.

Naturally we have to keep on the ball with our accounts and administrative systems and compliances so there is always plenty to learn in that respect.

Our training program is usually set six months in advance so that all are aware of what is ahead and have plenty of time to plan and source models.

Sadly, training is a much neglected area in the hairdressing industry and that has been evident in many of the apprentices and qualified staff who have approached us looking for a placement. This looks to be further compromised in the near future given that the government is intent on abolishing the Hairdressers’ Registration Board. One of the principal functions of the Board is to ensure hairdressers wanting to practise in WA are qualified to particular standards. Once the Board is abolished those checks and balances will disappear with it.

The skills and knowledge that are needed to offer you a practical and modern service are ever evolving. It is vitally important that we keep pace so you can be confident the Shockwaves standards will be maintained and be relevant. Both of us depend on it.