MEDIA RELEASE
14 October 2009
Shaping a career in hairdressing
Finding an apprentice with the right stuff has never been more challenging in the current
hairdressing skills shortage. With demand for employable hairdressers at all levels increasing,
quality, qualified graduates are more important than ever.
By opting to study at a vocational institute instead of a traditional apprenticeship, students are
receiving the skills required to work in a salon faster.
The option to gain a Certificate three at a vocational institute instead of an apprenticeship is
becoming increasingly popular, the number of students increasing by 66 percent over five years.¹
At Carrick Institute of Education, students are trained by industry professionals and work in
simulated real life salons. Studying at a Certificate three level for one year equates to the same
qualification as a four year apprenticeship.
The Service Industries Environmental Scan 2009 notes that “Business success largely depends on
the quality of the customer service that employees provide and their specialist skills and
knowledge”.
Students have the flexibility to work in a salon part-time to gain important ‘real life’ salon
experience and then step straight into a professional hairdressing role after completing the one
year, Certificate three course.
Students’ learn in a simulated salon environment with trained professionals and Carrick’s Hair
Studios are also open to the public giving students an opportunity to put their customer service and
hairdressing skills to the test.
Carrick has stood the test of time because of the importance placed on working closely with
industry and developing relevant skills that hairdressers need in the fast paced salon environment.
--ENDS--
Carrick Education offers quality education and training programs to ensure students are fully equipped
to enter their chosen career. Carrick works closely with industry to create training and education
programs which cater to all sectors. Carrick's programs include English language, vocational and higher
education courses.
For media enquiries please contact Marketing and Communications Officer, Lucy Macdonald at
lmacdonald@carrickeducation.edu.au or 03 9650 6877
1
The Service Industries Environmental Scan 2009, Hairdressing and Beauty. Page 11
NEWS 
