QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS

It’s question time for a selection of our wonderful Kleek apprentices. We asked some quickfire questions to discover more about why they wanted to be part of the hair and beauty industry and how they’re enjoying their journey so far!

ISABEL ROSE TILL OF JOANNAH OWEN BEAUTY AND WELLNESS IN BURSCOUGH, ORMSKIRK.

What initially sparked your interest in beauty therapy?

I was interested in lash extensions at first when I used to go for beauty treatments myself. I loved the atmosphere and how it made me feel after the treatments. So, I wanted to be able to give that feeling to others too.

Describe a typical working week. I worked Wednesday to Saturday when I first started. I was learning and watching the other therapist and building a relationship with the clients. Now I’ve been at the salon for a year, I have built up my own clientele. I carry out nails, lashes, pedicures, and facials services. I also have salon jobs to complete in between client appointments, such as cleaning, phoning clients and daily client tasks. I also have my training days when I practise treatments on other members of staff.

What are you most proud of to date, and why?

I am proud that I have managed to build my own clients up, as I found this hard in the beginning as you’re new and still learning. Some clients would rather have their regular therapist.

What are the best bits of being an apprentice? And the not-so-good bits?

The best bit is building relationships within the salon, with staff and clients. I feel that doing an apprenticeship is much better, as I am learning my skills while working in the salon. The experience of being hands-on and working in a salon really helps you to develop your skills. The not-so-good bits... at the beginning, you feel like you’re never going to be as good as the other staff, and your treatment days aren’t as busy.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting a Kleek Apprenticeship?

In your spare time, continue to learn and complete tasks, as I have found clients love to have as much information as possible, so a solid foundation in the theory is important. It’s tough at first as it’s all new but don’t give up as you’ll make it and achieve a professional qualification. And if you’re struggling, talk to your educator as they will support you all the way, and are like a best friend as they will always help you to achieve your goals.

What do you love most about your job?

I love the people. I love meeting my clients and getting to know them. I love how I can make my clients feel after treatments - I feel good when I know they feel good!

What are your career aspirations in the long term?

I want to continue to build my clientele, and to eventually one day own my own business and continue learning new skills, so I can continue to make my clients happy and keep up with the ever-growing beauty industry.

DAWID MIELNIK OF JAMES BUSHELL IN MANCHESTER.

What initially sparked your interest in hairdressing?

It was a combination of the creativity and the desire to help people feel confident and beautiful. I’ve always been interested in fashion and art and I felt it provided a perfect blend of both!

What are the best bits of being an apprentice? And the not-so-good bits?

The best part of being an apprentice in hairdressing is the hands-on experience you receive and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals. On the other side, the challenging aspects included long hours and physically demanding work during the learning process.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting a Kleek Apprenticeship?

To anyone considering starting a Kleek Apprenticeship or a similar program, I’d advise them to approach it with a strong work ethic and an open mind. Patience is key. Stay committed to learning, as it’s worth the hard work to achieve your qualification.

What do you love most about your job?

I love the creativity it allows me to express. Whether it’s creating a new hairstyle or helping a client transform their look, the ability to make people feel good about themselves is incredibly fulfilling.

What are your career aspirations for the future?

Looking ahead, my career aspirations involve continuous growth and development. I took part in Wella Professionals TrendVision this year and was a finalist in the Xposure Creative Colour category, which was a great experience. My next step is to become a senior stylist.

TEGAN DEAN OF ALL ABOUT THE FACE IN RAINHILL

What initially sparked your interest in beauty therapy?

I am very interested in the human body and knowing how everything works, but I’m also quite creative, so beauty therapy really appealed to me.

What’s are you most proud of to date and why?

I’m really proud that I am building up a regular clientele for my facials and am getting great feedback too. People even say my facial results are better than Botox or book in before a big event, like a wedding!

What are/were the best bits of being an apprentice? And the not-so-good bits?

The best bit is how much hands-on work you complete and how this experience increases your confidence and your knowledge of the techniques. I can’t think of any not-so-good bits – I really enjoy everything!

What advice would you give to someone thinking of starting a Kleek Apprenticeship?

Definitely choose a Kleek Apprenticeship – it’s a million per cent better than a college route. You get hands-on training and a superior learning experience. Everyone’s amazing and extremely helpful, especially my educator Danielle [Barker].

What do you love most about your job?

I love the people I work with – it’s like the most loving caring friendly family place. I also love my clients and building relationships and continuing to learn and develop.

What’s next for you, and your career aspirations?

I’d love to learn all the more advanced therapies including advanced facials, makeup, Botox and fillers, and build my career in the Salon.