• You enjoy working with people, love being creative, and have a passion for hair.

Then this is the course for you.

To make an informed choice about the suitability of this course, please consider the essential skills and knowledge below. You must:

• Show the ability to work one-on-one, as well as part of a team in a busy environment.
• Be confident, reliable and strong work ethics.
• Feel comfortable with physical contact and enjoy practical work.
• Show a friendly and pleasant demeanour.
• Experience good health with no significant skin allergies.
• Have good time-management and the ability to prioritise tasks. Managing time effectively allows you to deliver quality results within scheduled appointments.
• Use well-developed communication, verbal and non-verbal and listening skills. Strong people skills will help you understand client needs and interpret non-verbal cues. Clear communication is essential for discussing styles and ensuring client satisfaction.
• Demonstrate well-developed problem-solving skills. Essential for addressing client concerns and recommending suitable hair colours, styles, or treatments.
• Have sound organisational skills. Staying organised will help you maintain a tidy workstation and keep track of tools and appointments.
• Have good manual dexterity. Good hand–eye coordination and fine motor skills are essential for precision work.
• Be able to follow instructions, Work, Health and Safety procedures and the ability to respond to immediate safety risks.
• Have a sound level of fitness as this course requires for you to be on your feet for extended periods of time.
• Show tolerance, patience and the willingness to work with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures.

When you complete this course, you will have the practical skills and knowledge needed to work as a qualified Hairdresser. You will be skilled in using a variety of tools and products to create desired hairstyles, including scissors, razors, blow dryers, curling irons and various hair care products. You will consult with clients to understand their preferences and recommend suitable hairstyles based on factors such as face shape, hair texture and lifestyle. You will master the cash register, computer use, reception duties like answering calls, scheduling appointments, and maintaining client records. As a hairdresser you will use discretion and judgement to provide client services and take responsibility for the outcome of your work.

The workplace of a hairdresser can vary depending on the type of salon, clientele, and location. Salons may range from small, independently owned businesses to large, upmarket chains often found in busy urban areas or shopping centres. The environment is typically lively and social, with music playing in the background and the buzz of conversation between stylists and clients.

Time Commitment – You will need to allocate appropriate time to complete this course. This includes attending classes on-site and/or online as outlined in the study mode; and undertake independent study outside of class hours, including private study, assessment preparation, research, complete assessment requirements and the apprenticeship work placement.

Below are some of the important personal skills you will be required to develop and demonstrate during training. These skills are highly valued by industry:

• Respectful Communication - Interact with people from diverse backgrounds, share ideas effectively and build trust.
• Teamwork – Collaborate with others, show them respect, and be open to feedback.
• Problem Solving - There is always a solution. How do you respond to a challenge? If you spot a problem, we encourage you to ask questions, clarify as needed, and respond appropriately within your training.
• Initiative - Stay motivated, take proactive steps, and seek help when necessary.
• Planning - Manage time well. Knowing how to prioritise and completing your tasks efficiently are crucial for your success.
• Self-Management - Reflect on your performance. Reflection is a powerful tool for growth and success as a student at South Regional TAFE. Being a professional in the workplace can mean learning when to accept responsibility for your failures as often as your successes. This is how we learn!
• Learning – Recognise what your strengths already are. Then embrace all the new knowledge and experience from your South Regional TAFE journey to grow as a student. Some of the skills you will learn include:
  • Create one-length haircuts. Master the basics of precision cutting to achieve sleek, even styles.
  • Shampoo, condition and rinse hair.
  • Colour and lighten hair. Apply colour, highlights, and lightening techniques, and learn to neutralize unwanted tones.
  • Updos and braiding. Get creative with updos and intricate braids for long hair, perfect for special occasions.
  • Design event hairstyles. Craft unique and elegant styles for weddings, proms, and other events.
  • Use and organise tools. Become proficient with scissors, heat instruments, and drying equipment to create stunning hairstyles.
  • Manage money and transactions. Develop essential business skills to handle payments and manage finances.
  • Promote your business. Gain marketing skills to attract new clients and grow your salon's reputation.
  • Diagnose hair and scalp conditions. Understand how to identify and treat various hair and scalp issues.
  • Industry research. Stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the hairdressing industry.
  • Perform reception duties. Build confidence with answering telephone calls, making appointments and write up client records.
• Technology - Adapt to new tools, access digital resources, and integrate technology into your learning.