From apprentice to award winning salon owner!
03 February 2020
A former Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) hairdressing student has seen her career go from strength to strength since completing her apprenticeship ten years ago.
Emma Hutton, who started her career as a Level 2 apprentice at Visage in Swadlincote worked her way up to senior stylist level before taking the leap to open her own business, Platinum Hair Design in Swadlincote.
Emma set the business up with support from the Princess Trust, which helped her to develop the business and marketing skills necessary to run a successful salon. She has built up a strong client base over the years, and it was her clients who nominated her for a Hair and Makeup Specialist of the Year Award.
The next stage of the competition involved Emma giving a presentation to an expert panel about her business and work, including testimonials. The panel were so impressed that not only did Emma win the regional award, she went on to win a national English Wedding Hairdressing Award.
Emma commented: “I was delighted to win and to get recognition for my work. I love my job; it’s so satisfying seeing how happy the brides are after I’ve finished their hair and I really like bringing creativity and new ideas to my work. My clients mean a lot to me and I’m really grateful to them for supporting my business over the years.”
Speaking about her experience studying at Burton and South Derbyshire College, Emma said: “I found taking an apprenticeship kept me motivated as it gave me the chance to see how senior stylists work. I also had the chance to compete in WorldSkills competitions during my studies, which helped me to develop as a hairdresser.”
She added: “I think it’s important to carry on learning throughout your career. I would eventually like to do a teacher training qualification so I can pass on my skills to young people in schools and colleges.”
Those interested in becoming an apprentice should visit www.bsdc.ac.uk/apprenticeships for more information and details of current vacancies. Employers interested in finding out more about employing an apprentice within their organisation should contact BSDC’s Business Development Team on 01283 494510.